Alfredo Binda Toe Straps

In the pre-clipless era, only one type of fastening would do.

- Hannah Bussey

Cyclists can be split into two distinct categories: those who rode pre clipless pedals, and those for whom riding didn’t start until after Look’s mid-80s revolutionary invention. Those in the latter group, which spans the last 30 years or so, have likely never had the necessity to ratchet themselves to their bikes so tightly they risk cutting off the circulation to their toes.

Back when foot comfort was wantonly sacrificed there was one set of straps coveted above all others: the Alfredo Binda. Named after the great Italian road racer, these leather straps, and the brown paper bag they came in, were the only straps to have. Considered the gold standard, they were, and still are, the level by which other straps are judged.