10 Best Mountain Bike Shoes 2025 in the United States

The Adidas Five Ten Freerider mountain bike shoes are a popular choice, especially for riders who prefer trail or casual mountain biking. They feature a lace-up closure system, which many find easy to adjust for a comfortable fit. The molded cup sole is made of rubber, providing good grip and some stiffness, which is essential for efficient power transfer to your pedals without feeling too rigid.

These shoes are compatible with flat pedals rather than clipless systems, making them ideal for riders who use flat pedals or are new to mountain biking. However, they are not water-resistant, so they might not be the best option for wet or muddy conditions. While the rubber sole contributes to durability and grip, the shoe’s overall protection against rough terrain is moderate—fine for most trail rides but less suitable for very aggressive downhill riding. Breathability is also average; since the shoes are not specifically designed to handle wet weather, your feet may feel damp in heavy rain.

Weighing around 2.45 pounds, they strike a reasonable balance between protection and comfort. These shoes work well for riders seeking a comfortable, grippy shoe for dry conditions and flat pedals but might fall short if you need waterproofing or advanced protection for rougher terrains.

The Giro Tracker mountain bike shoes offer a solid performance with a few standout features. The BOA L6 Dial closure system with stainless steel laces ensures a secure and adjustable fit, making them convenient for quick adjustments while on the trail. The Tack Rubber outsole with a dual-layer EVA and Gamma tread design provides excellent grip on flat pedals, making them ideal for riders who prefer not to use cleats. The shoe's textile upper with Thermo-bonded PU overlays adds durability and protection against rough terrain.

Additionally, the shoes are relatively lightweight at 337 grams, which is a plus for long rides. However, one potential drawback is the lack of cleat compatibility, limiting options for riders who might want to switch to clip-in pedals. While the textile upper contributes to breathability, the weather resistance might not be sufficient for very wet conditions.

The die-cut footbed offers some comfort, but riders seeking extra cushioning or arch support might need to look elsewhere. These shoes are well-suited for flat pedal mountain bikers who value a secure fit and good pedal grip.

The Sidi MTB Drako 2S SRS XC Shoes Black are high-performance mountain biking shoes that shine in several key areas. The TECNO-3 PUSH SYSTEM ensures a secure and even fit, thanks to its central mechanism and soft instep closure system. This, combined with the Adjustable Heel Retention Device, offers excellent adaptability to different foot shapes, preventing slippage and enhancing comfort during intense rides.

The MTB SRS Carbon Ground Sole is a standout feature, providing stiffness for efficient power transfer while being lightweight and durable. The replaceable tread blocks add to the shoe's longevity, making it a good investment for serious bikers. The quality of materials used is another strong point, with a focus on elements that come in contact with the skin to enhance rider comfort.

However, these shoes might not be the best choice for those who prioritize breathability and weather resistance, as the features provided don't specifically address these aspects. Additionally, the turn-lock closure type may require some getting used to for those unfamiliar with it. The Sidi MTB Drako 2S SRS XC Shoes Black are ideal for cyclists seeking durability, a secure fit, and high performance, especially suited for competitive or intense riding conditions.