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Whether you're riding trails or on the road, a good pair of bike shoes improves efficiency, comfort and stability on the bike.
Over the past decade, we've purchased and tested more than 200 bike shoes to bring you our top picks for everything from road cycling to mountain biking. Our team of expert testers brings hundreds of years of combined experience to the table, using and abusing every pair and scoring them in key areas.
Our favorite road cycling shoe is the Shimano S-Phyre RC903. It offers great comfort and impressive power transfer.
Who it is best for: The Shimano S-Phyre RC903 is ideal for serious cyclists prioritizing power transfer. It was the highest performing model in our road bike shoe tests. You'll see this shoe on just as many feet in your local fast group ride as in professional pelotons. It's especially well-suited for riders who want maximum efficiency and stiffness from their footwear, whether sprinting or grinding through a long day in the saddle. However, those who regularly ride long distances might want to compare it against the more comfort-focused shoe due to potential foot fatigue over extended rides.
Why we love it: It combines elite-level performance with a surprisingly comfortable fit. The carbon fiber outsole is among the stiffest we tested, while the upper locks your foot down for a secure feel that excels under pressure. As our lead tester said, “This shoe gives the best power transfer of any option I've tested.” The secure heel hold encourages better hamstring engagement while pedaling, and updated cable routing offers improved comfort for long rides and quick efforts. The two BOA Li2 dials per shoe allow for precise fit adjustments, further enhancing its performance credentials.
Should you buy it? If you ride fast and rack up serious miles, this delivers race-worthy performance with enough comfort to keep you going. Minor drawbacks include the rear dial's placement—requiring two hands to put on or take off the shoe—and a stiff outsole that can cause fatigue if overtightened. The synthetic leather-wrapped outsole and plastic heel cup are prone to cosmetic scratches, which may be frustrating on such a premium-looking shoe. Still, these are minor issues in an otherwise outstanding road cycling shoe.
The bright blue color of the Shimano S-Phyre RC903 stands out as much as its performance sets it apart. If this look feels too flashy, it's also available in more subdued colorways.
Who it is best for: The Giro Cadet is ideal for beginner to intermediate road cyclists seeking an affordable, all-around clipless shoe that doesn't compromise too heavily on comfort or durability. Its balanced performance and universal fit make it a great choice for riders who want a dependable, entry-level option without diving into the high-end market.
Why we love it: “This shoe simply fades to the background while I ride, letting me think about anything but my feet,” said our lead tester. That kind of invisible comfort is exactly what makes the Cadet stand out. With a single BOA dial, a hook-and-loop strap, and a carbon-reinforced nylon sole, it offers a secure fit, decent power transfer, and longevity — all at a fraction of the price of more premium shoes. A thick heel pad adds durability, while the simple construction keeps it versatile.
Should you buy it? If you're after a reliable road shoe with solid performance and a comfortable fit — and you're okay with a bit of weight and a less locked-in heel — the Cadet is a strong contender. For the price, the Cadet delivers comfort, function, and value that's tough to top.
Who it is best for: The Quoc Escape Road is best suited for riders who prioritize long, leisurely rides over all-out performance. This shoe is a compelling pick if you value all-day comfort and a relaxed fit more than chasing Strava KOMs. It's a strong choice for casual cyclists who want something stylish and cozy, rather than hyper-stiff or race-ready.
Why we love it: A supple synthetic leather upper and a dial system that evenly distributes pressure give an effortlessly comfortable fit. “The fit is more of a pleasant hug than a squeeze while I ride,” said one tester. Quoc's closure avoids hotspots, and the soft polyurethane upper conforms beautifully to the foot. The shoe's easygoing feel and low-pressure fit make it a standout in the comfort category.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for a cycling shoe that prioritizes comfort and casual adventure over stiffness and speed, the Escape Road could be your perfect match. However, riders looking for more power transfer or foot retention may want to consider other options. The Escape Road's soft outsole and narrow toe box may limit its appeal for more aggressive efforts, but it nails the brief for all-day cruisers.
Who it is best for: The Freerider Pro is ideal for flat-pedal riders who want maximum grip and dependable performance across various terrain. It was the best of all the mountain bike flat shoes we tested. With a medium-volume fit, it's well-suited to various foot shapes. This shoe should be on your shortlist if you're after all-day pedal security and protection without sacrificing off-the-bike versatility.
Why we love it: Stealth rubber on the outsole gives this shoe class-leading pedal grip — “the next best form of attachment besides clipping in,” said our lead tester. A stiff midsole supports power transfer while minimizing foot fatigue, and the slight toe flex offers just enough walkability for brewery stops. The padded upper strikes a great balance between comfort and protection, making the Freerider Pro a consistent favorite.
Should you buy it? If you want a top-tier flat shoe with unmatched grip and reliable performance, yes — the Freerider Pro is a top performer. Its stickiness might frustrate riders who frequently shift foot positions, and it runs hot on warm days. However, the Freerider Pro is the benchmark flat pedal shoe for most riders.
Who it is best for: The Giro Latch was our top choice in our women's MTB shoe review. Is best for riders who prioritize a lightweight flat shoe with great bump absorption and reliable pedal grip, particularly cross-country or trail riders. It's not the most protective or breathable option, but it excels for riders who value comfort and a connected pedal feel on moderate terrain.
Why we love it: The Latch features standout, impressive vibration damping. “I was impressed with how this shoe absorbed bumps and vibrations I normally feel in the pedal,” one tester reported. The midsole strikes a smart balance between stiffness and flexibility, and its low weight adds to the ride feel without compromising walkability.
Should you buy it? If you want a high-performing flat pedal shoe that's comfortable, light, and tuned for trail efficiency, the Giro Latch is an excellent pick. However, its slightly warm upper and lack of burly protection mean it's not ideal for downhill days. For most trail riders, though, the Latch hits a sweet spot.
Who it is best for: The Ride Concepts Livewire is ideal for trail and all-mountain riders who want a versatile flat shoe with solid grip and dependable protection. Its medium-volume fit suits a wide range of feet, and its walkability makes it great for riders who regularly hop on and off the bike.
Why we love it: This model features Rubber Kinetics outsole for reliable grip on bumpy trails and a mid-stiff sole that balances pedaling efficiency with off-bike comfort. “I was pleased with the protection this model offers, with molded toe and heel construction and D30 inserts that help absorb impact,” said our lead tester. It's a well-rounded package that performs well across various trail conditions.
Should you buy it? This comfortable, durable, and protective flat pedal shoe is reasonably priced. Just be aware that it's heavier, and its power transfer is less efficient than lighter, stiffer models. For most riders, these tradeoffs are worth it.
Who it is best for: The Specialized 2FO Roost Clip is perfect for riders seeking an affordable, all-around clipless shoe that delivers solid performance for trail and technical riding, as long as it's not full-blown downhill. Its casual look also makes it a good choice for those who want something low-key off the bike.
Why we love it: This shoe punches above its price point with a sole that provides excellent grip and comfort. “It keeps my feet happy whether on the pedals or walking my bike,” said one tester. We also appreciated the impressive pedal-position adjustability — rare in an affordable shoe — and the power transfer exceeded expectations for a lace-up.
Should you buy it? If you're looking for value and versatility, the Roost Clip is a compelling choice. Just be aware of its relaxed fit — “some riders will want a tighter feel,” our lead tester noted — which can cause minor foot movement in technical sections. Still, for most riders, the Roost Clip is an excellent all-arounder that saves money without sacrificing much performance.
Besides riding in a lift-accessed bike park, these shoes were incredible all-arounders.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
How We Tested
If you add up the years we've each spent biking, our testing team here at OutdoorGearLab has collectively spent a few hundred years riding bikes. We've combined that wealth of experience and created objective, rigorous testing processes for each of our bike shoe reviews to help you make an informed decision on your next purchase. We buy every shoe ourselves, accepting zero company handouts to ensure a bias-free assessment of every option. We've used and abused each bike shoe in several different environments, from the misty coastal roads of California to the dry slickrock of the Utah desert, to ensure every product's best and worst qualities are unearthed.
Every shoe's scoring metrics include durability, weight, performance, and comfort. Each type of biking has unique demands for the rider's shoe, so each category has additional unique metrics to help you objectively find the best pair of biking shoes for your needs. So, dive into each review to learn more about our testing processes.
Testing flat pedal shoes on tight turns.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Why Trust GearLab
Our star-studded testing team is passionate about every facet of biking. It comprises certified mountain bike guides, champion road cyclists, bike designers, and guidebook authors.
Our lead tester for cycling shoes, Arthur Richardson lives and breathes bikes. Now living in the bike hub in Bellingham, Washington, he grew up riding road bikes in Northern California, where he also worked in a bike shop for seven years. If something is related to road bikes, Arthur likely has an opinion about it. Tara Reddinger-Adams is a professional mountain bike guide, coach, and avid rider. In 2016, she received certifications in a Bicycle Instructor Certification Program (BICP) Level I and Professional Mountain Bike Instructor (PMBI) Level I. Since then, she has started her own business, guiding and coaching hundreds of clients across the US, and has leveled up to BICP Level II and PMBI Level II “Air” certifications. She leads the charge for our women's biking reviews.
We take specs like weight, size, and other measurements so you can decide which shoe is right for you.
We take each pair of bike shoes out for field testing to see how they perform on different types of terrain.
Whether you go with clipless or flats, we've tested the best options for each.
Jeremy Benson and Pat Donahue have both worked stints as Senior Mountain Bike Editor at OutdoorGearLab and have teamed up to take on our reviews of men's mountain bike shoes. Jeremy is a professional-class mountain and gravel bike racer with a slight addiction to Strava. He has lived in North Lake Tahoe for almost two decades and is the author of Mountain Bike Tahoe. Pat has been riding bikes his whole life and has dipped his toe in everything from downhill and enduro races to full-day endurance rides. Today, he co-owns a local bike shop in South Lake Tahoe. This exceptional testing team has decades of experience in professional and personal riding and is here to offer top-tier advice to help you choose your next pair of bike shoes.
Feeling locked in with the right shoes can provide a sense of confidence when tackling tricky features.
Credit: Jake Pritchett
How to Pick the Best Bike Shoes
Our feet are the only parts of our body that make contact with the pedals of a bike, making our biking footwear among the most crucial elements of any bike setup. Whether you're a mountain biker or a road biker, quality bike shoes that fit you correctly are just as important as which bike you buy. Fortunately, a bike shoe is a much more affordable piece of equipment to purchase or upgrade than buying or upgrading an entire bike, as long as you find the right shoe for you.
There are many different types of bike shoes but finding the right option for you isn't as daunting as you might think.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
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Clips, Clipless or FlatPedals
For those newer to cycling or mountain biking, one of the greatest misunderstandings is what it means to have clips, clipless, flat biking pedals, or shoes. We get it — we've had those same misunderstandings, too. Until the 1890s, bike pedals were all we would consider flats today, meaning a flat platform pedal that can be used with any shoe, and the rider is not attached to the bike. In the 1890s, pedal toe straps/clips became an option for cyclists, which allowed the rider to attach their feet to the pedal with a toe cage and straps. While designs varied, these clipped pedals were unreliable regarding how well they kept your foot attached. In more intense pedaling, riders could experience their foot slipping out, but a rider might stay attached in a crash. While designs existed much earlier, it wasn't until the 1970s when “clipless” pedals became widely used, where a rider had a sort of cleat on the bottom of their shoe that would lock into the bike pedal and no longer needed clips (toe cages) to attach their foot to the bike. These clipless pedals were initially dangerous in a crash since they didn't release, but spring innovations rapidly improved their designs and allowed for shoe release in a tumble. Getting into and out of the pedal also became simpler, with a simple step-down motion and a heel twist/pivot to get out.
Clipless pedals, pictured in the foreground, have become a quintessential part of a bike setup and, subsequently, clipless shoes (all shoes in this photo) as well.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Present-day clipless bike pedals and shoes have nearly perfected their design, and they are the only option recommended for invested road cyclists. Use flat (platform) bike shoes/pedals or clipless ones—mountain biking. While you can still buy toe clip pedals from a few manufacturers, we recommend using clipless or flats for any biking to maximize performance and safety. It's also important to note that multiple types of clipless pedals are available, and one will likely need to buy a different cleat for their bike shoes (or transfer your pedals) if switching from road to mountain biking or vice versa.
Modern-day clipless bike shoes and pedals offer an unparalleled way to connect to your bike. Clipless systems range from trimmed down “egg beater” pedals to hybrid offerings like this one that still offer a platform that's reminiscent of flats.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Cycling Shoes
Cycling, or road bike shoes, are the lightest category of bike shoes. They are extremely aerodynamic compared to the relatively clunky mountain bike options. These shoes offer the greatest pedaling efficiency, frequently incorporating a stiff sole build of carbon fiber. Even though entirely carbon outsoles are the highest performing, they're also typically the most expensive, so a hybrid of nylon and carbon can be an excellent compromise between performance and value. The cleat in the shoe's forefoot protrudes from the sole, further aiding efficiency and a level of pedaling power found only in this category of bike shoes. Cycling shoes also generally offer unparalleled breathability by opting for lightweight synthetic materials in the upper shoe construction.
Road bike shoes prioritize aerodynamics and performance, making them the sleekest and lightest of all the bike shoe categories.
Credit: Ryan Baham
Unlike mountain bike shoes, cycling shoes are not designed for walking around. The hard pads that improve the outsole's durability offer minimal traction, and a higher forefoot than the heel makes for a very awkward stride. Walking around in cycling shoes sounds like tap-dancing on the pavement compared to mountain bike flats. While some options are better than others for walking, if you're utilizing a road bike as a commuter, we recommend keeping a pair of normal shoes at the office or in your backpack. While it's possible to use cycling shoes for mountain biking, we generally discourage this unless you focus on cross-country riding.
Whether a road cyclist or a downhill mountain biker, there's an excellent option for you and your feet.
Credit: Andrew Crook
Mountain Bike Clipless Shoes
Clipless mountain bike shoes are intended for those seeking clipless pedals and shoes for their unpaved adventures. Being attached to your mountain bike allows for better pedaling power/efficiency and maneuvering over, around, or through most features you'll encounter on the trail compared to flats. When you're attached to your pedal, you need to be more exact with your shoe fit, as any unnecessary space (or improper sizing) can encourage more rubbing/blistering than flats. While good pedaling technique involves minimal upward pull on the pedal, we all do it, so your shoe needs to fit your pedal stroke in multiple directions.
Mountain bike clipless offerings are many riders' preferred shoe/pedal system due the feel of being more connected to the bike and superior pedaling/power transfer.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Mountain bike shoes have a few designs that can garner strong opinions depending on the type of biking you want. Cyclists more oriented to racing and cross-country rides may prefer a slimmer, road bike-esque shoe with less rubber. These are frequently the lightest shoes in the category, but with reduced rubber, they can be less friendly for hiking a bike on the trail. These shoes' aesthetics are also an acquired taste, should you go out to dinner or a brewery after a ride. The other common subclass of mountain bike shoes is the more casual, downhill-friendly design. These look similar to flats with a wider shape and sticky rubber but with an insert for cleats in the forefoot. These are more commonly used with wider clipless pedals that offer more stability for technical downhill riding with a platform reminiscent of flat pedals.
Mountain bike shoes feature many different types of soles and last shapes. The far left shoe is more akin to road bike shoes in its narrow profile and lack of sticky rubber when compared to the other three options.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Avid mountain bikers are split between riding clipless or flats (arguably more riders are in the clipless camp), but if you're new to the sport, consider starting on flats as you can more easily hop off your bike on the trail as you learn the basics. While any clipless system will ultimately release in a crash, that release will not necessarily happen immediately, and you might be attached for a second longer than you'd like. Some start learning to mountain bike clipless, but they anticipate a steeper learning curve.
If you're getting into mountain biking, clipless pedals/shoes take some getting used to- if you come up on a trail feature you can't just simply step off your bike, you have to do a heel twist and unlock your cleats first.
Credit: Tara Reddinger-Adams
Flat Bike Shoes
This type of shoe doesn't have cleats and can only be used with flat/platform pedals. Flat shoes are the most versatile of any bike footwear genre, as they can also be used hanging around town as much as on the trail. Typically, these shoes will have a flat, wide bottom to maximize surface area on a flat pedal and will likely be made with some form of sticky rubber to stick better to the pedal. The sticky rubber used in a flat biking shoe is similar to or identical to the rubber used in approach/climbing shoes, where sticky rubber is essential for performance and safety. Without cleats and with excellent rubber, these shoes will likely excel at hiking your bike if you come up on a technical section of a trail you don't want to ride or are sessioning a feature and want to run laps.
Mountain bike flats, when paired with the right-sized pedal, can still allow riders to connect to each pedal stroke.
Credit: Byron Adams
Mountain bike flats reduce pedaling efficiency when compared to clipless, but finding a pedal that fits your bike shoe's forefoot dimensions can greatly improve your pedal stroke and downhill performance. As mentioned in our mountain bike shoes section above, these are an excellent option for those just getting into mountain biking, as you can hop off your bike quickly. Mountain bike flats are also a great option for commuters and casual, recreational cyclists in an urban environment who want a more protective shoe for biking but still want the aesthetics of a more normal-looking shoe.
Mountain bike flats sport a more casual look while also making walking and hiking more comfortable.
Credit: Campbell Steers
Conclusions
Whether you're an avid road cyclist or a budding mountain biker, there's an excellent bike shoe for you and your budget. The shoes highlighted in this article are all award-winning models in their respective categories and have earned their place as the top options. We encourage you to pedal through this page and ride to the in-depth category reviews to find the right companion for your biking feet.
—Ryan Baham, Tara Reddinger-Adams, Jeremy Benson, Pat Donahue, and Arthur Richardson
