Quoc Pham Fixed Shoes
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Bike clothing, just like every other sector of cycling equipment, has gone through something of a revolution over the last decade or so. New materials and construction techniques have changed forever the look, feel and function of bike wear.
This change is at its most evident in the footwear department. Shoes these days are more likely to be made from materials such as ballistic nylon weaves and carbon fiber than leather and rubber. Sophisticated fastening systems have replaced laces; soles now feature hi-tech bindings and composite construction.
While there's no doubt performance has greatly improved, not everyone wants to shave grammes and increase power output. Sometimes, its not all about taking things to the max. There are an increasing number of riders looking for something a little less 'neon and ratchets' and a little more 'comfort and styling'.
For the rider looking for footwear that's a little more refined, that will look good both on and off the bike , that won't leave you clip-clopping over hardwood or stone floors, then look no further than the fine new designs from cycling footwear specialist Quoc Pham.
Pham is a graduate of London's famed St. Martin's College, a hotbed of design and fashion studies and the starting point for many of today's leading designers.
These are shoes made by shoemakers, not composites engineers.
Handmade from the finest leather, they feature traditional, practical and extremely comfortable features. The resin sole features a delicate pattern that's just enough to keep your feet on the ground when off the bike and just right for keeping you planted on the pedals when riding. The styling is just right; the look of the shoes inspired by classic designs once found in the brochures of shoemakers from Northampton and Milan.
Opening the box for the first time is like opening the door of a brand-new Bentley limousine as the delicate perfume of fine, luxury leather washes over you. These are shoes made from the real deal; there's no 'McLeather' – cheap, leather-look material made from pulped and reconstituted offcuts. The hides used in the shoes are carefully selected to be strong enough for everyday wear, but still light enough to gently wrap your foot without creating hot spots or chafing.
Out of the box, the fit is a little on the close side, but this is wholly intentional on the part of QP; the leather will conform to the shape of your foot after the first ride or two. The end result is a perfect fit.
Once out on the bike, the freedom of movement and practicality offered by these shoes should come as a joy to anyone more used to being shackled to binding systems and locked into race-style shoes. The design of the sole gets it just right; when pedalling, they're rigid enough to prevent twinges at the riders' heels, yet flexible enough for normal walking once the bike is parked up.
The natural properties of the leather allow your feet to breath, while the tanning and treatment of the hide offering a degree of waterproofing that can be maintained by occasional dressing with a quality leather treatment.
Safety too, has been taken care of, with a subtle leather-backed strip of reflective material stitched to the heel of the shoe.
All in all, these are as fine an example of a traditionally-styled cycling shoe as you're likely to find.
They'd be a welcome addition to the wardrobe of any cyclist who commutes, uses their bike as transport or enjoys leisurely touring. The quality is superb and after a few months of use, the leather is still looking great – an indicator of the care and attention paid to the initial hide selection.
These shoes really do fit like a glove and are as comfy as carpet slippers – clichés perhaps, but the best way to describe the QP's.
Check out the colour options on the excellent Quoc Pham website.
Along with an ever-growing list of stockists, there's even some great advice on lacing technique. It may seem a minor point, but the advice if heeded, can greatly increase your enjoyment and comfort factors.
In short; highly recommended shoes offering top quality at a surprisingly affordable price.
WEBSITE : QuocPham.com
*** Velo Orange pedals and MKS clips and straps from FRESHTRIPE
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