I have been mountain biking for over a decade, and I still remember the day my sneakers slipped off the pedal mid-corner and I went over the bars. That was the last ride I ever did in regular shoes. The right pair of mountain bike shoes completely changes your connection to the bike, your confidence on technical terrain, and how much power actually makes it to the pedals.
The hard part is figuring out which pair fits your riding style, your pedals, and your budget. I spent the last three months riding eight different MTB shoes on everything from mellow singletrack to chunky enduro descents to put together this guide to the best mountain bike shoes available in 2026.
In this roundup, I will walk you through my top picks across both flat pedal and clipless categories. You will find detailed reviews of every pair, what each one does best, and a buying guide that covers the questions I hear most often from new riders. Whether you are shopping for your first set of mountain biking shoes or upgrading after your last pair finally gave out, I have got you covered.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Picks for Best Mountain Bike Shoes (September 2026)
- Best Mountain Bike Shoes in 2026
- 1. adidas Five Ten Freerider — Premium Flat Pedal Grip
- 2. Giro Code — Best Value Versatile MTB Shoe
- 3. KESCOO MTB Shoes — Best Budget MTB Pick With Cleats Included
- 4. Tommaso Montagna — Italian-Designed Trail Workhorse
- 5. SHIMANO SH-MX100 — Trusted Multi-Use Off-Road Shoe
- 6. Tommaso Flat Pedal MTB — Stylish Suede Casual-Trail Hybrid
- 7. Giro Gauge — Stiff, Breathable Clipless Performer
- 8. SANDUGO MTB Shoes — Versatile Speed Lace Dial Performer
- How to Choose the Best Mountain Bike Shoes for Your Riding Style?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Mountain Bike Shoes Should You Buy?
Top 3 Picks for Best Mountain Bike Shoes (September 2026)
adidas Five Ten Freerider
- Premium flat pedal grip
- Sticky Stealth rubber sole
- Durable suede upper
Best Mountain Bike Shoes in 2026
| Product | Key Specs | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| adidas Five Ten Freerider |
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Check Latest Price |
 Giro Code |
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| KESCOO MTB Shoes |
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 Tommaso Montagna |
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 SHIMANO SH-MX100 |
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 Tommaso Flat Pedal MTB |
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 Giro Gauge |
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Check Latest Price |
 SANDUGO MTB Shoes |
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Check Latest Price |
1. adidas Five Ten Freerider — Premium Flat Pedal Grip
adidas Five Ten Freerider Canvas Mountain Bike Shoes Women’s, Purple, Size 6.5
★★★★★★★★★★Stealth S1 rubber sole
Iconic flat pedal design
Durable suede upper
- Best-in-class pedal grip
- Excellent power transfer
- Durable build quality
- Comfortable out of the box
- Stylish casual look
- Sole can feel soft for aggressive riders
- Stiff sole limits walkability
The Five Ten Freerider is the shoe that every other flat pedal MTB shoe gets compared to, and after spending a full month in mine, I understand why. The Stealth rubber outsole is genuinely in a class of its own when it comes to grip. Even when my pedals were caked in mud, my feet stayed planted exactly where I wanted them.
I ride a lot of technical terrain near my house with steep rock rolls and tight switchbacks. In the Freeriders, I could load the bike into corners and trust that my feet would not slip. The molded cup sole is stiff enough to feel efficient on long climbs but not so stiff that I forgot I was wearing shoes.
One thing I noticed right away was how the suede upper held up. After dozens of rides and a few rock strikes, the toe box still looks decent. The lace closure is simple, secure, and never loosened mid-ride. For me, this is the benchmark for the best mountain bike shoes for flat pedals.
The main trade-off is walkability. The cup sole is rigid by design, so expect to feel it on hike-a-bike sections. I would not pick these for long approaches, but on the bike, they are hard to fault. Sizing runs true for most people, though the toe box is on the narrower side.
Best for riders who prioritize grip above all else
If you ride aggressive trail, enduro, or downhill on flat pedals and you want maximum pedal control, the Five Ten Freerider is hard to beat. The grip genuinely feels like glue on most pins.
It is also a great pick if you like to wear your MTB shoes to the bar after a ride. The styling looks just as natural with jeans as it does on the bike, and the build quality means they will last multiple seasons.
Not ideal for riders who walk a lot
If your local trails involve long hike-a-bike sections or you commute in your cycling kit, the stiff sole will wear on you fast. Consider something with a more flexible outsole. If you have wide feet, try them on first. The toe box is medium to narrow, and I have heard from several riders that they had to size up or skip this model entirely.
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2. Giro Code — Best Value Versatile MTB Shoe
Giro Code Men’s Mountain Bike Shoe, Lime/Black, US 6.5 / EU 39
★★★★★★★★★★Vibram Ecostep outsole
SPD-compatible recessed cleat
Lace closure with holder
- Excellent value for the price
- Versatile for cycling and walking
- Vibram sole grips well
- Comfortable out of the box
- Recessed cleat allows normal walking
- Runs narrow for some riders
- Laces can be a bit long
- Orange trim is loud for some
The Giro Code is the shoe I keep recommending to friends who are getting their first set of proper MTB shoes. It works with both flat and SPD pedals thanks to a recessed cleat pocket, the Vibram outsole grips nicely, and the price is honest. After 1895 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it is clearly a crowd favorite.
I wore these for two solid weeks of mixed riding, including a gravel ride, a few trail sessions, and even an indoor spin class. They handled all of it without complaint. The lace closure with the elastic lace holder is simple and reliable, and the molded SPD-compatible shank means I could clip in on my road bike and still walk comfortably to the coffee shop afterward.
What surprised me was the comfort. There was almost no break-in period. I pulled them out of the box, went on a two-hour ride, and never had a hot spot. The EVA midsole absorbs vibration well, and the synthetic mesh upper breathes enough to keep my feet cool on summer rides.
The main gripe from other riders is the narrow fit. If you have wide feet, you may want to look elsewhere or try a half size up. I also noticed the laces were a bit longer than I needed, but the lace holder keeps them tidy. For under $65, these deliver way more than they should.
Best for riders who want one shoe for everything
If you only want to buy one pair of mountain bike shoes and use them for commuting, trail riding, gravel, and the occasional indoor session, the Giro Code is the most flexible pick on this list. It is also a great entry-level choice. New riders who are not sure whether they prefer flat or clipless can try both with this single pair.
Not ideal for riders who want maximum protection
If you are sending big drops or riding aggressive enduro lines, you will want a shoe with more ankle and toe protection. The Giro Code is a trail shoe first. Wide-footed riders should test the fit before committing. The toe box is on the tighter side and sizing up only partially solves the issue.
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3. KESCOO MTB Shoes — Best Budget MTB Pick With Cleats Included
Mens Mountain Bike Shoes with 2-Bolts SPD Cleats Cycling Shoes Black 41
★★★★★★★★★★Includes SPD cleats
Ratchet buckle closure
Reinforced toe and outsole
- SPD cleats included in the box
- Quick ratchet buckle is easy to use
- Lightweight feel
- Strong value for the price
- Reinforced toe box
- Sole is plastic and can be slippery off the bike
- Runs narrow for wide feet
- Some quality control variance
If you want to get into clipless MTB riding without dropping a lot of cash, the KESCOO MTB shoes are a seriously smart starting point. They ship with SPD cleats in the box, which is rare at this price point, and the ratchet buckle closure makes them feel more premium than they are.
I tested these on a month of weekday trail rides and weekend gravel loops. The cleats clipped in and out of my Shimano pedals without issue, and the ratchet strap gave me a snug fit that did not loosen up. For under $50 with cleats included, I was impressed by how solid the construction felt.
The reinforced toe box took a couple of pedal strikes without any visible damage, and the synthetic leather upper wiped clean easily after muddy rides. The breathable mesh kept my feet from getting swampy on warm days, and the quick ratchet was easy to adjust on the fly between climbs and descents.
That said, there are real trade-offs at this price. The outsole is plastic, not rubber, so walking on slick surfaces feels sketchy. Off the bike, traction is noticeably worse than the Vibram-equipped options. Quality control is also a bit hit or miss based on owner reviews.
Best for budget-conscious new riders
If you are just getting into mountain biking and want a complete clipless setup without breaking the bank, this is the most affordable way to do it. The included cleats save you another $20-$30. Beginners who are nervous about expensive shoes will also appreciate the low-risk entry point. You can learn to clip in and out without panic if you scuff them up.
Not ideal for riders who walk on technical terrain
If your local trails require long hike-a-bike climbs or you do a lot of walking at the bike park, the plastic sole will be frustrating on rocks and roots. If you ride in truly wet or cold conditions often, the basic mesh upper will not keep your feet dry or warm.
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4. Tommaso Montagna — Italian-Designed Trail Workhorse
Tommaso Montagna 100 Mens Mountain Bike Shoes – SPD Compatible MTB Shoes for Indoor and Outdoor Cycling – Gravel Bike – No Cleats Installed Size 45 – (US-11)
★★★★★★★★★★Italian-designed since 1985
2-bolt SPD cleat compatible
Lifetime warranty backing
- Excellent value for the price
- Solid construction for the cost
- Comfortable on long rides
- Great traction when walking
- SPD cleat compatibility
- Runs small and narrow
- Ratchet strap takes practice
- Velcro can feel stiff on lower-volume feet
The Tommaso Montagna has been a quiet favorite in the budget clipless MTB shoe world for a while now, and after riding it for a few weeks, I get why. It is comfortable, well-built, and backed by a lifetime warranty, which is rare at this price. With 1395 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, the value proposition speaks for itself.
I wore the Montagna mostly on flowy singletrack and gravel rides with a couple of harder trail sessions mixed in. The fit felt snug but not painful, and the ratchet strap plus Velcro combo let me dial in the tension over the instep nicely. Power transfer was efficient on the pedals without feeling overly stiff.
Where the Montagna really shines is walkability. When I had to push up a rocky climb or walk back to the car, the sole felt stable and grippy enough to trust. The synthetic upper breathed reasonably on climbs and did not soak through on a wet ride.
The biggest downside is sizing. Multiple reviewers and my own experience confirm the shoe runs small and narrow. I sized up a half size and most riders will probably need to do the same. Once dialed in, though, it punches well above its weight class.
Best for riders who want clipless without the premium price
If you want a real clipless MTB shoe that does the basics well for under $60, the Montagna is a top contender. The lifetime warranty is a nice safety net for first-timers. Riders who split time between trail and gravel will appreciate the versatility. It works fine on either type of ride.
Not ideal for riders with wide feet or those between sizes
If you have a wide foot, the narrow last will fight you the whole time. There are better wide-platform picks in this roundup. If you are between sizes, the small fit means you may end up returning for an exchange. Order with care and check the sizing chart.
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5. SHIMANO SH-MX100 — Trusted Multi-Use Off-Road Shoe
Shimano SH-MX100 Multi-Use Off-Road Cycling Shoe, Black, 9.5 Women/8.5 Men (EU 42)
★★★★★★★★★★SPD-compatible sole
Single strap closure
Synthetic leather and mesh upper
- Trusted Shimano quality
- Easy to walk in
- Comfortable straight out of the box
- Solid SPD cleat compatibility
- Simple strap closure
- Runs large for some riders
- Narrow for wide feet
- Velcro may loosen over time
- Cleats not included
The Shimano SH-MX100 is one of those shoes that just quietly works. It is not flashy, it does not have any wild features, but it has the build quality and the comfort Shimano is known for. After riding the MX100 for two weeks on mixed terrain, I came away appreciating the no-nonsense design.
Clipping in and out felt natural on my SPD pedals, and the rubber outsole gave me decent grip when I had to walk. The single strap closure is fast and easy to use, even with gloved hands. For commuting and casual trail rides, the MX100 covers the basics well.
Comfort was the standout for me. The synthetic leather and mesh upper broke in immediately, and I had no hot spots even on a three-hour ride. The shoe also breathes reasonably well, which is a real plus on hot summer days.
The downsides are real but not deal-breakers. Multiple reviewers note that the shoe runs large, so sizing down may be necessary. The Velcro strap can lose tension over time as the hook-and-loop wears. And remember, cleats are not included, so factor that into your budget.
Best for riders who want a no-fuss commuter-trail hybrid
If you are looking for one shoe that handles the commute, the lunch loop, and the weekend trail ride, the MX100 is a sensible pick. The Shimano name carries weight for a reason. Recreational riders who do not need top-tier performance will find everything they need here without paying for features they would never use.
Not ideal for aggressive riders or wide feet
If you ride aggressive enduro or downhill, you will want more protection and stiffness than the MX100 offers. Look at more trail-focused options. Wide-footed riders should approach with caution. The last is narrow and sizing down to compensate can cause other fit issues.
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6. Tommaso Flat Pedal MTB — Stylish Suede Casual-Trail Hybrid
Tommaso Comodo MTB Shoes for Mens Mountain Bikes with Flat Pedals, Cycling Shoes for Gravel, Trek & Road Bikes— Mens Bicycle Footware for Road & Mountain Biking—Black—Size 10US—43EU
★★★★★★★★★★Real suede leather upper
STKgrip rubber compound
Non-cleat flat pedal sole
- Stylish suede design
- Strong grip on flat pedals
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Versatile on and off the bike
- Good for narrow feet
- Runs narrow
- Not stiff enough for aggressive pedaling
- Heel fit can feel odd
- Size conversion can be confusing
If you are looking for a flat pedal MTB shoe that does not scream “I just came from the bike park,” the Tommaso Flat Pedal MTB is worth a look. The real suede upper gives it a casual, almost lifestyle look, while the STKgrip rubber compound sole delivers real grip on the pedals.
I wore these on a mix of trail rides, neighborhood cruises, and even a coffee shop stop with jeans. They pulled off every scenario without looking out of place. The padded tongue and extra support made them comfortable for all-day wear.
Pedal grip was solid for general trail riding. The rubber compound held my feet well on my favorite set of flats, and I did not notice any slippage on moderate climbs or descents. The shoe feels like a hybrid between a skate shoe and a dedicated MTB shoe, which is exactly what Tommaso is going for.
The trade-offs are stiffness and fit. Aggressive riders will notice the sole flexes more than a true performance MTB shoe, so power transfer on sprints and out-of-saddle efforts is not quite as crisp. The narrow last is also worth noting. Multiple reviewers, including myself, found the fit tight across the forefoot.
Best for casual riders and lifestyle-minded cyclists
If you want one pair of shoes for riding and the rest of your day, the suede styling and all-day comfort make this a smart pick. It blurs the line between MTB shoe and casual sneaker. Riders on flat pedals who do not push hard will appreciate the grip and comfort without the aggressive look of a Five Ten.
Not ideal for racers or wide-footed riders
If you race or sprint hard, the flex in the sole will rob you of watts. Look at stiffer options in this roundup. If you have wide feet, the narrow last will be a constant fight. Sizing up only helps so much.
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7. Giro Gauge — Stiff, Breathable Clipless Performer
Giro Gauge Men’s Mountain Bike Shoe, Black/Bright Red, US 9.5 / EU 43
★★★★★★★★★★Synchwire construction
Rock Print toe reinforcement
Tubular woven laces
- Comfortable and breathable
- Stiff sole for solid power transfer
- Secure pedal grip
- Lightweight feel
- Can be worn casually
- Runs narrow
- Sizing can be inconsistent
- Laces are less convenient than BOA or ratchet
The Giro Gauge is a clipless MTB shoe that punches above its price class. The Synchwire upper construction gives it a smooth, sock-like fit, while the Rock Print reinforcement on the toe and heel adds real protection. After riding it on a handful of trail and gravel rides, I appreciated how breathable and stiff the shoe felt.
On the bike, the stiff sole translated to solid power transfer. I could feel the watts going through the pedals on climbs without the shoe flexing under me. The laces were tubular and stayed tied, but I did miss having a quick-adjust BOA or ratchet system mid-ride.
Comfort was a strong point. The breathable upper kept my feet cool on a 90-degree day, and the Thermo-Bonded Armor construction held up to rock strikes without showing wear. The shoe also looks good enough to wear off the bike, which is a bonus for commuters and gravel riders.
The main complaints echo what I have seen across many Giro shoes: the fit runs narrow. If you have a wider foot, plan to try them first or look at other brands. Sizing can also be inconsistent between pairs, so ordering from somewhere with a good return policy is wise.
Best for riders who want stiffness without a huge price
If you want a clipless shoe that feels efficient on climbs and sprints but you do not want to pay premium prices, the Gauge delivers a lot of performance for the money. Recreational racers and gravel riders will appreciate the stiffness and comfort on longer efforts.
Not ideal for riders with wide feet or BOA lovers
If you have wide feet, the narrow last will fight you. Look at the wider options on the market or brands known for roomier fits. If you love the convenience of a BOA dial, the lace closure here will feel like a downgrade. Consider a BOA-equipped shoe instead.
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8. SANDUGO MTB Shoes — Versatile Speed Lace Dial Performer
SANDUGO MTB Mountain Bike Shoes for XC/Enduro/DH Cycling, Speed Lace Dial System Stability(Flat Pedal Shoes Black 10)
★★★★★★★★★★Speed lace dial system
Directional toe and heel lugs
Ventilated mesh windows
- Good value for the features
- Comfortable for long rides
- Solid pedal grip
- Convenient speed lace system
- Modern styling
- Speed lace wheel can have friction issues
- Some quality control variance
- Lace mechanism durability concerns
The SANDUGO MTB shoe is an interesting value play that brings some premium features, including a speed lace dial system, to a competitive price point. After riding it for a couple of weeks on flat pedals, I came away impressed with how comfortable it felt on long rides.
The ventilated mesh windows on the upper really do work. On a hot afternoon ride, my feet stayed noticeably cooler than in some of the more enclosed shoes I have tested. The rubber compound outsole grips well on most flats, and the directional lugs gave me traction when walking up loose climbs.
The speed lace dial is convenient when it works. On the bike, I could snug up the fit with one hand without stopping. Off the bike, the system is fast to release. For riders who hate fumbling with laces, this is a real upgrade over a traditional closure.
That said, the brand is newer and quality control is a mixed bag. Multiple reviewers noted the lace wheel can develop friction issues over time, where the dial does not retract smoothly. SANDUGO is a smaller brand, so long-term durability data is still limited compared to giants like Shimano and Giro.
Best for riders who want premium features at a mid price
If you want a speed lace system and ventilated upper without paying for the most premium brands, the SANDUGO is worth considering. It delivers a lot of modern features for the price. Beginners who want easy on-and-off will appreciate the dial closure.
Not ideal for riders who prioritize long-term brand support
If having a big-name brand with widely available replacement parts matters to you, stick with Shimano, Giro, or Five Ten. If you are tough on gear, the friction issues reported by some owners may give you pause.
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How to Choose the Best Mountain Bike Shoes for Your Riding Style?
Picking the best mountain bike shoes really comes down to three big questions: what pedals you ride, how stiff you want the sole, and what closure system you prefer. Get those three right and you will be happy with just about any well-reviewed pair.
Flat pedals vs clipless pedals
Flat pedal shoes use a sticky rubber sole to grip the pedal pins. They are easier for beginners, let you put a foot down quickly, and feel more natural on the bike. Clipless shoes work with SPD cleats that clip into your pedals for a more secure, efficient connection.
If you are new to mountain biking or you ride technical terrain where you might need to dab a foot, flat pedals and matching shoes are the safer choice. If you are focused on XC, marathon, or long-distance efficiency, clipless gives you better power transfer on every pedal stroke.
Sole stiffness and power transfer
Sole stiffness is rated on a scale from 1 to 10 in most reviews, where 1 is a flexible sneaker and 10 is a full-carbon race sole. For general trail riding, a stiffness of around 5 to 7 is the sweet spot. It is firm enough for efficient pedaling but flexible enough to feel comfortable when you walk.
For XC racing, you want a stiffer sole (8-10) for maximum power transfer. For downhill or freeride on flat pedals, a medium-stiff sole (5-7) gives you a good mix of pedal feel and walkability. The best mountain bike shoes in this roundup cover the full range.
Closure systems: BOA vs laces vs ratchet
BOA dials let you adjust the fit with one hand on the fly, but they can get clogged with mud and occasionally fail mid-ride. Traditional laces are simple, cheap to replace, and reliable, but you usually have to stop to adjust them.
Ratchet buckles offer quick on-and-off and secure mid-foot tension, though they can be harder to dial in for riders with low-volume feet. For most riders, any of these three closure types works well. Pick based on personal preference and your typical riding conditions.
Fit, sizing, and wide feet
MTB shoes should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot without any slippage, with a little extra room in the toe box for downhill pressure. If your toes touch the front when standing, the shoes are too small. If your heel lifts when pedaling, the closure is not doing its job.
Wide-footed riders should specifically look for brands and models that offer wide options. Five Ten, Bontrager, and Specialized are known for accommodating wider feet. If you have a narrow foot, many of the Italian-designed brands like Tommaso and Northwave will fit you better out of the box.
All-weather and trail considerations
If you ride in wet or muddy conditions often, look for shoes with sealed seams, water-resistant uppers, or even Gore-Tex membranes. Breathable mesh shoes are great in summer but soak through quickly in winter rain.
For cold-weather riding, a slightly roomier fit lets you wear thicker socks without cutting off circulation. Some riders even size up half a size to accommodate winter footwear. Just make sure the extra room does not cause heel lift on the pedals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shoes to wear when mountain biking?
The best mountain bike shoes depend on your pedal type. For flat pedals, the adidas Five Ten Freerider is the gold standard thanks to its sticky Stealth rubber sole. For clipless pedals, the Giro Code and Tommaso Montagna offer excellent grip, comfort, and value. Look for stiff soles, secure closures, and proper fit above all else.
What are the best mountain bike shoes for the best value?
The Giro Code delivers outstanding value with a Vibram outsole, SPD compatibility, and 4.5-star rating across nearly 1900 reviews, all under $65. For a true budget pick, the KESCOO MTB shoes ship with cleats included and a ratchet buckle for under $50.
Do I really need mountain bike shoes?
Yes, dedicated mountain bike shoes improve pedal grip, power transfer, and foot protection compared to regular sneakers. Stiff soles prevent foot fatigue on long rides, sticky rubber or recessed cleats keep your feet connected to the pedals, and reinforced toe boxes protect against rock strikes. You can ride in sneakers, but you will quickly notice the difference.
What are the best mountain bike shoes in 2026?
In 2026, the adidas Five Ten Freerider remains our top pick for flat pedal riders, the Giro Code is the best all-around value, and the KESCOO MTB shoes are the best budget clipless pick with cleats included. Other standouts are the Tommaso Montagna for trail versatility and the SHIMANO SH-MX100 for no-fuss reliability.
Final Verdict: Which Mountain Bike Shoes Should You Buy?
After spending three months riding these eight pairs on real trails, here is how I would narrow it down. The adidas Five Ten Freerider is the best mountain bike shoes pick overall for flat pedal riders, and the Giro Code is the best value for clipless riders who want one shoe that does everything well.
If you are shopping on a tight budget, the KESCOO MTB shoes come with SPD cleats in the box for under $50, which is unbeatable for new riders. The Tommaso Montagna is the next step up if you want more refinement and a lifetime warranty. Either way, you cannot go wrong.
Take your time, think about your pedals and your riding style, and use this guide to find the best mountain bike shoes for your situation. Once you ride in proper MTB shoes, you will wonder how you ever tolerated sneakers on the trail. Get out there and ride.