Nylon soles are plenty stiff for non-racers. I've never ridden carbon, but I've been told that the difference is fairly small. There's a little bit of weight savings too, I believe, with carbon, but again, if seconds don't count, I don't see the point.
Plus, you save $100.
Why not try the same test you did with your sandals... try on a pair of nylon shoes and try to flex the sole. If it deflects too much for you, then you know.
Last edited by OakLeaf; 07-12-2010 at 12:59 PM.
Speed comes from what you put behind you. - Judi Ketteler