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Hey all, I'm a student at the Academy of Art University (san francisco) and have a semester project that I am trying to get feedback on in order to justify the legitimacy of my concept. So...
Problem/Concept:
To my understanding, a cycling shoe is supposed to be rigid for better/efficient power transfer through the full revolution of a pedal stroke. But, on occasion, you find yourself walking mid-trip or training session and either you... 1. walk in your cycling shoes 2. remove your shoes and walk in your socks or 3. remove your shoes and put on another pair of shoes or sandals.
Any of these three options are slightly burdensome (uncomfortable, loud, no traction, or a waste of time). Basically, I want to design something that will solve these issues.
Instead of me asking specific questions, I'd like to know whatever feedback/comments/etc. you may have based on what I just addressed... What do you think? Anything and everything is appreciated (and sooner the better)!
The shoe itself cannot be modified. But the best thing would be a highly compressible or rollable rubber under shoe that slips on over the lower part of the shoe. This would provide traction, some cushioning, and keep the shoe and cleats clean. It would have to be both tough but easy to roll up so it can be transported in a jersey pocket. You would have to have cleat specific shaping in the forefoot (speedplay, look, spd, etc) and extra material in the heal for cushioning. Post some ideas when you have em!
My carbon soled road shoes are incredibly slippery. Walking in them on hard surfaces damages the tiny heel and the cleats. On soft surfaces the cleats clog with mud, grass or grit. Cleats caps are available. But a protective stretch sole would work. In summer I go barefoot.
Breathe!
Posts: 1 | Location: Australia | Registered: 17 September 2009
