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Best Mountain Bike Shoes 2023

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The mountain bike shoes are a specialized piece of gear for a specific type of riding. They have stiffer soles and more durable uppers than their road bike counterparts, and are often waterproof. They also have more support than standard cycling shoes for the same reason: they need to be able to withstand repeated impacts from landing bike jumps and drops.

To help you find the best mountain bike shoes for you, we’ve researched countless products and tested several of them for ourselves.

Read on to find your new favorite mountain bike shoes.

# Preview Product Price
1 Five Ten Trailcross LT Mountain Bike Shoes Men's, Black, Size 10 Five Ten Trailcross LT Mountain Bike Shoes Men’s, Black, Size 10 $59.96 Buy on Amazon
2 Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes $59.95 Buy on Amazon
3 Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men's, Grey, Size 10 Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men’s, Grey, Size 10 $59.88 Buy on Amazon
4 Giro Rincon Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes - Black (2023), 44 Giro Rincon Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes – Black (2023), 44 $129.99 Buy on Amazon
5 Giro Gauge Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes - Dark Shadow/Citrine Green Cover (2020), 44 Giro Gauge Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes – Dark Shadow/Citrine Green Cover (2020), 44 $89.95 Buy on Amazon
6 Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes $69.50 Buy on Amazon
7 Five Ten Sleuth Bike Shoe Men's, Black, Size 10.5 Five Ten Sleuth Bike Shoe Men’s, Black, Size 10.5 $39.95 Buy on Amazon
8 Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Women's, Black, Size 7.5 Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s, Black, Size 7.5 $49.96 Buy on Amazon
9 Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Women's, Green, Size 8.5 Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s, Green, Size 8.5 $63.71 Buy on Amazon
10 Ride Concepts Men's Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain Bike Shoe Black/Charcoal, 10.5 M US Ride Concepts Men’s Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain Bike Shoe Black/Charcoal, 10.5 M US $70.00 Buy on Amazon

Our Editor’s Best Mountain Bike Shoes Reviews

Five Ten Trailcross LT Mountain Bike Shoes Men’s, Black, Size 10

Five Ten Trailcross LT Mountain Bike Shoes Men's, Black, Size 10

Key Features:

  • The mountain bike shoes have a breathable mesh upper, which means that the material is designed to allow air to flow through it. This can help to keep your feet cool and dry, even when you are riding in hot or humid conditions.

  • The shopper is looking at a pair of mountain bike shoes that were made in another country.

  • These mountain bike shoes have a lace closure, which means that they are fastened with laces. This is a secure and adjustable way to fasten your shoes, and it will ensure that they stay in place while you are riding.

$59.96 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes

Five Ten Freerider Mountain Bike Shoes

Key Features:

  • These are classic mountain bike shoes that are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities. They have a flat pedal design that makes them ideal for mountain biking, but they can also be used for other activities such as hiking or trail running.

  • The Stealth S1 rubber offers versatile high-friction grip on and off the bike, making it a great choice for a mountain bike shoe.

  • The Dotty Tread mountain bike shoes are designed for superior pedal traction with a classic dotty tread.

  • The shoes are made with recycled content, so they are environmentally friendly. They are also comfortable and stylish.

  • The mountain bike shoes have a lace closure and are made of leather and textile.

$59.95 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men’s, Grey, Size 10

Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Men's, Grey, Size 10

Key Features:

  • The shopper is looking for a mountain bike shoe that is comfortable to wear and provides good grip on the pedals.

  • These mountain bike shoes offer excellent grip and are non-marking, making them ideal for use on any surface.

  • The shoes have a lot of grip and are good for control while riding a mountain bike.

  • The shopper is looking for a mountain bike shoe that is comfortable and has good movement flexibility.

  • The mountain bike shoes are a regular fit with a lace closure.

$59.88 Buy on Amazon

Giro Rincon Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes – Black (2023), 44

Giro Rincon Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes - Black (2023), 44

Key Features:

  • The mountain bike shoes are designed for a comfortable and supportive fit. The one-piece Synchwire upper with soft lace guides provides support and breathability.

  • The shoes have a BOA L6 dial that allows for micro closure adjustments in 1mm increments, as well as an instant release feature.

  • The mountain bike shoes have a composite plate for optimal power transfer and a dual-injected rubber outsole for traction when hiking.

  • The mountain bike shoes are designed to provide arch support and be lightweight. The 3D molded footbed provides medium arch support, and the shoes weigh just 340 grams.

  • These mountain bike shoes are compatible with all 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems, making them a versatile option for any shopper.

$129.99 Buy on Amazon

Giro Gauge Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes – Dark Shadow/Citrine Green Cover (2020), 44

Giro Gauge Mens Mountain Cycling Shoes - Dark Shadow/Citrine Green Cover (2020), 44

Key Features:

  • These are mountain bike shoes that are comfortable and equipped for adventures on paths, roads, or trails.

  • The mountain bike shoes are made to be comfortable and have a supportive fit. The mesh is breathable and the Thermo-Bonded Armor is durable and lightweight. The shoes also have added reinforcement at the toe and heel for abrasion resistance and durability.

  • These mountain bike shoes allow for a shopper to have the ultimate fit adjustment due to the laces. The laces also hold a knot securely and are the lightest closure system available, making them ideal for mountain biking.

  • This mountain bike shoe is designed for a powerful pedaling experience, with an injected nylon plate for efficient power transfer and a full-length molded rubber high-traction lugged outsole for grip and stability.

  • The shoe is designed for comfort and compatibility with all 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems. The EVA footbed provides medium arch support.

$89.95 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes

Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes

Key Features:

  • These mountain bike shoes are designed for flat pedals, and feature an impact resistant toe box for protection.

  • The Stealth S1 Dotty rubber outsole is a mountain bike shoe that is designed for maximum grip on and off the pedal. The outsole is size-specific, so it will fit the foot of the rider perfectly. The outsole is also Dotty rubber, which is a material that is known for its grip and durability.

  • These mountain bike shoes have an impact-resistant toe box, which means that the toe area is reinforced with three layers to resist impact.

  • These mountain bike shoes have a quick-drying upper made of synthetic materials. This is convenient for riders who want to avoid having wet feet while biking.

  • The shoes are made out of recycled materials, most likely recycled plastic. They are part of a company’s initiative to reduce plastic waste.

$69.50 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Sleuth Bike Shoe Men’s, Black, Size 10.5

Five Ten Sleuth Bike Shoe Men's, Black, Size 10.5

Key Features:

  • The mountain bike shoes have an upper made of recycled materials, which makes up 25% of the total shoe. 50% of the materials used to make the upper are recycled, making these shoes environmentally friendly.

  • The shoes have an EVA midsole, which is a type of foam that is designed to provide cushioning and support.

  • These mountain bike shoes were imported from another country.

$39.95 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s, Black, Size 7.5

Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mountain Bike Shoes Women's, Black, Size 7.5

Key Features:

  • These mountain bike shoes are imported, meaning they were made in a country other than the one in which they are being sold.

  • The bike shoes have a lace closure, meaning that they are fastened with laces.

  • These shoes have a regular fit, meaning they are not too tight or too loose and should provide a comfortable fit for most mountain bikers.

$49.96 Buy on Amazon

Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s, Green, Size 8.5

Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Women's, Green, Size 8.5

Key Features:

  • The shoe is designed for mountain biking with flat pedals. It has an impact resistant toe box to protect the rider’s foot.

  • The mountain bike shoes have a rubber outsole that is designed to grip the pedals for maximum control. The outsole is also size-specific for a snug fit.

  • The mountain bike shoes have an impact-resistant toe box that is three-layers reinforced. This will add impact resistance for the rider.

  • This mountain bike shoe has a quick-drying upper made from synthetic materials. This is convenient for riders who want to avoid having their shoes become wet and uncomfortable while riding.

  • The mountain bike shoes are made with recycled content in order to reduce plastic waste.

$63.71 Buy on Amazon

Ride Concepts Men’s Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain Bike Shoe Black/Charcoal, 10.5 M US

Ride Concepts Men's Livewire Flat Pedal Mountain Bike Shoe Black/Charcoal, 10.5 M US

Key Features:

  • This mountain bike shoe has a MAX GRIP rubber outsole for excellent traction and custom molded toe and heel protection for added durability.

  • This mountain bike shoe has an EVA midsole for support and shock absorption, and a dual-density EVA insole for additional support and cushioning.

  • The mountain bike shoes have a fully gusseted tongue to prohibit the intake of dirt and debris, and an elastic lace tuck to keep the laces secure.

  • The mountain bike shoes have a durable synthetic upper for breathability and odor control. They also have specialized anti-abrasion mesh for added protection.

  • The Livewire shoes are designed for people with wider feet. They are available in half and full sizes.

$70.00 Buy on Amazon

Best Mountain Bike Shoes Buying Guide

Before choosing the best mountain bike shoes you should consider following options:

1. Fit: All things being equal, it’s a good idea to buy a pair of shoes that fit you well.

Even if you’re planning to wear hiking socks with your cycling shoes, your foot still needs to be comfortable in the shoe and have room to move around.

If you get a pair that’s too small, you’re likely to experience blisters and hot spots. If you get a pair that’s too big, your foot will move around too much, causing instability.

Especially if you’re going to be wearing two or three pairs of socks, you want to get a pair of shoes that fits well.

2. Durability: One of the upsides to wearing cycling shoes is that they last a long time. But they won’t last long unless you take care of them.

It’s important to break them in, but even then, you can damage them if you’re not careful.

Even the best trail running shoes aren’t indestructible, so take care of them.

3. Protection: Like we said, you’re going to be wearing hiking boots with your cycling shoes.

You’re also going to be walking on all kinds of trail surfaces. Whether you’re doing a short hike or a multi-day backpacking trip, you’re going to want some protection for your feet.

Look for shoes that offer some protection from trail rocks and sticks.

4. Breathability: Most good cycling shoes are made from synthetic materials.

Since you’re going to be wearing them on hot days, it’s important that they offer some breathability.

Even if you’re not planning to wear socks, you’ll probably end up doing so. You want your feet to stay as cool as possible.

5. Style: Although this might seem like an odd thing to consider, you’ll be wearing your cycling shoes around town.

If you’re going to wear them in town, you might as well find a pair you like.

Most cycling shoes aren’t very stylish, but you can find some that are.

6. Weatherproofing: Even if you’re wearing hiking boots with your cycling shoes, you won’t always be wearing them.

You’re going to want to take them off at some point, maybe for a break or for lunch.

Depending on your location, you may even want to take them off for a short amount of time on the trail.

You’ll want to find a pair of cycling shoes that are weatherproof.

7. Extra Features: While the standard cycling shoe does a good job of supporting the foot and getting the job done, we can always add a little something extra.

Some shoes offer extra padding for the insole, extra stability, and even a little lift.

Take a look at the extra features a pair offers and decide if they’re worth it.

8. Price: Even if you’re wearing hiking boots with your cycling shoes, you’re going to wear them a lot.

You’re going to wear them on weekends, you’re going to wear them on rides, and you’re going to wear them in town.

You may even wear them during some parts of your trail run

Mountain Bike Shoes FAQs

1. What are the best mountain bike shoes for beginners?

The best mountain bike shoes for beginners are those that offer a good grip and support while being comfortable at the same time.

2. What are the best mountain bike shoes for downhill?

The best mountain bike shoes for downhill are those that provide the most support and stability. Shoes with a stiff sole and a good footbed are ideal for downhill riding.

3. What are the best mountain bike shoes for cross-country?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it largely depends on personal preference. Some cross-country mountain bikers prefer shoes with a lot of grip and support for pedaling, while others prefer shoes that are lighter and more comfortable for walking. Ultimately, the best mountain bike shoes for cross-country riding are the ones that fit your feet the best and offer the level of support and grip that you need.

4. What are the best mountain bike shoes for all-mountain?

The best mountain bike shoes for all-mountain are those that are comfortable and offer good traction. Some good options include the Shimano SH-ME7, the Five Ten Freerider Pro, and the Giro Riddance.

5. What are the best mountain bike shoes for enduro?

There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on personal preferences. Some enduro mountain bikers prefer shoes with more aggressive tread patterns and stiffer soles for better pedal grip and power transfer, while others prefer lighter and more flexible shoes for greater comfort and easier walking. Ultimately, the best enduro mountain bike shoes for you are the ones that fit your feet well and offer the level of performance and features that you need.

Conclusion

There are many great mountain bike shoes on the market. Our list of the best mountain bike shoes will help you save time researching and choosing the best one for you.