Grime, dirt, and water can all be enemies of a cyclist. There are many ways to play defense, however reader Rob came up with a solution that is truly unique . . . and stylish. You may have seen beer can mudflaps, but a shoe mudflap? I highly doubt it. Take it away Rob . . .

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I needed a mudflap for my fender, but I didn't want to make an ugly one out of black rubber for my beautiful old Raleigh. Brooks sells a leather one for $40, but I am not spending $40 for a tiny piece of leftover leather.

Then I remembered I have a pair of thrift store wing tips that I don't wear anymore. First I tried cutting out the tongues, but they were too narrow. Then I tried cutting out the toes. Presto!

Rather than drill holes, I attached them with two tiny document clips and slid out the shiny metal handles when they were on. Now I have a wing tip mudflap. I rode through some water today and it worked just fine. Best yet, when I took apart the shoes I realized they were actually pleather. Even better. For mudflaps, not feet.

Have you found a creative way to fight grime? Feel free to let us know so that we can post for the benefit of all.