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How to Fix Numb Toes When Cycling

05.25.2024 by Scott Jangro // Leave a Comment

Cycling is all about finding that perfect balance between comfort and performance. Sometimes, even the smallest tweaks can make a huge difference. Recently, I decided to tackle an issue that’s been bugging me for a while – numb toes. After some research and talking to a few fellow cyclists, I decided to try new inserts in my shoes, specifically ones with arch support. Here’s how it went.

The Problem: Numb Toes

For the longest time, I’ve been dealing with numb toes during and after my rides. It’s annoying, uncomfortable, and definitely takes away from the joy of cycling. I realized that my current shoe inserts offered little to no arch support, and I began to wonder if that was the root of the problem. So, I decided it was time to make a change.

The Solution: Inserts with Arch Support

I picked up a pair of inserts with decent arch support from my local bike shop. These inserts promised to provide better alignment and distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. The idea was that proper arch support would alleviate some of the strain on my toes and improve overall comfort.

The Experiment

With my new inserts in place, I was eager to hit the road and see if they made a difference. Here’s how it played out:

  1. First Ride: Immediately, I noticed a different feel in my shoes. The arch support was noticeable but not intrusive. As I pedaled, the pressure felt more evenly distributed, and my toes felt less strained.
  2. Subsequent Rides: Over the next few rides, I paid close attention to any changes in comfort and performance. To my surprise, the numbness in my toes gradually decreased. The longer I rode, the more I appreciated the support from the new inserts.
  3. Long Ride Test: The real test came during a long weekend ride. Typically, this is when the numbness would be at its worst. This time, however, I felt a significant improvement. While there was still a hint of numbness towards the end, it was far less severe than before.

The Results

Overall, the inserts with arch support made a noticeable difference. Here’s a breakdown of the results:

  • Reduced Numbness: The numbness in my toes significantly decreased. It’s not completely gone, but the improvement is substantial.
  • Improved Comfort: My feet felt more comfortable throughout the ride. The arch support provided a stable and supportive base, which made a big difference on longer rides.
  • Better Performance: With less discomfort, I found it easier to maintain a consistent pace and focus on my riding.

Final Thoughts

If you’re experiencing numb toes or general discomfort in your cycling shoes, I highly recommend trying inserts with arch support. It’s a small change that can make a big impact on your comfort and performance. Of course, everyone’s feet are different, so what worked for me might not work for you. It’s all about experimenting and finding what makes your rides more enjoyable.

Have you tried different shoe inserts or made any tweaks to improve your cycling comfort? Share your experiences in the comments – I’d love to hear what’s worked for you!

Happy riding, and here’s to more comfortable and enjoyable miles on the road!

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Celebrate Pearl Izumi with Big Savings in the Memorial Day Sale

05.23.2024 by Scott Jangro // Leave a Comment

As Memorial Day approaches, it’s a great time to reflect on the enduring popularity of Pearl Izumi among us here at Bike Noob. With their Memorial Day sale offering 25% off sitewide, an extra 10% off PRO Deal, and 80% off clearance items, it’s an excellent opportunity to upgrade your cycling gear.

A Legacy of Comfort and Quality

Pearl Izumi is renowned for their dedication to quality and comfort. The comfort and fit of their shorts make them a top choice for long rides, thanks to their exceptional chamois and durable construction. These features are why Pearl Izumi remains a favorite for those of us who demand high performance from our gear. You can find more about the impact of a good pair of shorts here.

Personal Experiences and Practical Benefits

Some of us here at Bike Noob have appreciated the practical benefits of Pearl Izumi shorts over bibs, especially how convenient they are for mid-ride breaks. This practical aspect, combined with the support they provide, makes Pearl Izumi shorts an indispensable part of our cycling wardrobe. Check out the convenience of shorts in more detail here.

Others of us much prefer the stability and support of bibs. Whatever your preference, Pearl Izumi has you covered.

Versatility and Durability

The versatility and reliability of Pearl Izumi products, such as their gloves, are well-documented. Even after extensive use, Pearl Izumi gloves remain a staple for many of us, showcasing the brand’s commitment to durability and performance.

Personally, I’ve got Pearl Izumi bibs, shorts, and gloves that have been in the rotation for over 10 years now!

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Buy

With the Memorial Day sale running until May 28th, you can take advantage of significant discounts on Pearl Izumi products. Whether you’re looking for new shorts, bibs, or accessories, this is an excellent opportunity to invest in gear that has proven its worth time and again.

Happy cycling, and enjoy the sale!

note: If you purchase through links on this page, I may earn commissions at no additional cost to you. That helps pay for the content on this website. Thanks for your support!

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Categories // Accessories, Equipment

How do you store your spare inner tube for rides?

11.01.2016 by Scott Jangro // 3 Comments

The one thing that you want to be in good shape when you need it is your spare tube.

I just store mine in my bike pouch wrapped in a tie wrap. Or sometimes in the original box that the tube came in.

The thing about storing your tube in your bike pouch is that it’s sitting in there with pieces of metal and plastic for months, traveling thousands of miles and the millions of small back and forth motions that go along with that.

I learned a hard lesson about this when moving to college one year, and we piled stuff in the back of the truck. A bicycle pedal was propped up against the back of a piece of furniture (thankfully the back), and by the time we reached school just 80 miles later, the pedal had worn a hole clear through the back of the furniture. A similar thing may be happening inside your bike pouch.

The same thing’s happening, by the way, with the cables and ties on your bike as well. That’s for another post,

How long has your inner tube been sitting in your bike pouch wearing away with the miles?

We can do some things to make sure that tube is ready for action when it’s most needed.

Here are 8 Tips for Storing your Inner Tube

  1. Wrap it in something protective, like an old sock. Our own Ray does this. I’d use something very lightweight, like a dress sock, or even a woman’s nylon sock.

  2. Store it in a ziplock bag with baby or talcum powder. The talcum powder is a lubricant and will help prevent any of those rubbing issues. Plus, powder on the tube will make it much easier to get it into the tire when you’re changing a flat.

  3. Store it in the original box. Tube manufacturers have already figured out how to package the tube in a very small space, and have conveniently put it in a box for you. Just leave it in there. You’ll gain a little bulk that way, but the box will crush down a bit if it needs to. This is a great way to see that wear that can happen over the miles as the box’s decoration will get worn away. Check it out after a season.

  4. Don’t wrap your tube in a rubber band. Sometimes different rubbers react with each other, and if the rubber band you’re using reacts with your tube, it could weaken the inner tube, causing it to crack.

  5. Do wrap your tube in something rubber-safe, like a tie-wrap.

  6. Store your tube with the cap on the valve. The pointy part of a Presta valve can work itself into the wrong place and work a hole into your tube.

  7. Don’t store your bike near a heat source, like in direct sunlight, or near a heater. Heat will cause tubes to dry and become brittle.

  8. Take the tube out once in a while. Inspect it for damage and even inflate it to check for leaks.

Some good practices and prevention will pay off when it matters. On the side of the road.

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  • Getting Back on the Bike: Road Cycling Tips for Older Cyclists
  • Are BCAAs and EAAs Good for Cycling?
  • How to Fix Numb Toes When Cycling
  • How to Find and Vet a Bike Club
  • Celebrate Pearl Izumi with Big Savings in the Memorial Day Sale

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