MTB Shoes

MTB shoes, also known as mountain bike shoes or MTB cycling shoes, are footwear specially designed for off-road use. The biggest difference from other cycling shoes lies in the sole: a mountain bike shoe has a walkable tread with rubber lugs that provide grip on mud, gravel and wet surfaces, and with which you can also step off the bike and walk a stretch. The 2-bolt cleat system on the underside is recessed deeper into the sole tread, so the cleat is protected when walking and the shoe can contact the ground on technical terrain without damage. That combination of power transfer to the pedal and walking comfort on the ground is what sets MTB shoes apart from all other cycling shoes.

In this range you will find mountain bike shoes for a wide variety of disciplines: from lightweight XC models focused on efficiency and low weight to more robust trail and enduro versions with extra protection and more grip on rough ground. Gravel mountain bike shoes combine the stiffness of a road shoe with a walkable tread for mixed-terrain riding on paved and unpaved roads. Models in an extra wide last are available for athletes with a wider forefoot. Closure systems range from velcro and buckle to BOA wire closures for precise on-the-fly adjustment.

Which MTB shoes suit you?

The right choice depends on the discipline you ride, the terrain you cycle on and how much emphasis you place on walking comfort and protection.

You ride XC or marathon and want maximum efficiency: choose a lightweight XC model with a stiff composite or carbon sole. XC shoes are built to transfer power to the pedal as directly as possible, with minimum weight and a close-fitting upper. They are less walkable than trail shoes, but on the bike they are unrivalled in efficiency for athletes who train for performance or compete in races.

You ride trail or enduro on technical terrain: choose a shoe with a thick-cut rubber outsole and a reinforced upper. Trail and enduro models offer more protection against impacts from rocks and roots, have generous walkability for on-foot sections and can withstand the mud and moisture of rough trails.

You ride gravel or mixed terrain on paved and unpaved roads: choose a gravel mountain bike shoe. That type combines the stiffness and low weight of a road shoe with a rubber outsole that also works on gravel and loose sand. A versatile choice for athletes who alternate between asphalt and off-road without wanting to change shoes.

You have a wide foot and experience pressure points with standard models: choose a model in an extra wide last. A wider variant resolves forefoot pressure points without sacrificing power transfer or heel fit. Combine with cycling socks of the right thickness for an optimal fit.

You want to be able to fine-tune the shoe while riding: choose a model with a BOA closure. With a dial you can adjust the fit without stopping, handy on longer rides where your foot swells slightly or where you alternate between intense pedalling and walking sections on foot.

What to look for when buying MTB shoes?

Sole type and walkability

The sole determines both the stiffness and the walkability of a mountain bike shoe. A stiffer sole gives better power transfer to the pedal but is less comfortable for longer walking stretches. XC shoes have the stiffest, lightest soles and are designed to extract every watt. Trail and enduro shoes have a thicker, walkable rubber outsole with aggressive-cut lugs for grip on soft and wet ground. Choose stiffness based on how often you need to get off the bike. If you ride through without dismounting almost every time, a stiffer XC sole pays off. If you frequently ride technical sections that require short walks, a more walkable trail model is the better choice.

Closure system

Mountain bike shoes are closed with velcro, a buckle, BOA wire closures or a combination. Velcro and buckles are simple, reliable and easy to replace when worn. BOA closures allow precise and quick adjustment even with gloves on and are particularly practical on longer rides. When choosing, also consider the position of the closure: on technical terrain a protruding buckle can be damaged by contact with rocks and roots. Many trail and enduro models deliberately position closure elements high on the upper for this reason.

Fit and last

A well-fitting MTB shoe is firm but not tight anywhere. The heel must be anchored without sliding when pedalling. The big toe must not touch the toe cap, even after an hour of intense riding. Athletes with a wide forefoot should choose a model in an extra wide last. Mountain bike shoes can run narrower than regular sports shoes due to the close-cut upper: try on your size before buying or consider going half a size larger for feet that tend to swell during exertion. If you also ride in cold temperatures, make sure there is room for a thicker thermal sock.

Cleat compatibility and 2-bolt system

MTB shoes have two bolt holes on the underside for a 2-bolt cleat, the system used with MTB clipless pedals. These cleats are smaller than the 3-bolt cleats of road shoes, sit recessed in the sole tread and are therefore protected when walking. If you do not yet have clipless pedals, browse the bike pedals to match shoe and pedal. Cleats are generally not included with the shoes and are sold separately by the pedal brand.

Our advice: choose your first mountain bike shoe based on your primary discipline. XC riders choose on stiffness and weight; trail and enduro riders choose on protection and outsole. If you also ride in cold or wet weather, consider overshoes over your MTB shoes for extra warmth and dryness without needing a separate pair of winter shoes.

Who are MTB shoes suitable for?

• XC riders and marathon cyclists who ride fast and efficiently on the course and want to put every watt of power as directly as possible to the pedals with a lightweight, stiff sole.
• Trail and enduro riders who ride technical descents on rough terrain and need a shoe that protects against impacts, provides grip on wet and soft ground and can also be used for on-foot sections.
• Gravel and adventure riders who alternate between asphalt and off-road and want a versatile shoe that works well on both surfaces without switching.
• Mountain bikers using clipless pedals for the first time who want an accessible, walkable model with a 2-bolt system that offers more float than the 3-bolt system of road shoes.
• Athletes with a wide forefoot who experience pressure points with standard models and benefit from an extra wide last without compromising on power transfer or protection on the trail.

Need help choosing?

Would you like to buy MTB shoes but are not quite sure which pair best matches your wishes and needs? We are happy to help with all your questions. You can reach our triathlon specialists by phone at +31 (0)413-256800, send an email or visit our triathlon store in Volkel, the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions about MTB shoes

What is the difference between MTB shoes and road shoes?

MTB shoes and road shoes are both cycling shoes with a cleat system, but they are designed for different disciplines. MTB shoes have a walkable tread with rubber lugs and a 2-bolt cleat recessed into the tread, so you can walk comfortably on terrain. Road shoes have a smooth, very stiff sole and a 3-bolt cleat that protrudes from the underside: they are maximally efficient on a road bike but not suitable for walking. The stiffness index of road shoes is on average higher, but top XC mountain bike shoes approach that level through the use of a full carbon sole.

How do I choose the right size MTB shoes?

Mountain bike shoes can run narrower than regular sports shoes due to the close-cut upper. Measure your foot in the afternoon when it is slightly swollen. The big toe must not touch the toe cap but there must not be slack that allows the foot to slide. The heel must be firmly anchored. When in doubt, choose half a size larger so there is room for a thicker thermal sock or for feet that swell during intense use. Athletes with a wide forefoot should choose a model with an extra wide last rather than a larger size.

What is a 2-bolt cleat system and which pedals are compatible?

The 2-bolt system is the cleat system standardly used with mountain bike shoes and MTB clipless pedals. The 2-bolt cleat is smaller than the 3-bolt system of road shoes, sits recessed in the outsole and therefore allows more freedom when walking on technical terrain. Because of its smaller contact area, the system has a little more movement in the shoe, giving a float that beginners and trail riders appreciate. Cleats are not included with the shoes and are sold separately by the pedal brand.

Are MTB shoes also suitable for cold and wet weather?

Most mountain bike shoes are not waterproof and offer limited protection against cold and precipitation. For use in rain or at low temperatures, overshoes are the most practical solution: simply pull them over your MTB shoes to keep your feet dry and warm without needing a separate pair of winter shoes. Overshoes are available in light versions for rain protection and heavier variants for genuine winter conditions. When riding off-road, choose a robust overshoe that can withstand mud and twigs.

How long do MTB shoes last and how do I maintain them?

MTB shoes last several years with normal use. The cleats on the underside wear faster, especially if you also walk a lot in the shoe, and generally need replacing after 2,000 to 4,000 kilometres. Check the cleats regularly for wear and also check that the bolts are tight, as vibrations on unpaved paths can gradually shake them loose. Rinse the shoes after muddy rides with lukewarm water and a soft brush, let them dry at room temperature and store them out of direct sunlight and heat sources to keep the materials in good condition for as long as possible.