Quote Originally Posted by Muirenn View Post
Shoes with really good pedals. You might consider getting some hard soled shoes like the kind some mountain bikers who don't clip in use. (Indy?)

I wouldn't consider cleats on a bike I don't feel confident of controlling.
I use BMX pedals (BMX pedals have sharp pins that stick out of them) paired with Five Ten mtb shoes that have a sticky sole. I think that set up is overkill on a road bike and I wouldn't go so far as to call Five Ten's "stiff."

I think Catrin used to use BMX pedals with light hiking shoes on her roadie before she switched to clipless pedals. But even that could be overkill for a beginner. I've never hit my shin on my pedals (knock on wood), but it's easy enough to do, especially if you're a beginner. If I were in the OP's shoes (pun intended), I'd just stik to regular campus pedals for the time being and a comfortable, breathable shoe. Stiffer soles are better for longer rides, but I'm guessing the OP isn't there yet. When and if she gets there and if she's still using a flat pedal, then perhaps she can revisit the issue of footwear.