flat pedal shoe combination for all day comfort¡?¡?¡?¡?¡?¡

[chrisx]

Which shoe and flat pedal are best for all day comfort?

[roadrunner]

After trying several different cycling touring shoes and finding none of them comfortable for off-the-bike use, I settled on relatively stiff soled running   shoes.  I use standard cage pedals on which I fasten (by wires) a piece of thin metal (from flashing) that forms a platform and makes it easy to get the shoe in and out of the Power Grip straps I use.  The combination is comfortable for riding all day and when off the bike after riding.

Also, I can use about any shoes or sandals with the pedals, avoiding the need to change shoes to go for a quick ride.

[HoolieWA]

I ride with toe clips and straps also and I have been looking for a firm soled shoe like you describe.  Could you share which brand/ model that you found?

Julie

[roadrunner]

Julie - I'm not particular about the shoes I use, just that they have a fairly stiff sole, are shaped to fit the Power Grip straps, and are comfortable for walking.  The most recent ones I got were Nike, more of a tennis shoe look, rather than an exotic running shoe look.  Sorry I can't be more specific, but with the setup I use, many shoes will work well.  For rides up to 25 miles, regular Teva sandals work fine.

[Huli]

I just posted in the RIP Keen string that I use their Newport sandles with MTB low profile platform pedals.   Throw in a sock if you need warmth, seal skin sock if you need dry and warmth.

[pptouring]

We have over 7000 miles cycling with MKS Lambda pedals and Power Grip straps. About 5000 of those miles were done while wearing hiking boots and the last 2000ish have been done wearing plain old tennis shoes.

[drakedean]

We have over 7000 miles cycling with MKS Lambda pedals and Power Grip straps. About 5000 of those miles were done while wearing hiking boots and the last 2000ish have been done wearing plain old tennis shoes.

I'm not sure if I'm the only one who doesn't know, but seriously, I can use my tennis shoes in biking? 

[Pat Lamb]

I'm not sure if I'm the only one who doesn't know, but seriously, I can use my tennis shoes in biking? 

Sure, and you can eat salted caramel peanut butter cup ice cream.

Personally, I wouldn't recommend either, but it depends on your tastes.

[staehpj1]

My preference is to use clipless pedals any time I am riding any substantial distance.   So for me on tour I wear Sidi Giau shoes and use an SPD on both sides pedal.

That said I do use a set of Shimano PD-M324 SPD pedals on my beater around town errand bike.  They have a cage on one side and SPD on the other.  I typically wear trail running shoes (Brooks Cascadia) if i don't want to bother with bike shoes.  I can see a cage pedal and trail running shoe working out well for those who don't want to go clipless.  Still I'll stick to using SPDs for touring and any other longish riding.

[canalligators]

I'm not sure if I'm the only one who doesn't know, but seriously, I can use my tennis shoes in biking? 

The shortfall with tennis shoes is the very flexible sole.  You waste energy by constantly bending the shoe on every pedal stroke.  Is it an earth shattering difference?  No, but in all-day use, it's probably significant.

Straps, grabby pedals, clips and straps and clipless can all be used effectively.  The only time I'd highly recommend clipless is on a low racer recumbent, where you can break your leg if your foot slips off and catches on the pavement.  I also think they're good on a standard recumbent, many find they reduce foot numbness.  Otherwise, use whatever pedal/shoe system you prefer.

I also have found that MTB shoes (recessed cleats) are fine for walking moderate distances.  That considers use on days off exploring the city, visiting museums, etc.  At least I haven't had any complaints, with any of the three pairs of shoes I've had.

[RussSeaton]

I recommend SPD sandals for biking shoes on tours.  And if you are going lightweight, then use these for your off bike walking around too.  They are fine for walking around town and out to supper.  They can easily be your only shoe on tours.  Last night I rode to Home Depot using my SPD sandals.  I was fine walking around the store and in and out of the store with the SPD sandals.  Also fine walking through the construction area on the way.  Around lumber, over rebar, through dirt and gravel.  Could not tell I did not have on regular sneakers.

[andrews]

I bought a pair of Shimano MT 90 clipless boots a couple of years ago, and have now used them on three month-long tours. They are very comfortable, and can be used for hiking. Here is my review on Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/review/R15HKDQ5YYS538/ref=cm_aya_cmt?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B002XZ08GG#wasThisHelpful

For summer trips I've been using a pair of Rockport Rock Lake sandals. The soles are thick enough to work for cycling, and for traveling.