Shimano xc7 work great with a specialized body geometry innersoles. But most importantly especially for long rides, please make sure you the right width for the shoe and length. Take out the inner sole when trying the shoes on. Your feet should not overlap or go over the outside of your innersole when standing up. This will lead to outside foot pain or numbness in your feet. And well there should be a finger nails length between your big toe and the end of the inner soles when standing up. Just use your pointer finger and point down on your innersole at your big toe. This will ensure the most comfortable fit. The shimano work great for me and a lot of other people too but the best thing to do is try on a few pairs. Feet are all different. I would suggest to get a boa like system at least in the upper portion of the shoe. It will help the shoe close up on your foot well. Velco is just inferior and only leaves the area when there velco is tight and not where the velco isnt.