DETAILS

SOLE

Just like on tyres, the compound and tread of the outsole govern how much grip you have when you’re o the bike. Some soles are designed to be durable, others are super-tacky to stick even when you’re not clipped in. Tread designs vary from chunky lugs to flatter skate-shoe style patterns designed for easy pedal engagement.

SHANK

The internal sti ener inside the sole, which controls a shoe’s walking and pedalling performance. A sti sole will be e cient on the bike but less comfortable when you’re on foot.

CLEAT PLACEMENT

XC race shoes put the mounting slots for the pedal cleat under the ball of your foot, as close to the crank arm as possible, for maximum e ciency. Designs with more of a focus on gravity-fed fun let you move the cleats further back for better control.

UPPER

The design and materials of the upper part of the shoe can vary dramatically, from lightweight, ventilated mesh to waterproof Gore-Tex membranes or ‘armour’ reinforcement. Some shoes are cut low, some are high, some are asymmetric, some have neoprene sealing collars. Choose what suits your riding environment. FASTENERS Wrap-over hook-and-loop straps or laces are simple to use and cheap to fit. Fast-tightening/ loosening dial systems are currently fashionable on expensive shoes, and ratchet straps still appear too.