ETNIES CAMBER CL CLIPLESS SHOES

£129.99 https://eu.etnies.com

Synonymous with skating since 1986, Etnies have been making flat-pedal MTB shoes since they hooked up with freeride god Brandon Semenuk in 2018. The Camber CLs are their first clipless effort, and we’re impressed.

With great styling and attention to detail, Etnies have created a solid and comfortable pair of shoes. The core of the Camber is the brand’s tried-andtested ‘STI Evolution Foam’ midsole and ‘Pro Foam 1’ insole, which offer up amazing impact resistance and all-day comfort. A one-piece inner ‘sock’, designed to keep out dust and dirt, combines with the laces and upper hook-and-loop ‘Power Strap’ to give a properly snug and secure fit, and adds another layer of plushness.

The ‘Exo-Shield’ upper has a reinforced heel section and a waterrepellent treatment to help keep out moisture. Underneath, the sole uses three different patterns of Etnies’ ‘Formula G’ rubber. A roomy cleat channel allows for tons of adjustment to get your feet in just the right position on the pedals. Engagement is clean, too.

When pummelling through long rough sections or putting in longer days in the saddle, the nylon shank and outsole feel supportive but not so stiff that they fatigue your feet. There’s quite a lot of flex through the toe section, but that helps off the bike, giving a natural walking feel. Grip is excellent, too. The inner sock contributes to a slightly sweaty feel, but they’re oh-so comfy otherwise, and the styling’s right up there, too, in our books. Jimmer

Well-rounded shoes that’ll suit first-time clippers-in and those who like more of a flat-pedal feel to their riding