I use my hybrid bike as a utility bike and I ride a variety of surfaces, including gravel, dirt, ratty pavement and chipseal. I was looking for replacement flat road pedals because the pedals that came with the bike are too slippery. I have been using bmx pedals with Powergrips and liked them a lot but I needed something for riding around the state park where I volunteer. I get on and off a lot and often am wearing hiking boots, which were awkward in the powergrips. Plus, Crocs are about impossible in the Powergrips.

So, I thought that I would try the Ergon "contoured" flat pedal. From the Ergon site:

Ergon introduces the first flat pedal (or Contour Pedal as we call it) to provide an ergonomic and positive connection between bike and user. The first pedal designed with biomechanics and correct foot position in mind. Advantages are increased power transfer, more control and fewer hot spots and knee complaints. The Ergon PC2 is the first non SPD-type pedal constructed with the ergonomic biomechanical demands of the user as a priority.

http://www.ergon-bike.com/us/en/product/pc2

The Ergon has a 3M designed surface which is a bit grippy. It comes in two sizes, small and large. Small is pretty big, for shoes up to size 42. Though pretty big, the pedals are surprisingly light weight. They were easy to put on, going on with a number 8 Allen wrench.

Here are pictures of the pedals on my bike and for an idea of the size, next to my hand (my hand is small, but man, these are big pedals!).





I rode about 20 miles on them today, about 10 miles in tennis shoes, 5 miles in hiking boots, and 5 miles in Crocs, as a test for all the shoes. The pedals were comfortable and your foot finds the right place on the pedal. They were especially nice with the hiking boots, which is what I wanted. No slipping on the grippy surface but then again, in is a dry day They seem to spin well enough without my feet flying all over the place. No hot spots, but then again I wasn't on them with the same shoes for that long of a ride.

I do like the major reflectors in the pedals.

I think they are a step up from standard flat pedals and good for just about any footwear. But, it isn't like suddenly I am a better biker or faster or anything. I'll be interested in trying them more miles and trying them when it is wet.