Just short of a year ago, Ride Concepts stomped onto the scene as a new option in the world of riding footwear. Initially, their options were limited to flat pedals, but they made it apparent that more shoes were on the way. Well, now those five new shoes have finally landed with more options for flat – but also a clipless option for both men and women.
Transition/Traverse
Thanks to some help from Atherton Racing, their new Transition and Traverse clipless shoes are already World Cup proven. The Transition is the men’s version, while the Traverse is the women’s model, both of which feature a DST 8.0 rubber sole with mid-grip level and a 40mm wide cleat box for easy entry. Combined with a welded microfiber upper and D30 impact protection in the insole, both shoes are built to be comfortable, durable, and efficient for pedaling. Both models sell for $160, and weights are claimed at 505g (men’s US 10) and 429g (women’s US 8). The Transition is offered in three colors, while the Traverse comes in two.
Features:
- Welded microfiber upper is weather resistant yet breathable
- RC PowerDrive nylon shank provides power and maintains lateral stiffness
- 40mm wide cleat box for ease of pedal entry
- Longer range cleat adjustability
- Nylon heel counter provides support and stability
- Asymmetrical medial collar with D30 impact protection
- Custom-molded rubber toecap and heel protection
- Medial high-rise EVA midsole provides support and shock absorption
- D3O High Impact Zone Insole Technology
- Lace closure with Powerstrap for additional stability and retention
Powerline/Skyline
Adding to their line of flat pedal shoes, the Powerline and Skyline aim to provide all day comfort and protection for both men and women.
Again built with a fully welded upper, the asymmetrical medial collar adds D30 protection for the ankle in addition to the D30 protection of the insole. The Rubber Kinetics DST 4.0 rubber is meant for maximum grip and the outsole has a recessed section on the heel and toe for hiking. The men’s Powerline comes in at 435g (US 10), and the women’s Skyline is 379g (US 8), and both sell for $150.
Features:
- Welded microfiber upper is abrasion and weather resistant
- Asymmetrical medial collar with D3O impact protection
- Custom-molded rubber toecap and heel protection
- Medial high-rise EVA midsole provides support and shock absorption
- D3O High Impact Zone Insole Technology
- Fully gusseted tongue prohibits intake of dirt and debris
TNT
Finally, for the biggest riding Ride Concepts offers the TNT. Meant for downhill racing or big mountain riding, the shoe is designed for extreme durability and protection starting with a larger hexagonal pattern for the rubber on the DST 4.0 MAX Grip sole which should work with longer traction pins on your pedals.
While you won’t be pulling up since this is a flat pedal shoe, there is a 40mm power strap to keep the laces out of the way and add extra protection. A molded toe and heel cap adds more protection and durability, and a fully gusseted tongue should keep debris out. Weighing in at 490g for a men’s US 10 shoe, the TNT sells for $160 in a single colorway.
Features
- Large hexagonal 14mm pattern for superior pedal connection
- Asymmetrical medial collar with D3O impact protection
- Custom-molded rubber toe cap and heel protection
- Medial high-rise EVA midsole provides support and shock absorption
- TPP medial midsole protector
- 40mm Powerstrap for additional retention
- D3O High Impact Zone Insole Technology
- Fully gusseted tongue prohibits intake of dirt and debris