Clip-In Pedals vs. Flat Pedals: Which Is Best for You?

What Are Clip-In Pedals?

Clip-in pedals (sometimes called "clipless" pedals…that's another story) use a cleat system that locks your shoes into the pedals. This setup lets you "clip in" for a secure connection between you and your bike.

The Pros:

• More Efficiency: Clipping in allows you to pull up as well as push down, giving you a more balanced and efficient pedal stroke.
• Better Power Transfer: With your foot locked in place, there's less energy lost between you and the bike.
• Secure Fit: Your feet stay put, even over bumps or when powering up steep climbs.

The Cons:

• Learning Curve: Clipping in and out takes practice, and the fear of tipping over at a stop is very real.
• Special Shoes Required: You'll need cycling-specific shoes with cleats, which can add to the cost.
• Less Freedom: Your foot is locked into one position, which can feel restrictive to some riders.

Best For: Riders looking for efficiency, long-distance cyclists, or anyone who loves the feeling of being connected to their bike.

What Are Flat Pedals?

Flat pedals is what everyone first starts out with. Flat surface for your feet, no cleats required. They're simple, versatile, and ideal for riders who want to keep things straightforward on their bike.

The Pros:

• Easy to Use: No special shoes, no clipping in or out—just hop on and go.
• More Freedom: You can shift your foot around as needed, which can be more comfortable on long rides.
• Budget-Friendly: No need to invest in special shoes or pedal systems.

The Cons:

• Less Efficient: You only get power on the downstroke, which might feel less effective on long or hilly rides.
• Foot Slippage: Your feet might slip off the pedals in wet or bumpy conditions (though grippy pedals help).
• Less Secure: Some riders miss the locked-in feeling of clip-ins when climbing or sprinting.

Best For: Casual riders, commuters, or anyone who values simplicity and versatility over performance metrics.

Common Questions Answered

"Will clip-ins make me faster?"

They can improve efficiency, but the difference isn't huge for casual riders. Your fitness matters more than your pedals.

"What about those scary clip-in falls?"

Everyone has at least one "forgot to unclip" story. But with practice, it becomes second nature - usually within a few rides.

"Can't I just use toe clips instead?"

While toe clips offer a middle ground, they often combine the drawbacks of both systems without the full benefits of either.

The Comfort Factor

At Civilized Bibs, we're advocates of comfort. If flat pedals give you more peace of mind, then we urge you to keep on using flats.

On the other hand, if you're willing to tinker around with adjusting cleats and trying out rigid cycling shoes, then you should give clip-in pedals a shot. With enough tinkering, you'll be able to come across a comfortable foot position (and be completely dialed in the entire ride!).

Quick Decision Guide

Here's the thing: neither pedal option is objectively "the best." It all depends on what makes your ride more enjoyable.

• You're new to cycling and want to keep things simple
• You value flexibility and comfort over performance
• You're riding in sneakers or switching between casual and cycling shoes

• You're riding long distances or tackling challenging climbs
• You want to maximize efficiency and power transfer
• You're ready to invest time (and a little patience) in learning a new system

Final Thoughts

Remember: The best gear is the gear that gets you excited to ride. Choose what works for you and ignore the internet debates!