Dear Nor & List:
Alas, for some of us, it's getting hard to detect when we've actually started our sprint---. The only way I win stop sign sprints now is when I'm the only one who knows the route and take a flyer before the sign is in sight.
Soft soled shoes have a place, especially for those who use a bike to sightsee or run errands. But they work much better with platform style pedals, Lyotard Berthets or Barellis for on topic vintage, or MKS GR-9's for pedals which are still being made. I've successfully worn Nike Cortez's (a very floppy shoe) on long rides with platform pedals with no ill effects, whereas the same shoes with normal quill pedals have about a 20 mile limit before my feet go to sleep. The Puma shot put shoes with a pair of GR-9s look like it would be a nifty combo. Probably not my 1st choice for all out fast performance riding or super steep hills, but definitely a workable solution.
So I say there's room for all of us in this great sport. Let us join hands in a spirit of sisterhood and brotherhood, remember that it's not what's on your feet that matters, it's how fancy are your lugs!
BTW, Harris Cyclery still lists the GR-9 for sale, if you want to try platforms.
http://sheldonbrown.com/
Tom Adams, Manhattan Kansas, USA
Nor Meyer <norbikes@gmail.com> wrote: I can't believe all this talk about "shotput shoes", "bowling shoes", etc!! I guess if all you ever ride are rails-to-trails paths w your 10 yr old grandkid, then mebbe such would serve. I for one, tho, am ever so happy to be wearing cleats whenever the road throws a long, 8% grade at me, and I have to get out of the saddle to negotiate the climb. And what about the sprint for the city limit sign----sprinting in sneakers...?!! You gotta be kidding me!
Nor Meyer in Mt. Vernon, IA