Touring Shoes - High Cuff or Low Cuff?

[tbessie]

For road cycling, I generally get a pair of low-cuff Shimano SPD-SL compatible shoes (and have SPD-SL cleats on them).

I have a couple of pairs of mountain bike shoes with Shimano SPD cleats on them; one (ancient) pair is leather, high-cuffed; it feels more secure and comfortable for long rides to me.

I was looking around for a modern equivalent, but most shoes for cleats seem to be low-cuffed these days.

Just curious, but for those of you who use SPD cleats, do you prefer a very light shoe with a low cuff, or a heavier show with a higher cuff?

I have weak ankles, so the higher cuff feels better in some circumstances (biking, hiking, etc).

- Tim

[Pat Lamb]

For what little it's worth, I preferred high-top running shoes (while they were available) to stabilize my ankles.  My ankle problem is usually lateral stability, though, which isn't a problem pedaling a bike. 

I used to have a pair of cycling shoes with a higher ankle, but I found that rubbed the skin raw over my achilles tendon when I went too far.  Ergo, I'm fine with any shoe that holds my foot securely and doesn't rub a blister on my heel.

[SlowAndSlower]

I wear SIDI spds which are low cut for the road bikes. For touring I use Shimano sandals almost exclusively. The only footwear I take with me.

[RonK]

The Northwave Gran Canion would likely suit.