Can't believe I've waited this long...

[0gravity]

My biking realization of the year: It's worth dropping some dime on high-end road shoes.

Since I started road biking about three years ago, I've been using crap-ass, losse fitting, two-velcroed POS shoes. But I never really thought about it much and didn't feel justified in dropping the dough for nice shoes. Well, I finally decided to upgrade some of my road stuff, starting with shoes, but also with a new saddle and new pedals. OMG, I can't believe the difference. It's like riding an entirely new bike, or doing a whole new sport. It feels so different, so much more power all through the pedal stroke, and especially in pulling upwards.

I picked up a pair of SIDI Genius 5 shoes that fit like a glove. I tried tons on, but those fit the best. My speedplay bearings and cleats were worn out, so I replaced those. And my saddle was making me numb on long climbs so now with a new saddle, it's nothing but my sit bones touching.

Anyway, the point is, spending the money to get good gear for those main contact points is critical and can make a world of difference. Maybe new mtn bike shoes are next?

[S54MCoupe]

If only I had $400 bucks laying around...

Congrats on the new shoes, I'm glad you've seen the light

[0gravity]

Originally Posted by S54MCoupe

If only I had $400 bucks laying around...

Congrats on the new shoes, I'm glad you've seen the light

Cynergy had a pair of those in black on sale for $320. Yeah still a pile of money though. Those were sweet, but they didn't fit me nearly as well as the regular Genius 5, which are snugger all around. Yeah, definitely saw the light now.

[danophoto]

Those are real nice shoes. I'm gonna buy a pair when I hit the lotto. My brother just bought a pair and he just rides on a trainer. He loves 'em.

[RidetheRAAM4]

I use the specialized trivents, I guess not super top of the line because they were 150 and I have seen other similar shoes up at like 350-400, but they sseem to fit me great and I have never had a problem with them

[0gravity]

Originally Posted by RidetheRAAM4

I use the specialized trivents, I guess not super top of the line because they were 150 and I have seen other similar shoes up at like 350-400, but they sseem to fit me great and I have never had a problem with them

It's all about the fit. I liked the specialized shoes, especially with vents and carbon at lower price points, but SIDI's have a narrower fit, which fits my foot better. The specialized shoes tend to have a wider toe box.

[RidetheRAAM4]

Originally Posted by 0gravity

It's all about the fit. I liked the specialized shoes, especially with vents and carbon at lower price points, but SIDI's have a narrower fit, which fits my foot better. The specialized shoes tend to have a wider toe box.

My feet are wide, so i guess i will just stay away from sidi then

[CPATCRASH]

Originally Posted by RidetheRAAM4

My feet are wide, so i guess i will just stay away from sidi then

My feet are EEE and I wear SIDI shoes. Just get the mega and you will be fine.

[Pain Freak]

Tried the mega... didn't work for me. I guess I've just got weird shaped feet. The best ones I found that work for me. Were some Shimano's. Still around the same price though.