Why Is No One Talking About this Cycling Shoe?

[@highball1837]

I truly enjoy tour content! You are reviewing cycles and cycling goods that no one else is and that gives you a niche. Keep up the great work!

[@robertwyland7770]

Totally agree with the need for wider toe box shoes ( why are bike shoes so narrow?). I do like a some what stiffer shoe. This helps eliminate how spots for me. Though I ride either clips or cages and straps. Maybe flats would make hot spots a non issue with less stiff shoes. What you are asking for is what used to be known as a touring shoe, but with a wider toe box, which would be perfect!

[@JBertoMS]

Totally agree!!!! bike shoes are stupidly narrow!!! Why? Well, there is no reason, unless you are a professional cyclist and you need that "half second every 100kms" that you can get for its (ridiculously minimal) aerodynamic effect. But that will only be useful for a professional biker in a high-level race.

[@Charles-wz9sd]

I do find that the higher end road shoes (we’re talking $400+ here) tend to actually be wider than the cheaper shoes. I do know that most companies make new lasts for their flagship pair based on what they find and just trickle down tech to their cheaper shoes without changing lasts or using higher end materials like natural leather or stiffer synthetics which you need to have in order to help prevent hotspots in your foot. The widest shoes I have used are Bont Vaypors and Shimano s-pyre both of which are in the $400 range. The narrowest I’ve seen are the cheep $100-200 entry level cycling shoes with the nylon soles despite it being coming from the same brands. Part of the reason is that they just decide to not pay much attention to the shoes and just make it more narrow so your feet can do some more of the stability itself which in reality does not work.

[@MasterOfTheRealm]

#Lems needs to get in the biking shoe game!

[@VeloObscura]

I actually really like my cycling shoes to have a stiff sole. Once I get them "interfaced" with the pedal, the big stiff sole makes it feel like my entire foot is on the pedal - like the shoe becomes and extension of the pedal - and I love the way that feels. However, I hate walking in shoes like that.... The Trailheads are a great compromise for me. They're great for walking or hiking in, but still just about stiff and grippy enough for pedals. They were my only pair of shoes for a long tour recently and they worked out amazing.

[@karlmouck4878]

Two thumbs up for Lems as a cycling shoe. My favorite is the Lems Chillums and a close second is the Lems Boulder Boot. Both a super light weight and the soles are really grippy on my flat pedals.

[@RaiderWarpath]

I went riding with my Lems Boulder Boot Mid Vegan, turns out...great grip. It's my go to mtb shoe. Highly recommend.

[@adijay9760]

@@RaiderWarpath hello, interesting comment as I really enjoy barefoot shoes. What kind of MTB are you doing? I would love to have lems as my MTB shoes but I am affraid for the grip (I live in a country where Lems shoes are not that easy to get)

[@EZSteve]

My favorite shoe is now the Merrell Moab Ventilator hiking shoe, a little on the bulky side, but much lighter in weight than traditional SPD clipless shoes. I use the Merrells with the Catalyst pedals by Pedaling Innovations, a super long pedal (no wider than regular platforms) that allows for full-foot support pedaling (no more hotspots or foot issues). Yes, traditional clipless cycling shoes are ridiculously narrow. I have owned and ridden extensively both the SIDI mega extra wide SPD shoe and the Lake MX-165 extra wide shoe, and despite their claims to being wide, the are about an inch narrower than my Merrell Moab hiking shoes that I now wear ... my feet are SO much more comfortable in regular shoes! You are so right in calling out the narrowness of SPD cycling shoes. Leaving clipless pedaling behind last summer of 2022 was the best think I ever could have done! Now I can wear whatever shoe I want, and I will never pedal on my toes again (as I did for many years with SPD clipless shoes). Thanks for showing your shoes! steve

[@KennethWuAU]

My favourite cycling shoe is the Specialized Rime 2.0. It seems to fit my definition of the perfect cycling everyday shoe. It takes SPDs, but you also don’t look like a cyclist if u walked into the supermarket with it. On concrete w/ cleats, the cleats does make some concrete grinding sound esp if the pavement is rough, but if you can get over that, u can easily walk all day on it and even do hike-a-bike with it.

[@newstart1651]

Just bought the Giro Tracker & I'm loving it. I have Race Face Pedals on my Gazelle E-bike. Theses shoes really stick to the pedals. With the wire lace up, there super easy to take on & off. Great video-!!

[@alethearobinson8132]

For flat pedal biking I like the Keen Voyageur hiking shoe. Wide toe box and if you have a narrow heel most Keens can be adjusted to fit a narrow heel.

[@matthewmayho1923]

I love the Altra Lone Peak - they're light, great for walking and cycling, and the wide toe box means i can put thick socks on in winter!

[@dant.6364]

I’ll second that. Love the wide toe box of the Line Peaks.

[@dant.6364]

They also go on sale every year in the spring. I got mine for $90 on Amazon.

[@anthonykoleszar1779]

Try wearing old dress shoes, broken in and wide enough for your foot but narrow enough for old toe clips with straps, which is why the narrow tradition. They also have a pronounced heel and sole is stiff enough to push a pedal. My first & only bike shoes are 1992 Shimano stiff, narrow shoes with a steel plate under sole. They are wearing out at the spot that was cut out for whatever cleats/clips, whatever was supposed to be placed there. It’s been through rain & snow and everything in between. I don’t usd cages anymore, all 5 bikes are flat pedals. Go big, go cheap!

[@leightonbohl1920]

Hi, Russ - As I mentioned in an earlier comment, in my opinion, the best non-specific cycling shoe is the Camper Peu. It is a so called ‘earth’ shoe with no heel, a super sticky sole that really grips any flat pedal and a really generous toe box. The sole is flexible but the speeds the load across the sole. I am in my late 70s, and sensitive feet and sore knees mean any clipped in pedals are out of the question; clips and straps as well. I found these shoes by chance, and have used them for the last 5 years. Absolute comfort and control. The leather version can be waterproofed with ‘dubbing’ for the winter. I have used every kind of shoe in my cycling ‘career’ and, believe me, nothing comes close to the Camper for flat pedal comfort and efficiency. Get a pair - I’ll look forward to your review! The Fossil, Manchester, UK

[@Billlakeview]

Xero Terraflex has been my favorite mixed with XL Pedaling Innovations flat pedals. The Prio is nice but the bottom is a bit slick. I prefer the knobs on the bottom of the Terraflex. Plenty of toe space in a zero drop, lightweight shoe. Standard laces and holes for lots of adjustments.

[@mikeflanigan4896]

Definitely a discussion that's needed. I like narrow shoes, because I have narrow feet. I just use cheap running shoes, because I don't want to fork over a hundred bucks. But I am glad you are putting the pressure on, so bike companies will listen...and make things for everyday cyclists.

[@pavelg4990]

I am all for wider shoes, but narrow ones are not necessarily for fashion. Some of us just have narrow feet. I absolutely hate having too much space in a shoe. So a wide toe box is not a benefit, but a feature. Bu this video is so useful, and this is an amazing channel ).

[@pedroclaro7822]

If you use wider shoes, minimalist shoes or walk barefoot more often your foot will become wider. Not sure you'd want that for cyling, at all, but it's what people report happening, and exactly what happened to me.

[@captaincoyote1792]

This was a timely video. I adopted “zero drop, wide toe box, minimalist” footwear …four years ago, in preparing to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail. After that adventure, I built up a custom Chumba Stella for bikepacking. I’ve been using my Xero Prios, and an Amazon brand …but the soles are thin, and have been looking for a zero drop minimalist shoe, for long distance bikepacking. I actually have a pair of Lems, for backpacking….I had t thought of using them for distance bikepacking! Thank you, Russ!

[@OHJLM]

I ditched my clipless setup for flats based on your advice and it made a huge difference! I'm actually faster on gravel trails. I tried several different brands and found the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Launch work best for me. Even with the obnoxious safty cone orange BOA dials.

[@jessiecooper2136]

I have the Lems Trailhead too. I like them a lot, but I actually find them a bit too stiff and too grippy for riding how I want to. The Trailhead is great for getting off the bike and walking round in the wilds, have good protection for water and mud, etc. But I come from bmx and have historically ridden in light shoes, right to pumps with minimal ankle support, no stiffness at all. And that background has shaped what I like in shoes for pedalling big bikes in. I have lots of ankle and foot problems (old displaced breaks, torn ligaments on side, and torn ligaments in my heel which is total killer and has pretty much pushed me away from little bikes), but I still love the feel of flexibility and control that a minimal, trainer or pump brings. I want to love my Lems for riding in, but am considering just getting more trainers or pumps. And on with the endless dilemma of shoes to ride in...

[@timshelhamer7374]

Personal fit and comfort is my priority so I have to try it on first. For casual riding I look at trail running shoes. I can usually find one with suitable grip, width, breathable material, weight, comfort that works on and off the bike. Trail runners also have a good variety of closures available. I like boa or pull cords over laces for biking.

[@hordboy]

I use my trail running shoes for biking, they work great, and I use lock laces in them anyway, so no worries about laces getting wrapped up in a pedal.

[@mattkavanaugh5623]

Trail runners can be great b/c some models have a protective barrier of plastic or other material between the outer sole and the inner liner to protect against rocks, etc. for trail running. This can add a bit of stiffness to the sole which makes pedaling more efficient, but not so stiff that they are uncomfortable for walking/hiking.

[@jjn232]

The Giro Ventana is a very similar shoe if anyone is looking for something like this but has SPD. I've used the fastlace version for multi-day bike packing trips the past couple of years and they are very comfortable with all the same attributes Russ goes in to here in my opinion. I use them with the Shimano PD-EH500 spd pedals which are dual sided. The shoes work well on the flat side for times I want it.

[@JeremyLawrence-imajez]

The Giro Rumble is more like the Tracker, i.e. don't look like a bike shoe like the Ventana does.

[@edcatt9196]

I've tried various non-clipped-in biking shoes. I go back and forth from spd's to platform pedals frequently (usually clipped in on most gravel/mixed terrain rides) but lately I've been using a pair of Altra 5 trail running shoes with wide toe box, and I really like them. I can hike and ride with them and not feel foot fatigue. There's a stiffener in the Altra 5, but not overly stiff. I love them for long distance walking (I'm not a trail runner, but love the lightweight feel and the zero drop design). The wide toe box is what really drew me to these sorts of shoes, and I didn't originally buy them for cycling. Now I use them for riding and walking. Your review features some very good aspects that the cycling shoe makers need to focus more on.

[@eviehawke]

i also use altra trail shoes for cycling (and running)! it's the only brand that doesn't hurt my morton's neuroma. 👍🏼

[@tracerxrider]

When I switch to flats here in the PNW, I love my Altras with the rock guard in them.

[@gabiangregoric2893]

Which altra 5's more precisely have you been using?

[@edcatt9196]

@@gabiangregoric2893 I've been using the Altra Lone Peak 5 version. Their old, but work okay.

[@michal-smr]

Been looking for exactly the type of shoe you are presenting, thanks for the tips. Impressed by the Giro Tracker! In the end though, I had already bought the Shimano SH-ET500. It's pretty much the same weight as the Giro Tracker, great grip, quite walkable, traditional lacing + a stow-away band, stiff sole (there's a plastic plate underneath the insole). It costs a little less than the Giro, though I'm a bit bummed I did not consider the Giro before buying. Still very happy with my choice, would be interesting to know what you think of the Shimano SH-ET500.

[@sethchapman8001]

I have been cycling in a pair of Merrell barefoot running shoes for a few years now. Really lightweight, nice wide toebox, super flat thin sole (good pedal feel), and really breathable. They work good with toe clips as well.

[@jp93309]

I’m out of love with Boa closures. They’re impossible to dial in a nice fit without overdoing it and getting too tight. I picked up a pair of Pearl Izumis with 2 velcro straps and they’re so good that I bought a new backup pair when these get thrashed.

[@MyopicAdventures]

Finally a review focusing on wide (or normal) feet, I'm a cyclist not a ballerina. Thanks for this!

[@johnhughes905]

Hi Russ. The type of riding I do is often on gravel or fire roads, often along a creek or in hilly or mountainous terrain. I started riding in my mid level hiking boots just so I could park the bike and also hike at some point without changing shoes. I now prefer to ride in my hiking boots for the following other reasons: moderately rigid sole which grips and doesn't fatigue, ankle support which actually is quite helpful on a bike, waterproof, lace up which allows more control over fit, and just a great fit. Seems I often stop to scramble down to a stream, or up a rocky slope to examine something. I really can't tell the difference in weight when riding the bike. I have some lighter weight Salomens, and heavier leather boots. Both work equally well. Thanks for the video!

[@johnbrann75]

I've abandoned all traditional cycling clothing and have no regrets but finding a shoe that fits my requirements is difficult. I'm with you on most of your comments on the shoes but I do like a stiff sole, I don't like my toes bending over the pedals causing numbness. Currently I'm using runners from Costco with a stiff inner sole added. The shoes I have for cycling are only used for cycling so comfort when walking isn't an issue. Great video Russ, keep the faith for the cycling majority.

[@tjmcdonald4747]

I went on a five week tour with the Five Ten Sleuth Slip. I love it! They are cheap ($48). The back slips down if you need to pop out of your tent at night. The sole can stand up to flat pedal spikes. They are pretty waterproof. It's got Five Ten sticky rubber. I didn't need camp shoes because of them.

[@russellstringfellow1109]

Great vid! I went through a clipless phase (as I’m sure most of us who follow you did) and I have been looking for the perfect show ever since. For the last decade or so I’ve mostly been riding in my trusty old Converse Chucks, even though they are not ideal. Those Lems look like they may be the ticket.

[@Intentsrig]

I was looking for a flat shoe for days on the gravel bike where I’m riding more single track, techy gravel or just cruising with brewery stops 😂. Always use flats riding mtb so it’s just a preference on trails. The giro tracker is perfect. Not overly bulky, boa and light. It’s like the perfect gravel flat shoe. Now just use my spd’s for days with more road.

[@hbsin27hbsin27]

what do you think 5ten Trailcross? low profile, stealth sole, light, not too narrow

[@thomasmcroy1756]

I just ride in vans. On my gravel bike I use low top vans old schools with flat mtb pedals and messenger straps. Works great.

[@paggledeedooo]

The first thing I look for is a shoe that will absorb the least amount of water and dry quickly. I find that with creek crossings and random rainstorms, waterproof shoes/socks/covers just don't cut it--I'd prefer to just let it get wet and wear warm wool socks. I absolutely avoid cushioning around the ankle and prefer as much non-absorbing mesh as possible. With that, I tend to gravitate to watershoe hikers and canyoneering shoes. I've loved Arc'teryx's Konseal LT... a lightweight approach shoe with a handy fold-down heel for slipping on quickly around camp.

[@elliott959]

As a dedicated clipless rider I appreciate a stiff sole. I've been riding in Shimano SD5 sandals (even in winter), maybe I'll get a pair of the Quoc boots though, they look pretty classy!

[@michaelhayward7572]

Keen CX Clearwater sandals. Safety toe fisherman sandals, perfect for cycling in warmer climes.

[@JeremyLawrence-imajez]

I have used Giro Rumbles for many years now as my non winter shoe and they don't have a narrow toe box. I have narrow heels and am wide across toes, and like to wiggle my toes. They are SPD shoes but I've also worn them all day on many occasions as shoes. Don't look like bike shoes either, if that's important to you.

[@sepg5084]

I wear cheap flat pedal shoes from china. Made of material that's similar to the one used on Crocs, it is lightweight and won't soak when it gets wet because it us not fabric/leather. It is pretty much a one piece construction so there sole will not separate.

[@mrvwbug4423]

flat pedal shoes are bulky mostly because they're designed primarily for gravity riding on MTBs. I appreciate the extra protection on my Five 10s when I invariably catch a toe on a rock on the MTB. For gravel I would personally run a MTB clipless pedal/shoe setup that has a flat sole and recessed cleat so easy to walk in.

[@yanncampbell9950]

Most trail running/light hiking shoes do the job as they have some kind of rockplate to make them stiffer than running shoes.

[@Ray.J]

Price is also important and the Giro Tracker seems to be very affordable and actually on sale at some dealers if you are lucky to find your size. I saw it as low as $93.00 with free shipping at one bike dealer. Looks like a great shoe! Nice review as always. One thing I like about the Chukka-style boots is they keep debris out of the shoe better, important when you are on gravel for sure.

[@curtbrown7967]

Half of the rides (10-60 miles) I end up in Blunstones. Giro trail is second choice. Both a bit heavy. I’m interested in the Lems Chelsea. Thank you Russ

[@sanfransimo]

Have you ever tried the Xero Prio? Been my go-to for flat pedals, with or without cages/straps. Just don't put them in the dryer or super hot wash cycle (they fall apart).

[@ryankennard6626]

I have found that several of the Olukai brand shoes are great for my commuter. I even have worn them for bikepacking, instead of my stiffer 5.10 mtb shoes.

[@thexcolexman]

Stoked to see you mention Lem's. I have been contemplating grabbing a pair of those over replacing my Vans that i ride in.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

I have the 510s but they are heavy and do not breath. Summertime is miserable. I mostly ride in Keen Targhee 3 hiking shoes. Lighter weight, breath good, wide toebox with rubber toe guard. Very comfortable. Hey! You can hike in them too 🤓

[@jacko601]

The Lems Trailhead sounds terrific from your description, but I found this on their website: *Sizing Note: The Trailhead fits narrow. If you have wider feet, we do not suggest this shoe.

[@JustClaude13]

My latest bicycle shoe is a Johnston & Murphy Schuler bicycle toe. It's a split vamp casual shoe. The heel counter is a little softer than i like, but it's fairly comfortable. Despite their origins, most bicycle toe shoes are narrow dress shoes, frequently with an ugly squared off toe. it can be hard to find something handsome and comfortable on longer rides.

[@zimmejoc]

So long as it is above 60 degrees outside, I love riding in my Chaco sandals. Super comfy, ready for water crossings, and is easily worn post ride.

[@jbmorrill]

Love the quoc shoes. I have 2 pairs for commuting and even wear them when not biking. Also have the Lems. Will have to try them on the bike next

[@longhaulblue]

Great video. Very timely as I'm looking to buy a new pair of shoes. I also use flats with toe clips. I've never used cycling shoes as I find them impractical for commuting and bike touring. I wear Merrell hiking shoes. They are perfect for walking but a little soft for cycling. In the summer I wear a pair of Keen sandals. The footbed material sucks but the profile is perfect. The Chelsea Lems looks like it can do almost everything. It can even pass as a dress shoe. Keep doing these videos on shoes. They are invaluable.

[@skyrunr]

I'd like a more wearable/walkable shoe with SPD's (I use egg beaters on all my bikes but road now,) and need more ankle support as I am 6'. I really like BOA, but maybe if there was one at the top and one at the bottom of the laces. They need to be user repairable/replaceable too. Vaude or XLC might be an option.

[@danhufferdoutdoors]

I ride my salsa fargo in merrell trail gloves, they are the old trail glove 3, probably not quite enough for cycling but they are my best find for now, glad to hear of these I will give them a look, thank you.

[@CommaCam]

Great shoes. I have the Trail Glove 4 and love them for cycling. The only drawback for some people is that the grip pinches down at the mid foot so there's not much of a platform below the toe/ball area. It's fine for me though. Good for hiking too, and extremely light.

[@Natenjill]

Another vote for the Merrell minimalist shoes. I ride with the Vapor Glove (leather upper) A LOT. While a stiffer soul would make it more bike capable, I am ok sacrificing a bit of performance for the all day comfort I enjoy in these.

[@bivibikebaggins]

I ride in Lasportiva Raptor boots.. the pair Im on now are doing weel after 2 years...good traction when pushing my psuh bike... good grip in my cage pedals..

[@BikesAndBanjos]

I'm a big fan of BOA laces. There have been recent attempts to use multiple BOAs on each shoe which gives you a little bit more control with the tightness over different areas of your foot. But nonetheless I still prefer single BOAs to laces. Loosening and tightening are so much simpler and you don't ever have to worry about catching your laces on a sprocket or chain. I ride recumbent bikes and I love super light/comfy shoes. I'm never riding super technical terrain, because recumbents are more suited for long distances and comfort. I'd love to get a pair of Allbirds Runners or Adidas Kaptirs with multiple BOAs on each shoe. I think that would be my ideal biking shoe. But I am intrigued by more rigid soles as every once in a while I like to pedal a little faster and feel they might offer some performance benefits. I think I'm gonna give these Giro Trackers a try. Thanks for the heads up!

[@fritzginger15]

I agree with you on the desire for wide toe boxes. Especially since foot placement on pedals tends to put most of your weight and power through your forefoot. I also prefer a more flexible sole. I could understand if I were doing a lot of dedicated downhill riding or slope style that stiffness could be helpful. But for trail,XC and packing rides having natural flex really helps when you are off the bike. And personally also more comfortable on aswell. I do like the sole to be firm or thick enough to distribute and negate the feel of pedal pins. My current pair of 510 free riders iv had for 5 years now and wear them for everything I do (rides, everyday town walking ,work, hiking and as my approach shoes when climbing) and this past season they became worn and thin enough that I could feel my pedals pins and it was a bit uncomfortable towards the bottom of rides. I do really like the free riders. For me they are wide enough in the toe box, flexible enough in the sole, breathable enough since the two pairs iv owned are the canvas ones, and and break in well for walking and hiking in. I have been looking for other options to try this season since I’m at a point where I should replace my current 510s. But like you I find a lot of bike specific brand shoes are over engineers for the type of rider I am. And they fact that I don’t tend to dedicate my shoes to one job. Breathability, ability to keep debris out. And waterproofing or resistance are great aspects of bike specific shoes. But there a big gap in most shoe lines in their reinforcement and protection. Most shoes seem to be geared towards rough riding pro riders. I think most of us trail riders are only out for a few hours a ride and not every day of the week and aren’t doing trails and stunts that warrant that much protection. Bike/hike oriented sole patterns, breathability and weather resistance is only reason I tend to lean towards bike shoes

[@AutiSam1974]

Hi is that the Lems Trailhead V2 or is it an older version? I can only find V2s in UK

[@theo5928]

how do you find the durability of the lems footwear? I've been interested in getting their 'outlander' boots. A big thing for me is that I don't want it to fail on me during a long bikepacking trip, and i cant afford to replace my boots every year so im looking for something that will last a long time.

[@adhunt1]

I've enjoyed a pair of old skool looking Saucony shoes for riding. Has the grip, fully functional off the bike, and breathable. I'm a sweaty guy so I like the breeze coming in the toe box

[@dougcohenmiller]

My fav shoes period and def for flat pedals are Salomon hiking shoes. If you need arch support and all day comfort look no further.

[@markbabcock]

I love my Lems Chelsea boots. They ride really well. Most of the time, I ride in my Lems Drifters, and occasionally in the Boulder Boots. Basically, all the Lems shoes make great riding shoes.

[@alansanchezlopez4018]

Very good review! So it is wider in the toes than a Xero shoe? All the best!

[@aaronpropes9134]

Question: in the past you've expressed your love from Crocs as a bike shoe - what reasons would you swap those (or just any all-purpose athletic shoe) for one of these? I tend to do running/gym shoes because they're comfortable, if they get wet they dry easily, and I can use a variety of socks depending on the temperature and weather.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

It’s winter.

[@aaronpropes9134]

@@PathLessPedaledTV Fair enough. I wear boots during the winter, too.

[@AndrewDemack]

Favourite no-cycling brand cycling shoe: the Black Diamond Circuit. It’s an ‘approach’ shoe, although what I’m approaching on it I’m unsure. So comfortable that its my everyday shoe, but still great to ride on supportive mtb-style flats with pins. The pins do damage the sole however, and cos I wear these shoes everyday, the first pair lasted about 15 months, and I’m about 18 months into the second pair. A side note, or perhaps a different video … for my commuter bike I switched away from the mtb-style flats to the MKS Sylvan Gordito because when wheeling my bike through doorways, train stations etc I find the mtb-style pedal pins attack my calves, so I would often arrive somewhere with blood trickling down the back of my leg. But because the MKS cage-style pedals have less platform than the mtb style, I tend to wear shoes with a firmer sole. Everything is a compromise, right? I have two cycling specific pairs of flat shoes I like, the Five Ten Trailcross, and the Shimano GR6.

[@guillaumeschleret9800]

Speaking about wide toe box shoes, did you have a chance to try the Lake MX201 (clipless or flat) ? It seem like they are the new golden confort standart when it comes to wide feet.

[@SashaLokhtin]

been using 5tens stealth recently it's really looks like normal shoes and going from altras - a bit narrow yes, but grip is amazing in comparisson

[@watertankhikes]

My favorite in-between shoe was the super-light Specialized Skitch, which has been discontinued. The Giro Tracker looks interesting, especially because they offer it in a men's 49 and 50. Most of the flat shoes out there aren't made larger than 48 (US 13-14, depending on what chart you look at).

[@gilbertayala1069]

They suppose to be stiff on the road. What kind cycling do you do?

[@Fetucinee]

I'm with PLP'ed and favor barefoot shoes, specifically minimalist Merrell Trail Gloves, for platform pedal riding. For more technical MTB'ing I go with older 5/10 skate shoes because of their more robust construction, better foot protection and superb, grippy outsole but don't favour the slight heel rise and narrower toebox. What's discouraging about the GIRO shoe that PLP'ed likes is that BOA lacing system. I've had two instances where it required replacing on clipless shoes and while its superior fastening strength makes sense for clipless shoes where power is transferred on the up-stroke of the pedal cycle, I'm not convinced platform pedal shoes merit the extra complexity and expense, standard laces being just fine.

[@pepemontoya9634]

I love Jim green African Ranger boots they are comfortable and ready to hike looks good and you can pair it with jeans or shorts because they are made for the African Rangers the toe box is wide but I change the insoles and they feel perfect I take them everywhere especially if I’m riding my bike, best thing is the are resoluble ✌🏼

[@kylebrown3144]

Been using Chaco Ramble cinch shoes ($35) for my winter commute, super light, great grip and super warm! Get a 1/2 size big and throw in an insert.

[@mytwocoins]

If those stick like the Giros I got it’s like glue! I don’t really get the flat pedal thing, I’d rather ride clipless but had to try a “modern” flat set up and found them to be fine. The shoes I got are a bit too based so those look sweet.

[@frederickmulder280]

Similar to Vans Eras is the Nike Chron 2 (CD6279-001). I like them bc the sole is flat and even, not waffled. I get a really good grip. I buy them a half size larger than my regular size and get all the wiggle room I need without them feeling too big. Understated looks with performance features that don’t preclude shredding.

[@drbobjohnson812]

Russ as always thanks for the vid. At 7:14 when you mention the offspring of the Quoc and Lems, I believe the term would be a "Shoeling"

[@markmoreno7295]

Ditto, not stiff, wide, light, and as good a walker as a normal shoe. So far that has been the 510 Freerider Pro flat pedal shoe. It is used by roofers because of its grip. One shoe weighs 458 grams with my Sole brand insert. I often use these shoes for work too. Only con is that it wears out relatively fast and costs a bit to buy.

[@filipdrs8998]

i feel like you would enjoy the shimano gr5 it has a super wide toebox its not super stiff i would go as far as saying its flexible and thanks to that flex its super comfy for walking riding and sometimes running from an angry grandma on the trail. i wouldn rercommend you try them they are awesome and also super cheap and quite waterproof and breatheble

[@casparnikolai4858]

I recently bought some Specialized Recon 2.0s and even though I don't like Specialized in general, I had to buy them. THEY ARE SIMPLY THE MOST COMFORTABLE CYCLING SHOES I EVER HAD. No seriously they are great for people with wider feet.

[@KennethWuAU]

The Rime 2.0 from specialized is a better everyday riding shoe in my opinion. esp if u don’t want to look like a cyclist while ur in the shops. It’s also very walkable, and has vibram soles so u can even hike-a-bike with it while still having SPD cleats. Yeah I dislike Specialized stuff in general. I think they nailed cycling footwear.

[@nito_gocni5460]

I wear barefoot shoes and have wide feet but similarly I bought the specialized recon 1.0. it has a rounded toe box and has enough flex in the sides, so feel less narrow than other shoes. I like them. Very stiff too.

[@mikekearsley2407]

I like to cycle in clogs, sometimes wood sole clogs. The best biking shoes are ones that have a very rigid sole.

[@peterfrederick3775]

my go to flat shoe is Dunham Cloud. All sorts of widths and I have both low cut and a mid boot. Great all around shoe

[@domschinik]

I really really love this. Thank you! I always woundered, why none complains about those heavy, tight toed flatp shoes.

[@TheNerdKnownAsDavid]

how is the sizing on the tracker? they look like exactly what I’ve been looking for and struggling to find!

[@michaelcarey3600]

Another great video Russ. I switched to flat and Lems about two years ago and haven’t looked back.

[@erikiskandermeon9999]

I never ever did waste a thought when it came to cycling shoes. Got the same relaxed approach to bike riding as PLP has; - a shoe has to serve to more than one purpose. I always look for shoes that do well in everyday use. Walking, hiking, running, biking. - I absolutely need space around my toes, I sweat less, my feet do freeze much less in cold, wet weather. The shoes have to be water repellent but not entirely water proof because wet feet from sweat cool down much faster and easier than feet kept dry. High quality Merino socks are to be considered as well as insoles. Usually I go for a Salomon trailrunning shoe or a Lowa low-cut hiking shoe, those fit all my needs. They're elegant but sturdy, they flawlessly do their job they were designed for PLUS they're really decent bike shoes!

[@day1strength463]

Great video Russ, very informative. I've just been using Converse and Vans bc I refuse to pay for Vans knock-offs that are twice the price because they're branded MTB specific. I'll definitely give one of these pairs a try.

[@GMoneyLove]

It just sounds like you should just use minimalist trail running shoes since that seems to be what you are comparing everything to. Shoes are very personal, and I'd also contend that they don't build shoes a certain way just for the heck of it. Road shoes and some gravel/MTB shoes are stiff for a reason- they offer better power transfer and your feet won't get tired from the flex of a sole over a long or rough ride. Some MTB shoes like the Five10's for instance are built the way they are to be more protective of your foot/ankle while thrashing a bike down a trail. Shoes are also more than just width and length, but about volume. I have an average to slightly narrow foot that doesn't have a lot of overall volume, so finding a shoe that fits is hard just because of that. And unless it is cold, exceptionally wet, and/or I want to look fashion-forward off the bike, why am I going to wear a boot that is restrictive in movement, heavier, etc.? So to bring it back around, it is really about finding the shoe that works for you and works for how you are going to use it at any given time.

[@hamsted]

Lems Trailhead all day! I wear them for everything I do including biking. I've been wearing them virtually everyday for a couple of years and they're just great. The sole stays grippy and lasts forever. The only reason I bought a new pair was because they were so dirty my wife started questioning them when we went out together.

[@Yurkevich22]

Check out Pear Izumi Canyon (non-spd version), it looks to fall in between the cracks as well

[@glidealong1171]

Good vid. The Giro is a no go for me and most of my friends. We don't do BOA on street/cycling shoes. No repair as you stated and no fit flexibility, Beside that the look of the Boa is a no starter for me. Love to see a vid review on a lace up version.

[@rgz4ams]

The Giro Gauge Boa looks close to the tracker but, of course allows clipping in. I don’t I can ‘unlearn’ clip less riding. Waddya think of those? Didn’t see any weight specs.

[@PathLessPedaledTV]

🤷🏽‍♂️ don’t know. I ride flats.

[@erickroeger1012]

I'm with you. BOA laces are way overrated. One pair and I'm done. What was wrong with the velcro?

[@boyandbike]

Hi have these Giro shoes. I needed some flat pedals shoes for bike packing and general riding and I have some super stiff and quality flat hope pedals. They make a great combination. I have used a pair of Merrill cross trainers before which worked well as they were waterproof but mostly mesh so not to hot.

[@Frombie_01]

I presently live in South Korea. What I would like is an off the shelf shoe that fits, any shoe. I don't think my feet are abnormally big (11.5 UK/13 US) and the closest I can buy are Nike in a 305 (Asian sizing) and that is still not quite big enough. Any cycling shoes in my size are non existent. As for office/going out shoes. I get them hand made.

[@danvee4523]

Same problems Rus. I wear mostly vivo primus lite 3s all day, vivo tracker boots in the winter and Shamma sandals when it’s sandal time. I actually really like the feel of riding onthe super minimalist shoes on quick spins but for longer rides need something a little more substantial on the bottom. Currently got some pearl izumi alp lace ups that are fairly wide. But kinda klunky.

[@alextorresphoto]

Giro laced is very comfortable. Some Giro are very stiff, but if you rock SPD, it's good. Non spd, coming from a bastketball world, Nike - air force ones are stiff enough but i can walk in them all day, not as light a shoe tho. Lems probably lighter. Never seemed to be an issue.

[@tammeribrahim437]

I was waiting for you to find out about the trailheads 😂 they vastly exceeded my expectations touring on the GAP. I love that they dry relatively quickly once you get out of the rain

[@dsego84]

How about Giro Latch? Looks similar, but with laces instead of Boa.

[@Zyzzyx42]

Love my LEMS! I live in their Boulder boots all year long, occasionally in their Primal during the summer (or Soft Star mocs in the house). Cycling though, for me its Specialized. I don't use flat pedals, so I do want/need that stiffer sole; and while big S could have a wider toebox, the rest of it fits me very well.

[@markroberts6971]

Any shoe from Topo Athletic. Terra Ventures for trail or ST5 from road, and the awesome Bedrock Cairn Pro sandal, w/ or w/out merino split tie socks. All are zero drop, wider forefoot, far more durable than Altras and last much longer, while performing great on any terrain. More value.

[@jeandrevanzyl2588]

I cycle in Luna sandals (Oso range) Absolutely love them. Extremely grippy, flexible and comfortable.

[@rrluthi1]

Skate shoes are good too. I have some Nike SB shoes that have a pretty nice stiff and heavy sole for flat pedals.

[@RatFink5912]

I use New Balance 608 or 623 for my bike shoes. I love your alternative options.

[@brentmiller4060]

As a mountain biker the bulky five tens add some protection against foot strikes.

[@philliplanfre347]

Very comfortable and great quality shoes, will definitely recommend this.