I recently purchased a new pair of gravel shoes, bolted on a set of ever reliable new SPD cleats. After a couple of local rides, I took the bike for a near 5hr cycle. After a couple of hours, I got the most terrible pain in both feet just where the cleats are bolted on. The only solution was putting my feet in a stream for a few minutes or walking barefoot on grass to eliminate the pain.
Do the small metal plates that come with the shoes make a difference to this? Is there an option to use a spacer to reduce intrusion of the bolts towards the foot bed? I’d be interested in hearing if anyone has solved this issue
Sounds like something is wrong if the cleat bolts are protruding into the inside of the shoe…
What shoes are they, and can you upload some pictures?
Some more flexible trail mtb shoes can cause foot pain on longer rides due to flex, if used with an xc-style pedal with no platform, but this sounds quite extreme.
Does the cleat sit roughly flush with the tread, or is it quite recessed? If its recessed, you could use spacers, which would also reduce the amount of bolt poking through the plate in the shoe.
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They are a Shimano model with a medium stiff sole. I’ve not got them near me to take photos but the cleat is recessed inasmuch as there are grips to either side of it. I’m happy that I didn’t over tighten the bolts when installing the cleats, I’ve had a number of this type of shoe before along with many many three bolt shoes in the past, never with this issue.
Did you purchase the shoes at a local shop? Take them in and ask them to check the cleat install.
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By “small metal plates” do you mean the standard inserts?
No, thankfully i know to put those into the cleat with the bolts on top.
I think I’ll take them to the dealer, explain the issue and see what they advise. They are a local shop who provide excellent service.
Thanks all for your input on this. May you never have to experience this pain yourselves. It was horrific.
Unfortunately I’ve had the same thing with nylon or softer composite soles on mtb shoes. For long rides like that you’re better off with carbon soles.
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I had this issue on a pair of shimano shoes. Followed an online tip to cut up an old plastic card and use to cover the cleat hole. Fixed the issue.
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