The orientation of the pad is critical. Fitting the shoe with the open end facing forwards is a recipe for disaster, says Jon: the rotation of the wheel will pull the pad from the shoe.

Pads are also oriented for the left and right side of the caliper and typically marked ‘L’ and ‘R’. If the new set comes with a replacement grub screw, fit this too: they’re easily rounded with use.

If you’ve replaced worn pads, it’s likely the cable tension will be too great for their new, unworn replacements, placing them against the rim. Reduce the cable tension by turning the caliper’s barrel adjuster clockwise.

Make a final check of pad alignment and check the brake function. You’re ready to go.

Types of pad

Certain wheel rims demand specific pads: Mavic rims with the proprietary Exalith coating, for example, require use of the French manufacturer’s own pad. Similarly, carbon rims, an unlikely choice for winter, require specific pads.

Standard pads can be used with aluminium rims. Pads vary in quality, however. Jon recommends Shimano and SwissStop. Shimano and SRAM pads are interchangeable, he adds, but warns that Campagnolo’s pads are specific to the brake caliper.