One of the most common questions new riders ask: should I ride flats or
clipless? Both have real advantages.
The case for flat pedals
- Easy to bail out — great for learning technical terrain
- Better for skills practice (jumping, cornering, balance)
- Simpler and cheaper; any shoe works
The case for clipless
- Better power transfer on long climbs
- Feet stay planted through rough descents
- Encourages an efficient pedal stroke
Our take
Learn on flats, then try clipless once you're confident. Plenty of elite
riders race everything except XC on flats — there's no "correct" answer,
only what suits your riding.
If you do go clipless, set the retention tension loose at first and
practice clipping out on the grass before you hit the trails.