Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

> New subject:
>            
> Someone mentioned this in an E-news. But, they didn't mention how to
> avoid having their feet go numb while riding. So, what is the secret? For
> me, I know it depends on the boots that I am wearing. Winter boots are
> the worst. I tried easy ride stirrups once, but that just made more of my
> foot go numb. :o(  I will be probably be trying them again on a demo
> saddle. Any other ideas?

I can tell you what works for me - getting off and doing a bit on foot
every hour or two during the ride.  Even if it is just to lead down
a steep section, or in some cases in good flat footing if I have been
riding for a lengthy period.  It helps to break it up and loosen
everything up and keeps me from getting sore, especially later after the
ride is over.  The newest pads on my stirrups are also a huge help -
before these I used to have to have them 're-treaded' about once a year
(I spend a lot of hours in them, you could say) ;) -- now with these
newer pads they are into their third ride season and aren't getting
squished.  I see lots of riders riding with squished stirrup
pads.  They can be replaced, probably best to send them in and have
it done to EasyCare. 

It is also helpful to have well fitting shoes or boots and to make sure
you are bearing weight evenly as much as possible.  Sometimes I keep
using a pair of shoes well past their useful (comfortable) life. 
Found that out at Cuyama on the first day when I led downhill a long time
and ended up with blisters on several of my toes.  I wish my feet
had been numb then!   

Karen