Crankbrothers Mallet Trail Vent: Will this summer shoe make you forget the heat?

Conclusion from the BIKE editorial team

If you’re looking for a truly breathable trail shoe, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better-ventilated model than the Mallet Trail Vent. However, this naturally limits the range of conditions in which they can be used. An autumnal morning or a simple puddle can already prove too much for the shoe. This makes the Mallet Trail Vent a successful specialist for the summer, which really comes into its own on hot days. So, no more sweaty feet? Even this summer shoe can’t promise that. It isn’t suitable as an all-rounder for the entire cycling season. – Florentin Vesenbeckh, test editor

The Crankbrothers Mallet Trail Speed Lace Vent Clip-In is a particularly well-ventilated mountain bike shoe for warm days on the trails. The mesh upper is designed to improve air circulation, whilst the non-absorbent EVA tongue is designed to dry quickly. The light-coloured design is also said to help keep your feet cool. Can this really help in the heat? Or is it just marketing hype?

​The fit

Compared to other CB shoes, the Mallet Vent is on the narrower side. This is also evident from its appearance. This isn’t a clunky gravity shoe, but a sporty pair that, in theory, would also work well on a gravel bike. However, it’s ideal for classic mountain biking on mountain tours or trail rides.

The size stated is accurate; the shoe isn’t noticeably too big or too small. However, we can fully understand the brand’s advice that those with wide feet should opt for the larger size. As mentioned, the fit is rather slim and narrow.

Facts about the shoe

• Closure: Speed-Lace system with lace pocket
• Weight: 504 grams per shoe in size 47
• Profile: Trail profile offering balanced traction and good suitability
• Sole: Fibre-reinforced nylon plate, cushioning EVA midsole
• Protection: TPU-reinforced toe cap
• Fit: True to size; for those with wide feet, Crankbrothers recommends going half a size up
• Price: 190 euros (170 for the flat version) >> available here

Comfort

Aside from the ventilation features, the new Crankbrothers shoe offers a good balance between a stiff sole and comfort. Compared to other sneaker-style trail shoes, it feels quite firm, without becoming uncomfortable. Even on long days out on the bike, with longer breaks off the saddle, the shoes don’t become uncomfortable. Power transfer whilst pedalling is good, although the Speedlace system doesn’t make it particularly easy to get the shoe properly tightened in the forefoot area. Anyone used to the snug fit of a race shoe with a Boa closure might miss that really snug fit.

Getting in and out is straightforward, though the narrow opening requires a firm push to slip your foot in. Your foot doesn’t just slide into the footbed on its own. However, we didn’t find getting in and out to be bothersome or annoying. The shoe performs with its usual confidence on everyday trail runs. We rode it with Shimano pedals and SPD cleats – and had no problems clicking in or out in any situation.

They’re also very comfortable to walk in. The cleats are well covered by the soles and are barely noticeable or audible when walking. Off-road, you get good grip when carrying your bike. That’s what we’ve come to expect from Crankbrothers shoes.

Just how cool is the Vent shoe really?

Can Crankbrothers’ new summer cycling shorts live up to their promise and make hot days in the saddle more bearable? One thing is clear: the uncompromising ventilation is distinctly noticeable. The breeze flows effortlessly through the outer fabric. At higher speeds, this is clearly noticeable and feels pleasant in the heat. With this shoe, you hardly ever feel like you’re sitting in your own sweat. However, the Trail Vent is still a closed shoe and, as such, can’t work miracles. What’s also clear is that only sandals are likely to be more breathable and more comfortable in the heat. And those aren’t a good idea, especially when riding on trails.

The limits of the shoe

What’s really comfortable in hot weather can quickly become a nuisance in dreary weather or cooler temperatures. Moisture – such as splashes from a puddle – ends up practically straight on your sock. And even a cool draught can quickly become uncomfortable in mild weather. This means the shoe is exactly what it sets out to be: a genuine summer shoe. As a three-season all-rounder, it definitely offers too little protection against the elements. That’s something to bear in mind.

Strengths and weaknesses

Strengths

• Very airy
• Comfortable to wear both on and off the bike
• Seamless attachment and detachment

Weaknesses

• Limited scope of application without weather protection