Bont Shoes – experiences? Specifically to resolve anatomical issues

As part of my ongoing and frankly tedious battle to straighten my hips out and pedal pain free, I’ve stumbled across the concepts of gripping the floor with my foot (I think this is a common weightlifting prompt) which led me to read more about proprioception etc.

I’ve always been conscious that my right foot (the side which is sore when I pedal) wants to ‘roll’ out the way, but consciously grabbing the floor with my toes seems to make everything sit right again. I noticed the difference at the weekend on a long hike as well, although unfortunately I’ve already invested in well cushioned ‘supportive’ shoes which is sort of contrary to the whole idea. I own some barefoot style Merrels that I’m going to start trying to pad about in, conscious it might take some adaptation!

Anyway, I’m interested in Bont shoes which seem to have this concept built in, i.e. the nice wide forefoot with space to spread toes out etc. I’m going to try figure out my size and see if I can pick up a cheap set of Riots, but just curious if anyone else uses them and cares to comment?

Ta

I looked at this a while ago to try to relieve a toe nerve problem but after trying a pair of Bonts on thought they were too narrow. I ended up with some Sidi Mega fitting shoes and use specialized Body Geometry Shims under some body geometry insoles ,which have the metatarsal bump which I guess is there to splay out your toes a bit, to cant my right foot over a bit. It works for me, no more nerve pain or foot numbness. I realise it might be a different issue but thought i’d share.

Thanks, yes I was thinking about shimming as well, I used to shim ‘out’ the way (the common way, Varus?) but wondered if shimming ‘in’ the way (Valgus?) would help as it would bring the big toe into play again.

Clenching or gripping with the toes seems to have the same effect so I’m doing toe scrunchy exercises every morning with a tea towel looped through a resistance band.

Shimming would certainly be cheaper than new shoes!

I have posted this before but here it is again: notice that Bont measures their size lengthwise from second toe. This will affect sizing, a full number on my case.
Anyway, my son now has pretty good shoe for occasional turbo training. And for a good price, I recall paying under 90€ for them.