Hi Marcus,
I too like the clips and straps thing. I use leather-soled Dettos without the cleats. This works fine for me as I have enough sole to insulate my feet and I can slip out quickly.
Marc St. Martin Livermore, CA (currently in Las Vegas) USA
P.S., there are a couple pairs of leather-soled Dettos on the 'Bay right now.
-----Original Message-----
>From: marcus.e.helman@gm.com
>Sent: May 14, 2008 12:56 PM
>To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
>Subject: [CR]shotput shoes?
>
>Someone recently recommended shotput shoes for use with toeclips and
>straps. How stiff are the soles? I have been riding with the same pair
>of indoor soccer shoes for several years, and am beginning to want
>something new. Has anyone tried to put stiffer insoles in sneakers to get
>a better pedalling platform? Do stiffer insoles exist?
>
>This is treacherous ground for me. I have always ridden in sneakers. I
>like the ability to get off the bike, and walk easily. I am committed to
>toeclips and straps, so new bike shoes probably won't work for me, either
>because of lugged soles on mountain bike shoes, or velcro straps on road
>shoes, plus the dreaded duckwalk effect. Not to mention the gaudy color
>schemes.
>
>Also for me, toeclips and straps go with the whole classic bike gestalt.
>It is easy to slip into the toeclips with my Adidas Sambas. They even
>look a little like bike shoes. Riding with sneakers gives an added excuse
>when someone else is faster. "I could probably keep up with you if I had
>modern pedals, or if I wasn't riding this heavy old bike with only ten
>speeds and the shifters on the downtube."
>
>I suppose I could try to find a pair of Dettos, but I am also leery of
>traditional slotted cleats. I fear that I would not be able to get out of
>the pedals easily.
>
>I want something that looks like a bike shoe, but walks like a sneaker.
>Before I just go buy another pair of Sambas, I would be glad to hear your
>suggestions
>
>Best regards,
>Marcus Helman
>Detroit, MI USA