Clipless uncomfortable to walk in?

Question

I'm riding a fixed gear bike and am considering going clipless as opposed to my clip/single strap setup.

I often go on long distance rides where I think the clipless setup would have an advantage. But I also run errands and get on and off the bike quite often.

I don't mind looking funny walking around in cycling shoes, but, are they comfortable to walk in? Don't the clips make loud clanky noises everywhere?

i don't want to feel like I'm walking in ski boots or something.

I'd probably be going for one of the SIDI models.

Answer 1

You mention SIDI, but not the type of shoes. With MTB shoes, you'll be able to walk much more comfortably in than Road shoes - On MTB shoes, the cleat is recessed into the sole, with rubber/plastic peices around the outer edge (as you can see in the top pic):

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41...

Whereas on a road shoe, the sole is flat (see below):

http://www.piermontbike.com/IMAGES/SH-R3...

The cleats on road shoes are much bigger, thus making them much more awkward to walk in

Answer 2

I have 3 pairs of shoes. road shoes for road rides. nice and stiff for efficient pedalling, crappy for walking about (not to mention potentially dangerous, as the carbon soles don't grip anything). moutain shoes for the woods. light-weight, low profile and fairly stiff for efficiency, but with recessed cleat, and some flex for hike-a-bike sections. they also have football style cleats on them for traction  in the dirt/mud. and my old MTB shoes. a pair from Specialized which look to the casual observer like hiking shoes. they also have a recessed SPD cleat, but a more flexible, hiking style sole. I use them with my commuter bike, as they're more comfortable when I do need to get off and walk around for whatever reason. I've actually worked a few shifts in the kitchen in them, and never heard the cleats on the tile floor!

Answer 3

Road shoes are made for riding only. They suck to walk in. You can get plastic/rubber covers that go over the clips that help you walk. These will help you get around for short errands, like running into the store for a drink. If you're using the bike for more extensive errands I'd go with MTB shoes.