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Where do you buy your mtn bike shoes?

944 Views 9 Replies 10 Participants Last post by  otis24
I've been doing some internet browsing for a new pair of shoes. Problem is that sizes vary from brand to brand and even if I know what size I am in Shimano or Northwave for example, some models fit differently depending on where the seams and stitches are and straps and buckles as well. I've been in some shops, but none have a wide selection of inventory. I'd really like to slip them on my feet before I plunk down $$$. Any shops that you know of in the 925 that have a good selection?
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I've been wearing Sidi's for a couple years now (size 13/14 depending on brand), and found Performance was the best place (none of the LBS's stocked the larger sizes and were willing to get them just for me to try). When I was looking for shoes, I ordered all of the probable sizes +/- in the models I was interested, in-store delivery so no shipping, and returned the ones that didn't fit on the spot.
even within the same brand, sizes can vary from different models. I like Specialized shoes--they have more toe room and a bit of protection up front. I always buy them from my lbs so I can try on lots of different ones.
Performance and REI last couple of times.
as others have said, performance and rei...because when you try a set and want to return them.....they do it with a smile and dont ask a single question!

Supporting your lbs is fine and good, but not when you're gunna be left with 200 dollar shoes that hurt your feet!

The downside is that specialized makes some really good shoes and doesn't sell at rei/pb.
Passenger13 said:
I've been doing some internet browsing for a new pair of shoes. Problem is that sizes vary from brand to brand and even if I know what size I am in Shimano or Northwave for example, some models fit differently depending on where the seams and stitches are and straps and buckles as well. I've been in some shops, but none have a wide selection of inventory. I'd really like to slip them on my feet before I plunk down $$$. Any shops that you know of in the 925 that have a good selection?
I'm (sort of) lucky in that the only shoes that fit my feet and budget simultaneously are Specialized size 48s, so that makes shopping a no-brainer.

Were I of a mood to look for another brand, however, I'd just go to REI. They can special-order just about any product that any other bike shop can, and they'll exchange anything if you pester them long enough.
I also went the Specialized route instead of the Sidi route because the shape suits my foot better compared to the skinny Sex In The City pointy toes most cycling shoes have. I bought these at Trailhead Cyclery, but REI and Performance offer big box return policies.
My LBS

They were willing to sell some 09' specialized pros for about 1/2 price. Recently they also matched pricing on a fox flux helmet too.
The store closest to you with the biggest selection i know of is the pedaler bike shop in el sebronte.
The last 3 pairs I bought:

Spesh BG Comp - Passion Trail Bikes (I like em, but not as much as the Sidis)
Dominator 6 - Performance (but sold on ebay because I'm still wearing the 5s)
Dominator 5 - Supergo (RIP :( - Still wearing these)
I got my Sidi Dominator 6's at a swap meet 2.5 years ago for $8. Shear luck on that one. They're slightly small with the insole in, but with it removed they're perfect. They're still in great shape too, I expect they might last another couple of years.
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