Why Don’t More Shoes Have This Japan-Designed Loafer’s Commute-Friendly Feature?

Created in collaboration with a pro BMXer, Chrome’s new bike kicks have a secret ingredient we wish more footwear packed.

By Steve Mazzucchi

Published October 22, 2024

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Updated October 22, 2024

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Even if clipless pedals are not your jam, any regular bike rider can benefit from pedal-friendly footwear. That’s one of the big takeaways from our chat with Andy Pruitt, Ed.D., holder of three patents for the development of Specialized Body Geometry shoes and saddles and all-around cycling ergonomics expert.

But the real kicker (no pun intended) is an ingredient no other loafer has, that is present in every single pair of Chrome footwear: the PowerPlate Propulsion Shank.

One thing Pruitt stressed was how important it is for the shoe to have some rigidity in the sole, for effective power transfer to the pedal: “If we allow the foot to store energy when we’re pushing down on the pedal, we’re never going to get it back.”

That’s why most sneakers (especially those packing loads of midsole foam) suck for cycling — and why we’re excited about Chrome’s new LTD A27 Loafers, which prove a shoe can be stylish, comfortable and perfect for pedaling at the same time.

Chrome Industries LTD A27 Loafer

$115 at Chrome Industries

Optimized for the ride

Now, what makes these limited-edition loafers (which, for the record, selling out fast) so special? Well, they were designed in Japan with the input of pro BMX rider James Cox, and they’re from Chrome Industries, makers of the Southside Pro 3.0 Sneaker we absolutely love. (Granted, it’s a clipless shoe, but it’s proof they know what they’re doing.)

If the pedigree doesn’t sell you, however, the bike-specific features will. The A27’s boast a grippy Panaracer rubber outsole, a comfy polyurethane insole and a rugged suede leather upper with reflective details to increase your visibility.

chrome a27 loafer details — Two key bike-friendly features of the A27: the reflective hits and the Panaracer outsole.

But the real kicker (no pun intended) is an ingredient no other loafer has, that is present in every single pair of Chrome footwear: the PowerPlate Propulsion Shank.

“After studying everything from hiking boots to ballet slippers we developed a rigid nylon shank that sits between the insole and the sole of our shoes,” reads a dedicated post on Chrome’s blog. “The shank gives extra stiffness from the heel of the shoe all the way up to the ball of your foot. That focuses all of the force of each downstroke on the spot where your shoe meets the pedal.

chrome powerplate propulsion shank — The real secret sauce of the A27 is the (black-hued) PowerPlate Propulsion Shank shown above.

“The shank is also specially formed to improve arch support and keep your foot from bending over the pedal to reduce foot fatigue on longer rides. We also added an inset of super-soft rubber about the size of a half dollar (does anyone use half dollars anymore?) at the heel for extra comfort and cushion.”

So the shank both improves pedaling efficiency and goes easier on your feet. In other words, it gives the shoes exactly what Pruitt believes is most critical for biking — and what most casual footwear sorely lacks.

The fact these loafers look rad is just a bonus, really.