Simply being waterproof is usually not enough for mountain bike shoes. Because as soon as water runs down from above – over your trousers or shins – into the shoe, it’s a day at the swimming pool for your feet. So you might as well give standard low-cut shoes with a rain membrane a miss. Crankbrothers aims to do better with its new Mallet Trail Seal shoes, opting for a design with a higher upper.
Protection from the weather starts at the ankle
Rather than relying solely on a membrane in the upper, Crankbrothers has incorporated a wraparound, adjustable ankle cuff. This is designed to prevent water, mud and wet leaves from entering the shoe from above.
Crankbrothers also incorporates a waterproof membrane. At the same time, the moisture-repellent inner materials are designed to absorb as little water as possible and dry more quickly than traditional MTB shoes.
Designed for the off-season
For the US manufacturer, the new Seal version of the Mallet Trail is specifically designed for the so-called ‘shoulder seasons’ – that is, the transitional periods between autumn and winter, and winter and spring. Cool temperatures, persistent rain and muddy trails are its preferred terrain.
Interesting: Rather than opting for a heavily insulated winter design, Crankbrothers has taken a comparatively sporty approach. This is likely to appeal particularly to trail, enduro and e-MTB riders who want to keep riding during the colder months without having to wear bulky winter boots.
Better grip in wet conditions
On the sole, Crankbrothers combines the well-known MC1 rubber in the pedal area with the new HYDRO rubber compound in the toe and heel areas. According to the manufacturer, this has been specially developed for wet and slippery conditions and is designed to offer better grip when pushing or carrying the bike.
In addition, there are reflective details designed to improve visibility on dark evening rides.
Lacing and easy entry
Instead of a sensitive Boa dial, the new Seal features a fairly simple Speed-Lace lacing system. Given the intended conditions of use, however, this can offer significant advantages. When brand new, the twist locks do indeed offer ease of use and precise adjustability. However, mud and dirt can render the locks unusable after just a few outings. The quick-lace system, on the other hand, should be considerably more durable.
Another useful feature is the Velcro fastening on the cuff, which is designed to make it easier to slip the shoe on. With other models in this category, you sometimes have to squeeze your foot into the shoe as if passing through the eye of a needle.
Crankbrothers Mallet Trail Speed Lace Seal – Details & Price
- Waterproof membrane
- 360° Seal ankle cuff with Velcro fastening
- Speed-Lace lacing system
- HYDRO rubber compound for wet and muddy conditions
- MC1 Match Compound in the pedal section
- Reflective details
- Moisture-repellent inner materials
- Weight: 492 g (size 42)
- Sizes: 37 to 49, half sizes from 37.5 to 46.5
- Price: 229.99 euros
The new Mallet Trail Speed Lace Seal is designed to offer mountain bikers an alternative to traditional winter boots. However, only a practical test will reveal whether the cuff really does provide a better solution to the problem of water ingress than existing designs.
In winter, do you prefer classic overshoes, thick winter boots, or are waterproof MTB shoes enough? Share your experiences with us in the comments!
Stefan Frey
Editor
