Bike Shoe Advice, please

[CorsairMac]

hot-foot is a couple of things but basically it's when your foot feels hot or tingly or hurts or numb, has hot spots, pain in the toes, numbness in the toes....you get the picture.

It's caused by several things: shoes are too small, shoes are too tight, the cleat is pressing on an area of your foot that is troublesome, even the cleat surface could be too small, stagnation in your foot.....so on.

I used to ride SPDs and no matter where I put the cleat I had problems, I switched to Looks and Love them. Course I haven't done a century in them yet but my last century on the SPDs I was almost crippled with the pain in my feet by the end of the ride.

My suggestions would be along with every one else: try cycling inserts in your shoes, try moving your cleats backwards or forwards, try loosening your shoes, trying moving your feet inside your shoes (flex and splay the toes while you're riding)

Hopefully some/all of this will help.

[bcipam]

You didn't mention the shoes you are currently wearing. If you have not tried them - look at Sidi's (Genius 4 or 5). You also didn't mention your pedal and cleat system. Some systems don't always work with some feet type. I know I need a larger platform pedal. In addition, are you sure your cleat is positioned properly. Just alittle to far forward or back will cause problems.

I definitely would not use an orthodic or insert not made specifically for cycling. If your shoes are old, they most likely have broken down and need replacement.

[Quillfred]

I have a great Shimano mtn. bike shoe that has a three strap closure. When I first started using them, I had a fair amount of foot pain. What helped me greatly was to have the top two straps somewhat snug and the arch strap a little looser. Maybe you have already thried this and I apologize if I'm pointing out the obvious.

[ace]

I have Shimano sport shoes, spd cleats. They are lace up, with no straps.

Yeah, I don't think it's the type of cleats that are causing the problem, or probably even cleat placement, though it's possible- I'm not feeling one SINGLE area of pressure on my foot, it's an ache along the entire bottom of my foot, and it starts as soon as I clip in.

Thanks for the isuggestions, I'll try switching inserts, etc.