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Is it time for a new set of mountain bike shoes? We constantly buy and test the most compelling options to put through our rigorous testing process. Our field of test shoes features a variety of shoes ranging from feathery cross-country slippers to aggressive downhill kicks. Our crew of professional mountain bike testers evaluated each pair of shoes based on key performance metrics: comfort, weight, power transfer, walkability, and durability.
We have been professionally testing MTB shoes for over a decade (even longer if we include our personal experience), and of the 60+ models we have used, the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip is our favorite trail riding shoe. If you're more of a cross-country rider, the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon is our recommendation. If you're on a tight budget and need a more versatile shoe, the Giro Gauge is a good option to consider.
The Ride Concepts Tallac Clip was one of our favorite shoes in the test and is nearly the full package for a top-shelf all-mountain model. These shoes offer all-day comfort and solid power transfer for gravity-oriented riding, but their biggest strength is their durable, protective construction. With a burly rubber outsole, TPU reinforcement at the toe and heel, abrasion-resistant reinforcement around the upper, and D30 insole padding, our tester said, “Putting these shoes on feels a little bit like donning a suit of armor.” The substantial construction provides confidence in precarious terrain and ensures your footwear doesn't hinder your riding. The Tallac Clip is slightly lighter, more breathable, and is better off the bike thanks to what our tester describes as “beefy rubber lugs feel at home on rocky, uneven terrain.” All this combined gives the Tallac Clip an edge over its downhill-focused sibling.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
539 grams
Closure
Laces plus Velcro strap
Outsole
Clip Grip
Upper Material
Bonded Cordura mech with TPU toe and heel protection
Footbed
D30 High Impact Insole
If not for their higher weight, these would have been one of the best all-around shoes in our test. At 539 grams per shoe for our size 11 test pair, these weigh around 100 grams more than the average all-mountain shoe in the test. Luckily, weight isn't nearly as important as comfort, power transfer, and durability in all-mountain shoes, but the added heft did drag this model down our rankings slightly. Regardless, if you're looking for an all-mountain shoe that will keep your feet safe and stand up to seasons of abuse, this is a great option.
If you know your rides tend to get a little scrappy, then the extra protection offered by the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip might be a good option for you. Credit: GearLab Team
The Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon has rightfully earned its status as a top-tier choice for XC racing by balancing high-octane performance with the kind of supple comfort that usually eludes stiff, race-oriented footwear. Weighing in at a nimble 376 grams, it minimizes rotational mass for long days in the saddle while utilizing an uncompromisingly stiff unidirectional carbon sole to ensure that every watt of power is delivered straight to the pedals. What truly sets it apart is a polyurethane upper that quickly conforms to the rider's foot for a glove-like fit, effectively bridging the gap between a rigid race tool and a shoe you actually want to wear all day. We loved the wide Velcro upper closure and Boa on the forefoot, as it allowed for quick tweaks while pedaling. The blend of durability and efficiency makes it incredibly versatile for an XC shoe, proving just as capable on a grueling gravel grind as on a technical cross-country course.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
356 grams
Closure
BOA, Velcro
Outsole
Full Carbon / Rubber outsole
Upper Material
Polyurethane laminated mesh
Footbed
Fizik
While the Vento gets high marks for its performance on the bike, it provides minimal protection and a somewhat robotic walking feel. If you're the type of rider to stay in the saddle and power up the technical sections, this may bode well. If you're the type that might choose to walk the technical section, you can find a more appropriate shoe. While svelte and slipper-like, the shoe provides just more than a sock's worth of protection to your foot. The Vento has 10/10 stiffness, pairs particularly well with newer XC pedals, and is available in a seemingly endless array of colors.
The Vento Ferox Carbon is an exceptionally stiff road shoe styled as a mountain bike shoe that delivers outstanding power transfer. Credit: Joshua Hutchens
Are you looking for an affordable XC-style mountain bike shoe with comfort, features, and performance that rivals the best in the test? The Scott MTB Team Boa is a great option for the cross-country or light-duty trail rider on a budget. This stiff-soled shoe is one of the lightest we've tested, plus it provides excellent, efficient transfer of power to the pedals. Our review team was impressed, saying, “There is minimal and hardly noticeable sole flex unless you compare them side-by-side with the stiffest shoes we tested” (like the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon). They are also impressively comfortable, with a performance fit, supple PU uppers, and a Boa closure that wraps the foot snugly and securely. The 376-gram weight makes them one of the lightest shoes in this season's selection. While they are less expensive, the Scott MTB Team Boa is feature-packed with a thoughtful design in a lower mid-price package.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
359 grams
Closure
Boa iP-1 dial, plus Velcro strap
Outsole
StickiRubber
Upper Material
Synthetic Polyurethane, 3D Airmesh
Footbed
ErgoLogic
If you're considering the Scott MTB Team Boa, you should know that it isn't a carbon copy of a high-end XC shoe. Their stiffness isn't entirely on par due to a lack of a carbon shank, although they are pretty close. Due to their stiff soles and lugged tread, they also aren't the best option if you spend much time off your bike. Tester Jeremy Benson says, “Sure, they are fine to walk around in, but they aren't the shoe I'd want on my feet for serious adventure rides with extended hike-a-bikes.” They also offer very limited foot protection, so those riding in especially rugged terrain may want to check out the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip, which are rugged shoes suited for riders who need footwear that can take some abuse season after season. Overall though, the level of performance this shoe shows is pretty impressive for this price range, making it a great option for anyone trying to stick to a budget.
With power transfer and comfort coming close to high-end XC shoes but at a price much lower, the Scott MTB Team Boa is a good option for those looking for performance on a budget. Credit: GearLab Team
The Specialized 2FO Roost Clip may be one of the least expensive shoes in our test, but that didn't stop them from becoming a tester favorite. These lace-up shoes have a casual style that doesn't scream “mountain bike shoe,” yet we feel they are a great option for trail and all-mountain riders. They look like they should be heavy, but they are actually one of the lightest shoes we tested at just 375 grams per shoe in a size 43.5 EU. They aren't the stiffest shoes in the world, but we never felt that they weren't stiff enough for their intended use. Jeremy Benson said he didn't have a problem with it: “On the bike, I never noticed the sole flexing underfoot, even on some of my hardest out-of-the-saddle climbing efforts.” With full coverage SlipNot FG rubber soles and a slight amount of flex through the toe and heel, they are easy to walk in with great traction on most surfaces. They're quite comfortable, with Body Geometry footbeds, an Airmesh tongue, cushioned EVA midsole, and a rubber toe bumper for protection. Our test pair has also proven to be fairly durable, and they look nearly new despite weeks of heavy use.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
375 grams
Closure
Laces
Outsole
SlipNot FG
Upper Material
Synthetic Leather and Textile
Footbed
Specialized Body Geometry
Our main complaint with the 2FO Roost Clip regards the fit of the forefoot. It's definitely a little roomy, and we found it challenging to get a precise fit toward the front of the shoe. Our inability to get a snug fit in the forefoot led to a feeling of slightly reduced lateral stability, and in the end, Jeremy says, “I found that these shoes just didn't interface that well with the platform of my pedals.” Therefore, we'd recommend these shoes for riders with average to slightly above average-width feet for an improved fit. For a slightly narrower fit, Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon has comfortable uppers that conform to your foot. Beyond that, we were impressed with these affordable shoes and feel they are a great option for most riders.
If you're looking for a shoe that can go from the street to the trail without skipping a beat, and don't mind losing out on a few performance features, then the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip is a great option. Credit: GearLab Team
The uniquely styled Giro Gauge packs in a ton of value. The sole is one of the most walkable we've ever tried, while the injected nylon shank provides enough stiffness for a sturdy pedaling platform and keeps the shoe from folding over the pedal. The outsole has an aggressive lug pattern that hikes well in low-traction situations, and the reinforced running shoe-esque upper breathes well while maintaining decent lateral stability on the bike. Reviewer Zach Wick points out, “I could walk both uphill and downhill with a natural gait,” avoiding the excessive calf fatigue or foot pain that you might feel when walking in a traditional stiff-soled mountain bike shoe. Over the course of our testing period, we felt that these shoes excel on casual to moderately technical trail and cross-country rides and in any situation that involves extended time off the bike. Whether you're hanging out at the brewery post-ride or taking a bonus hike to bag a nearby peak, these shoes will keep you comfortable.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
452 grams
Closure
Laces
Outsole
Rubber outsole
Upper Material
Synchwire on-piece composite
Footbed
Die-cut EVA
Despite how much we loved this shoe in testing, we should be clear that it does not provide the same level of performance as the top shoes in the test. While sturdy, the pedaling platform leaves something to be desired in high-torque, high-power situations. Our tester put it simply, “The Gauge wouldn't be my first choice if I were hunting for PRs on the climbs, but the pedaling platform is far from the worst I've tested.” The lace enclosure is simple and easy but doesn't offer the same on-the-fly adjustability as a Boa, ratchet, or velcro strap, and the mesh-heavy upper provides considerably less foot protection than a typical all-mountain shoe despite some reinforcement at the toe and heel. If the performance just doesn't cut it, check out the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip instead. However, riders who value comfort, versatility, and savings over peak performance should definitely give this shoe a shot.
If you're the type whose idea of fun is to venture deep into the backcountry and explore some lesser-known terrain, the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit is a perfect choice. These shoes are an excellent option for those rides where you might experience a healthy amount of hike-a-bike, stream crossings, and climbing over giant downed trees. On the bike, the X-Alp Summit offers a reasonable amount of power transfer and stiffness. Off the bike, the lugged Vibram sole clings to uneven rocks and loose trails very well, while the moderate flex of the sole provides an extremely natural walking motion. When comparing to other models in our lineup, tester Pat Donahue says, “The flex of the shoe feels significantly more natural to me, almost feeling like a hiking shoe.” These shoes are devoid of excessive padding and breathe quite well. As a result, they dry out very quickly should they get saturated crossing a stream or navigating a muddy section of trail.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
435 grams
Closure
Boa L6 dial
Outsole
Vibram ECOSTEP
Upper Material
Seamless perforated synthic upper
Footbed
EVA heel support
Versatility is the name of the game with the X-Alp Summit. This versatility is what makes them so adaptable in the backcountry and remote zones; they can do a bit of everything pretty well. As a result of this jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none attitude, they don't stand out as particularly impressive in any on-the-bike categories. Folks looking to maximize their power transfer should look elsewhere. “When bouncing down some rougher trails, my feet were feeling significantly more of the trail surface compared to stiffer shoes,” says Donahue. So riders looking for robust protection and comfort on aggressive terrain should look to the gravity-focused shoes in this review. We loved these shoes, but they are definitely geared toward adventure lovers rather than racers and those pushing their limits. If you need a comfortable mountain bike shoe with unmatched power transfer, the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon is the king of stiff.
While they may not be the “best” at anything, the PearIzumi X-Alp Summit shoes have above-average performance across all of the metrics we tested, making them a good option for those who never know what they're getting into. Credit: GearLab Team
The Fox Union BOA is a gravity-specific clipless mountain bike shoe that is marketed for downhill and enduro riders. That being said, we find it to be surprisingly versatile thanks to its reasonable weight. At 458 grams (size 11), it is lighter than many of the gravity-focused options. Power transfer is excellent thanks to a lightweight nylon shank molded into the shoe, and tester Pat Donahue said that during his rides, “standing up to smash the pedals results in excellent power transfer. I didn't feel like there was any energy lost into a flexy sole.” In addition, the Union BOA features an incredibly long cleat channel allowing users to fine-tune cleat placement. On the descent, the shoes are stiff and protective enough to mute out the trail surface without beating up your feet. The welded toe and heel provide protection and durability for when things go awry. Whether you are into enduro or downhill racing or simply want to charge hard on your local trails, the Union BOA is an excellent choice so long as weight isn't a huge concern.
SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight (per shoe)
458 grams
Closure
Dual Boa Li2 dials
Outsole
Ultratac rubber compound
Upper Material
One-piece synthetic, weather-resistant welded construction
Footbed
Customizeable arch support
The Union BOA is a burly shoe. Despite being lighter than many gravity shoes, they still aren't the best option for adventure riding or logging big miles. Off-the-bike, the walkability is fine, and Donahue says, “They offer decent walking performance, but I wouldn't want to walk miles upon miles in these bad boys.” These probably aren't the shoes for you if you find yourself hiking with your bike all the time. The BOA dials, while sleek and clean looking, are polarizing. In the past, the reliability and durability of these BOA systems were questionable. When they failed, they were difficult to fix and could easily ruin a ride. In recent years, we have had great luck with our BOA-equipped shoes. That being said, we do acknowledge that they are simply more complex than a traditional lace system. Though it doesn't have much padding or any coverage for the medial ankle like some other gravity shoes, the Union BOA offers good protection for the toe and heel. Still, if you find yourself needing to hike-a-bike more often than not, the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit is the one to consider.
The Five Ten Freerider Pro impressed our testers across the board and rose to the top of a stacked test field of flat pedal shoes on the market. These versatile shoes have a grippy Stealth rubber sole with a full dot tread that has a tenacious pedal grip. Our tester for flat pedal shoes, Pat Donahue, mentions “These shoes deliver a locked-in feel that is confidence-inspiring, almost like riding with clipless pedals/shoes.” The soles are stiff enough to provide a solid transfer of power to the pedals yet flexible enough to allow for easy enough walking and a good pedal feel. The synthetic uppers are durable and robust without feeling bulky, with just enough protection for most styles of riding. The medium-volume fit is comfortable and should work for most riders. The Freerider Pro is a well-rounded performer that works as well for long trail rides as it does for lapping the bike park or goofing off at the pump track.
SPECIFICATIONS
Rubber Type
Stealth S1
Tread Pattern
Full Dot
Weight per Shoe (ounces)
14.11 (size 11)
Weight per Shoe (grams)
399 (size 11)
Closure
Laces
While we love the grippiness of the Freerider Pro, Donahue notes that “Riders who value mobility on the pedals might find these shoes to be a little too grippy.” Subtle foot movements and repositions can be somewhat challenging compared to other shoes. Dirt jumpers and bike park riders may want to look elsewhere. They have adequate foot protection for most styles of riding, but they aren't the most protective shoes. Overall, we think the Freerider Pro is an incredible shoe for any type of riding, but serious downhillers who spend their time riding lifts and smashing rocks may want to look into burlier options like the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip.
Might be too wide for riders with low to low/mid volume feet
Five Ten has a strong presence in the flat mountain bike shoe market. The Freerider is a long-standing shoe in their lineup that delivers incredible grip at a very impressive price. This shoe uses the same Stealth S1 rubber found on their top-end offerings at a fraction of the price. The supple Stealth rubber really engages with the pedal pins and delivers a locked-in feel. Simply put, these shoes have nice rigidity and power transfer and are comfortable…but they make their money off an insane level of grip at an attractive price.
SPECIFICATIONS
Rubber Type
Kinetics DST6.0 High Grip
Tread Pattern
Full Hexagon Dot
Weight per Shoe (ounces)
16.15 (size 11)
Weight per Shoe (grams)
458 (size 11)
Closure
Laces
If you value power transfer and stiffness, it should be noted that the Freerider isn't quite as stiff underfoot as some of the competition. It should be noted that these shoes are plenty powerful for most riders, but if the absolute best power transfer is what you're after, you should look elsewhere. Being a budget-oriented shoe, the fit is a little less refined than some of the higher-end shoes we have tested. The fit feels boxy and significantly wider, especially through the midfoot. Riders with slightly narrower than average feet may find the fit to be a little sloppy.
Stellar grip at a low price...what's not to love? Credit: Suzanne Brydges
Product Comparison Table
Our testing takes us from hard granite drops to smooth and flowy single tracks and everything in between. Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Tested
Our team of obsessive riders and self-proclaimed bike nerds stay on top of the latest trends and models in mountain bike footwear. We spent years researching and discussing the newest and best shoes on the market before selecting our test models. From the California foothills to the desert southwest, XC pedal fests to shuttle laps, each model was ridden for hundreds of miles of climbing and descending, and we even did a fair bit of hiking. Each shoe was ridden on its own in addition to numerous back-to-back switch-outs for a head-to-head comparison. When testing concluded, we rated each model's power transfer, comfort, traction, walkability, weight, and durability to provide a concise overall score. Check out our full testing breakdown here.
We break down our testing into five key metrics:
Comfort (25% weighting)
Traction and Walkability (25% weighting)
Power Transfer (20% of overall score weighting)
Weight (15% weighting)
Durability (15% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
Joshua Hutchens, Zach Wick, and Dillon Osleger made up our primary review team for this project. Between the three of them, they have over fifty years of riding experience, and their diverse backgrounds in cycling bring a variety of strengths to our review process.
Hutchens started mountain biking in the late 1980's and delights in the changes he's seen over the decades and how they've contributed to higher performance and greater comfort. He's held near every position you can imagine in the bicycle industry, including owning one of America's Best Bicycle Shops and being a founder of the Lumberyard Indoor Mountain Bike Park. When he's not riding the hundreds of miles of singletrack near his home in Lake Tahoe, he's coaching mountain biking through his local community college.
Wick has been riding and racing bikes of all kinds for the past 17 years and has experience racing at an elite level in virtually every discipline of the sport. He's spent years working in a product development test lab in the mountain bike industry, where he's developed a keen sense of what makes good bike gear tick. These days he can be found riding his local trails in Logan, Utah, and jumping into races when the mood strikes.
Dillon is a versatile rider who competes in the Pro class in Enduro, XC, and gravel racing. He recently earned a Master's degree in Earth Science from the University of California Santa Barbara. When Dillon isn't testing gear or training for the next race, he works for a trail stewardship organization in the Santa Barbara, CA area.
Grip and traction that is incredibly confidence inspiring. Credit: Matt Lighthart
We wore these slippers while riding miles of trail to test their long term performance. Credit: Pat Donahue
We wore each pair of bike shoes on dedicated testing circuits as well as evening fun runs. Credit: Kolby Anderson
Analysis and Test Results
We tested these shoes on a variety of terrain and trail types before evaluating them based on our metrics and providing a score for each. We included shoes that cover the full range of riding disciplines and styles to ensure a well-rounded comparison. In order to get a true idea of the best shoes on the market, we put a large cross-section of XC race shoes up against Enduro/All-mountain and gravity-oriented shoes.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
At GearLab, we don't rate the products we test based on their price. That said, who doesn't love a good value? Like many things, the price of a mountain bike shoe often correlates directly to its overall quality and performance. Yes, some of the highest-performing shoes we tested are also the most expensive, but this isn't always the case. Some of the more reasonably priced competitors, like the Scott MTB Team Boa, Specialized 2FO Roost Clip, and Giro Gauge, scored well across our metrics despite a lower price tag than much of the competition.
Our tester take on miles of technical riding to test and compare each shoe in this review. Credit: Matt Lighthart
These days, clipless pedals and mountain bike shoes are used in just about every sub-discipline of the sport: gravel, cyclocross, cross country, enduro, trail riding, and downhill. Your preferred riding discipline is one of many important factors that go into your mountain bike shoe purchase decision. Still, during testing, we found that the best shoes these days can be incredibly versatile.
Comfort
When you're spending multiple hours in the saddle or chattering down rough trails, comfort can make or break your day. The more comfortable your shoe is, the more comfortable and relaxed you are, and the better you can ride. Discomfort can be a huge distraction when a few millimeters one way or the other can mean the difference between nailing your line or ending up in a heap. When you're riding, the only thing you should be focusing on is the trail ahead of you. How do we measure comfort? When a shoe inspires confidence right out of the box and becomes an extension of your body, we think that's usually a good thing. Ideally, the only thing you should notice about your shoes when you're riding is how little you notice them.
To rate comfort, we consider the material of the uppers, types of closures, the distribution of tension across the foot, footbeds, ventilation, and foot protection. Not surprisingly, some of the most comfortable shoes in our test are designed for gravity and all-mountain riding with thicker, more protective uppers and cushioning. Shoes like the Five Ten Kestral Pro Boa and the Ride Concepts Tallac Clip may be heavier than the competition, but they are very comfortable. These beefy shoes also give the rider extra peace of mind when riding technical terrain.
One of our favorite shoes is the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon. Their fit is perfect out of the box, and the PU uppers conform to the foot for a supremely comfy fit. The simple, one-Velcro, one-Boa setup allows you to keep your heel seated and adjust the tension in your forefoot on the fly.
Other highly rated comfort products include the Crankbrothers Mallet Boa and the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip, which feature comfortable insoles, high-quality closures, and an all-around great fit. The Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit is a comfortable and versatile shoe that is a viable option for riders with slightly wider feet.
The Vibram sole, aggressive tread, and moderate flex make the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit outstanding for adventure riding where you might be off the bike hiking a fair bit.
Traction and Walkability
In the past, dismounting your bike and walking on rocks or other hard surfaces in clipless mountain bike shoes was a gnarly endeavor. Many models felt more like tap-dancing shoes than something made for rugged terrain, and the likelihood of getting injured trying to walk over obstacles was probably higher than if you'd just tried to ride them in the first place.
Over the past several years, mountain bike shoe manufacturers have started making shoes that perform well not only on the bike but also during those inevitable dismounts. This blend of on and off-the-bike performance is most evident in the new breed of enduro, trail, and all-mountain-oriented shoes. Many modern cross-country mtb shoes are also improving their outsole designs while still offering unwavering stiffness and pedaling performance.
To test traction and walkability, we hiked our bikes in each pair of shoes on a variety of surfaces, rocks, logs, dirt, and mud to see how well each one performs. This portion of the testing involved gratuitous walkarounds and finally taking the time to walk up to that vista point that we always used to ride past.
Full coverage rubber soles are becoming the norm on modern trail riding shoes, making walking or hiking in them much easier. Credit: Jeremy Benson
A shoe's grip and walkability are primarily driven by its rubber compound and a clever engineering trick known as the tapered shank. While many brands use proprietary blends, the industry standard for unrivaled traction on slick surfaces remains Vibram or 5.10, particularly when paired with an aggressive, open tread design that sheds mud rather than packing it in. To bridge the gap between efficient power transfer and a natural walking gait, modern trail and enduro shoes are designed to remain rigid from the heel to the ball of the foot while allowing significant flex forward of that point. This specific construction prevents the awkward “penguin waddle” typical of stiff racing shoes and ensures you can navigate technical hike-a-bike sections with the confidence of a dedicated hiking boot.
Although these versatile models offer a lovely combination of off-the-bike comfort and on-the-bike performance, they do come with a slight weight penalty compared to their minimalist XC cousins. This extra heft is usually a deliberate trade-off for increased durability, featuring armored toe boxes to guard against rock strikes and full-coverage rubber outsoles that protect the midsole from premature wear. While you might not choose these for a weight-obsessed racing application, their ability to dampen trail chatter and provide reliable grip in unpredictable conditions makes them the superior choice for most trail riders. Choosing this style of footwear ultimately means prioritizing a shoe that feels just as capable at a mid-ride creek crossing as it does hammering through a technical descent.
Shoes with great walkability, traction, and power transfer include the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip, and the Crankbrothers Mallet Boa.
Both the Five Ten Trailcross Clip-In and the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip are designed to bridge the gap between a technical bike shoe and a casual sneaker/hiking shoe. They prioritize comfort and off-the-bike traction over the “stiffness-at-all-costs” philosophy of traditional XC or racing shoes.
You're already working hard on the uphill, efficient power transfer means you don't have to worry about an ounce of that effort being wasted. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Power Transfer
Your shoes are a key interface between your body and pedals. This is a critical interaction between rider and machine, and sole stiffness dictates how efficiently shoes transfer your energy and power directly into your drivetrain. A stiff sole and solid shoe-to-pedal interface create a sturdy platform for a rider to translate their leg power directly into forward motion. In contrast, a flimsy sole saps power by flexing and may cause foot fatigue. A benefit of clipless mountain bike shoes is that they position your feet in the optimal spot during the pedal stroke, which helps increase your pedaling efficiency over flat pedals/shoes.
Our favorite shoes have stiff soles that transfer the majority of your effort straight into your pedals. Whether you're a trail rider or a racer, good power transfer is a plus. Credit: Matt Lighthart
Carbon fiber creates the stiffest and lightest sole platform and is generally found in high-end cross-country race mountain bike shoes. More budget-friendly XC shoes and the vast majority of trail and enduro shoes use nylon plastic composite soles or inserts to provide rigidity. While it's not quite as flashy as carbon, nylon is the next best thing. Shoes without a solid sole or insert tend to collapse over the pedal under heavy pedaling forces, significantly reducing the amount of power that is translated into the pedals.
We tested the power transfer of each shoe first with the simple flex-in-the-hands test, then by feel and observation over hundreds of miles of riding. While subtle, the differences in stiffness are noticeable, especially when switching between shoes frequently during back-to-back testing. Our stiffest shoe was the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon, which uses a unidirectional carbon sole that is impressively stiff and offers excellent power transfer. The Specialized Recon 3.0 is a close second with its stiff-but-walkable carbon STRIDE sole.
Your shoes are one of your contact points with the bike. The best shoes are like an extension of your body. Credit: Matt Lighthart
These days, the lines between trail/all-mountain shoes and their XC-oriented counterparts are blurring. Shoes are being developed that provide excellent power transfer while still offering some toe flex for comfortable off-the-bike walking. Shoes like the Five Ten Kestrel Pro Boa, and the Crankbrothers Mallet Boa are good examples of this. They feature a stiff shank from the heel to the ball of the foot and a bit of flex from the ball of the foot forward. Combine that design with a grippy rubber sole, and you can lay down the power on the bike while maintaining a semi-normal gait off the bike.
Among gravity-oriented shoes, the Fox Union BOA, Shimano GE900, and FiveTen Hellcat Pro all scored well in this metric. They offer plenty of power when it's time to get on the pedals and sprint. In addition, this sweet spot of stiffness keeps your feet from receiving the chattery and bumpy forces from the trail.
Weight
Let's face it, all other things being equal, lighter is better when you're on the trail. The less weight we have to haul around, the faster we can travel, and the longer we can ride before fatigue starts to set in. That said, we've placed less emphasis on weight than on other criteria, such as comfort, because the relative differences in weight aren't huge. Factors other than weight are likely to make a bigger difference in your overall satisfaction with a pair of riding shoes, but it is certainly worthy of consideration.
A couple of the lightest shoes we tested are the Scott MTB Team Boa at 718 grams, the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon at 752 grams, and the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip at 750 grams per pair. The Ride Concepts Transition sits at the other end of the spectrum, weighing in at 1,094 grams, almost a pound heavier than the lightest shoes we tested, a trade-off for their enhanced foot protection and durability. Most of the other shoes in the test fall somewhere between.
Some of our favorite shoes fall somewhere in the middle of the weight spectrum. Our favorite gravity shoe, the Fox Union BOA, is reasonably light for a burly shoe, weighing 916 grams per pair (size 11).
BOA systems have become significantly more reliable in recent years.
Durability
Mountain bike shoes are a significant purchase. The longer they last, the better. When you purchase a pair of shoes, you should hope to get at least a couple of seasons of use out of them. There are several aspects to the durability of a given pair of mtb shoes, and we considered several factors during the assessment of our test shoes, including the quality of craftsmanship, the abrasion resistance of the uppers, wear or damage to the closures, and wear of the outsole material.
During testing, we made a point to put a healthy amount of abuse on these shoes, scuffing the uppers on rocks, intentionally stumbling around while walking, tightening and loosening the closures more than was necessary, and inadvisably pedaling through rock gardens, all to see how they stood up to use over time.
The outsole rubber compounds and tread designs used by the different shoe manufacturers all wear differently. Lugged soles, like those found on the Scott MTB Team Boa, may also tend to wear down somewhat quickly if you spend lots of time hiking on rocks. Every model we tested also uses some synthetic material for their uppers. The abrasion and wear resistance of each varies across shoe models, and many have additional abrasion-resistant materials strategically placed around the uppers to prevent damage.
A shoe's closure system is also an important consideration in its overall durability. There are many closure styles on the market designed to provide comfort and shoe retention in various ways. Shoelaces are used on many models, including the Specialized 2FO Roost Clip, and gravity-oriented models like the Five Ten Hellcat Pro. Laces are simple, lightweight, efficient, and easy and inexpensive to replace. The only drawback is the lack of on-the-fly tension adjustment.
Ratcheting straps have been a popular closure system for some time, as they are relatively inexpensive. They work quite well, although they can be prone to damage if positioned vulnerably on the side of the shoe. Velcro, or hook-and-loop, straps are a simple, lightweight, and inexpensive system that has been used on mountain bike shoes for years. Unfortunately, Velcro is the retention system that breaks down the quickest, though it usually takes a few years. Sometimes a shoe will outlast the Velcro closure.
Dials and cables like the Boa distribute tension evenly on both sides and offer quick, on-the-fly adjustment. Closures like these can occasionally fail or break under impact, but are typically far more durable than Velcro. These dial and cable closure systems are often fully replaceable and sometimes covered under warranty. In recent years, we have noticed that reliability has significantly improved with these systems.
Though you never want to pull a hike-a-bike over rough terrain, sometimes it happens, and in these instances, it's better if you don't have to worry about the durability of your shoes. Credit: Matt Lighthart
It's not surprising that the heavier shoes in our test were also among the highest-rated for durability. The Ride Concepts Transition and Tallac Clip are burly models with full coverage rubber outsoles and protective uppers. The Shimano GE900 and Five Ten Hellcat Pro also scored highly in this metric due to their similarly hefty construction. We were, however, astonished to find that the ultra-lightweight Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon was also very durable. They got high marks for their incredibly abrasion-resistant uppers, simple closures, and durable rubber outsole.
How to Choose Mountain Bike Shoes
If you're still not sure how to start narrowing down your choices, start by looking at how and where you ride, as this has the biggest impact on which model will be best for you. Below, we summarize this and other key questions we ask ourselves when buying MTB shoes. For more details, you can read our separate article with even more buying advice.
What's Your Riding Style?
Bike shoes are designed to excel in various categories, whether cross-country riding, trail riding, or downhill riding. Finding a shoe that aligns with your riding style ensures you get the most out of it. Features such as toe and heel protection or sole stiffness will differ substantially on a cross-country shoe vs a gravity-oriented shoe, even from the same brand. Before diving into shoe specifics, it's a good idea to think about your typical riding style and begin your search for shoes within that category.
Do Closure Systems Matter?
Bike shoes come with several closure systems to keep your feet secure and snug. Newer systems such as Boa dials have become increasingly popular due to their on-the-fly adjustment and non-intrusive design. Laces are a tried-and-true option that works well—and they're more budget-friendly —but you have to remember to keep them secured and tucked away. Velcro is a nice in-between for ease of use and quick tightening, but doesn't offer the same level of tightness and security as laces or Boa systems. Closure systems mostly come down to personal preference. That said, making micro-adjustments with a BOA dial can be helpful. On the other hand, replacing a ripped lace is pretty cheap.
Closure systems such as Boa make adjustments easier and more precise. Credit: Zach Wick
Should You Consider Grip?
While it may not be the first consideration for most folks when buying clipless shoes, flat pedal riders depend on proper grip and traction to keep their feet on the pedals. Additionally, clipless and flat riders who might spend time off their bikes hiking and walking on slippery, uneven terrain will appreciate a shoe with solid traction when off the saddle. If you have plans to hike, bike, or spend a lot of time in the backcountry, you may want to consider the tread on your next pair of shoes. If you are solely staying in the saddle, this will be far less important.
Is Durability a Concern?
Mountain bike shoes aren't cheap. It is a reasonable concern to consider the longevity of your shoes. Features such as the rubber compound, upper material, and closure type can significantly impact durability. Beefier shoe designs tend to hold up better to abuse than lightweight designs. Your local trails also play a key role. Someone who spends their days riding rock gardens and technical downhill will experience different wear and tear than someone riding flow and logging roads.
We tested the durability of each shoe through demanding terrain and lots of mud. Credit: Zach Wick
Conclusion
There is a whole lot of information to digest when choosing a pair of clipless shoes. Our best advice is to be honest and realistic about the type of riding you will do most often. It is really easy to think about the kind of riding want to be doing rather than the kind of riding you will be doing. This will help you find the right shoe category. From there, our recommendations should allow you dial in on the appropriate model.
Considering dropping in on a new pair of mountain bike shoes? There are loads of great options on the market to meet the varying needs and budgets of every rider. Credit: Laura Casner
—Joshua Hutchens, Dillon Osleger, Zach Wick, Pat Donahue
