106 mbr M AY 2 019
Howwetest
On top of clocking up miles in all weathers,
the foundation of every one of our group
tests is decades of accumulated knowledge
and experience with the best products on
the market.
Like helmets and saddles, shoes can be a
very personal preference, so we’ve tapped
into the knowledge of test riders and photo
models to unearth any issues or niggles with
durability, fi t and function.
We’re looking here at how shoes best
balance performance uphill, downhill and in
between, and whether there are any comfort
compromises for longer days or inclement
weather conditions with individual products.USED & ABUSED
W
hether riding clip-in pedals
or fl ats, mountain bike shoes
need to be comfortable,
durable and look good. The
best shoes go beyond these
basics, though, and increase rider control
and confi dence for maximum enjoyment on
the trails.
Top performance criteria for clipless
pedal shoes include foot stability and
stiff ness, and also how easily the sole
allows mechanical engagement of cleats
in and out of pedal-binding systems. For
fl at pedal shoes, sole compound and pure
grip is vital, but shoes need to work as a
harmonious whole too, with both upper
and mid-sole balanced for the best
damping and comfort. All bike shoes
need to tune stiff ness and security
against all-day comfort, be tough enough
to survive knocks and scrapes and protectpinkies from typically wet or cold UK
conditions too.
The rougher the trail, the more shoes
bounce and shuffl e, so the potential to
accidentally unclip or lose fl at pedal
position increases if fi t and design aren’t
totally dialled in. Sole stiff ness and any
impact zones can also off er protection from
knocks, deliver effi cient power transfer and
boost safety. Stiff er or thicker soles transmit
marginally less feel from the ground, but
generally off er a more direct, energetic feel
when pedalling. They also keep feet from
clawing round platforms (which can cause
fatigue) and better absorb repeated shocks
on longer descents.
We’ve got 10 pairs here, so whatever your
preferred style there’s a shoe for everyone,
and we’ve deliberately mixed up long-term
proven favourites with brand new products
for a broader overview.Keep your feet sweet and your pedals planted with our pick of the best mtb shoes
Words & photos: Mick Kirkman
GROUP TEST