10 Best Mountain Bike Shoes 2025 in the United States

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 Crankbrothers Mallet Trail BOA clip-in MTB shoes are designed to meet the needs of trail riders and enduro racers seeking a reliable and comfortable shoe. They feature a stiff, fiber-reinforced sole which helps transfer your pedaling power efficiently, making them suitable for clipless pedals thanks to the Match Box cleat system. This system also offers easy clip-in and clip-out, with good mud clearance, which is a big plus for off-road conditions. The closure combines a BOA dial for precise micro-adjustments with a hook-and-loop strap that keeps your heel securely in place, providing a customizable and stable fit.

Comfort is boosted by a low-rebound EVA midsole that dampens vibrations on rough trails, and the shoe’s tread pattern balances traction for both riding and walking. For protection, TPU reinforcements guard against impacts, and an elastic collar helps keep debris out, while the perforated toe area adds breathability. However, the shoe’s rubber sole and materials may not be the best in very wet or rainy weather, as no specific waterproofing is mentioned. Also, if you prefer very soft soles for walking, the stiffer sole might feel a bit rigid off the bike.

These shoes represent a solid choice for riders who want a combination of durability, grip, and performance on the trail without sacrificing comfort during long rides.

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.