The 9 Best Mountain Bike Shoes of 2025 | Reviewed & Tested

If you love mountain biking, wearing the Best Mountain Bike Shoes is just as important as having a good bike. The best mountain bike shoes in 2025 give you comfort, help you pedal better, protect your feet, and last a long time on rough trails. No matter if you ride for fun, race, or take on tough trails, the right shoes can make your ride safer and more enjoyable. This year’s top shoes include both clip-in styles for SPD pedals and flat shoes with strong grip soles. They are light, breathable, and work well in different riding styles. 

We carefully tested many shoes by checking how well they grip, how they close, how effectively they transfer your pedaling power, how well they protect you in bad weather, and how comfortable they are when walking with your bike. Our team can also review the Best Hiking Shoes by checking each item. You can also explore this. This guide will help you pick the best shoes for your type of trail, your budget, and your riding needs. Whether you want strong trail shoes, fast racing shoes, or all-around mountain biking shoes, these 9 options are the best in 2025.

Top 9 Best Mountain Bike Shoes Review

To choose the best mountain bike shoes in 2025, you should look at important things like how well they work with your pedals, how much grip they give, how stiff they are for power, how much they protect your feet, and how comfortable they feel both while riding and walking. Our top shoe picks work well for all types of mountain biking, including trail, enduro, downhill, and cross-country. The Five Ten Freerider Pro is our best overall mountain bike shoe. It has an amazing grip for flat pedals, a strong upper material, and feels great on rough trails. If you want a very secure fit that you can adjust easily, the Fox Racing Men’s Fox Union Boa is a great choice. It uses a special BOA system to tighten and is perfect for racing.

We can also review the Best Electric Mountain Bike

If you ride clipless pedals and like gravity-style riding, the Crankbrothers Mallet is a top pick. It connects well to the pedals and remains comfortable even when walking. For women, the Five Ten Hellcat Pro Women’s is our favorite. It gives great power, strong protection, and a good fit for female riders. If you want fast, lightweight shoes for cross-country racing, the SIDI XC Shoes are the best. They have a super stiff carbon sole that helps you pedal more efficiently.

1. Five Ten Freerider Pro Mountain Bike Shoes

The Five Ten Freerider Pro is one of the best shoes for riders who use flat pedals, offering a strong grip and long-lasting quality. It has a special Stealth S1 rubber sole that sticks well to the pedals, helping you stay in control on rough or tricky trails. The top part of the shoe is made from strong synthetic material that doesn’t wear out easily and dries faster than regular suede, so it’s good for riding in any weather. The toe area is built to protect your feet, and the Ortholite insole adds extra comfort during long rides.

Whether you are riding fast down a hill or just enjoying a trail, this shoe keeps your feet safe and firmly in place. It also has a slim and low-profile design that fits well without feeling bulky. The shoe feels light but tough, so it won’t slow you down. Many riders say it gives them more confidence on the bike because of how secure their feet feel. It is a great choice for riders of all skill levels who want comfort, grip, and protection in one shoe.

2. Fox Racing Men’s Fox Union Boa Mountain Bike Shoe

The Fox Union BOA is a strong and high-performance mountain bike shoe made for tough trails and enduro riding. It has a dual BOA system, which lets you tighten the shoe in small steps for a perfect and secure fit. This helps your foot stay in place, even on rough rides. The toe and heel areas are reinforced to protect your feet from rocks and impacts. The ULTRATAC sole gives you a strong grip when you get off your bike and walk on slippery or uneven ground. What makes this shoe special is its stiff design for better pedaling and an EVA midsole that keeps your feet comfortable by reducing bumps and shocks. It is a great mix of power, protection, and comfort—perfect for serious trail riders who want control and safety on technical terrain.

The shoe also has a sleek and modern look, with tough materials that handle dirt, rain, and rough conditions. Even after long rides, it stays snug and doesn’t loosen. If you’re someone who pushes hard on climbs, races downhill, or rides all day, the Fox Union BOA gives you the support and performance you need.

3. Crankbrothers Unisex-Adult Mallet

The Crankbrothers Mallet is made especially for enduro and downhill riders who use clipless pedals. It gives a strong and easy clip-in connection and has a wide platform for better support and control. The Match system is designed to work best with Crankbrothers pedals, but it also fits many other brands well. This shoe comes with a BOA Fit System for quick and secure tightening, a soft EVA midsole for comfort, and an MC1 rubber sole that grips well when walking. It’s stiff enough for strong pedaling but also flexible enough to be comfortable when you have to hike your bike.

If you are looking for a clipless gravity shoe that feels supportive, looks stylish, and handles tough trails, the Mallet is a great choice. It offers the right mix of power, grip, and comfort for riders who like fast descents and technical terrain. Riders also love how durable it is for long days at the bike park or in the mountains.

4. Five Ten Hellcat Pro Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s

The Hellcat Pro Women’s is a great mountain bike shoe for women who ride on both flat and clipless pedals. It gives you the strong pedal feel that Five Ten is known for, while also working with SPD clips for more control on rough terrain. The synthetic upper is tough and resists damage from rocks or branches. A stiff midsole helps transfer your pedaling power to the bike, so you can ride faster and more efficiently. The toe area is reinforced, and the EVA foam midsole runs along the whole foot for extra comfort and protection—perfect for long downhill rides or bumpy trails.

With its Stealth C4 rubber sole, you still have a great grip even when walking off the bike. This shoe is built for performance, safety, and all-day comfort. It is a smart choice for women who want a reliable, tough shoe for all kinds of mountain biking. Plus, it looks sleek and feels stable on technical rides.

5. SIDI | XC Cross Country Shoes

The SIDI XC shoes are made for elite cross-country (XC) riders who want top performance. These shoes are very stiff, helping you push more power into each pedal stroke. Built with Italian quality and design, they’re lightweight, fast, and built to win races. They use a Techno-3 dial system to give you a snug, custom fit, and the carbon composite sole makes the shoe strong but light. This helps you ride faster with better control.

The adjustable heel system keeps your foot in place, so there is no slipping during hard efforts. Plus, the tread can be replaced, which means the shoes will last a long time, even with heavy use. If you are chasing podium finishes and want the best in power, fit, and style, the SIDI XC shoes are a top choice for serious racers.

6. adidas Men’s Five Ten Freerider Pro

The adidas Five Ten Freerider Pro keeps the famous grip and cool look of the original Freerider but adds modern upgrades. It is now more durable, dries faster, and has better toe protection, making it perfect for tough rides. The shoe still uses the trusted Stealth S1 rubber sole, which gives amazing grip on flat pedals and keeps your feet secure on rough trails. The upper is made from weather-resistant synthetic material, so it handles rain and mud well. The toe box is reinforced to protect your feet during hard hits or crashes.

It is a great shoe for long rides, big descents, and rocky backcountry trails. This shoe also looks casual, so you can wear it on and off the bike. It is a solid choice for riders who want both performance and style, with excellent grip, comfort, and walkability when off the trail. Whether you’re riding all day or stopping for a break in town, the Freerider Pro does it all.

7. PEARL IZUMI Men’s Modern

The PEARL iZUMi Modern MTB Shoe is made for riders who want comfort, easy walking, and strong performance all in one shoe. It has a breathable mesh upper to keep your feet cool, and a stiff nylon composite shank that helps you pedal efficiently. The bottom grip is made for trails, giving you good support both on the bike and while walking. The shoe uses a lace-up system with a Velcro strap to keep your foot secure, which is great for long rides or full-day adventures. It gives you a snug, stable fit without being too tight.

This shoe is a great hybrid option; it is stiff enough for fast riding on trails, but also flexible enough for walking uphill or over rocks. It is perfect for riders who like to explore, ride for fun, and sometimes get off the bike to hike tough sections. The PEARL iZUMi Modern is all about balance between power and comfort, riding and walking.

8. Giro Gauge Mountain Bike Shoe – Men’s

The Giro Gauge is a great mountain bike shoe for beginners or weekend riders who want good performance at a fair price. It is made for use with clipless pedals and has a strong nylon inner shank that helps you pedal efficiently. The rugged rubber sole gives a good grip when walking on rough or slippery ground. It uses a lace-up design, which feels more casual and comfortable, like regular shoes.

The synthetic upper is tough and breathable, so your feet stay cool and protected in different weather. If you are just starting with clipless pedals and want a shoe that’s strong, comfortable, and affordable, the Giro Gauge is a smart choice. It gives you a mix of pedaling power and walking comfort, making it perfect for trail rides, learning new skills, or weekend adventures.

9. Giro Empire VR90 Cycling Shoe – Men’s

The Giro Empire VR90 is perfect for riders who want to pedal as efficiently as possible and keep their gear super lightweight. It has a full Easton EC90 carbon sole, which is very stiff and helps transfer all your pedaling power into the bike. The lace-up design gives a classic look and a snug, even fit, while the Vibram rubber sole adds grip when you need to walk. The upper part of the shoe is made from Evofiber synthetic material, which is soft, strong, and breathable. It is all made in one piece, so it fits smoothly around your foot with no pressure points.

This shoe is best for cross-country racers and gravel riders who want top-level performance. Even though it is super stiff for riding, the Vibram grip makes it easier to walk when you’re off the bike. The Empire VR90 is a perfect mix of style, speed, and function for serious riders who care about both looks and results.

How We Tested

To make sure our mountain bike shoe recommendations are trustworthy and useful, we tested every shoe in real trail conditions. Our team of experienced riders rode for hundreds of miles on rough singletrack, through muddy downhills, and up steep climbs to see how each shoe performed. We checked important features like whether the shoes work best with flat or clipless pedals, how well they transfer power, how stiff they feel, and how much grip they give on different surfaces. We also tested how breathable they are on hot days and how well they resist water in wet or muddy weather.

Mountain Bike Shoe Buying Advice

• Mountain Bike Shoe Categories

Mountain bike shoes come in a few major categories:

• XC (Cross-Country): Lightweight, stiff, optimized for efficient pedaling.
• Trail/All-Mountain: Balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
• Enduro/Downhill (DH): Heavier shoes with maximum protection and grip.
• Flat vs. Clipless: Flat shoes offer flexibility and walkability; clipless shoes improve power transfer and control.

• Foot and Toe Protection

When riding on rough trails or doing enduro biking, your feet can hit rocks or hard objects. That is why it is important to choose shoes with strong toe caps and sidewalls to protect your feet. Look for shoes that have rubber bumpers or built-in protection around the front and sides. These features help prevent injuries and keep your feet safe during tough rides. Shoes with reinforced areas also last longer because they don’t wear out quickly from sharp hits or crashes. If you ride on rocky or technical terrain, this kind of protection is a must. It gives you more confidence and control, knowing your feet are well-guarded against sudden impacts.

• Wet-Weather Protection

When riding in rain, mud, or puddles, your shoes can get soaked. That is why you need shoes with water-resistant coatings, sealed seams, and synthetic uppers; they help keep your feet dry in wet conditions. Shoes made with quick-drying materials are also great for multi-day rides because they don’t stay wet for long. This helps prevent blisters and keeps your feet more comfortable. Some shoes also have drainage holes or special linings that wick away moisture. If you often ride in wet weather, these features will make a big difference in your comfort and performance.

• Pedal Design

It is important to choose shoes that match your type of pedals, whether you use SPD, Crankbrothers, or flat platform pedals. The right match gives you better grip, power, and control while riding. Clipless shoes are great for technical trails and racing because they help you stay connected to the bike. They improve power transfer and control. But they take a little practice to get used to. On the other hand, flat pedal shoes don’t clip in. They give you more freedom to move your feet or jump off the bike quickly, which is helpful for beginners or tricky downhill trails. Choose the pedal style that fits your riding style and comfort level.

• Stiffness and Power Transfer

If you race or do a lot of climbing, you benefit from shoes with stiff soles, often made from carbon or nylon plates. These soles help you push more power into the pedals without wasting energy. Stiff shoes are especially helpful during long uphill rides or when you need to sprint fast, because they make each pedal stroke more efficient. While they may feel less flexible for walking, they’re perfect for riders who want maximum speed and performance on the bike.

• Outsole and Grip

The bottom of your shoe, called the outsole, plays a big role in grip and control. For flat pedal shoes, you want sticky rubber like Stealth S1 or MC1. This rubber helps your foot stay firmly on the pedal, even on bumpy trails. If you use clipless shoes, look for ones with a treaded sole, which means the bottom has patterns or lugs that give you good grip when walking your bike on steep or rocky ground. A good outsole helps you stay stable off the bike, whether you’re hiking up a hill or walking through mud. Choose the right grip based on your riding style and the type of terrain you ride most.

• Weight

The weight of your shoes can affect your riding performance. Lightweight shoes (under 350 grams per shoe) are best for cross-country rides and racing because they help you go faster and feel less tired over long distances. Heavier shoes usually give you more protection and support, especially for downhill or enduro riding, but they can make your legs feel tired more quickly on long climbs. If you ride fast or for many hours, lighter shoes can help you stay fresh and move more easily. Choose a weight that fits your riding style and comfort needs.

• Breathability

When riding in hot or humid weather, your feet can get sweaty and uncomfortable. That is why shoes with breathable mesh uppers and tiny holes (perforated side panels) are important; they let air flow through and help keep your feet cool and dry. If you ride in warm climates, it is best to avoid heavy leather shoes, as they hold heat and don’t dry quickly. Well-ventilated shoes improve comfort on long rides and help prevent blisters caused by sweaty feet. Breathable materials make a big difference on sunny trail days.

• Durability

If you ride a lot, especially on rough or rocky trails, you need shoes that can handle tough conditions. Look for ones made with abrasion-resistant materials, strong stitching, and reinforced areas around the toes and heels. Shoes with replaceable soles or tread are also a smart choice because they last longer and can be refreshed instead of replaced. Durable shoes might cost more at first, but they save money over time by lasting through many rides without falling apart.

• Walking and Hiking Comfort

Sometimes on the trail, you need to get off your bike and walk, especially on steep or rocky sections. For these moments, it is important to have shoes with a flexible midsole, a grippy, lugged outsole, and good heel support. These features make walking easier and more comfortable, even on uneven ground. If your rides often include hike-a-bike parts or long breaks off the bike, choose shoes that feel good both on and off the pedals. They have helped you stay confident and steady, no matter where the trail takes you.

How to Choose Mountain Bike Shoes

• Do Closure Systems Matter?

Yes, the way your shoes close and tighten makes a big difference in how they fit and feel. Different closure systems give different levels of comfort and control.

• BOA dials let you make tiny, precise adjustments quickly and evenly, great for serious riders who want a perfect fit.
• Velcro straps are simple and quick to use, and they hold well during most rides.
• Laces give a classic, adjustable fit and are easy to replace. They also give the shoe a casual, retro look that many riders like.

• Should You Consider Grip?

The grip is very important for mountain biking shoes. If you use flat pedals, you need shoes with sticky rubber outsoles so your feet stay firmly on the pedals, even on rough or bumpy trails. If you use clipless shoes, grip still matters. The tread on the outsole helps you walk safely when you get off the bike, like during hike-a-bike sections or slippery terrain. A good grip gives you better control, both on and off the bike, so it’s a key feature no matter what pedal style you use.

• What’s Your Riding Style?

• XC riders: Go lightweight and stiff.
• Trail riders: Choose comfort, grip, and durability.
• Enduro/DH: Prioritize protection and grip.

• Durability Concern?

Yes, if you ride often on rocky, muddy, or rough trails, you should choose shoes that are tough and built to last. Look for models made with strong materials, reinforced toe and heel areas, and solid stitching. Shoes with extra protection in high-wear spots can handle more abuse and won’t fall apart quickly. Investing in a rugged, long-lasting shoe means you won’t have to replace it often, saving money and keeping you confident on every ride.

Why you can trust Outdoor Searcher

At Outdoor Searcher, we don’t just talk about outdoor gear; we use it every day. Our reviews come from real-world testing, not from brand deals or paid promotions. Our team includes trail riders, racers, and outdoor experts who test each product carefully to see if it really does what it claims. We believe in being honest and clear, so you can trust our advice and feel confident when choosing where to spend your money and time. Your adventure deserves gear that works, and we are here to help you find it.

Conclusion

Choosing the Best mountain bike shoes depends on how you ride, where you ride, and what kind of pedals you use. Whether you need the amazing grip of the Five Ten Freerider Pro or the high-performance feel of the Giro Empire VR90, there is something here for every type of rider.

As bikes and trails improve, shoes are also getting more comfortable without losing performance. So whether you’re racing cross-country, riding fast downhill, or just enjoying your local trails, a good pair of MTB shoes is one upgrade that’s worth it. The right shoes can help you ride better, feel safer, and enjoy every adventure even more.

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