Mountain bike shoes are shoes made for purpose of riding on mountain area. So they have their own designs for different riding styles. Buying a clipless or Flat pedal shoes? They are always question of new riders when they want to find a suitable shoes for Mountain biking.
If you are new to this sport , buying new shoes can be a bit overwhelming because of having multiple choices. However ,by setting up your own necessary criteria, choosing will not be so hard.
Mountain bike shoes have 2 types. Choosing will depend on the type of riding you plan on doing .And the level of support and stability you wished for.
Clipless pedal shoes
The most common types of mountain bikes are clipless pedal shoes. The traditional clipless mountain bike shoes use a shoe- pedal connection mechanism to connect your feet to the pedals. And generally they are the most minimal shoe style for mountain biking. They provide a very secure and tight shoe to ensure your feet will not slide out of pedals during cycling.
Clipless pedal shoes need to have cleats(or pedal) attached to the bottom of your shoes. This type of shoes is for heavy and serious riding style like downhill or Enduro. They ensure that riders can easily turn their power to push their bikes ahead to maximum speed. But they can move their legs out of pedals easily in case of emergency.
Specifically ,clipless shoes use a two-bolt cleat system( SPD, Crankbrothers, Time styles) to attach shoes to pedals. Typically cleats on mountain bike shoes recessed into the soles making it easier to walk on trails.
The mechanism shoes- pedal connection create firm support for the riders’ feet, help pedaling more flexibly and effectively.
Flat pedal shoes
Use for riders who like the freedom and used for less serious riding styles like trail and cross-country.
Flat- pedal shoes for flat pedals have Vibram ,nylon or rubber soles. The soles are stiff enough for riding and flex enough for walking .They provide more exceptional grips on pedals to empower pedaling .And supporting cyclists walking on slippery or climbing on hard mountain surfaces. Materials to make midsole are impact – absorbing . They cushion rider’ feet from hard impact and hug them tightly ,creating comfortable when riding and walking.
Mostly, they have reinforce armor toe box to protect toes from hard impact . The air ventilation on upper shoes’ body is optimized for dry and comfortable, breathable and water resistant.
They look like sneakers. Nice and comfortable .
Material of Mountain bikes shoes
Mountain bike shoes are made from a variety of materials, including mesh, rubber and mesh with a non-slip coating. They’re all designed to provide the protection your feet need on the trail. Most shoes are blend of materials. So you’ll have a choice of materials to choose from when shopping for a pair. The material for the upper of the shoe will determine how breathable the shoe is.
Choosing mountain bike shoes following the season
It’s realistic to choose a pair of mountain bike shoes based on the season you’ll be riding in. For summer riding, you’ll want a pair of shoes with a more breathable upper to help keep your feet cool. Look for shoes with mesh panels or perforated sections to allow air to flow through the shoe. For winter riding, you’ll want a pair of shoes with a warmer, more water-resistant upper .So your feet don’t get cold.
The bottom line
Based on your riding style and riding season. It is not difficult to choose good mountain bike shoes that can fit you. Even if it is clipless pedal shoes or Flat pedal shoes.
Photo sources: wikimedia commons
