Winner: Shimano SH-WR40
This light, breathable shoe has asymmetrical straps to alleviate pressure on top of your foot and a snug, women-specific design for efficient pedaling. "This has everything you could want in an affordable shoe -- a buckle and Velcro-strap closure, the stiffness you need, and extra padding for bony heels like mine," Jarrell says ($110, shimano.com for info).