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commuter shoes?

2995 Views 10 Replies 8 Participants Last post by  CClark
I'm about to pick up some clipless pedals (M520s) and am shopping for shoes.

I found a few shoes that I kind of like but was told they are more of a commuter shoe.
What would be the downside to using a shoe like this on the trails? I know the soles are not as stiff as others but it has got to be much better than the old New Balance shoes I've been using on the platforms!

These are two of the shoes I've had in mind...

http://www.rei.com/product/783235?p...-331A-DE11-B4E3-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1023426_-1_29501_20000_29503

I like the look and feel of both of those (like the black the most)

The other option is something like this which I like less..

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1058222_-1_29501_20000_29503

So, thoughts?
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I just got the Shimano MD86 (bought at Performance) and use those on the trail with Crank Brothers Acid pedals. These would be great for commuting even with platforms. My feet stay nice and cool with the hot weather we've been having lately.

BTW and OT, if Nanaline 1S means anything to you, Kimball says get back to work.
I'm actually not looking to commute.. just wondering if a "commuter shoe" would give me any problems on the trails. I can't really find a reason it would but figured I would ask. Perhaps the shell material is not designed to hold up as well in the dirt....?


Tell Kimball his design is going to make the building blow up! We're fixing everything to make him look good though.
I'm assuming I must know you through Kimball and/or Angela....? (or perhaps are Kimball himself!)
Shoelaces may be an issue

A commuter shoe will work fine on the trail basically. Those shoelaces though, may become caught in the cranks / chain, which would become irritating real fast.

I have always owned velcro type straps and think they are superior to any mtb shoe design.

You can adjust the tightness of the shoe easily, and there are no laces to worry about.

The $80 Shimanos appear to fit the bill.

You DEFINITELY want to try on shoes at a store to know they fit right. Poor fitting mtb shoes will not last long on the trail.
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I have tried on all the ones listed.

The black shimano @ REI had a place to keep the laces down and out of the way.
cdeftekar said:
I'm actually not looking to commute.. just wondering if a "commuter shoe" would give me any problems on the trails. I can't really find a reason it would but figured I would ask. Perhaps the shell material is not designed to hold up as well in the dirt....?

Tell Kimball his design is going to make the building blow up! We're fixing everything to make him look good though.
I'm assuming I must know you through Kimball and/or Angela....? (or perhaps are Kimball himself!)
I'll try not to make anything blow up. ;)

The Shimanos with straps are nice. My foot is hard to fit, and the M86 has plenty of adjustment.
I am very happy with these. The 3/4 height provides a bit of extra ankle protection on the trail.

http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10052_10551_1058268_-1_29501_20000_29503

Bob
In my arsenal I have a pair of Shimano 'commuter' shoes. I have ridden everything with them just tuck the laces on the right under the velcro. A bunch of my freinds do as well.

Some of us occasionally race in them. They are our kicking it around touring shoe now but they were most of our only shoe for a year or two.

Downside not as stiff and heavier.

Upside more comfortable off the bike, and potentially on. I have chased my kids for hours in the park, played kickball, etc. in them. Something I could not do in my Sidis
Specalized tahoe the end
ae111black said:
Specalized tahoe the end
x2, very comfy
cdeftekar said:
I have these and they have worked well for me.
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