GROUPTEST

We’ve put the boot in on 15 clip-in shoes, from waterproof wilderness-epic kicks to armoured enduro daps

Clipless trail shoes – does spending more on extra features pay off or is it better to keep things simple? We test 15 to find out

Shoes are a vital connection to your bike, in terms of both comfort and performance. Clipping into a set of clipless pedals (yep, we know that sounds like an oxymoron, but they’re so-called because they replaced traditional toe clips and straps) allows you to pedal more efficiently and keeps your feet in place over rough ground. But with so many shoes available, how do you choose the right ones?

Price is the first consideration for most riders. Premium trail shoes don’t cost as much as carbonsoled XC race slippers or insulated winter boots but you can still blow the far side of £150 on a pair. Spending more gets you posher fasteners, higher cuts, fancy sole compounds and waterproof and/or breathable fabrics. In theory, the more of these, the better. But durability can reduce with complexity. That means the biggest bargains are often simple laced-and-strapped shoes, from around £50.

Once you’ve chosen a price bracket, check our reviews to find out which shoes are likely to fit your feet best. They vary in shape, and also in fastener arrangement. Some can be cranked up enough to crush your whole foot, some will always be baggy at one end or the other. Others may have hotspots or come in too tight round the ankle. Obviously, we can only provide pointers here. Nothing beats trying on shoes before you buy, so getting them from your local shop makes more sense than buying online.

Next, think about what performance and comfort elements you want to prioritise. Trail shoes are more flexible than XC race shoes, to make them easier to walk in, but stiffness can still vary dramatically. A firmer sole means more efficient pedalling but can be uncomfortable for hike-a-bike sections. The tread under the shoe needs to suit the riding you do too. Flat-soled shoes are fine for pushing up kittylitter tracks, but you’ll be on your face/arse in seconds in a wet and slippery wood.

Things like weight, how long they keep out the wet or stay soggy after rides, and whether they’re likely to rub cranks or chainstays also make a difference. We’ve been living in these pairs for months on end (sometimes years) to make our reviews the go-to for your next pair of shoes.