When to replace road cycling shoes?

[RaceChick]

Just wondering when is the right time to replace

 

my cycling shoes? I have used them for 5 years,

 

but in the last year I have had a numbness between my

 

big toe and my second toe. Could it be the shoes?

 

I have changed or moved nothing on the bike?

 

Any advice on this?

[TNT1]

You really don't need our permission or validation for you to go and spend money. Really. I promise. Take the cash out your pocket before it burns a hole, and burn it at your nearest store. You know you don't need new shoes, you just want new shoes...

[Wonder Woman]

Hey, sounds like a good excuse to get new shoes, it's about time!!

Or according to Boeing...when they break

 

Actually you'll have to ask the experts here...sorry!!!

 

 

 

[RaceChick]

No, I want to stop cycling in pain.

 

Last year I was out for three months and

 

nothing seems to help.

[TNT1]

Unless your shoes are broken, it's not them. Now go and spend money on whatever you desire. It'll make you feel better. Nothing warms the soul like the smell of burning plastic.

[jabbathemutt007]

 

Unless your shoes are broken' date=' it's not them. Now go and spend money on whatever you desire. It'll make you feel better. Nothing warms the soul like the smell of burning plastic.

[/quote']

 

Well there is a worthy Nigerian cause.

 

[TNT1]

 

Unless your shoes are broken' date=' it's not them. Now go and spend money on whatever you desire. It'll make you feel better. Nothing warms the soul like the smell of burning plastic.

[/quote']

 

Well there is a worthy Nigerian cause.

 

What the? Are we gonna pay the rebels to kidnap oiltrash? Might make him feel loved...

 

[RaceChick]

You guys are a bunch of idiotsl.

 

I ask for advice and this is what I

 

get. Will go somewhere else for

 

advice

[Thornman]

When your toes hang out

[Sequoia]

I have shoes that are close to 10 years old. They are still in frequent use on my commuter. They've seen all kinds of weather and are still comfortable. They are not as stiff as they used to be, but with Look pedals and my riding style, I don't really mind. I HAVE gone through 2 sets of other shoes as well, however, over the same period. 

 

However, if you are experiencing pain, you need to eliminate possible sources. Where are you experiencing pain? Pinching? Hotspots? Do they fit properly?

 

[RaceChick]

Do I have this problem because it is

 

exactly what I feel?

 

 

 

http://www.crosscreekcyclingclub.org/Portal/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=XyhXH3EziGg%3D&tabid=36&mid=383

 

 

[slowpoke]

replace your shoes when you think it's time - for whatever reason - if it's that they are no longer comfy or simply don't match your kit is irrelevant!

[Willehond]

OK, let me try a civilised answer.  Maybe the real experts will then join in!

 

Have a look at the sole to see if it has excessive flex or even cracks in it.  If the sole isn't stiff enough (or deformed), you might start to get pressure spots which means you have to replace it. 

 

It might be a good idea to swop your insoles as well as the current ones might be fubar by now!

 

Check that the velcro straps/fasteners are still secure and that the shoe still has a tight fit (but have some free toe movement in the toebox!). 

 

Also check your cleats.  Have they moved?  Do you need new ones?  new cleats make a HUGE difference to the connection with your pedals...which reminds me:  have a look at your pedals to see if they don't need a good service/replacement.

 

Remember that your shoes are the main contact point with the bike and that new shoes are a huge improvement in enjoyment.  Runners look after their feet a lot better than cyclists and realise that materials/soles and equipment in general wear with lots of use and replace them regularly. Personally I would change the shoes, but lots of old hands would just patch and continue.  I would rather skimp on shirts and handlebar tape and look after my feet and butt properly!!!

Willehond2008-09-23 04:14:12

[RaceChick]

Thanx WillieHond that makes sense to me. I have put

 

new cleats on, I will check if I maybe moved them when

 

putting the new ones on.

 

 

 

At last a decent answer not the cr@p from the first few answer on this thread.

[ShortLegs]

I'm shocked, a lady keeping a piece of clothing for 5 years OMG!!!

 

Seriously though, if they're causing you discomfort, bin them.

 

I recommend Specialized shoes, they're light, stiff and super comfy. You can also change the inserts to make your ride even more comfortable.

 

[niterider]

At last a decent answer not the cr@p from the first few answer on this thread.

 

 

 

Welcome to the hub - One sensible piece out of advice per 10 posts is about par for the course.

 

 

 

Your shoes could be poked, or your bike position could be incorrect. Go to a reputable bike store and have them check your position on the bike. If your position is ok then it might be time to consider new shoes, or pay a visit to a physio that specialises in cyclists.