Top 5 Clipless Mountain Bike Shoes
For many riders it only takes one mountain bike ride to taste the exhilaration of the unique sport. And then you want more of it! It’s an excellent workout for newbies and competitions are exciting for the pros.
But one thing is for certain: it does have its risks.
To be properly prepared, having the right gear is essential and the best clipless mountain bike shoes should be at the top of your shopping list, even if considered along with the best mountain bike shoes.
While some riders prefer flat shoes, we decided to showcase the best mountain bike clipless shoes as they come with so many benefits. You want to make sure your feet stay on the pedals, right?
Whether you’re a pro or a beginner rider, there’s an ideal fit for you and our comprehensive list contains something for everyone.
Which of our five clipless mountain bike shoes will you buy to make you the best rider you can be?
Zol Predator Plus MTB Mountain Bike and Indoor Cycling Shoes
During a ride you’ll experience comfort and security thanks to the quality sole made of nylon & injected with fiberglass.
We were impressed with the unique insole where perforations help to drain moisture away from your foot. Sweat and water won’t give you an uncomfortable ride anymore.
Venzo Mountain Bike Shoes
Whether you prefer riding with or without cleats, these shoes can work for you.
Venzo offers you a stylish shoe with most of the features the pros appreciate: it’s comfortable, provides ventilation through breathable mesh and there’s even a sock liner which you can remove.
An important feature is the fact that these dry quickly. There’s less risk of odors and you don’t have to put on wet shoes the day after a ride in a rain storm.
A huge attraction is the fact that these work for pros and beginners alike: if you’re still making up your mind whether you want clipless shoes you’ll appreciate that you can adjust the tension on these ones.
During the first few rides you can use a setting that makes for easy release so you don’t fall over because your foot is stuck.
Diamondback Men’s Trace Clipless Pedal Compatible Cycling Shoe
The suede body is stylish, making these shoes versatile. You can keep wearing them after a ride if you need to stop off at the store on your way home.
The cleats don’t make a lot of noise and because they’re breathable & soft inside they’re comfortable for general walking.
Diamondback Men’s Overdrive Clipless Mountain Cycling Shoe
We added another Diamondback design on our list because the brand doesn’t disappoint: it caters for many different preferences. If you prefer straps, this is you pick!
The brand reinforced various parts such as the heal and the toe area. You know your feet are properly protected in these bike shoes.
The exterior also adds protection thanks to the durable nylon and fiberglass composite used.
SHIMANO SH-ME7 Trail Enduro Shoe
Shimano impresses with a stylish shoe! It has many of the features that should be on your checklist such as an extremely comfortable sole so your feet won’t feel fatigue easily.
Another helpful feature you won’t find on all clipless mountain bike shoes is the ankle collar. It’s made of Neoprene, sits snug against your foot and will prevent water or debris from getting inside your shoe.
Almost any rider will find these shoes comfortable thanks to the speed lacing. You can tighten them until you find the ideal fit.
When you walk on muddy and slippery terrain you’ll have no problems: the sole grips well.
How to Identify the Best Clipless Mountain Bike Shoes for You
Now you have an idea of what the best clipless mountain bike shoes on the market are. But how do you know which pair is for you?
We discuss different features so you can shop like a pro rider and get value for money.
Which Design Works Best?
You’ll see the bike shoe market offers you many different designs. It’s important to discover which design suits you best. Some riders prefer laces as they allow you to pull the shoe tight around your foot.
But Velcro straps also carry value as they offer a quick way to fasten your shoes if you’re in a hurry. Also, some riders prefer straps because they don’t want the risk of laces catching on bike components.
You can also consider the aesthetics of the shoes. If practicality is more valuable you may not see this as a deal breaker when you shop.
But have you considered whether your shoes will help you look stylish when you visit a local restaurant with other riders after a race? With the many options on today’s market it’s possible to find a design that provides it all.
Invest in a Quality Sole
For many types of bike shoes the real value lies in the soles. When you’re shopping for mountain biking your shoes’ soles must preferably have multiple features.
You need them to have some grip because you’re bound to walk on muddy surfaces from time to time. You don’t want to slip. If your sole has a cleat pocket it must be wide so it easily accommodates the cleat.
Consider Stiffness
Mountain bike shoes are known to be stiffer than many other sports shoes. In the best mountain bike clipless shoes, the stiffness is thanks to a shaft found in the sole.
This is for durability and to provide your foot with protection during rough rides & even falls.
Don’t assume that a stiffer shoe is always best. It must still be comfortable enough to walk in as you may be off your bike in certain sections of a trail.
Also, if you enjoy theatrical riding and certain maneuvers you probably want some flexibility. Consider the type of riding you enjoy and shop accordingly.
Make Sure You Don’t Get Wet
Here’s a primary feature you need to research on any mountain bike clipless shoes you purchase: how do they handle water?
Firstly, they shouldn’t absorb water easily, so your feet stay as dry as possible. Secondly, they should dry out quickly.
You don’t want them to start smelling because they take days to dry out after a ride in the rain. Consider this when comparing different materials the mountain bike clipless shoes are made of.
Buy the Best for You
We suggest you try clipless mountain bike pedals and shoes because they enable many riders to feel more in control. And now you’re a pro shopper for the best mountain bike shoes clipless style!
We showed you the best shoe products to pick from on the current market. With an excellent mountain bike clipless pedals and shoes combo you can take your riding to a whole new level.
Make an investment in your hobby today and enjoy the outcome!
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