Heel and Toe

Heel and Toe is a driving technique used in manual transmission vehicles to smoothly downshift while braking, allowing drivers to maintain vehicle balance when approaching corners.

This technique involves using the right foot to simultaneously operate both the brake pedal (with the ball of the foot) and the accelerator pedal (with the heel or side of the foot), while the left foot operates the clutch. By briefly "blipping" the throttle while braking, drivers match engine speed to wheel speed before releasing the clutch in a lower gear.

Heel and Toe prevents drivetrain shock, improves stability, and allows racers to maintain momentum through corners. Though challenging to master, this skill is essential in competitive motorsport where smooth, fast downshifts can significantly improve lap times.