Any mountain biker will tell you that having the proper footwear is essential for an enjoyable ride. But there are actually two main types of mountain biking shoes based around your bike pedal system. You’ll need to decide between flat pedal shoes or clipless shoes before picking a specific model. Let’s explore the key differences so you can match your shoes to your pedals.
Flat Pedal Shoes
Flat pedal shoes feature regular lugged soles like a hiking shoe to grip the wide platform pedals. The deep tread pattern gives stability and traction to avoid slips. These type of mountain biking shoes offer the freedom to easily put feet down or bail safely since you are not attached to the pedals. For newer riders still gaining skills, flat pedals provide a familiar feeling like riding a normal bike as a kid. More styles of common athletic shoe designs also work with flat platform pedals if desired.
Clipless Shoes With Cleats
In clipless pedal systems, you snap cycling shoes with bottom cleats into the bike pedals to gain a secure connection. This locks the feet into the ideal pedaling position for maximum rotation efficiency. Clipless pedals allow cyclists to apply power throughout the entire pedal stroke for faster speeds. However, releasing the connection to stop or stand on the trail demands planning ahead to avoid falls. but once mastered, it leads to greater control, precision and endurance riding.
The most common cleat mounts are SPD and SPD-SL designs. But there are also other two-bolt, three-bolt and shoes with cleats integrated into the sole. Check your bike pedal and mounting system before buying clipless shoes or vice versa. Selecting shoes made for road cycling rather than the mountain trails will be uncomfortable and less effective with obstacles in the path.
Sticky Rubber Soles
One of the most important aspects of a mountain biking shoe is the sole. The trails can be rocky, rooty, muddy and slippery. You’ll want a shoe that can grip these variable surfaces to avoid slips and crashes. Most mountain biking shoes now feature sticky rubber soles which grip pedals and trails much better than a typical sneaker or shoe. The soft rubber also provides cushioning and conforming traction over rocks and roots. Advanced grip patterns provide multi-directional hold.
While not as grippy, some shoes have partial coverage rather than full sticky rubber soles to save on cost and weight. Consider the type of mountain biking terrain you’ll tackle most to choose adequate grip. Areas with smooth dirt or pavement may not require a fully lugged sole.
Rigid Soles for Power Transfer
While cushioning is important, most mountain biking shoes feature a rigid or semi-rigid sole. The lack of flex allows more efficient transfer of power from your legs to the bike pedals. The stiff sole ensures none of your leg energy gets wasted flexing the sole of the shoe. This leads to reduced fatigue over long rides.
Many shoes strike a balance with a rigid forefoot for pedaling combined with a more cushioned heel for walking comfort. Higher end shoes are very rigid from front to back to optimize power transfer when pedaling. Just expect them to have a distinct clicking sound when walking on hard surfaces.
Protection from Rocks and Roots
Mountain bike shoes also provide protection from trail obstacles like rocks, roots and debris. Quality mountain biking shoes have reinforced rubber toe caps and heel counters. These protective layers shield the top and bottom of your feet from sharp impacts or compressions against obstacles. Midsole plates also add protection beneath the foot without sacrificing much flexibility.
Some trail riders may want even more coverage and select shoes with higher ankle collars. These enduro or downhill style shoes better shield the ankle joint and Achilles region from strikes. Just expect less mobility for walking or hiking sections of the trail in taller ankle shoes.
Adjustable Closure
Most mountain biking shoes fasten with either traditional laces or hook-and-loop straps. Laces allow for a very customized fit dialed in across the whole foot. Straps simplify getting in and out of the shoes quickly.
Higher end mountain bike shoes have ratcheting buckles for precise tension adjustment or an integrated lacing system beneath the outer layer. These combine full foot closure with simplified entry/exit when rolled over obstacles. Fine tuning creates a stable fit so feet stay planted on the pedals over bumpy terrain.
Also consider ventilated panels over key heat zones like the top of the foot. Vent openings allow air flow to reduce heat retention when riding aggressively. However, open holes also let water inside when riding through puddles or streams.
So weigh the trade offs between cooling ventilation versus water protection based on your local trail conditions and typical weather.
Proper Sizing
No matter how impressive the features seem, comfort should be a top priority when selecting mountain biking shoes. Check consumer reviews to see how the shoes fit compared to general footwear sizing. Never buy shoes sight unseen if possible. Visit a local bike shop and try shoes on with the same socks you ride with. Stand and even walk around to check for hot spots or rubbing. Comfort over long rides trumps all else. Consider ordering a half size up or down if the size feels just slightly off.
Also keep future foot swelling in mind on longer rides. Feet tend to expand slightly when riding for hours in heat and humidity. Buy shoes that feel very slightly loose rather than snug when new. Thick socks can take up extra room when cold weather riding. Custom orthotics are also easier to insert and remove in shoes with a little extra volume inside. Dialing in the fit will keep you riding happy all day long.
Weight
In general, the lighter the shoes, the better for less fatiguing rides. Ounces on each foot add up over the miles out on the trails. Synthetic leather or mesh fabric uppers offer ventilation and support at lower weights than genuine leather. However, real leather molds very well over time and provides great durability from abrasions. Decide what trade-offs work best for your mountain biking goals and typical ride distances.
Budget
Bike shoes range widely in price from around $50 up to $350 or more. In general, more expensive shoes from premium cycling brands offer better power transfer, traction, protection and features. However, even mid-range shoes around $100 can deliver excellent performance for the majority of amateur enthusiast needs. Focus on fit and key tech features in your ideal price bracket. Periodically inspect and maintain your mountain bike shoes to maximize lifespan between replacements. Proper gear goes a long way towards happy trails.
Getting dialed in with comfortable, grippy mountain biking shoes suited to your riding terrain and bike will ensure confident control and a feel-good experience in the saddle. Consult local bike shops as needed and use this guide to zero in on your dream kicks. Just get ready to hit those trails this season and make some dusty memories out there. The adventure awaits!