Falke Pedal Pressure Free: designed with multi-stage mountain bike racing in mind

Multi-stage mountain bike races can involve hundreds of kilometres of racing and significant climbing over consecutive days. Events such as Cape Epic, Gravel Burn and Tankwa Trek place considerable demands on both riders and equipment with long hours in the saddle across varied terrain.

While many riders focus on elements such as suspension setup, tyre choice, bib shorts and drivetrain efficiency, another important contact point during long stage races is the interface between the rider’s foot and the pedal. Over the course of a multi-stage event, feet are exposed to constant pressure as well as the repeated vibrations transmitted through the bike on rough trails.

Falke’s Pedal Pressure Free sock is designed to address some of these conditions associated with long-distance mountain biking. The sock incorporates targeted cushioning in the metatarsal area, where the ball of the foot typically rests over the pedal axle.

According to Falke, this cushioning is intended to distribute pressure across the foot and help absorb smaller vibrations that occur during extended periods of pedalling on uneven terrain.

Another feature included in the sock’s construction is the use of BCool recycled yarn which is a technical fibre designed to assist with moisture management by moving perspiration away from the skin. In warm riding conditions, keeping the foot drier inside the shoe can help reduce friction that may contribute to discomfort over long distances.

The sock also incorporates Falke’s Sensitive Cuff at the upper edge. This cuff is designed to hold the sock in place during riding while aiming to avoid excessive pressure around the lower leg that could affect circulation.

Products such as the Pedal Pressure Free form part of Falke’s broader performance range aimed at endurance sports, including mountain biking where riders may spend long hours pedalling over varied terrain and in changing weather conditions.

Falke sports products are available through the brand’s online store as well as selected South African retailers including Sportsmans Warehouse, Totalsports, Outdoor Warehouse, Cape Union Mart, Takealot and a range of specialist stores.