I am a former runner looking for cycling shoes that will fit my feet best. I am sure, or at least hoping, there is someone with the same problem that can afford some insight. Here it is: I used to run, now I trying to bounce back from surgery so I am hitting the road bike more often. I wear Asics to run, so what should I wear to ride? I have a pair of regular width SIDI's and am not satisfied. I have already given the wide SIDI's a go, and they were not right for my feet either. I have a wide forefoot and a narrow heel. I prefer medium arch support, but I assume I will be investing in some insoles and instead of relying on the shoes to fit my arches. I would greatly value some takes on my dilemma.
Give Specialized or Shimano a try. I have widish feet with narrow heels, and my Shimano shoes have been near perfect for me. I used to have a pair of Specialized shoes, but they didn't lock my heel down too well. Northwave would be another brand to consider. They typically have wide shoes.
It's possible that ankle braces could reduce circulation and worsen foot swelling over the course the ride. It seems the better option would be to get a pair of shoes that properly fits both forefoot and heel.
The OP should also think about the moldable shoes, in particular the Shimanos. Moldable shoes can allow a person to really customize the heel fit. Also, Lake offers a show that has an adjustment that pulls the heel cup in to more securely fit the heel.
What ever you choose, definitely get custom insoles. You should get the insoles before the shoes so that you can be sure to size the shoes properly, allowing room for your foot and insole. I've yet to see a stock cycling shoe insole that was worth anything at all.
