Cycling shoes put to the test: 12 mountain bike shoes for trails and tours

We have tested these mountain bike shoes

• Crankbrothers Mallet E Boa >> available here
• Five Ten Trailcross CL >> available here
• Fizik Gravita Tensor >> available here
• Fox Union >> available here
• Ion Rascal Select Boa >> available here
• Leatt 4.0 Clip >> available here
• Ride Concepts Tallac Clip >> available here
• Scott MTB Shr-alp Boa Evo >> available here
• Shimano SH-AM903
• Specialised 2FO Cliplite
• Unparallel Up Link
• Vaude Downieville Tech AM >> available here

Click to go to the individual rating

The test products at a glance

The first Alpine crossers were still slogging over the main ridge in rough hiking boots. Their sturdy soles not only allowed them to pedal hard, their tread was also grippy enough to conquer the numerous sliding passages on the miserably steep passes. They also protected your feet from stone contact and capricious weather. All characteristics that still characterise a good touring MTB shoe today. However, the look has changed dramatically over the years. Today, many cycling shoes look more like skate sneakers than mountain boots, which is not necessarily a bad thing per se.

Nevertheless, many models in the test have to make concessions. Sufficient tread for climbing in alpine terrain is often lacking. In some cases, the soles are only stiff enough for tough Alpine climbs when combined with wide pedal cages. Full-surface plastic materials, thickly padded, sometimes leave your feet to stew in their own juices. And for up to 180 euros, you usually have to make do with simple laces instead of sophisticated fastening systems - the prices for cycling shoes have risen by up to 20 euros in the last two years, as with almost everything.

But there are also rays of hope: manufacturers such as Crankbrothers, Ride Concepts, Scott or Vaude manage to equip their shoes with soles with a profile suitable for the Alps. They find a way to combine good power transmission with comfortable running characteristics, and their lacing systems anchor the feet firmly in the MTB shoes. The first Alpine crossers would certainly have swapped their clunky, heavy hiking boots for these.

Clipless pedals vs. flat pedals for MTB shoes

Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor:

Clearly clickies. They usually have a stiffer sole and transfer power better to the pedals, which saves energy on long rides. I also don't have to constantly search for the optimum position on the pedals and can concentrate fully on the trail. Current models are no longer stiff "high heels". Grippy soles, comfortable running characteristics and a casual look - for me, cycling shoes with a click system are the ideal all-rounders for long tours.

Stefan Herrmann, riding technique professional:

If you're not in a hurry, you should opt for flat shoes. They encourage an active riding style because you have to create an arched tension between your feet, legs, torso and arms to connect with the bike. This allows you to be more active than relying on the mechanical connection with a defensive riding style. I can also put my foot down quickly at critical points, which makes me mentally more offensive. Sliding passages are also easier to master without cleats on the sole.

Please also read our other tips:

>> Test MTB backpacks: 4 backpacks for the Transalp in the test <<

>> Practical MTB accessories: all-rounders - these parts fit in every rucksack <<

>> New accessories 2023: 13 awesome parts for freeriders <<

The most important features of touring cycling shoes

The look of touring cycling shoes is moving more and more from hiking boots to trainers. However, the core competences remain the same: good power transmission, protection against rock contact, grip and comfort on pushing sections. The most important features in detail.

1 - Protection

Most shoes offer a TPU-reinforced toe cap. If you want more protection, you should choose a model with a raised ankle area on the inside. Knitted or neoprene gaiters prevent dirt from getting into the shoe and causing friction.

2 - Mesh inserts or laser cuts

Mesh inserts or laser cuts improve ventilation on hot days and prevent you from standing in your own juice. Those looking for more protection against mud and splash water should opt for seamless and closed upper material.

3 - Lacing of MTB shoes

An astonishing number of manufacturers are going back to classic lacing. The advantage of this is that the bike shoe can be perfectly adjusted to the foot over the entire instep. This is not always possible with the more practical twist fasteners. Boa and the like are also prone to dirt and damage and are almost impossible to repair on the road. On the other hand, they can be fine-tuned on the move. High-quality laces are a must; on the test shoes they frayed in some cases as soon as they came into contact with the Velcro fasteners. Tip: If you thread the laces from the outside to the inside, this improves the hold considerably.

4 - Outsole

The stiffer the sole, the better the power is transferred to the pedals. However, the worse the MTB shoe usually rolls. When pushing, the heel sometimes slips halfway out of the shoe. A curved or softer toe area prevents slippage. Only a few models still offer a really coarse profile that also provides grip on rocky ground. For alpine tours, however, you should definitely choose a model with grippy rubber and sufficient tread.

5 - Assembly area

According to ergonomics experts, the cleats should be mounted approximately under the metatarsophalangeal joints of the toes. The further forwards, the better the power transfer to the pedals. If you tend to ride downhill, place the cleats further back for a more stable stance. This also takes the strain off your muscles on the descent. A cleat channel that is as long and flattened as possible makes it easier to get into the pedal and improves self-cleaning in muddy conditions.

6 - The insole

The insole is largely responsible for wearing comfort. Many manufacturers make savings here. Good insoles are available from Fox, Scott or Specialised. If you want more comfort and efficiency, go for special insoles such as Currex, Solestar or SQlab.

Our tested 12 mountain bike shoes at a glance

Crankbrothers Mallet E Boa

With the Mallet, the US company delivers a top all-rounder. The cycling shoe is quickly adjusted using Velcro and a Boa dial and sits comfortably and without pressure points thanks to good padding. The stiff sole and the tensile material transfer power well to the pedals. Because the Mallet is slightly curved at the front, it also runs comfortably and its profile also generates a lot of grip. The toe box offers plenty of protection against rock contact and splash water, but the shoe gets a little sweaty on hot days. Good entry thanks to the angled cleat channel.

• Price: 200 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 910 g / 37-48; half sizes 39.5-46.5
• Sole material / rubber compound: carbon-nylon mix / Crankbrothers MC1
• Features: Boa L6; Velcro fastener; toe protection; silicone gripper on heel; incl. cleats
• Fit: Medium-width cut throughout, slightly flat instep

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 51 points

>> The new Cranbrothers MTB shoes with BOA fastener can be found here

>> Crankbrothers Mallet and Stamp Trail Lace are presented here

Five Ten Trailcross CL

The Five Ten Trailcross doesn't just stand out from the test field visually. It is particularly light and well ventilated. This makes it a pleasant companion on hot days. The rubber and tread provide plenty of grip on pushing sections. The fit in the MTB shoe, on the other hand, is not too good. In combination with the lightweight material and the less rigid sole, a lot of power is wasted. The lacing can also pinch due to the flabby tongue. Not ideal. This makes the Trailcross more of a model for moderate trail use and relaxed tours.

• Price: 160 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 841 g / 38 2/3 - 50 2/3; in 2/3 sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / stealth rubber
• Features: lacing; Velcro; toe protection
• Fit: Quite wide, rather voluminous toe box, otherwise normal cut

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 48 points

Fizik Gravita Tensor

Super protection, good power transfer and secure footing on the pedals - the Fizik Gravita bike shoe comes pretty close to the enduro ideal. The asymmetric neoprene gaiter merges seamlessly into the tongue and fits snugly around the ankles without any pressure. Robust, water-repellent ripstop material and the laterally offset lacing provide traction on the foot and can be finely adjusted. The flattened cleat channel makes entry easier. Great for cranking. But other shoes run better.

• Price: 179 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 926 g / 36 -48; 37.5-46.5 half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / Vibram XS Evo
• Features: lacing; Velcro; pull-on loop; toe and ankle protection; cleat shims
• Fit: Medium-width cut throughout, slightly narrower in the toe area

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 50 points

>> New weatherproof MTB shoes from Fizik were also available recently

Fox Union

The new Union from Fox has a pleasantly inconspicuous fit and almost feels like a trainers. When laced tightly, the less flexible upper material folds open slightly. The laces fray quickly. Thanks to the large cleat channel, you can easily find your way into the pedals, but your foot comes very close to the cranks and can graze them. The sole of this mountain bike shoe is one of the least stiff, so the Fox is more suitable for pedals with a large cage. The rubber and tread offer only moderate grip when walking. A little under-equipped for the price.

• Price: 170 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 920 g / 37-47; 41.5-45.5 half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / no name
• Features: lacing; velcro; customisable insole; toe protection
• Fit: Normal fit, neither particularly narrow nor wide cut

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: good - 45 points

Ion Rascal Select Boa

Quick in and out and adjustment while riding - these are the major advantages of Boa fasteners. On the Ion Rascal, however, it is difficult to apply sufficient traction. Together with the flexible upper material, you stand on the pedals with a lot of flex, not ideal for racers, but good for long, relaxed trail days. This cycling shoe is also well ventilated and offers solid protection on the toes and heels. The sole is comfortable and the rear is roughened to prevent heel slip. However, the profile only offers moderate grip.

• Price: 220 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 991 g / 37-47, no half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: TPU / SUPtraction
• Features: Boa fastening; pull-on aid; gripper heel; toe and ankle protection
• Fit: Medium width with slightly wider heel and flat instep

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: good - 41 points

Leatt 4.0 Clip

Extensively padded, toes and ankles well protected - the Leatt is aimed more at enduro bikers. The lacing and Velcro fastening secure the foot in the MTB shoe, while the stiff sole provides plenty of power on the pedals. The heel padding crumples when you step in, the lacing is extremely stiff and the Velcro constantly gets in the way - not ideal. Large cleat channel with a wide adjustment range and good self-cleaning properties. The cleat channel is extremely deep, which makes it difficult to get into the pedal.

• Price: 119 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 1034 g / 38.5 - 48.5, partly half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / no name
• Features: lacing; Velcro; toe and ankle protection
• Fit: Medium-wide cut throughout with a slightly flatter instep

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 4 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: good - 41 points

>> Leatt has launched a waterproof model before our test: the Leatt 7.0 HYDRADRI

Ride Concepts Tallac Clip

Sporty cut trail shoe with a snug fit. The lacing adapts the robust Cordura fabric well to the foot. In combination with the stiff sole, you can put a lot of power on the pedals - good for long climbs. Nevertheless, the cycling shoe is comfortable to wear. The Tallac also scores highly off-road with plenty of grip and traction. Well thought-out features and clean workmanship, but quite heavy overall. The Tallac is also available as a women's version (Flume Clip) and alternatively with the practical Boa twist lock. Quite expensive.

• Price: 189 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 1086 g / 39.5 - 47, partly in half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / clip grip
• Features: lacing; Velcro; D3O insole; toe protection; Cordura fabric
• Fit: Wide cut toe box, but with a flat instep

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 10 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 4 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 50 points

Scott MTB Shr-alp Boa Evo

If the slim cut is right for you, the Scott is a top trail shoe that offers plenty of comfort and protection and is still well ventilated. The single Boa fastener fixes the foot surprisingly securely in the bike shoe, keeping you stable and firmly connected on the pedals. The power transmission is also perfect. Thanks to the wide cleat channel, you can easily find your way into the binding. The Shr-alp rolls comfortably when walking, the chunky tread works on many surfaces and offers sufficient grip and traction.

• Price: 170 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 886 g / 40-48, no half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon fibreglass / Scott Sticky Rubber
• Features: Boa fastening; toe and heel protection; Ergo sole
• Fit: Slim fit shoe with flat instep and narrow toe box

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 52 points

Shimano SH-AM903

With the AM903, Shimano has a robust but comfortable companion for trail to enduro use in its programme. High protection for toes and ankles, good power transmission and smooth pedalling. The practical quick lacing is covered by a Velcro strap, which offers additional protection against moisture or impacts. A grippy sole and good rolling comfort make this mountain bike shoe a stable gravity all-rounder. Despite the laser cuts, they tend to get warm on hot days.

• Price: 160 Euro
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 900 g / 38 -48, no half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: Nylon / Shimano Rubber
• Features: toe and heel protection; speed lacing; Velcro; Velcro strap
• Fit: Fits true to size and medium width, slightly tapered at the toes

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 8 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 51 points

Specialised 2FO Cliplite

Two Boa fasteners make it easier to get into the shoe. However, there is no strap over the toes for optimum adjustment. This means that the hold is not optimal and power transmission suffers somewhat. The insole provides ideal support for the foot. When running, the toe area rolls well, but there is a bit of slippage at the heel. The Boa attachments and the tongue can be uncomfortable over time. The 2FO stands securely on the pedals. Off-road, however, the profile does not generate much grip. Low protection for an MTB shoe in this class.

• Price: 225 Euro
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 847 g / 39-48, no half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: nylon / Specialised SlipNot FG
• Features: 2 Boa fasteners; seamless upper; lightweight toe protection; Ergo sole
• Fit: Very voluminous toe box, otherwise medium to wide cut

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 10 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 49 points

Unparallel Up Link

With its stubborn upper material and poorly running lacing, the Up Link does not adapt optimally to the foot. The small cleat channel offers few adjustment options and you can't hit the pedal reliably. Thanks to the stiff sole, the power still reaches the pedals well. However, the Up Link offers little grip and traction off-road. The slightly higher shaft can pinch the ankles. Low ventilation and thick padding make the Unparallel bike shoe quickly sweaty on warm days.

• Price: 150 Euro
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 968 g / 37 - 48.5; partly half sizes
• Sole material / rubber compound: Nylon / RH/VD Rubber
• Features: lacing; Velcro; toe protection; Ortholite recycled sole
• Fit: Wide and voluminous toe box, otherwise size-appropriate fit

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 7 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 6 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: good - 42 points

Vaude Downieville Tech AM

The Vaude could be described as the most classic cycling shoe for touring in the comparison. Comfortably padded, well ventilated, with reasonable power transmission and a good grip profile sole, it works well on and off the pedals. Unfortunately, the Boa strap runs slowly through the loops, so there is little tension on the forefoot and the heel has some slippage. The ankles and the foremost loop of the fastener can become a little tight over time. The only shoe with a "green soul" in the test.

• Price: 175 Euro >> available here
• Weight (size 44)¹ / sizes: 954 g / 40-48, no half sizes
• Sole material / Profile: Nylon / SUPtraction T Blend
• Features: Boa L6 fastener; lightweight toe protection
• Fit: Medium-width cut with sufficient space in the toe box

Rating:

• Power transmission / stability (35 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Walking / Grip (25 %): 9 out of 10 points
• Closure / Handling (20 %): 8 out of 10 points
• Weight (20 %): 6 out of 10 points

Bike judgement²: very good - 47 points

¹BIKE measured values

²The BIKE judgement is independent of price: super (56 points or more), very good (55 to 46 points), good (45 to 36 points), satisfactory (35 and less points)