Ride Smarter, Not Harder
Why Cycling Shoes are Better.
- Rigid shoes prevent pressure points that cause sore feet and transfer
power more efficiently to the pedals.
- Uppers are designed for snug fit, and made of durable, easy-to-care-for
materials.
- Strap closures, laces or both allow for precise adjustment to give the
best combination of comfort and efficiency. Straps can be adjusted for comfort
while riding.
- Cleats for better grip. Positive shoe-to-pedal connection gives more
security and consistent power throughout the pedal stroke. Cycle faster while
using less energy.
Pedal Smarter, Not Harder.
- Work on a smooth pedal stroke, Instead of an up-an-down motion, try
powering through more of a complete circle. Imagine you are scraping mud off
the bottom of your shoe as you rotate through the top and bottom of each
stroke. You'll be amazed at your increased efficiency.
- Higher RPM's. Turning the cranks at 75-95 revolutions per minute in a
lower gear is easier on your knees, leaves you with more energy and promotes
better cardiovascular fitness. Maintain a higher RPM by anticipating your
shift. Get into an easier gear before your cadence gets too low.
- Don't pedal with your upper body. Excess upper body motion wastes
energy. Keep a relaxed, in-control hold on the handlebar. Use your torso to
stabilize your hips for stronger leg thrust. Cleated cycling shoes help you
achieve a smooth pedal stroke because their solid connection to the pedals
allows you to apply power through more of the revolution.
Practice First.
- Try your new clipless shoes and pedals before you venture out on to the
road or trail.
- Practice engaging and disengaging while straddling your bike, at least
ten times with each foot.
- Learn which foot you're most comfortable disengaging and put that foot
down first when you stop.
- Practice engaging and releasing while riding at slow speed in an area
with no traffic.
- Plan ahead and release your foot about five feet before you want to
stop.
Road and Off-Road Shoes- What's the Difference?
- Road shoes have cleats and stiff soles for comfortable, maximum power
transmission to the pedals. They are generally designed to provide the
ultimate in pedaling performance so they're as light and efficient as
possible. Some models have features that suit them to walking.
- Off-road shoes are designed for the trail environment so they include
a thicker lugged sole for traction when walking. They have a more flexible
sole, and often have a midsole for cushioning. The cleat is recessed for more
stable footing and traction.
Why are " Clipless " Pedals so Popular
- For years, and even today, toe clips have been a way of adding more
power to your pedaling. A newer and easier to use option now available.
Inspired by the releasable bindings on skis, clipless pedals hold your foot
securely by engaging a simple plate, called a " cleat" mounted on the shoe.
Since their introduction in the 1980's they've been widely adopted by
professional and recreational road and off-road riders. Recreational riders
use them because:
- A solid connection between you and the pedals makes for more
efficient transmission of your leg's power.
- Ease of entry means there is no need to tighten or loosen toe straps.
- Easy to release when stopping or in case of emergency.
- Side-to-side float that reduces knee strain is available on some
models.
- Eassier-to-walk-in models are available for comfortable off-bike use.
Adapted from Adventure Cycling Association
Visit their web site at www.AdventureCycling.org