hand pain and hotspots on feet

[kellym]

I recently purchased a 2005 Giant TCR3 composite. After reading many posts and asking a few questions I switched out the handlebar for a 40" Salsa Poco (from AE Bike) and switched out the shimano pedals for Speedplay cro-moly Zero's. I love both additions. The pedals are so easy to get in and out of it's amazing. I love the float they provide. The handlebars made a world of difference, I had the bike shop add a pair of shims to the brake levers which has also helped a great deal. Exchanged the Fizik stock saddle for a Serfas Terrazzo Women's Select (from ebay). After a few rides (my sit bones hurt pretty bad at first - haven't ridden in a year) I've adjusted and it's very comfortable (looks cool on the bike too).
Thanks to everyone for the awesome advice, it saved me lots of money and aggravation.
My new question concerns pain I'm getting in my hands half way into a ride as well as hot spots on the balls of my feet. I considered having the Specialized Bar Phat gel tape system installed when I switched out the handlebars but didn't want to affect the diameter of the bar too much plus it's expensive. The tape I have on their now is fairly cushioned. Just wondering if anyone could recommend a comfy pair of gel gloves?
Secondly, I'm wearing Specialized comp road shoes, they seem to fit well but periodically I have to unclip to shake my foot around to get rid of discomfort, is there anything I can do to minimize or prevent this?

[bcipam]

Just a quick note - if you do some research there are lots of threads on this forum answering your questions but quickly, make sure you are re-positioning your hands and moving them around during you ride to prevent hot spots. Making a change of gloves would be helpful. Sometimes too much padding in the wrong spots (for you) can cause the problems.

For your feet: make sure your cleat is positioned properly but the one complaint I had with Speedplay pedals is that they can cause hot spots. I used them 3 years and finally gave them up 'cause after 30 miles my feet would be screaming. I switched to a broader platform pedal (Dura Ace) and the hot spot problem is gone until I hit about 60 - 70 miles a much better result. Just remember not to have your shoes too tight and to move your toes around occasionally to loosen up the knot that can form under your toes.

[Bike Goddess]

Kelly- I have Look style pedals which have a larger platform. I also have moveable cleats. In addition, I wear wool socks (smart wool) which keep my feet cool and dry in very hot weather. Look in this part of the forum for hot feet, etc. for more suggestions

Since your sit bones seem better, you might try raising your stem just a tad to see if that helps.

Make small adjustments- that's the key to finding the right fit.

Good luck!