The brake shoe is the metallic component that houses the brake pad. It is directly attached to the brake caliper, which allows the pad to touch the rim of the wheel. The shoe and pad in combination provide friction for the bike’s braking.
The brake shoes are also necessary to keep things straight and to allow the brake pads to wear evenly. Some systems allow you to change the pads without removing the entire shoe. On long rides or races, properly aligned brake shoes assist with consistent braking and reduce the possibility of crashing. Similar to the pads, they need to be inspected for damage, particularly prior to major events. On wet or muddy roads, poor brake shoes can significantly influence how you brake and your safety.
