Newbie Intro and Numb Toes

[QueenBee]

Thanks for the advice. I intend to go clipless, but it will have to wait until after the C&O ride. If I try to switch this close to it I'll be falling for 180 miles instead of riding. There will be plenty of opportunities to stop and walk it off.

[Wahine]

Hi Queen Bee.

While I agree that switching pedals may help, it is also possible that the numbness is coming form nerve pressure in your back.

Do you have any past history of back trouble?

If you do and this seems like a possibility, I'd be happy to give you some more information on what to think about etc.

[QueenBee]

Wahine, I do not have any back problems. While I may not be in great athletic shape, I am in very good health otherwise.

roo4, the ride I am doing is mostly at your leisure pace, so stopping frequently won't be difficult to do.

[canonsue]

I also have numb toe problems. I just bought a pair of platform pedals so I can ride with a variety of shoes. I want to experiment to see what shoes or sandals may work for me. Clipless is ok, but I did not particularly care for it.

[sarahkonamojo]

QB,
I suggest new/different shoes. Wider shoes. You could wear cycling shoes without cleats to have a more solid platform. Do not wear your shoes tight. If your toes start to go numb try loosening the laces/straps. Wiggle your toes as you ride to make sure you aren't gripping. Stretching before and after ride might be a good idea as well.
S

[roguedog]

QB,

Agree that you don't necessarily need to be clipped in but that you may need a stiffer platform.

I'd also recommend trying inserts. Specialized makes some that will help spread the pressure on the ball of your foot (metatarsal button). You can try that. Friend of mine had the same issue and tried the inserts but found the Merrell inserts actually are working for her. However, she also compensates a bit by moving her foot a tad so that the focus of pressure isn't on that spot.

Either way, this is a common issue amongst cyclists and runners.

[QueenBee]

Thanks for all the advice. I got some cycling sandals for the ride next week. I'm going to ride without cleats this time. They are roomy and will allow for water runoff and quick dry if we get rain like it's forecast. I'll try to post an update on how things go after I get back.