So I'm not familiar with pedal straps. I've heard there good cause you learn to use upward force while riding. But are there any other advantages or disadvantages? How do you want them set? So the front part of your foot is applying the most pressure? And what tight enough to slide your foot in\out, without constricting it? I haven't been riding that long, but I'm comfortable on my bike. Been working on my track stand, not the best but I'm practicing on it. Seen ynot straps at iminusd, and others online. I guess price wise I'm looking around $60.

Straps like ynots or holdfasts will be good if you ride in different shoes all the time, and need a more custom fit for each pair. In my opinion, toe clips/straps are a lot nicer. I feel more secure in them, and I get consistent foot placement, something that didn't really happen when I used velcro straps.

These recent threads might help you make a decision, read them and go from there.

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...t=pedal+straps

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...t=pedal+straps

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php/802349-Hold-fast-straps-vs-Bici-concepts?highlight=pedal+straps

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...t=pedal+straps

Riding a fixed wheel bike without foot retention is like skiing without bindings. Get some clips/straps asap.

I prefer toe clips and straps.

I have wide-ish feet, so sometimes leather straps would be too bulky and rub up against the crankarms, which I found annoying. I recently got some good NOS nylon road straps on ebay. They are thinner, yet feel as sturdy as all leather straps I've owned. Not afraid I'll pull too hard on them and break them. Then again I'm not doing any MASHING to WHIPSKIDZZZZZ killer combos, so ymmv.

I think fixie straps are an acquired taste; I use the ones from Retrogression, but I doubt they are a good pick for everyone. If you are wearing big shoes I think they would be massive.

Power Grips are more user friendly, the single hard resin strap on an angle is very easy to get in and out of, and the angle allows a slight tighten or loosen by a slight shift of your foot. I used them for years, after clipless, and no negatives to share although they will discolor light colored shoes. As far as generating the same power/efficiency as clipless..it's the same performance characteristic until your cadence gets over 100/110, then the straps get a little wonky.

Toe cages with straps are fine but they tear up the front of my shoes, not nearly as comfortable as pedal straps. I don't prefer that pressure on the front of my foot.

No its not.

Except that it is.

+1
But seriously, this again?

well i board. so i guess i'll just have to install some myself and see for myself.. iminusd has some ynot's, maybe i'll give them a try and see how it goes.

spd

+1

On a very related note: Did you know that LOOK pioneered clipless pedals...after being a successful maker of ski bindings? They still make them now.

I'd like to move to LOOKs but I just bought 105s like 6 weeks ago

They are functionally the same. You aren't missing anything by staying with Shimano.