Used & Abused | TreadLabs Dash Insoles
adam’s 1,000 Mile Dash Review
When it comes to cycling, comfort and efficiency should go hand-in-hand. Over the years, I've tried various gear and accessories to enhance my riding experience, but nothing has made a more significant impact than the TreadLabs Dash thin insoles (in addition to a proper bike fit). After putting over 1000 miles on these insoles, I can confidently say they are a game-changer.
Before I started using the Dash insoles, long rides were often accompanied by some form of foot discomfort. Numbness in my feet was a recurring issue, especially during extended rides even after trying multiple different shoe, sock, and cleat-type combos. After using the Dash insoles this season, the improvements are undeniable. The numbness in my feet has completely disappeared, even on rides as long as eight hours. The insoles have also relieved my occasional knee pain, helping to better align my knee tracking, which has dramatically improved my overall fit and comfort without making any expensive saddle or cockpit changes.
I use the Dash insoles primarily in a pair of Giro Regime road shoes, which feature a carbon outsole. While the carbon sole provides a solid foundation, adding the Dash insoles has taken my cycling experience to another level. The insoles offer a carbon support structure that not only enhances power transfer but also provides superior support throughout the ride.
Cyclists often overlook the importance of a stiff insole and focus mostly on the stiffness of the outsole, but it plays a crucial role in both comfort and performance. A stiff insole, like the Dash, distributes pressure more evenly across the foot, reducing strain and preventing hot spots. This even pressure distribution also helps in better energy transfer from your legs to the pedals, making each stroke more efficient.
In my case, the carbon support in the Dash insoles has significantly improved power transfer, especially during high-intensity efforts. This improvement means more of my energy is directed into the pedals rather than being lost in unnecessary foot movement, making every ride smoother and more efficient.
I've ridden with the Dash insoles in all sorts of weather—rain, heat, cold, you name it. Despite the varying conditions, the insoles have held up incredibly well. They’ve proven to be durable and reliable, providing the same level of comfort and support regardless of the weather. With the ability to simply replace the top cover when they get too beat up, I don’t feel the need to baby them. Once I’m clipped in, they just disappear, allowing me to focus on the ride.
Whether you’re a casual rider or a serious cyclist, investing in a quality insole like the Dash can make a world of difference. After over 1000 miles, I can confidently say that these insoles are an essential part of my cycling gear. If you’re looking to enhance your comfort and performance on road and gravel, the TreadLabs Dash thin insoles are well worth the investment.
