Originally Posted by
dh024
No time to carry on an argument with you, but let me summarize my initial point was that I merely suggested that people should CONSIDER going back to platforms for the benefits they might have for an INDIVIDUAL. We both have different experiences, so it is worthwhile CONSIDERING platforms. I'll NEVER go back to hard-soled, under-insulated, or expensive winter cycling boots (good luck finding one that solves all three problems), but I almost didn't try platforms again because so many people claim clipless is the ONLY way to go. Glad I didn't listen to that advice, and perhaps others may also.
Winter boots that solve the "hard-soled, under-insulated": The aforementioned Lakes. 45NRTH Japanthers. 45NRTH WØlfgar. 45NRTH Wölvhammer. As well as about 3 dozen other offerings from other manufacturers. The 45NRTH offerings are probably too much of a solution for anyone that lives south of Fargo.
Who has claimed "clipless is the ONLY way to go". I said it's a
better way to go for the reasons stated above. I understand the idea of being able to "jump clear of the bike" or putting out a leg to "catch yourself" but, based on personal experience and the experience of acquaintances, I've never found it to be a wise choice. You wouldn't "jump clear" of a car in the event of a crash, would you? Do you think that "jumping up" just before a plane hits the ground would save you, do you?
A bicycle has hard bits that may break when they hit the ground but breaking them is a whole lot better than breaking the soft bits of yourself. A handlebar or crank or frame can be replaced relatively easily. Broken bones because you "put a leg out to catch yourself" take a lot longer to heal and you suffer a lot more pain.