new shoes or winter boots?

[Velobambina]

I broke down today and ordered a pair of Sidi winter shoes. Well, they are more like boots. I figured that I won't have to buy have as many chemical heat warmers, so I'll probably end up breaking even after two winter riding seasons. I ride every day -- only excuse not to is icy/snowy/unsafe weather conditions -- so comfort is a necessity.

[pll]

I found the Gaerne boots in Ital Tecno but they are sooo expensive... I have decided to get a pair of Sugoi Bosui socks instead. Maybe the Chicago winter will convince me later on. It's the first winter I try to keep some regular rides.

SheFly: in what kind of weather do you ride with the Lake boots?

Velobambina: I look forward to your review of your new Sidi boots (congratulations!).

[SheFly]

SheFly: in what kind of weather do you ride with the Lake boots?

I live in New England, so ride in these shoes all winter long - wet, slushy, snowy and COLD. I find that wearing a thin wool sock in these shoes is all that I really need. I used to wear regular bike shoes with oversocks, thick socks, etc., but none of that compares to these shoes - I can't say enough good things about them.

Here is a link to the Lake web page - I have the MXZ301s: http://www.lakecycling.com/category.aspx?categoryID=36 If you do a search, you should be able to find them for a bit less than MSRP, but this is the best $$$ in my opinion - warm feet are key to keeping my core warm on cold days!

FWIW, Bikeman.com (in Maine) has them listed for $169.95!!! That is a great deal, and this is a good vendor to deal with as well. (http://www.bikemannetwork.com/biking/p/SH-LAKEMXZ301)

SheFly

[SheFly]

DOH - and right after I posted, I found the same shoe at Performance for $149.99!

http://www.performancebike.com/shop/...slisearch=true

SheFly

[Velobambina]

Shefly -- Are those Lakes SPD compatible?

[SheFly]

Shefly -- Are those Lakes SPD compatible?

Absolutely! That's what I use with mine....

[chickwhorips]

i have a pair of lake mtb shoes. they are spd compatible, but they are a year old, i assume the new ones are also compatible. they keep me pretty warm in cool weather, but when it gets cold they don't. i also have a problem keeping my feet warm in anything. thinking about getting a pair of covers to put over them also. they are a very comfortable pair of shoes though.

[Puffin]

Thanks everyone who replied. I have decided to go for the winter boot option - shimano W101, which I have found in my size for a decent £60.00. Hope not to have to use them too soon, but with nights drawing in it may not take very long. Will kepp you posted!