I need new Pedals, Cleats and Shoes

[ivorygorgon]

I had a professional road bike fit in October. The fitter (a very well respected name in cycling) suggested I get new pedals, cleats and shoes. I really have been only just getting by with my MTB shoes so I am open to the new equipment and am hoping it will help with power and climbing.

The fitter recommended SPD-L pedals and the Yellow cleats. I am ok with both those recommendations. I need new shoes though and here is where I am getting stuck.

I am simply not going to pay $200 for a pair of shoes. So, any recommendations? I wear a 39 and am willing to pay maybe up to $125.00 if I have to, to get a reasonably good pair of shoes.

I am not a racer, I am not fast, I don't aspire to be fast. I don't have to shave every spare ounce off of every piece of equipment I own. I just aspire to get a bit better than I am now.

I am having the symptoms of a bit of plantar fascitis, and I think it is from my bike shoes. The symptoms started immediately after my first century in October.

Thanks for any recommendations.

[Chicken Little]

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[indysteel]

Fit comes first. So, I would start by trying on as many road shoes--both in terms of styles and brands--as you can. See what fits you best, and then start scouring the web for the best deal you can find. I'm pretty sure most of the major brands make a lower priced model, but no shoe is a bargain if it doesn't fit you right. Keep in mind, too, that road shoes can last a long time if cared for properly. So, while $200 may seem like a lot of money, you can generally count on not having to replace them for a while.

[OakLeaf]

+1 on fit.

You should be able to get several different brands of nylon soled shoes for $125 retail, less than that if you shop at discounters or look for gently used shoes.

I seriously doubt that the difference in stiffness between nylon and carbon is enough to affect the health of your feet one way or the other.

What did your fitter have to say about your PF? Are you pedaling with your feet plantar flexed (toes pointed)?

[Catrin]

....
http://bontrager.com/model/07821

The black with aqua accents are nice looking too.

I have these shoes for when I do clip in on the bike - they are mountain bike shoes so one can walk in them more easily. They are worth the money, and I also use them for spinning class so they do "double duty". I like them quite a lot and am quite happy with them. I think this model has been out for some time, so if you find they do fit you then you should be able to find them online somewhere for a better price.

[ivorygorgon]

Thanks for the replies.

I didn't discuss the PF with the fitter because it didn't appear until after my fit. I attribute the PF to the century I did shortly after the fit.

Thanks for the recommendations, but I need shoes that are compatible or SPD-L. They take three holes.

What should I take into consideration besides fit? I think this is what I wanted to ask, really, but didn't quite get around to it.