Need info on biking shoes

[Hi Ho Silver]

I'm thinking about replacing my ancient Specialized biking shoes. I'd like the new shoes to be able to work with both SPD cleats and SPD-SL cleats (Don't know which cleat system I'll end up using), provide some sole covering for safe slip-free walking, and be as light weight as possible.

In general, which brands might be able to accommodate my really really wide feet with narrow heels and also satisfy the above needs?


Jean

[zoom-zoom]

Hmmm...not sure there are shoes that can do both. But I have feet JUST like yours. I have 2 pair of men's Louis Garneau shoes (same uppers, for the most part) -- 1 pair are for road (CFS-300) with Look pedals, the other pair (T-Flex 300) have Shimano SPDs for off-road. Both also have heat-moldable uppers and fit. like. a. dream. The road shoes have carbon soles, are lightweight, and super vented. The off-road version have a carbon composite sole (so it's very stiff) but the toes actually flex, which makes it easier to walk-around.

Stay FAR away from Sidis. I found the women's to be FAR too narrow, but too roomy through the heels.

[Bike Chick]

FWIW, a fellow cyclist just bought a pair of the Bontrager RXL WSD Road Shoes and loves them. She has a wide forefoot and has had trouble finding shoes that fit. She gave these a good recommendation and I may give them a try when I'm ready to trade in my Specialized road shoes.

[Hi Ho Silver]

Hmmm...not sure there are shoes that can do both. But I have feet JUST like yours. I have 2 pair of men's Louis Garneau shoes (same uppers, for the most part) -- 1 pair are for road (CFS-300) with Look pedals, the other pair (T-Flex 300) have Shimano SPDs for off-road. Both also have heat-moldable uppers and fit. like. a. dream. The road shoes have carbon soles, are lightweight, and super vented. The off-road version have a carbon composite sole (so it's very stiff) but the toes actually flex, which makes it easier to walk-around.

Stay FAR away from Sidis. I found the women's to be FAR too narrow, but too roomy through the heels.

The LG shoes you mentioned looked like good possibilities for me. With the "heat-moldable" shoes, can they be remolded if the first attempt doesn't provide a comfy fit?

[zoom-zoom]

The LG shoes you mentioned looked like good possibilities for me. With the "heat-moldable" shoes, can they be remolded if the first attempt doesn't provide a comfy fit?

Yup! Seems like they can be molded pretty much indefinitely. Though the fit was so good out of the box that the heat molding process didn't make a huge difference in fit, for me.