The Best MTB Shoes

Do you need a pair of MTB shoes, but you don’t know where to start? Mountain bike shoes have evolved significantly in recent years, now featuring the most cutting-edge technologies to ensure greater comfort and performance. At the same time, with so many models and brands available on the market, making a choice isn’t easy.

To find the shoe that best fits your needs, you must consider several factors, such as the shoe’s design, the materials, the closure system, and the pedal compatibility. These shoes must be comfortable, abrasion-resistant, and, of course, able to grip the pedals to provide for safe, efficient pedaling. Today, I’ll review the best mountain bike shoes according to your needs and the cycling discipline you practice.

Take a look at other articles to find the best mountain bike shorts, gloves, helmets, cameras, jackets, hydration backpacks, knee pads, and MTB computers.

THE BEST MTB SHOES

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FIVE TEN HELLCAT PRO

The Five Ten Hellcat Pro combines comfort with a sturdy design. Perfect for downhill, this model is also ideal for Enduro adventures. The upgraded version of the classic Hellcat features reinforced toe protection and includes a Velcro strap as well as traditional laces for a secure fit. The sole uses Stealth Marathon technology for greater pedal grip!

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GIRO EMPIRE VR 90

The Giro Empire never stops surprising us with its top-end features and unique style. With a classic (and slightly vintage) design, this impressive shoe provides great comfort as well as an excellent fit thanks to its secure lace closure.

It’s equipped with an Easton® EC90 ACC full carbon sole for increased stiffness. The Giro Empire is a high-quality MTB shoe, ideal for mountain bikers looking for high performance.

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FIVE TEN FREERIDER PRO

The Five Ten Freerider Pro is equipped with the most advanced technologies. It features a Stealth Phantom rubber outsole that provides exceptional grip on the pedals, as well as a reinforced toe box for extra protection.

The upper materials are quick-drying. The Ortholite insole offers great comfort, long-lasting cushioning, and high breathability. This model can feel a bit narrow for wide feet. In that case, you might need to go up half a size from your regular size.

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GIRO CHAMBER II

The Giro Chamber II is an evolution of the popular Giro Chamber, which is Giro’s EWS and Downhill World Cup-winning shoe. Now it’s time for you to try it! The Chamber II features water-resistant, reinforced microfiber materials on the upper part, while the innovative, ultralight Vibram Megagrip outsole provides great grip on and off the pedal.

The toes and heel area are perfectly protected by resistant rubber reinforcements. The cleats on the outsole can be moved back up to 10 mm, allowing you to position the pedal farther back. Keep in mind that it’s a narrow shoe, so consider choosing a half size up.

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PEARL IZUMI X-ALP SUMMIT

The Pearl Izumi X-Alp combines an attractive design with a lightweight but solid structure. The shoes will feel equally comfortable whether you’re riding or hike-a-biking. This model features a synthetic leather upper part to which the manufacturers added perforations to increase breathability. There is special toe protection, perfect for riding on rough terrain.

Your heels will be well-protected thanks to the EVA midsoles, which absorb vibrations while reducing fatigue. The ratchet closure system allows for a fast, secure fit. The only downside is that these shoes are not available in half sizes.

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GIRO CYLINDER

Enjoy the best quality with the Giro Cylinder! Comfortable and ergonomic, these shoes are designed to satisfy all types of riders. You’ll love the Boa L6 closure system that, along with a Velcro strap, provides the perfect foot fit. This model allows you to travel long distances thanks to its comfy insole, which provides unbeatable support and cushioning.

Your pedaling will feel smoother thanks to its construction with reinforced microfiber fabrics. Giro brings you a top-quality product that performs well even on the steepest trails, making it one of the best values for the money. If you plan on pedaling in cold, wet weather, I recommend that you get some shoe covers to keep your feet warm and dry.

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SIDI TRACE 2

The Italian brand Sidi presents the new Trace 2, which stands out for its quality, innovation, and comfort. The Sidi Trace 2 features a new, easily-adjustable closure system, which includes a nylon string and an adjustable dial. Fast to use, this system provides a perfect fit throughout the day.

It also features two Velcro straps for added comfort and an SR17 sole made with nylon and polyurethane for an exceptional grip. This model feels pretty stiff when pedaling, and it’s flexible enough for walking comfortably.

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GIRO VENTANA BOA

The Giro Ventana is designed for the most demanding mountain adventurers. Thanks to the advanced Boa adjustable closure system (reinforced with a Velcro strap), this shoe provides a secure, firm fit. In addition, the heel and toes are well reinforced to withstand occasional impacts.

A durable, breathable nylon upper combines with an EVA midsole for added flexibility and cushioning. With its perfect fit, the Giro Ventana offers great comfort and confidence on all your adventures. The offset cleat position places the foot slightly farther out of the pedal than usual. Keep in mind that this feature won’t suit everyone.

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FIVE TEN KESTREL PRO BOA

The Adidas Five Ten Pro lives up to its reputation. This excellent model won’t disappoint the most experienced riders. The dual-compound Stealth C4 rubber outsole provides optimal power transfer as well as an unbeatable pedal grip.

It’s not highly water-resistant, so watch out for puddles. On the downside, the price is quite high, which makes sense because it’s a collaboration between Five Ten Adidas and Troy Lee Designs. Fortunately, the quality matches the cost.

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GIRO BERM

Perfect for long days of riding, these all-around Giro shoes allow you to venture into all kinds of mountain trails. The Giro Berm is lightweight and flexible, so you’ll feel comfortable all day, even on the roughest terrain.

The upper is made of synthetic fibers along with a breathable mesh. Forget about foot injuries and discomfort! The Giro Berm is a high-performing model, ideal for adventurous riders.

IMPORTANT FEATURES OF MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOES

PEDAL COMPATIBILITY

Mountain bikes can have two types of pedals: flat pedals and clipless pedals.

Flat pedals are popular with entry-level and intermediate riders. Also, they are widely used in cycling disciplines that require great freedom of movement, such as BMX, downhill, dirt, and trail.

Clipless pedals are aimed at a more experienced audience. They allow the rider to have greater control over the bike while increasing power transmission during the pedaling.

Flat pedals

Flat pedal shoes feature a rubber outsole that provides a good grip on the pedals. These models are widely used by freeriders, downhill riders, and dirt enthusiasts, who need to move their legs when doing tricks, or for better balance. The foot is never attached to the pedals, so you can move it as necessary.

When choosing a flat pedal shoe, you should consider several characteristics: stiffness, sole thickness, outsole design, etc. Generally, these shoes are equipped with good studs that guarantee a solid grip when riding downhill.

Clipless pedals

Clipless shoes have two-hole cleats on the sole that clip into the pedal. Therefore, the foot is “attached” to the pedal. This type of shoe allows you to transfer more power when pedaling, but it requires more practice to adjust.

These types of pedals can scare some people who think they won’t be able to take their feet off the pedal in case of a fall. However, the movement of “detaching” the shoe from the pedal becomes natural after a few days of practice.

Most manufacturers make clipless shoes that are also suitable for hiking (or hike-a-biking). Make sure to regularly check on the condition of the cleat screws.

CLOSURE SYSTEMS

MTB shoes are built with different types of closure systems:

Laces

The lace-up closure is the most traditional system, providing a firm, secure fit. This system is widely used in flat pedal MTB shoes.

Boa

This is a highly precise, efficient closure system that is also quite popular in other types of footwear, such as ski boots, snowboard boots, cycling shoes, etc. Easy to use, the principle is simple: it has a micro-adjustable dial and a thin, strong lace. By turning the dial, you tighten or loosen the lace.

The Boa system adapts perfectly to the shape of your foot to provide great comfort. Also, this is the most glove-friendly system.

Ratchet

This closure system consists of a ratchet strap that goes into a buckle. The closure is fully locked until you press the release button. This system is slightly heavier than other closure systems, but offers a firm, micro-adjustable fit.

Velcro

This type of closure is also quite popular, especially among beginners and intermediate riders. One of the main advantages of Velcro straps is that they allow for easy and fast donning and doffing, which can be important during competitions.

However, Velcro straps tend to wear out quickly. I don’t recommend them if you like to ride on muddy, wet terrain. Also, keep in mind that Velcro closures are not as firm as the previous closure systems.

TYPES OF SOLES

The sole is a crucial element that directly affects efficiency and comfort. Flexible soles will provide you with greater comfort during long activities. These soles are generally made of nylon, fiberglass, or polyamide.

Stiff soles, on the other hand, are less comfortable to wear. However, they allow for more power transfer to the pedals. Most stiff soles are made of nylon or carbon fiber, so they are generally thin and lightweight.

Depending on the intended use, you’ll have to choose between comfort and power. However, some hybrid models have managed to strike a balance between these two aspects.

WEIGHT

Weight is an important factor, especially if you go for challenging, long rides. The longer the ride, the lighter your shoes should be.

Keep in mind that ultralight shoes are generally much more expensive (and usually not as durable) than other shoes.

PROTECTION

Mountain bikers like to ride on rocky, rugged terrain. Therefore, I recommend that you choose footwear that efficiently protects your feet. Your shoes should feature rubber protection that can absorb shocks in the toe area. In addition, the sole must be relatively thick to absorb vibrations, and the ankle must be held firmly.

GRIP

Different grip systems are available depending on the discipline for which the shoes were designed.

Enduro footwear features large studs on the soles, which will help when you’re walking over rough terrain.

Downhill and freeride footwear includes grippy rubber outsoles for maximum grip on the pedal.

Cross-country, gravel, and cyclocross shoes require stiffer soles, always looking for a lightweight, high-performing shoe. On some models, small metal crampons can be added to the outsole for hiking over rough terrain.

BREATHABILITY

If you’re planning to ride in hot weather, your shoes should be highly breathable. I recommend models built with lightweight materials that include perforations or a breathable mesh.

On the other hand, if you are going to be pedaling in cold, rainy weather, you should go with a model that is less breathable but more resistant to inclement weather.

SIZE

During intense exercise, the feet tend to swell slightly. Some models can feel too tight and lead to pain after a few hours of riding. With that in mind, go half a size up from your regular size, so you’ll feel more comfortable.

DURABILITY

Unfortunately, MTB shoes wear out relatively quickly. How do you keep your shoes in good condition for as long as possible? Check out the following tips:

After each use, remove the insoles before cleaning.

Wash your shoes in a basin of warm water with a mild detergent. Use a sponge or soft brush.

Dry your footwear in a dry, well-ventilated place, without direct exposure to sunlight. Quick-drying tip: Place a piece of newspaper inside your shoes to absorb moisture. Don’t use a hairdryer because it could damage microfibers and sticky parts.

Finally, remember to check the screws and cleats after each activity, and replace any damaged parts.

Feel free to leave a comment and share your experiences!