MTB shoes Above all, they should fit well, as they are worn for many hours under stress. An optimal shoe therefore does not cause any pressure points or circulatory disorders (sleeping foot). It's perfect if you forget your shoes right after you set off!
In addition, the shoe should protect the foot and create a good connection to the pedal. There are optimized shoes for both clipless and flat pedals, but what about combination pedals?
TATZE Combination pedal are characterized by an uncompromising implementation in the combination in terms of function and performance of click pedal and flat pedal. The TATZE combination pedals combine the best of both worlds, clicked in optimal efficiency when pedaling and maximum grip on the flat side when driving downhill. Thus are TATZE Combination pedals are the ideal supplement for all bikes that combine uphill and downhill performance.
Of course, combination pedals work with any shoe that can be fitted with a cleat (recess on the sole), but there are shoes on the market that offer particularly good grip and good features on the flat side. For a better overview, we divide the shoes into 2 categories according to their purpose.
1. SPD Sneaker:
By this we mean classic downhill shoes with the option of mounting an SPD-compatible cleat, i.e. making them clickable. We recommend these MTB shoes if you want maximum grip on the flat side. In addition, these shoes are comfortable and stylish.
What features should SPD sneakers have:
- The sole should be soft, flat and slightly profiled so that all PINs have even contact and can settle into the profile. This offers good power transmission on the click side - despite a soft sole TWO-FACE large contact areas for pressure distribution.
- Raised side surfaces on the inner ankle can cushion painful contact with stones.
- In addition to the actual lacing, a strap or quick-release fastener at the top provides better support and quick adjustment (e.g. to fix the heel for longer periods of carrying).
- A lacing cover is an advantage if you often ride in muddy conditions.
- For good ventilation, the shoes should have sufficient ventilation holes, as the base material is not breathable.
- Weight: Ideally under 800g, never over 1,000g
Here are a few shoes from the MTB SPD Sneaker category to choose from:
2. Bike & Hike Schuhe:
By this we mean MTB shoes suitable for mountain use with the option of mounting an SPD-compatible cleat. These shoes are recommended if the bike is worn frequently, but these shoes are also a very good option for the transitional period. Classic areas of application for these MTB shoes can be found on typical mountain bike tours, such as Transalp or bike mountaineering.
Features:
- The sole should be stable and heavily profiled and have a soft rubber compound. The contact with the PIN's is a little less compared to the SPD sneakers, but these shoes still offer a very good grip on the flat side.
- Anyone who has ridden a Transalp knows that waterproof shoes can be a blessing. Gore, Trans or similar Tex is always an advantage.
- Weight: 900 to 1,100g
- As with the SPD sneakers, ankle protection, lacing covers, fixation straps, ventilation and cleat cut-outs must be taken into account.
The Bike&Hike models from Shimano are the classics in this area, the MTB shoes from Northwave and Scott are B&H Light versions with great features and non-slip soles.