The top-rated shoes for mountain biking typically feature a secure fit and provide comfort over long rides in rugged terrain; these features include the stiffness of the sole and the readiness of the sole to accept a variety of cleats for clipless pedal systems. Other factors include traction for walking in loose terrain, ventilation or insulation and ease of readjustment.
Features Common to all Mountain Bike Shoes
All mountain bike shoes share basic features. The sole is stiff enough to transmit most of the force of your pedalstroke to the pedal, but with enough flexibility so you can walk your bike off the trail in case of a mechanical failure. The sole also has a recessed mounting surface for the cleats that attach to your clipless pedals. Unlike road bike shoes, mountain bike shoes have lugs on the outsole for traction in rough terrain.
Special Features for Selecting your Shoes
Some mountain bike shoes have special features that may cause them to stand out from the rest, or at least raise the price tag. Shoes are available with a mesh upper, both to reduce weight and to increase airflow in hot weather. Other shoes are insulated for use in colder weather. Carbon fiber is sometimes used as a material to decrease the weight and increase the strength of the sole. Shoes also rely on laces to provide adjustability in closure, or a standard two Velcro straps for added security and to keep dangly bits out of the chainring.
Mountain Bike Shoes Under $150
The Sidi Sierra shoe offers a heel cup that molds to your foot, which contributes to fit and comfort along with the three Velcro straps over the standard two. The shoe also features mesh-paneled uppers for air circulation and a reinforced toe box to protect from impact. The Trail 110 MTB shoe by Specialized offers a 3/4 ankle and four velcro straps, providing more coverage and security for downhillers and cross-country rides who encounter harsh undergrowth. Prices are as of January 2011.
Mountain Bike Shoes Over $150
Shimano's SH-M315 features a custom-fitted last and a carbon-fiber shank to provide a balance between rigidity while pedaling and flexibility while walking. Shimano does have a tendency, however, to engineer its shoes to favor its own clipless pedal systems. The Fury by Mavic is another high-end shoe that has a specially constructed frame and heel to limit stretching on the upstroke of the pedal crank, which improves your overall efficiency and cranking power. Mavic gives this shoe solid traction off the bike, making it popular for cyclocross as well as mountain biking. Prices are as of January 2011.
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