Flat pedal/platform shoes

These shoes are designed for riders who prefer to use flat pedals. These pedals offer safe and efficient power transfer to the platform pedals and good bike control.

What are the advantages of using flat pedal cycling shoes?

Grip: One of the main advantages of flat pedal mountain bike shoes is their ability to provide excellent grip. These shoes are designed with a sticky rubber sole that provides optimal traction, allowing riders to maintain a secure connection with the platform pedals even in challenging terrain.
Stability: The rigid construction of mountain bike shoes ensures stability during riding. They provide foot support, minimize lateral movements and prevent any slipping or shifting on the pedals. This stability is key to maintaining control and confidence on the trails.
Protection: Mountain biking can be challenging and unpredictable, with potential hazards such as rocks, roots, and branches. Cycling shoes designed specifically for mountain biking provide protection against these outdoor hazards. They are often equipped with a reinforced tip and durable materials that protect the feet from impacts and abrasions.
Efficiency: Another advantage of these shoes is the ability to improve energy transfer. Thanks to the stiff sole, they effectively transfer energy from your feet to the pedals, allowing you to pedal more efficiently and effectively. This can lead to improved performance and reduced fatigue during long rides.

What are the basic types of flat pedal cycling shoes?

They can be divided according to the basic disciplines of mountain biking, each has its own specifics and also requires special footwear for flat pedals:

All-mountain: Usually have a stiffer sole than comfortable “sporty” mountain biking shoes, but still maintain good grip.
Trail: Versatile and suitable for various disciplines of mountain biking. They offer a combination of grip, protection and pedalling efficiency. Trail shoes are frequently equipped with a midsole that balances stiffness for energy transfer and flexibility for walking or hiking.
Downhill/Freeride: Designed for aggressive downhill riding, these shoes provide maximum protection, durability, and grip. They often have reinforced elements such as ankle protection, toe caps and additional padding. The soles are typically very grippy to ensure a solid connection between the shoe and the pedal, even in difficult downhill sections.

How to choose the right flat pedal shoes?

Picking the right flat pedal cycling shoes is crucial for a comfortable and efficient ride. Here are some factors to consider when choosing:

Grip: Look for shoes with a sticky rubber sole that provides excellent grip on flat pedals. The sole should have deep lugs or patterns that provide traction and prevent the foot from slipping off the pedals, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
Fit: Proper fit is essential for comfort and performance. Make sure your shoes fit well but are not too tight. Look for shoes that provide enough room for toe movement, but without excessive movement inside the shoe. It is also important to consider the width and volume of the shoe to adapt to the shape of your foot.
Sole stiffness: While flat pedals don't require as stiff a sole as pedals, some stiffness is still beneficial for power transfer and efficiency. Look for shoes that allow for efficient pedalling, but also provide some flexibility when walking and manoeuvring the bike.
Protection: Mountain biking can expose your feet to various hazards such as rocks, roots, and bumps. Choose shoes that provide adequate protection. Look for reinforced toe zones, robust materials and other elements such as ankle protection or padding that protect your feet from possible injuries.
Breathability: When riding in hot weather or during a long ride, the feet may sweat. Look for shoes with breathable materials or ventilation elements to keep your feet cool and dry while riding. This can increase comfort and prevent discomfort or blisters caused by excess moisture.

Make sure the shoes fit well but are not too tight. Look for shoes with a secure fastening system, such as laces, straps, or a combination of both, to ensure a secure and adjustable fit.

Check out our video "Classic pedal shoes - cycling shoes vs. sneakers"