It was back in November of last year, before the full chill of winter set in, that I went for a ride with Taisei, Issy, and Maeda-san, whom I was meeting for the first time.
We took the train to Kuwana in Mie Prefecture, then rode a route that took us through Ageki in Inabe City, over the Ninose Pass, and into Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture. As those of you with a sharp eye might have guessed, this was also a scouting ride for our 17th-anniversary event.
It was remarkably warm for November, and the RAL Merino Wool Long Sleeve Tee was just right—a classic case of everyone showing up in the exact same outfit without even planning it.
The autumn leaves were at their peak, and we had a great time swapping bikes on the climb up the pass, chatting away, and popping into any shops that caught our eye. By the time we reached our destination in Ogaki, the sun had set and it was pitch black—it was a ride we thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.
Since the ride involved taking the train and doing some walking, I decided to go with flat pedals rather than clipless this time, which is usually when my BEDROCK Clogs come out to play.
I’m a fan of green, so wearing it head-to-toe is just part of my charm. Coincidentally, Maeda-san also showed up in the exact same outfit from top to bottom, including the Clogs, so I had to snap a photo of our matching styles.
That’s right, he joined us on his SURLY Steamroller, so he was the only one on a single-speed. Not that it bothered him—he was pedaling with such strength that I was actually the one getting left behind on the climb up Ninose Pass...
As I mentioned, his top was the RAL Merino Wool Long Sleeve Tee, paired perfectly with the RAL Pants. He layered that with a POBS shirt for the cooler morning and evening hours—a fantastic combo. For the current season, the Tonbo Jacket v2 would be a great choice.
Of course, clipless shoes have the advantage when you’re looking to ride serious distances, but otherwise, the Clogs are a truly excellent pair of shoes.
I originally started wearing them as post-ride comfort shoes, but I’ve found they actually perform better for relaxed rides and casual gravel outings. I think they’re the perfect shoe for those who like to wander off the beaten path.
They’re also perfect for everyday wear, so definitely consider them for your fall and winter wardrobe. Pair them with some thick wool-blend socks and you'll stay comfortable even in the freezing winter.
Personally, I almost always wear my Clogs when I go fishing because they’re easy to slip on and off when I have to change into my waders at the riverbank. I’ve truly found the perfect shoe that bridges the gap between everyday life and adventure.
BEDROCK SANDALS Mountain Clog
Nubuck Leather : 38,500 JPY (tax incl.)
Suede Leather : 36,300 JPY (tax incl.)
Synthetic Suede : 27,280–28,600 JPY (tax incl.)
Sizing Advice
Because they are designed to be worn with socks, these are built slightly roomier than other BEDROCK models. While you might notice the extra space if you wear them barefoot, you can easily secure them by adjusting the three straps.
If you already own BEDROCK sandals, please note that sizing can differ slightly from the Cairn series. Please refer to the guide below.
Mountain Clog 5/6: One size larger than the same size in Cairn sandals
Inches to cm conversion
Mountain Clog 6/7 – 7/8: Half a size larger than the same size in Cairn sandals
Mountain Clog 8/9 – 12/13: Same size as the same size in Cairn sandals
(Men 4 / Women 5) Length 22cm
(Men 5 / Women 6) Length 23cm
(Men 6 / Women 7) Length 24cm
(Men 7 / Women 8) Length 25cm
(Men 8 / Women 9) Length 26cm
(Men 9 / Women 10) Length 27cm
(Men 10 / Women 11) Length 28cm
(Men 11 / Women 12) Length 29cm
And now, a little extra from the ride.
Taisei had quite an appetite that day as well. Every time I looked away, it felt like he was munching on something.
Oh, and the gyoza place we stopped at on the way back, Hyotan in Gifu, is highly recommended if you’re ever in the area. They only serve gyoza and drinks, and they actually encourage you to bring your own rice balls, so if you're a foodie, grab some at a convenience store on your way.
Taisei even brought his own Sato no Gohan pre-cooked rice (lol).
