One of the best ways to enhance your performance is going to clipless pedals and shoes, but navigating the over-saturated landscape for what you need can be tough. We get daily questions about clipless pedals, from how they will help performance to which ones they need for their specific riding style. With so many different pedal and shoe options, we decided to make a post about the differences and benefits of the options available to riders.
IMPORTANT TERMS
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Float - the degree to which the riders foot is allowed to move before the cleat releases from the pedal Dual Platform - these are SPD pedals that riders can use with SPD shoes or any street shoe of their choice |
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SPD - two hole metal cleat Uses - touring, mountain biking, casual riders Benefits - less obtrusive cleat, easier to walk in, more comfortable shoe options, larger degree of float, dual platform options available Downside - small pedaling platform, less power transfer |
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SPD-SL - three hole plastic cleat Uses - road riding, road racing Benefits - best power transfer, larger platform, better for road climbing and distance, more stiffness Downsides - large cleat, difficult to walk in shoe |
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Road: Uses - Best for road racing, long rides, and situations where riders want to optimize their power transfer and overall control Compatible Pedal Styles - All road shoes are compatible with SPD-SL, and many have the option to use SPD as well
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Tour/Fitness: Uses - These shoes generally feature a little more flex and walkability, and are great for riders looking to utilize the higher performance of clipless pedals without sacrificing the ability to walk around mid ride. These are also a perfect balance of comfort and performance for commuters. Compatible Pedal Styles - SPD |
Mountain/Off-Road: Uses - These shoes are designed to allow users to walk on a variety of surfaces while utilizing optimal power Compatible Pedal Styles - SPD |
