Flats are increasingly popular for touring as well. Turns out that unless you're trying to maximize efficiency at race levels, flats work pretty damn well. And

Flats are increasingly popular for touring as well. Turns out that unless you're trying to maximize efficiency at race levels, flats work pretty damn well. And even for racing, the value of clipless pedals is dubious compared to a decent-sized flat. I suppose weight weenies shy away because a decent flat is probably twice the weight of a decent clipless pedal. Deity black kats are 402 grams, whereas the most popular Shimano clipless pedal is 228 grams. I do a lot of my touring and even bikepacking in vibram-soled sandals. Socks get so smelly even after a day or two that it's better to just go without them IMO.