When you’re riding a bike, there should be something to hold the feet securely to the pedal because without it, the feet will easily slip off and they will be sent to the wheel. In the past, bike pedals were either plain or they had toe straps and clips. The toe clips were made of steel or plastic that formed a space or box at the front side where the feet are slid into. A leather or nylon mesh strap keeps the feet fastened, which can be pulled tight to make sure the feet stay in place or loosen to remove the feet when the bike stops. Imagine how tedious and unsafe this process is.
As a solution to this problem, SPD pedals were introduced. SPD specifically means Shimano Pedaling Dynamics, which is a design of clipless bicycle pedals. Shimano made the innovative small cleat that fitted in a recess in the sole of Shimano SPD Shoes. These types of shoes could also be used for walking unlike the old systems that had a large protruding cleat. SPD uses a system of cleat retention that has a similar structure with downhill ski binding. These types of pedals are perceived to be safer than the older versions of pedal/shoe integration that used toe clips, toe straps and shoe plates because there is ease during disengagement.
Shimano SPD shoes are perfect for a rider who wants a shoe that will enable him or her to walk more easily and comfortably. The SPD system is very easy. All it takes is for the rider to step onto the cleat to engage it, and to disengage, he or she just twists the foot to the side. Shimano SPD shoes are specifically made for both mountain and road bikes. Cleats and shoes for mountain bikes are more rugged in design and are made to effortlessly expel dirt so the system does not clog. For optimum power transfer, road systems are made with wide platforms.
Shimano makes various kinds of SPD cleats, and not every cleat of Shimano SPD shoes is compatible with all pedals. The road and mountain types are not interchangeable. There is a vital distinction between black cleats or single release and silver cleats or multi release. The black cleats can only be disengaged from the pedal by twisting the heel outwards, while the silver cleats can be released by a sharp pull upwards. This makes the silver cleats easier for beginners. There is a small hex key adjustment for the heel twist to release.
