Mountain Biking - Rockhopper shoes and PD-M545 pedals

Hi,

I am using running shoes with flat pedals and I am not
satisfied with the grip, so I am thinking of upgrading to
Rockhopper and (maybe) M545 pedals.

My qyestions:

1. Is it any good to use Rockhopper with normal (flat) pedals?
Are they any better than the running shoes I am using now?

2. If I also buy the M545 pedals, are the Rockhopper stiff enough
for SPD use?

3. Can I easily ride unclipped with the Rockhopper-M545 combination?
How is the grip then?

Thanks!

I wouldn't recommend running shoes for riding flats. The large knobs can do wierd things traction-wise. I'd recommend getting some skate board specific shoes. Most notably are VANS or Etienes or DC's...etc. there are so many now. Something with a smooth softer rubber sole. When I mean smooth, I should say "not lugged".

I prefer Vans myself, but I'm an ex-80's BMXer. Vans were THE shoe to have back then. Checkerboard no less!

L8R

Personally I liked my Zebra striped Visions from back in the day.

I just got an email announcement from Vans. They are having a 25% off sale AND free shipping!

L8R

I just got an email announcement from Vans. They are having a 25% off sale AND free shipping!

L8R
Maybe I am misunderstood. I don't want fashion shoes, I want mountain
biking shoes!!

Maybe I am misunderstood. I don't want fashion shoes, I want mountain
biking shoes!!

I'm using flats on my Stumpjumper.

Can't speak for the Rockhopper M545 combo but I've tried using Shimano FR65 mid-cuts using no cleats on my flats and they suck. The soles are too thick (can barely feel the pedals underneath your feet), and they're too slippery in wet conditions.

I might get some cleats for them and put the clipless pedals that came on my Specialized with back on. Else, I'll just keep wearing the ol' Magnum Hi-Tec boots on my flats.

Maybe I am misunderstood. I don't want fashion shoes, I want mountain
biking shoes!!

I guess Vans can be considered fashionable, but to me, they are more "utilitarian" and I chose those as an example of what to use if you're riding Platform pedals. My recommendation was because you stated you are using running shoes and the grip is unsatisfactory. If you switch to a shoe like Vans, or other skateboard specific shoes, your grip will improve.

Now, if you want to switch to clipless pedals, the Rockhopper is a decent enough shoe. Shimano also makes decent shoes and can be found on sale regularly at www.Nashbar.com.

As far as clipless pedals, my preference would be a TIME A.T.A.C. pedal. They are much better in muddy conditions than the Shimanos. I've not tried the Crank Bros. Eggbeaters, and/or Candy pedals, but I've heard nothing but good comments.

L8R

i went to payless shoes or whatever they call it now and got a pair of $20 tennis shoes. they are the same style of shoe as a skateboard shoe and they were cheap. they keep water out very well also. I only wear them when riding so why the hell do i wanna pay more for them?

Right now I use cordura/leather Magnum Hi-Tec tactical boots with flat pedals.

www.magnumboots.com

I find they offer me good abrasion protection, full ankle coverage, fairly light, inexpensive, outdoorsy looking. Good for paintball too. (paintball on mountainbikes? There's a strange combo.)