Tag: cycling shoes

Clipless Pedals: A Look At The Advantages And Disadvantages

I don’t think there’s a bigger debate amongst bike travellers than that between clipless vs. flat pedals. Most of the time the debate comes down to pedalling efficiency and power, but in this article, I will be focussing on the less-discussed reasons why I take clipless pedals on all of my bike adventures.

Let’s get into it!

*This article was originally published in 2012 but has been updated in May 2018.

Advantages Of Clipless Pedals For Bike Touring

Better For Steep Climbs
Most data seems to suggest that at a constant power rate on a constant road gradient, there’s no discernable difference between flat and clipless pedals, in terms of efficiency (study 1, study 2, GCN test). Where clipless pedals really shine is on steep hills with varying gradients. If the gradient gets suddenly steeper, or you need to drop your power to change gears or if you’d simply like to give your legs a short rest – the clipless system allows for a firm upstroke or two which prevents your bike from decelerating. Clip-in pedals also have a noticeable advantage on rocky, off-road climbs where your bike may stall on a pothole or large rock – again, that firm upstroke allows you to kick your rear wheel up and over obstacles to keep your momentum going.

Short Bursts of Power
For short bursts of power to, for example, get your bike through sandy road washouts, I’ve found that clipless pedals allow me to maintain a higher rate of power. This is purely anecdotal, of course. Check out this footage of me cycling an incredibly sandy washout in Argentina.

Foot and Body Positioning
Clipless pedals allow your feet to be positioned in the same spot every time you jump on your bike. This helps you to set your seat height with a high degree of accuracy that will maximise your riding comfort and efficiency. In addition, you’ll find this precise positioning advantageous for your knees and hips too.

Foot Stability
On rough and corrugated roads, your feet will not move around on the pedals. This means you can spend more time focussing on pedalling and sightseeing, rather than adjusting your feet to that ‘ideal’ position.

Disadvantages Of Clipless Pedals For Bike Touring

Extra Pair of Shoes
If you’re planning to do more than just riding, you will want to take a second pair of shoes for exploring on foot. Shoes are very inefficient in terms of volume, and additionally, come with a weight penalty of 400-800 grams.

Walking Up Hills
Sometimes the terrain gets too steep or rough and you have to push your bike (most commonly on off-road bikepacking routes). This is a situation when a flat pedal and shoe setup may be the better option. I use clipless pedals with a platform on my touring bikes so that I can switch to running shoes when I need (very rarely the case).

Another Thing To Go Wrong
While this is certainly a possibility given the moving parts, I’ve never broken a Shimano XT-level clipless pedal or cleat.

Recommended Clipless Pedals

Platform Clipless Pedals
If you think you’ll be on and off the bike a lot, you can find platform pedals with a clip-in mechanism on just one side. They are weighted so that clip-in side is prioritised. These pedals allow you to do short rides in casual shoes and long days in the saddle in clipless shoes. The Shimano T8000 pedals are what I’m currently using for my two-year bicycle tour (CyclingAbout The Americas) and the predecessor (T780) was what I used for over 50,000km before that.

Check T8000 pedal prices on Amazon (~$108).

Dual-Entry Clipless Pedals
If you tend to ride all day and wander around at night, double-sided clipless pedals are the more minimal pedal option and are a tad quicker to enter. I have found Shimano MTB pedals (especially the M8000) to be the most reliable in the long-term.

Check M8000 pedal prices on Amazon (~$74).

Recommended Clipless Shoes

You can read all about the best clipless shoes for bike touring HERE.
Or THIS guide on the most versatile touring shoes (SPD sandals – what I’ve been wearing for over 10 years).

What Are The Other Pedal Options?

Flat MTB Pedals
Flat pedals that are designed for off-road use come with long spikes and a large platform that maximise the grip with your walking shoe. The downsides are that the pins will prematurely damage the sole of your shoes, and that you need to avoid striking your shins with the sharp pins! I’ve found Shimano Saint MX80 pedals to be the best for long-distance riding (20,000km+). Alternatively, the BIKEPACKING.com crew recommend the Kona Wah Wah at a low price point and Pedaling Innovations Catalyst if you want to employ a midfoot riding position.

Check Saint MX80 pedal prices on Amazon (~$65).

Diagonal Pedal Straps
These straps will fit many different pedals with reflector mounts. You can enter the straps at a 45-degree angle, and the diagonal straps tension when you straighten your foot, allowing you to pull on the upstroke on those steep climbs. Pictured below are the Restrap diagonal straps, but Power Grips are even more popular for touring.

Check pedal/strap prices on Amazon (~$41). Or the strap prices alone HERE (~$23).

Horizontal Pedal Straps
For those that want straps, but prefer the horizontal style – look no further than Fyxation. Their pedals are pretty-well indestructible and so are their straps.

Check Fyxation pedal/strap prices on Amazon (~$56).

Ergon Pedals
These pedals have a concave design which allows your foot to sit nicely in them. They’re better for sealed road use because they aren’t particularly grippy, but they do have a ridge on the inside which prevents your feet from moving inwards towards the crank arms.

Check Ergon PC2 price on Amazon (~$75).

Summary

If you haven’t tried clipless pedals, I recommend starting out with something second-hand. You might not initially like the feeling of being ‘locked in’, but I can guarantee that after a few weeks of use, unclipping becomes second nature. By spending a few days or weeks with clipless pedals you’ll be able to decide whether or not they are for you.

The biggest advantage of clipless pedals is in the hills. I use the pedalling upstroke after changing gears, through gradient changes, and when my rear wheel stalls on rough terrain. The clipless setup also results in a saddle height to millimetre precision, which is important to me because my muscles and ligaments have adapted to this over hundreds of thousands of kilometres.

If you’re bikepacking off-road, you may want to consider using flat pedals because carrying walking shoes robs you of packing volume, and if the route is rough enough, you may encounter long sections where you have to push your bike.

But everything considered, it’s my experience that clipless pedals offer a decent advantage for all bicycle travel.

May 16, 2018
10 Stylish SPD Cycling Shoes Which Look Casual, Not Sporty

Shoes take up space and can be a little heavy, so sometimes it’s hard to decide whether to bring one or two pairs of shoes on a bike trip. Do you try and do everything in your SPD shoes, or do you suck it up and pack a set of street shoes too?

This decision would be much more simple if only there were stylish cycling shoes which look casual, and not sporty.

Ta-daaa!

Here’s my list of the best stylish SPD casual shoes.

DZR H2O

Image: Flickr.com/Bluelug

The DZR H20 has got to be one of the best-looking shoes on this list. They are fully seam sealed, making them waterproof, and they’re finished with a sheepskin leather (definitely not vegan). One thing I’ve noticed with waterproof shoes is that they tend to ventilate poorly, so make sure you’re only using the H2O in cooler temperatures!

DZR Minna

Image: CultureCycles.com

According to DZR, the Minna is hands down, their best seller. The Minna is a collab shoe with artist Jeremiah Ball, graphics most noticeable on the sole and inside of the shoe. It’s a simple, low profile street shoe with a mix of finishes which will allow it to really fly under the radar.

DZR Strasse

Image: Urbanvelo.com

Another DZR favourite is the Strasse – a mid top casual cycling shoe. I really like the mix of finishes on the shoe, as well as the black, grey and tan colour combination.

Quoc Pham Hardcourt Low

Image: UrbanBikeWear.com

The Quoc Pham Hardcourt Low uses a consistent finish to provide a really simple and clean street feel to it. These shoes would blend in very well to almost any choice of clothing.

Quoc Pham Hardcourt Mid

Image: 321polo.net

The Quoc Pham Hardcourt Mid is pretty self-explanatory; a slightly taller version of the Hardcourt Low. This model offers slightly more ankle support with high-top sneaker styling. I love the reinforced nylon finish!

Quoc Pham Urbanite Mid

Image: Circles-JP.com

The Quoc Pham Urbanite shoes are much more classic in styling than the rest of the shoes on this list. They will suit everything from casual, right through to dress. As they are finished in leather, they are definitely not vegan. They’re available in three different leather colours – brown, tan and black, as well as a low top version.

Giro Chamber

Image: Pinkbike.com

Giro have recently been putting together a great line of cycling shoes. The Giro Chambers are performance-oriented shoes, but with skate styling. They have been used by gravity mountain bike riders for the last few years which is demonstrative of their ability as a cycling shoe.

Giro Rumble VR

Image: Flickr.com/Osamuito

I quite like the blue and brown configuration of the Giro Rumble VR. These shoes give off more of a smart-casual look, rather than street. The fact they’re less ‘street’ may make the Rumble suit your personal clothing choices better. They are also available in black, or alternatively in a womens version called the Petra VR in a black or grey.

Chrome Kursk 2.0

The Chrome Kursk shoes are ultra low in profile and look great. Like most shoes on this list, most people won’t even know they’re designed for clip-in pedals!

Five Ten Kestral Lace

The Five Tens are probably the sportiest option here, but the design still provides a more out-there skate feel. These shoes are designed with performance in mind (like the Giro Chamber) which will likely make them a great travel option.

Disclaimer!

Many of the shoes above are NOT well-known for their longevity. The most casual looking shoes like the DZR, Chrome or Quoc Pham have been found to sometimes come apart, or crack the base where the cleats sit according to reviews. Conversely, the Giro and Five Ten shoes generally have excellent feedback when it comes to being resistant to damage.

Like Technical Outdoor Clothing? Check Out My List Of Stylish Clothing Manufacturers.

February 16, 2016
Cycling SPD Sandals: The Most Versatile Touring Shoes

After hundreds of thousands of kilometres in SPD sandals, I certainly don’t wear them for their looks. The thing is that SPD sandals are unrivalled in warm-to-hot conditions as there isn’t a more ventilating cycling shoe. In addition, they dry almost instantly which is perfect after it’s been raining or you’ve waded through some river crossings.

People tend to have the perception that sandals are for summer cycling only. I’ve actually found them to be excellent in winter too. That’s why I’m using them on my latest bike tour: CyclingAbout The Americas.

Let’s discuss why SPD sandals should be your next touring shoe!

Comparison to Conventional Cycling Shoes

Why
– Drying. When sandals get wet, they dry out much quicker than a closed shoe.
– Ventilation. The more holes, the more airflow.
– Versatility. You can wear sandals with no socks, thin socks, thick socks, waterproof socks and any of those sock combinations with overshoes. This makes sandals suitable for all-weather conditions, including snow.

Why Not
– They’re not exactly known for their looks.
– You can’t put shoe inserts or orthotics in them (provided your podiatrist recommends them).
– Foot movement inside the sandal. Shoes have more surface area to hug your foot, making them feel a little stiffer and more secure under significant pedal power.
– Your feet need to adjust to sandals. Some people may experience blistering from walking in their sandals. Take it easy!

Cycling Sandal Versatility

SPD sandals are the most versatile touring shoes. They are great in the desert and just as good in wet/cold conditions.

How are they good for all weather conditions?

1. Wear your sandals without socks in conditions over 15 degrees Celcius.
2. Wear your sandals with thin, ventilated cycling socks for a bit more warmth/comfort.
3. Wear your sandals with thick, waterproof socks in cold or wet conditions.
4. Wear your sandals with socks AND booties/shoe covers in super cold and wet conditions.

Why Should You Clip In?

– It’s better for steep climbs
– For short bursts of power
– To maintain optimal foot and body positioning
– For foot stability on rough terrain

For more information, read my article A Look At The Advantages And Disadvantages of Clipless Pedals.

Open vs Closed Toe SPD Sandals

I travel with open-toe sandals which combine excellent ventilation with interesting tan lines. I’ve never felt like I’ve needed my toes to be enclosed (over the last ten years I’ve never injured them).

A great thing about open-toe sandals is that the sizing doesn’t need to be perfect. and therefore there’s no hitting your toes at the end of the shoe if they’re a tad short. I’ve found that it’s best to size down a little

How Long Will They Last?

Cycling sandals are really durable. My last pair (Shimano SD-65) gave in after eight years of heavy use. They would’ve done over 100,000km, including some seriously long tours which are always pretty tough on gear. If I get that kind of mileage out of my current Shimano SD-66 sandals – I’ll be super stoked!

My Shimano cycling sandals lasted eight years of heavy use before eventually busting.

Can You Walk in SPD Sandals?

Walking in SPD sandals is similar to walking in casual SPD shoes: they’re stiff and perhaps a little bit noisy. The metal cleats ‘click’ on hard surfaces when I walk which can be mildly annoying. You don’t want to spend all day walking in them, but if they’re the only shoes you’ll carry on tour, they’ll be fine.

What Cycling Sandals are Available?

Shimano SD5 – Size 39-48 – Amazon Special for US $73

My take: The latest offering from Shimano. They’ve lost the same level of stiffness as previous editions but they are better suited for walking. I like the open-toe design of Shimano sandals as it provides optimal foot ventilation.

Shimano SD66 – US $99 – Size 39-48

Shimano SD66 Sandals

My take: If you can still find a pair, I’ve found the SD66 to be perfect for bike touring, but not the best for walking due to the stiff sole and the metal cleats which will scrape the ground.

Keen Commuter 4 – Size 40-49 – Amazon Special US $114

Keen Commuter IV Sandals

My take: The most famous adventure sandal company also manufacturers an SPD sandal which is in its fourth generation. No velcro on these puppies, instead they are tightened with an elastic cord. The Commuter sandals are known to be on the narrower size, so if you have wide feet you’ll be better off with Shimano.

Exustar E-SS503 – Size 37-48 – Amazon Special US $87

Exustar E-SS503 Sandals

My take: They may be less popular than Shimano or Keen, but Exustar has been making sandals for some time now and rebrand them for other companies.

Rose RMTS 03 – £69 – Size 39-48

My take: The Rose sandals are almost identical to the Exustars at the same price point. Find them and let me know what they’re like.

Nashbar Ragster II – US $69 – Size 37-48

Nashbar Ragster II Sandals

My take: Super affordable. Often found for under half the price of Shimano or Keen sandals, they could be worth a try if you’re on a budget.

Have You Used Clip-In Cycling Sandals?

October 21, 2013
Tips For Picking The Best SPD Shoes For Bike Touring

Coming from a bike racing background, I have used clip in shoes since I was in my teens. The extra power and efficiency they offer is hugely beneficial to me, even just commuting around town. I have become used to them completely and now I find it hard riding a bike without them. You can read all about the benefits of being clipped-in HERE.

Here are a list of considerations to make when selecting shoes for touring.

Avoid Clips and Buckles for Shoe Adjustment

All of my racing shoes are incredibly complicated with buckles, tensioning wheels, heel retaining systems – everything you want in a performance shoe which requires a firm fit. The only thing is that shoe adjusters are just another thing that can go wrong.

You can avoid them by sticking to velcro-tensioned shoes.

My Sidi Dragons are the most comfortable cycling shoes I own, but they are not built for extended bike travel.

Find a Shoe with a Tough Rubber Sole

My Sidi ‘city’ shoes are made with hard plastic soles – the last pair got 12 months use until there were no soles left. But perhaps a bigger problem is that plastic soles are incredibly slippery on almost all surfaces. If you can, find a shoe with a hard rubber sole as it will be both durable and grippy.

Some shoes such as the Sidi Bullet use a hard plastic sole, not ideal for bike touring.

Use a Shoe With Adequate Ventilation

The more ventilation, the more comfortable your feet will be and the quicker your shoes will dry. Ventilation is particularly important in regions over 15 degrees celsius, but even if it’s cooler, at least you can make your shoes warmer by wearing waterproof socks and waterproof booties. You certainly can’t cool down an unventilated shoe!

Use a Shoe with a Stiff Sole

With stiffer soles, power transfers better and feels more efficient. But there’s actually a limit to how stiff you want your shoes – too stiff and you won’t be able to walk around comfortably.

Avoid Carbon Fibre Soles

I’ve found that carbon fibre is not as durable around the cleat interface as plastic soled shoes. I’ve worn out lots of pairs of carbon soled shoes, but have never warn out a plastic interface around the cleat.

All of my carbon soled shoes have given way after clipping in and out thousands of times!

Use a Shoe with Adequate Grip for Walking

You’ll need shoes with adequate grip. When you’re bike touring you’ll often be stopping and walking around. Make sure your shoes can grip in all weather conditions and surfaces – it will save the embarrassment. Rubber soles are great.

If You Only Plan to take One Pair of Shoes…

Hybrid walking/SPD shoes are superb. These shoes compromise in both the ability to walk comfortably and ride efficiently compared to having two pairs of shoes, but you can save lots of space and weight. I like to carry the extra 600g to have the best of both worlds, but that decision is up to you.

But wait…

Just recently, I discovered that SPD sandals are the most versatile touring shoe. Why? They dry fast, are more ventilated and are suitable in conditions from freezing to boiling. Yes, you can even wear them comfortably in the snow. How? With waterproof socks and booties, of course.

My sandal article is HERE for all the details. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to use ordinary shoes again.

My Choices for Extended Touring are…

The shoe with lots of the above features is actually one of the cheapest around. I like the Shimano XC31 because it has a simple velcro design, it isn’t carbon, it has a good rubber sole and it’s relatively well ventilated.

However, just remember that the Shimano SD66 sandals are more versatile than any other shoe. They’re perfect if you’re riding through all kinds of weather, especially wet and warm conditions.

May 16, 2012