Shoes

[Nomad]

I'm in the market for a new pair of shoes and am looking for riders with similar preferences to offer up opinions. I'm 180, 10.5, regular width, and ride mostly xc for 2-6 hrs. I don't want a narrow shoe and would rather have a shoe w/lugs on the toe, looking for something $150.00 and a place to try em on. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[jamishead]

Sidi Dominator, Mega. I've used two pairs in the past 5 years. Even had my cobbler sew on new velcro and repair the heel covering after two years on the first pair.

They've been super reliable, they are light, and they have grippy soles.

If you shop enough, you'll find last year's model for around the price you listed.

[Gimpy00Wang]

Where are you located?

Check out Specialized's Comp MTB shoe. I'm similar in specs and have a 44.5. Gotta leave some wiggle room for your feet to swell. Many shops have '08 leftovers and if not you can order them (the '08) directly from Spec. Performance has some decent house-brand shoes so if you have one near you should check them out as well.

- Chris

[Longshanks]

I'll second the Sidi recommendation. Comfy and tough.

[jamishead]

Suggest maybe a 45 if you are going to have custom orthotics made or intend to ride in the winter(sock room).

[nirtiger]

I been very happy with my Shimano shoes they are known to be wider at the toe box and that's important for me

[agabriel]

I just picked up a new pair of shoes from the Cycle Loft. They gave me a NEMBA discount and they have alot of selection.

[skiierx]

Last weekend Belmont Wheelworks had quite a few pairs of left-overs on sale. I think I remember them having the Specialized comp shoe for $99. Not sure what it is today thought plus they have a large selection of shoes to try on.

[Jisch]

I just picked up a leftover, leftover pair of Northwave shoes for a deal. They feel great on my feet, but the latch makes me uneasy... one of these days I'm just going to say eff it and buy a really nice pair of shoes instead of leftovers and bargains!

John

[Nomad]

Great feedback guys, thanks! I don't recognize the stores though. It probably would of helped if I mentioned I'm in semass.

[cjdboston]

I've had my Sidi Dominators for at least 3 years now. Fit is perfect (I'm a size 10-10 1/2, with a pretty wide foot. Most bike shoes I find to be too narrow). These things can take a serious beating and as long as you don't let the material dry out too much (heck, even if they do dry out, treat 'em with some goo and they come back to life), will always come out smiliing. Heavy lugged sole with the option of screw-in studs at the toe. They even make models with removable/replaceable tread pieces in event of wear, though that model is pretty pricey.

look for closeout deals on late models, or talk to your LBS about last years models left over.

good deals can def be had, and if you find these shoes on sale freakin' buy em!:D

[digger]

Lake MX165 Wide is a popular spd choice in areas where you might have to dismount on rocks a lot, like Lynn. The vibram soles grip well. Simple velcro closure with laces if you want to use them. Sidis are great shoes but the hard plastic soles are treacherous walking on rocks. I had the LBS order them - they run true to size - the non wide version is quite narrow. 10.5/11 = 44.5 for me.

[Doro]

Lake MX165 Wide is a popular spd choice in areas where you might have to dismount on rocks a lot, like Lynn. The vibram soles grip well. Simple velcro closure with laces if you want to use them. Sidis are great shoes but the hard plastic soles are treacherous walking on rocks. I had the LBS order them - they run true to size - the non wide version is quite narrow. 10.5/11 = 44.5 for me.

i concur, I just got a pair of these and are happy with them. They stock them up at western cycles.

[Boosted333]

I have these, love them both....

Time MXE Carbon Fiber Mountain Shoe
http://www.nashbar.com/images/nashbar/products/medium/YS-MXE-NCL-ANGLE.jpg

Adidas Plush Mtb Shoe
http://www.nashbar.com/images/nashbar/products/medium/YS-PUH-NCL-ANGLE.jpg

[Nomad]

Great stuff guys! I was sold on the Doms till I read Digs reply bout the rocks. Now I'm a bit sketchy. Thought the lugged soles would take care of that, no? Runnin short on time, determined to buy before the months out. Anyone ride Doms w/beaters? I'm hooked on the beaters, not sure why but love em. Thanks again 4 the feedback!

[Scott O]

Dominators will work with any pedals. Don't get them if you have narrow feet. Other than that, only drawback would be their lack of traction while walking on rocks. But you should be riding, not walking, right?

[Nomad]

ah... ya... sure, riding not walking. Lets say for some reason I did need to walk and lets say it was definitely enough to warrant a good shoe that can walk the rocks. ( I've been known to loose those epic battles of man vs rocks, especially when bonkin.) Do the Lake MX165 wide fit regular, (non narrow) feet or are they to wide n do they work well with beaters? By the way, love your pic Scott. makes me laugh every time! "Abby someone"

[digger]

I first ordered the mx 165 non-wide and it's quite narrow. The wide I would say is the better choice if you have a med to wide foot (sounded like you wanted wide) . No idea on the eggbeater question - I can't imagine that the cleat recess on these is a lot different from other shoes.