Cold
When it's cold outside, Shimano's SH-MT60 ($129.99 as of 2009) mountain bike shoe will keep your feet warm and dry. A Gore-Tex-lined upper is waterproof yet breathable to keep your feet dry from the elements as well as sweat-free, and its casual look and recessed cleats in the sole make the shoe comfortable clipped into a pedal or walking around town. The seams are sealed for further weather protection, and the dual compound rubber sole allows for an efficient pedal stroke and easy walking.
Colder
If it's frigid outside, you can count on Specialized's BG Defroster road cycling shoe ($166.25 as of 2010) to keep you warm. In addition to a water-resistant upper and a collar gusset to keep out moisture, the Defroster's interior is lined with thermal fleece as well as a reflective metallic barrier to reflect heat back to your foot. In addition, a light layer of insulation keeps the toebox warm and a reflective heel adds visibility on long winter nights.
Coldest
When it's raining heavily, you could use Pearl Izumi's Barrier GTX ($250 as of 2010). As its name implies, the Barrier GTX acts as a protective shell around a rider's foot. A Gore-Tex liner keeps the shoe waterproof, and Thinsulate insulation throughout the shoe keeps feet warm in the coldest weather. An integrated gaiter and zip-up lace cover complete the package to keep feet unaffected by the elements.
Article Written By Billy Brown
Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California.
An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.
