Shoes for use with toeclips

[DaveReading]

I currently cycle in a pair of fairly sturdy trainers that I picked up in Spain a few years ago. They work fine with my habitual toeclips, but on long rides I'm conscious that, although the soles are considerably harder than your average UK trainer, I'm still losing efficiency.

I'm not ready to go clipless yet, but I feel the need for a decent hard-soled pair of shoes designed for cycling - any recommendations ?

 

[biggs682]

i use a pr of Crane shoes from Aldi with conventional pedals and cages , works fine

 

[Hugh Manatee]

Don't pull the toes straps tight though. If the shoes are slotted, you'll never get out of them!

 

[Katherine]

I wear Clarke's shoes that look like a trainer but have quite sturdy soles so good for pressing down on the pedal and into the cage of the toe clip. Comfortable off the bike too. I tuck the laces into the side of the shoe. They're not vented so keep out most of the rain if caught out without overshoes. They're a bit scuffed on the toes now but I now have leather tips on my toe clips so that should help.
I have never seen anything else to replace these shoes so it does show a gap in the market.

 

[Gasman]

If you have cycling shoes I have a set of old cleats for pedals with clips and straps you could have. They use the same screw holes as SPD cleats.

 

[Dogtrousers]

How about these Bontrager SSR Multisport Shoe

Stiff cycling specific shoe, I'm sure it would be OK with toeclips. Fine for walking about. Also suitable for converting to two-bolt SPDs if/when you want to.

I wrote a review of them here: Bontrager SSR Shoe review They remind me of the cycling shoes I used to wear for touring with toeclips back in ye olde pre clipless days.

 

[Deleted member 1258]

I use a pair of Shimano mountain bike shoes without cleats fitted.

similar to these

http://www.evanscycles.com/products/shimano/mt34-leisure-mountain-bike-shoe-ec056773

 

[Profpointy]

a stout pair of oxfords or brogues should do it. Loakes are probably the best quality for the money. Beware of the cheaper Loakes though as some aren't actually made on Northampton and / or not fully leather lined. Their higher end shoes are excellent though.

I am being serious by the way. To my way of thinking the the point of toe clips and straps is not having to have special shoes, so a good pair of brogues is perfect

 

[Gravity Aided]

I sometimes use golf shoes with cleats removed. I know some fellows also use shot-putting shoes, but those seem a lot less widely available.