I have shimano clip pedals which flip over to a flat side. Do I have to use Shimano shoes also?

Question

The pedal had a tag attached which said MUST USE SHIMANO SHOES.... They are expensive and would like to have a choice......Thanks...

Answer 1

No you don't. You can use regular shoes. If you want to use the clipless pedal side which use SPD cleats, you need to get shoes that are SPD-compatible (not necessarily Shimano brand). Check out Bike Nashbar or Performance for sales on shoes.
If you look at the bottom of these shoes, they have 2 slots with attachment points for the cleats. These are SPD-compatible shoes.
http://www.nashbar.com/profile_moreimages.cfm?category=84&subcategory=1041&sku=19939&brand=

These shoes have a 3-hole mount for Look pedals and are not SPD-compatible:
http://www.nashbar.com/profile_moreimages.cfm?category=84&subcategory=1042&sku=16133&brand=
Check out this shoes on sale:
http://www.nashbar.com/results.cfm?category=84&subcategory=1041&storetype=estore&estoreid=839&init=y&pagename=Category%3A%20Shoes
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/sub_cat.cfm?subcategory_id=2120

Answer 2

Are the shoes supposed to clip into the non-flat side of the pedal and then snap out?
If so, then you actually have what are referred to as "Clipless pedals" as opposed to pedals with a toeclip and strap.

There are many aftermarket (Non shimano) shoes that will mount to the "clipless" pedals and pedals with toeclips and straps. You should use the Shimano cleats that are screwed to the bottom of the shoes if they are clipless pedals. Check with the local bike shop or ask for help at a mail order shop on what will work with the bike/ pedals. Some shoes will not work with some pedals but there are many more options than just Shimano. Using the flat side of the pedal does not need to be any Shimano, of course.

Specialized, Nike, Vittoria, Sidi, Time, Look are among some shoe options.

Answer 3

No, you don't need to buy shimano shoes. What you need is some cycling shoes that have a part in the underside where you screw a cleat. Shimano shoes are not that expensive, though, or it depends on the shoe involved. Cycling shoes are kinda spendy, since they are more dedicated.

Answer 4

No