The Best Mountain Bike Shoes

Buying Guide

If you’re planning to hit the trails on your bike, you need to have the right shoes. They help keep your feet securely on the pedals and ensure you don’t slip off — especially during crucial moments when you’re standing up on your bike. The kind of mountain bike shoes you need actually depends on the kind of pedals your mountain bike has.

If you have flat pedals that have a large platform for your foot, you can get away with any kind of shoe that has a strong grip. However, shoes that are meant for the rugged terrain of a mountain enable you to perform much better than your standard tennis shoes. Ideally, look for shoes that have a flat sole. This way, you can maximize the amount of contact area between the shoe and the pedal. Ensure that the sole is thick and sturdy. And if the shoes have laces instead of Velcro, be sure to tuck them into your shoes. This way, they won’t get caught in the pedal or drivetrain.

If you have clipless pedals, then you’ll need a mountain biking shoe that has a small recessed area for the cleat. These kinds of mountain biking shoes are incredibly stiff on purpose. They are designed to keep your feet firmly on the bike pedals, even when you’re bouncing up and down and standing up. Keep in mind that these kinds of shoes are not great for walking. If the trail requires you to walk in certain areas, you may need to have a different pair of shoes on hand. If the shoes have lugs, you’ll want to make sure they are not too slippery when you’re walking on wet rocks or branches. Opt for shoe closures like Velcro or dials instead of laces.

• The most important thing to look for when you’re on the hunt for mountain bike shoes is the fit. If they are too big, too small or just uncomfortable, you’re not going to have an enjoyable ride. Keep in mind that mountain bike shoes are naturally stiff and are meant to be that way. As a result, the soles are not going to become soft after a few wears.
• If you have the perfect fit, you should be able to easily wiggle your toes in the shoe. The heel of your foot should not slide up and down when you walk. Also, your arch should feel cozy and well-supported. If your heel is slipping in and out of the shoe while you walk, you likely need a smaller size.
• Be sure to measure your foot and use the sizing chart when buying mountain bike shoes online. Not all brands have the same sizes, so it’s best to consult the size chart if you haven’t bought that brand of shoe before.
• In addition to the fit, you’ll want to note what kind of closure the shoes have. While laces are common in running shoes, they are not the best option in mountain bike shoes as they tend to get muddy and wet pretty easily. Plus, they can be dangerous if they get untied and caught in your pedals. Opt for hook-and-loop straps, which are sturdy and secure. They won’t loosen up if they get wet and they are easy to adjust. The other option includes a dial system where you turn it to tighten a system of cable laces. They offer a great fit but can be a hard to get used to.