Clips vs Flats Biking Pedals Shoes

Whether to ride with flat bike pedals or clip bike pedals, is a polarising issue among cyclists. So let's discuss the pros of each in an attempt to make your decision easier.

Clips

Bike pedals that you clip into replaced the old fashioned bike toe 'clips.' The main argument cited for choosing clipless pedals is that they are more efficient, especially when climbing, being approximately 25% more efficient with the ability to pull upward during the pedal cycle. Some argue that it is using an power upstroke using the strong hamstring muscles results in less muscle fatigue, as you are spreading the load over several large muscle groups.

Some people also like the feeling of being attached to their bike. If you are new to mountain biking then this can seem scary, but for the more seasoned biker it provides a sense of security. Having your feet attached to your bike pedals means your feet are always in a nice balanced position. You can approach technical sections with a sense of confidence as your feet aren't going to slip of the bike pedals, especially if you are pedalling through rough stuff at speed.

Flats

When we say flats we mean a good quality set of mountain bike specific cycling shoes and bike pedals. Get yourself sorted with these and most flat bike pedal fans would say that your feet stick to the pedals like glue. Plus flat pedal cyclists can really feel the pedals under their feet.

Some cyclists find more confidence in flats. If you lose traction or start drifting around a corner it is nice to be able to plant a foot and approach a technical section knowing you can easily take your feet off and get them back on again without faffing around. And if things do go pear shaped it is easier to bail from your bike with flats!

Flat bike pedals provide versatility in that you can ride them in any shoes if you need to go to the dairy for ice cream. Standard shoes are more comfortable and easier to walk in for the 'hike a bike' sections that are common on New Zealand backcountry bike adventures.

Conclusion to the great Clips vs Flats debate

Some cyclists might say that everyone should start out biking with flats as it is an important step in development of your bike handling skills. There may be some truth to this but more importantly, the confidence of being able to separate from your bike when you need to is likely to make beginners feel more relaxed on their bike when they head for the trail. And feeling relaxed will definitely help your biking progression!

At the other end of the scale, riders using clips have won far more World DH titles - which may have contributed to the existence of the phrase “clips for racing, flats for fun”. But great riders can ride with both, and choose what to run based on the trail, weather conditions, and if they are racing or riding with their mates.

In the end there's no right answer - it really comes down to person choice and which style suits you and your riding best.