gcotterl

I wear New Balance All-Terrain shoes when bicycling. I brought Power Grips to increase pedaling power on the upstroke. However, it's difficult getting my shoes in to and out of the PowerGrips. Does anyone have a better alternative?

tippy

What's the hold up? I mean is it the shoe tread, shoe snagging on the strap, strap not adjusted big enough to accomodate the shoe, entry/exit procedure?

I had these straps on my hybrid and if I tried to stick my foot into the strap straight forward, things would catch and I'd have to wiggle to make it work. Entering into the strap pigeon toed (per the instructions) and then twisting your foot straight helped a lot. That's the procedure called out in the instructions ... pigeon toe to enter, straighten foot to snug the strap .... pigeon toe loosen strap and pull foot out.

The strap is somewhat size adjustable. Just loosen the screw and slide some strap out and tighten the screw back. By desing, they snug up as you straighten your foot out. They shouldn't be snug on entry/exit.

LV2TNDM

Yeah, abandon the idea of toe clips!
If you're really concerned about power transfer, upgrade to clipless pedals. It's well worth the expense and effort required to learn the new entry & release. But once you get it down, you'll ride with efficient circular pedal strokes and your feet won't get sore from the pedals digging in through your flexible shoes. Make the jump!

ArizonaAdam

Yeah, clipless pedals are cheap and readily available. I just made the switch and couldn't be happier though I'm still getting used to them. I'm not sure what shoe you're wearing exactly, but I've got a friend after all these years who still swears by power grips, and since he consistently kicks my a$$, I respect his choices. He always wears athletic shoes and doesn't have any trouble. I have standard plastic clips on my commuter and I ride with New Balance running shoes. The toe box is big, so it may just be a size problem for you. Also, don't be afraid to jam your foot in there. It may not slide in like a clip, but it'll hold like a clipless. They're not a perfect solution, which probably accounts for their small following. Sorry, but some jamming and wiggling may be necessary. Just the same, get some $30 clippless pedals and $40 shoes and you'll be golden, and your New Balance will last longer. Speaking of which, best shoe on the market. Makes Nike and Reebok look like they're made from paper towels. I've never had a New Balance wear out before it was too ugly to wear. I have a 7-yo pair in my truck box for emergiencies and I think I'll die before they do.
Adam

MichaelW

The best shoes for toe-clip use are light trail shoes with few knobbly mouldings. A studded sole and side mouldings can catch. Laces should work in conventional holes, not sticky-outy plastic bits.
Use a clip of the right size. Plastic ones are kinder to your shoes, metal ones can be bent to increase the toe box size.
Leather straps are stiffer than nylon and hold their shape better. Dont cinch them tight.
There is still a place for toe clips but it is not at the start line to any race.

edp773

A smooth bottom tennis shoe works best with clips. Preferably a soft bottom like walking shoes. I prefer my Asics, because they are light and give good support. My MTB friends keep suggesting Converse Allstars, but there is not much suport in the sole.