Originally Posted by
canklecat
I don't notice any difference between good quality black pads from various makers and Kool Stop salmon pads. The main advantage to Kool Stop is the pad design for some, not all, pads -- the wedge or plow-tip on some Kool Stop pads makes toe-in easier and helps scrape rims clean in wet and muddy conditions.
Actually, Kool Stop salmon pads grip better on wet rims. That is why I use them in rainy Seattle. If you don’t ride in the rain, other pads might work just as well.