"What are your thoughts on clipless shoes?"
I get asked this from time to time. Whenever I do, I tell them, "The moment you start wondering about them is the time to start wearing them!"
It might sound like a casual answer, but I truly mean it.
Of course, I want people to first experience riding in various places with flat pedals, and I have no intention of forcing anyone to wear them. However, if you've started to become curious, I highly encourage you to take that first step and give it a try.
Some people say, "I'm curious, but is it too early for me?" There is no such thing as too early or too late to wear clipless shoes; the moment you start wondering is the right time.
By wearing clipless shoes, your feet are connected to the pedals, allowing you to transfer power more efficiently—not just through the downward stroke, but also through the upstroke and the circular pedaling motion. This allows you to effectively use muscles you haven't been using before, which will undoubtedly make it easier to avoid fatigue and be more convenient.
For those of you who have started to become curious about clipless shoes, or for those thinking about buying a new pair, GIRO has released some models that I highly recommend.
Recommended GIRO Clipless Shoes
The Ultimate All-Round Dirt Shoe
[GIRO]
Rincon
PRICE: 19,580 yen (tax included)
COLOR: Portaro Grey, Olive / Gum
SIZE: 40, 41, 42, 43, 44
The Rincon is a mountain bike clipless shoe designed to handle any situation or condition, from city streets to gravel, mountain adventures, and steep hike-a-bike sections. It's a mid-grade model, so those experienced with clipless shoes will find it easy to adapt to, while beginners might wonder, "Should I really start with these?" But if you're going to get a pair, I think it's perfectly fine to start with a quality shoe like this. You can do anything with just this one pair.
Synchwire Mesh Upper with Excellent Breathability and Durability
The thin, lightweight, highly breathable mesh upper keeps the inside of the shoe comfortable at all times, wrapping your foot securely while remaining supple. Additionally, the Thermo-Bonded EXO Structure is applied to areas requiring strength, providing high durability for use in harsh environments.
By the way, the seamless construction is another factor that contributes to the supple and comfortable fit.
BOA® Dial and Velcro for a Soft and Secure Fit
Simply click and turn the easy-to-adjust BOA® dial to feel it wrap around your foot securely without causing any stress. The addition of a Velcro strap at the toe helps minimize friction beyond the instep.
Reliable Outsole to Support Your Feet
The nylon sole used provides a balance of efficient power transfer to the pedals and comfortable walkability when off the bike, with just the right amount of flexibility and stiffness. You will find them comfortable and fatigue-resistant, even on long tours.
The outsole also uses dual-injection rubber for excellent durability and grip, providing firm footing even on trails or wet surfaces.
Perfect for Casual Wear
Some might think they look overly "pro," but compared to products from the past, the coloring and design are more understated and go well with casual attire.
If you still prefer something with a more casual vibe, I also recommend these.
Clipless Shoes That Blend In from City Streets to Nature
[GIRO]
Rumble VR
PRICE: 14,960 yen (tax included)
COLOR: Black / Glowing Red, Ox Blood, Dress Blue Gum, Grey / Grey, Grey / Turquoise
SIZE: 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44
A Pair with Features Like Trekking Shoes
The Rumble VR is a versatile clipless shoe that is lightweight and comfortable to walk in. The upper uses suede-like microfiber and mesh material, achieving the excellent breathability and durability of a trekking shoe.
Reliable Walkability Featuring Vibram®
The sole is equipped with an injected inner shank to transfer power firmly to the pedals. The use of Vibram® for the outsole improves grip on wet surfaces and makes walking on off-road trails easy. The Vibram® sole also uses Eco Step Rubber, which is made from recycled materials, showing consideration for the environment.
Looks That Blend Naturally into City Scenery
Its classic trekking shoe look goes exceptionally well with casual and outdoor clothing. It is truly the perfect model for your first pair of clipless shoes.
By the way, the Burgundy pair that Uno-chan wore for this shoot is a really great color and is a personal favorite of mine.
A Small Stock of the Rare Grey Color
By the way, this Grey/Grey color was a limited edition production, so it's quite hard to find in stock anywhere, but we have sizes 39 and 40 in stock at Circles. If you're interested in this color, act fast!
As I mentioned at the beginning, clipless shoes are not absolutely necessary. There are people who travel to many places and ride their bikes extensively using flat pedals and regular sneakers or sandals. Everyone has their own riding style and personal dress code, and I don't believe in forcing anyone to change that.
However, if you've started to become even a little bit curious, I'd love for you to give them a try. You'll likely find yourself opening a new door as a cyclist.
Cold days are still continuing, but the sun is rising earlier, the warmth of the sunlight is becoming more noticeable, and we can gradually feel the signs of spring. As the desire to ride increases, this is likely the time of year when more people will want to challenge themselves with clipless shoes.
While you can certainly purchase them through the WEB SHOP, I know many people want to try them on first. For those people, please make a reservation before visiting. We would be happy to discuss sizes and intended use in detail.