As you ponder over what pair of shoes are best suited for enduro mountain biking – certainly there will not be a shortage of opinions and options presented by many. However, they will agree on one aspect, that is – for the best experience offered by any cycling activity – you are definitely not doing it right until you have a pair of shoes that have been specially designed for your biking type.
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Whether you are riding clip pedals or flat pedals, the best Enduro mountain bike shoes will allow you to show more confidence on the pedal with improved control. They should be able to deliver a comfortable experience while serving the riders for a long time. Now if you want to select the best pair – you will need a little more. This is where we have come to help you, with this article.
However, we see how these bike shoes bring about tweaks in their designs for features that affect the toe and overall foot security – in all weather conditions, along with shoe stiffness. After extensive research on a significant number of MTB shoes, we probed into every aspect of their comfort, design, and performances. Finally, we can conclude that the Shimano ME7 Shoes is the best mountain bike shoe for XC and trail riding, with clipless pedals. That is why we have entitled this shoe as our “Overall Best Choice”.
Grippy rubber soles, good foot protection, comfortable, great power transfer | Overall Best Choice
Shimano ME7 shoes offer enduro riders to settle for this lightweight cycling shoe that does not only offer abundant shielding and grip but also improves their responsiveness with pedals. The ME7 is made from a Carbon Fiber Composite Midsole that ensures excellent power transfer. The outsole is made of rubber, in collaboration with Michelin, so you’ll have a fantastic grip in all conditions. The upper is made of synthetic leather that’s durable and pretty cozy. The fastening is done with a low profile reverse ratcheting buckle that you can adjust on the go if need be. It is mounted on the flap closer to the top of your foot. This is intended to further reduce the chance of ripping it off.
Extra coverage of the ME7’s asymmetric neoprene cuff will keep trial debris out from your shoes. Shimano collaborated with Michelin to develop rubber compounds and a tire tread-inspired pattern that would provide grip and durability, while also interfacing perfectly with their pedals. One of Shimano’s more aggressive clipless shoes, it has been designed with enduro-style riding in mind. A combination of the 8 out of 12 scores on Shimano’s stiffness index for the outsole and other features incorporated by Shimano makes it our overall best choice.
- Type: Downhill, Enduro / All-Mountain, Freeride / Bike Park, Trail
- Gender: Men & Women
- Weight: 425 g (Size 44EU)
- Upper Body Material: Synthetic Leather/Mesh
- Midsole: Carbon fiber composite midsole
- Outsole: Nylon Fiberglass
- Footbed: Extra-cushion
- Closure: 3 Velcro Strap
- Compatibility: 2-bolt (SPD)
- OutSole Stiffness: 8 out of 12
Here is a quick view of our selected best shoes for enduro mountain biking:
| Shoe | Weight (gm)/Shoe | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano ME7 shoes | 425 | 96 |
| Shimano SH-GR9 - Cycling shoes | 390 | 93 |
| Shimano SH-AM7 | 445 | 94 |
| Mavic Deemax Elite | 445 | 85 |
| Fizik M6 Donna Mountain Bike Shoes | 385 | 84 |
| Giro Chamber II Downhill - Cycling shoes | 510 | 95 |
| Giro Terraduro Mid | 435 | 90 |
| Mavic Crossmax Elite | 445 | 90 |
| Five Ten Hellcat | 565 | 89 |
| Ion Rascal - Cycling shoes | 469 | 88 |
10 best bike shoes for enduro biking that you can buy now
| Shoe | Preview | Riding Type | Gender | Weight(single shoe) /Size | Upper Body Material | Midsole | Outsole | Closure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shimano ME7 shoes | downhill, enduro / all-mountain, freeride, rail | Unisex | 425g/EU 44 | Synthetic | Carbon fiber composite | Michelin rubber | Speed lace system | |
| Shimano SH-GR9 - Cycling shoes | downhill, enduro, trail | Men | 390g/Men EU 42 | synthetic leather | textile (mesh) | MICHELIN® rubber | Speed lace, Hook and loop lace shield | |
| Shimano SH-AM7 | downhill/enduro | Unisex | 445g/EU45 | Synthetic leather | Vibram | Vibram | Laces. Power strap | |
| Mavic Deemax Elite | MTB | Unisex | 445g/EU 42 | synthetic | EVA | Energy Grip AM | Quick Lace, Contagrip | |
| Fizik M6 Donna Mountain Bike Shoes | MTB, CX or even commuting to work. | Women | 385g/EU 42.5 | canvas | carbon-reinforced | Rubber | Boa, Microtex strap | |
| Giro Chamber II Downhill - Cycling shoes | Downhill | Men | 510g/EU 43 | Water-resistant, breathable microfiber upper with Rock Print | optimized EVA midsole | Full Vibram Megagrip | Laces with a Velcro top strap | |
| Giro Terraduro Mid | Cycling | UNISEX | 435g/EU42.5 | Evofiber microfiber | Aegis antibacterial fabric EVA | Vibram rubber | Slip-on | |
| Mavic Crossmax Elite | MTB, XC | Men | 445g/EU44 | thin upper construction (synthetic) | “Energy Grip Trail” EVA by Mavic | Energy Grip Terra combined with Contagrip® | Ergo Dial QR, Ergo Straps | |
| Five Ten Hellcat | MTB | Men | 565g/EU444 | Synthetic, DWR | Dual-density TPU shank/Compression-molded EVA | Full dotty C4 rubber | Lace | |
| Ion Rascal - Cycling | MTB | Unisex | 469g/EU42 | Perforated synthetic leather | EVA + TPU | SupTraction Rubber Soul CL | Lace, velcro strap |
1. Shimano ME7: Grippy rubber soles, good foot protection, comfortable, great power transfer | Overall Best Choice
- Riding Type: Mountain
- Gender: Unisex
- Weight(Single)/Size : 425 g (Size EU 44)
- Upper Body Material: Synthetic
- Midsole: Carbon fiber composite sole/
- Outsole: Michelin rubber outsole rubber
- Footbed: Extra-cushion insole
- Closure: Speed lace system and upper ratchet strap
- Acceptable Cleat Mount: 2-bolt (SPD)
- Size: EU38-EU50
- Color: Blue/Black
- Stiffness: Shimano gives the ME7’s outsole an 8 out of 12 on their stiffness index.
- Lightweight pedaling efficiency: The semi-stiff construction transfers power effectively without compromising performance on hike-a-bike sections. A carbon fiber composite sole/midsole provides pedaling effectiveness similar to that of an XC shoe.
- Comfort: Decent cushioning in the underfoot provides solid shock absorption for long and technical descents. High cuff and neoprene protect the ankle area from rock strikes. It also seems extremely well ventilated – the mesh panel over the front of the foot allows for a generous amount of airflow. It also carries a wide toe-box.
- Neoprene ankle collar: The tall collar protects against small rocks and dirt, which can be a frequent problem on enduro and mountain terrains. Adds to the mud-shedding capabilities of this shoe.
- Closure System: Shimano has opted for a single-pull lacing system underneath a Velcro-secured nylon flap with an added buckle closure – offering sufficient options for adjustment and customization
- Low-profile upper buckle: The design of the low-profile upper buckle ensures that any excess slack in the strap is hidden beneath the rest of the flap and faces inwards. Riders can simply pull the laces until their feet are snugly followed by securing the nylon flap.
- Torsional midsole: Allows more sideways flexibility in the back of the sole while the forefoot when forefoot has been placed on the pedal – allowing improved balance and boosts bike control during descents which require technical skill.
- On-Bike Support: The cleat is attached farther back in the ME7, allowing riders to put more weight over the foot center. The larger contact area between the shoe and pedal – which in turn adds more confidence to the riders.
- MICHELIN High-Traction Rubber Treads: The sticky rubber sole from Michelin is a key feature of the ME7. The pattern of the sole is more widely spaced with more aggressive tread patterns towards the toe and heel of the shoe. This helps with traction while walking and in hike-a-bike sections. Even in loose conditions, this provides sufficient traction.
- Power to the Pedal: Shimano’s footwear and pedal are designed and engineered together as a whole system. From SPD-SL to SPD – each combination offers boosted biomechanics, selection of material, high-quality engineering, and craftsmanship – to enhance the confidence of the rider while increasing efficiency.
- During the initial break-in period, there will be a slight discomfort on the inside of the ankle.
- Unwanted space in the shoe due to the hIgh-volume fit
- The polarizing outlook may not be liked by everyone.
- Use the Cleat Tool by Ergon for the correct ergonomic position of the feet on the pedal by adjusting the length, the Q-Factor and foot angle can be perfectly adjusted.
The Shimano ME7 is the top enduro and trail line-up series with a reputation for being versatile and a do-it-all shoe. Can be used with both platform and clipless pedals. It has found the perfect balance between XC lightness and enduro durability. These shoes do not compromise on speed while there is a game-changing amount of grip and traction to allow for an aggressive stance on riding. They give all-mountain and enduro riders a lightweight option with ample protection and traction, without sacrificing responsiveness on the pedals. The SH-ME7 achieves its streamlined fit and consistent power transfer through a synthetic upper and stiff outsole, which earns a rating of 8/12 on Shimano’s stiffness index. Torsional midsole “TORBAL“ allows for a better, more natural flow when riding downhill.
The MICHELIN high-performance, the dual-density rubber outsole offers superior traction with unmatched durability, stability, and slip resistance Strategic Lug Placement Pattern for better grip without sacrificing pedaling efficiency. Pedal contact areas, toe, and heel all exhibit a SHIMANO-standard blend of grip and durability. Boosting comfort, the super low-profile reverse mount buckle secures your foot with the perfect fitting and it works in coherence with the lacing system to get you into the saddle faster. Adapting to all shapes and sizes, riders also benefit from a stretch Neoprene ankle collar to protect general trail debris. We tried out EU size 44, which weighs 425 g. In our experience, Shimano shoes tend to be sized small. Consider choosing one size larger than you re used to. To help you with the size, we have included Shimano’s size chart below:
Shimano ME7 shoes
2. Shimano SH-GR9: Super grippy soles w/ sturdy construction
- Riding Type: Downhill, Enduro, Trail
- Gender: Men
- Weight(Single)/Size : 390 g (EU 42)
- Upper Body Material: synthetic leather
- Midsole: Textile (mesh)
- Outsole: MICHELIN rubber
- Footbed: AM/MT insole
- Closure: speed lace, hook and loop lace shield
- Acceptable Cleat Mount: N/A
- Size: 36EU-48EU
- Color: Grey/ Green
- GR Series: GR series offers shoes specifically designed for the demands of gravity-assisted riding.
- Expanded cleat adjustments range: Provides extra room for riders who prefer to mount their cleats further back, behind the ball of the foot. The outsole cleat-adjustment range of 11 mm from the outsole and 11 mm from the cleat allows each rider the opportunity to find their best cleat position.
- Michelin Rubber Outsole: For the extreme demands of gravity-assisted riding. Specifically designed outsole, the result of the cooperation of Shimano and Michelin: this sole is characterized by two zones of different density and a strategically placed knob pattern for better grip without compromising pedaling efficiency. The blocks are widely spaced so that the pins for the pedal can fit. This also allows them to firmly hug the pins, with respect to the fact that shallow side is featuring tread depth.
- Good drying properties: For the upper body, care was given to pick a material that absorbs less water and dries up quickly, and thus Shimano went with synthetic leather.
- Asymmetrical upper: Asymmetrically raised padded ankle collar and sidewall sole protect your foot.
- AM/MT Insole: This insole has groove features on the back and front that are specially designed to adapt to various foot shapes and riding conditions.
- Armored Lace Shield: The upper portion of the shoe features an armored lace shield that provides added protection from flying debris
- Speed Lacing: “Speed” system for lacing is hidden under the shiepd that is using velcro lacee. This will help to make adjustments and fit the shoe quickly.
- Molded Toe Cap: Provides additional protection for the toes during aggressive downhill riding.
- Size Guide: Shimano shoes (except the GORE-TEX models) run narrow and may be smaller than expected. The best solution is to order one size larger than usual.
- OutSole Stiffness: 3 (on a scale of 1 to 12)
- Perforations in the upper body will let water in
- The grip may not be to the liking of many riders
- Unorthodox shoe design may not appeal to riders
In the search for the ultimate rubber sole, Shimano enlisted the help of Michelin for their flagship flat pedal shoe; the GR9. They feature a custom tread pattern focused on optimal traction with pedal pins Nice and light, weighing about 365g. The Shimano SH-GR9 – Cycling shoes provide good performance on Alpine downhills to local mountain bike enduros. High-grip Michelin rubber outsole offers a superb level of grip on flat pedals. The tread pattern has been optimized for grip for use after getting down from the bike. It will push back up to the trailhead or re-riding a feature to get it right.
On the inner ankle the cut is asymmetrical, which features a padded ankle collar and sidewall protection to protect you from the odd stray crank, or frame in the event of a crash during aggressive trail riding. This protection is also found on the toe, where the mold toe cap fends off strikes from rocks and roots. The textured pattern on the sole does well to lock into traction pins on the pedal body, giving a secure and stable feel when descending. Also, the Shimano SH-GR9 has better underfoot padding making that foot feel a little less fatigued at the end of a longer ride. Getting on the trail quicker is made easy via the speed lacing system and this is also covered for added protection. With a synthetic upper GR9s absorb less water, perfect for muddy mountain bike trails, and they dry quicker too – less drying time between rides means no more soggy feet when you’re riding back to back trail days. Laser-cut perforations hit the uppers both laterally along the side of the foot, and toe box – keeping the shoe breathable. We know that the shoe features expanded cleat adjustment range technology, where riders can adjust their cleats for optimum cleat position. We have provided a chart suggesting adjustments for Shimano designs and sizes:
Shimano SH-GR9 – Cycling shoes
3. Shimano SH-AM7: Laces allow for high adjustability, Great traction while hiking
- Riding Type: Downhill/enduro
- Gender: Unisex
- Weight(Single)/Size : 445 g (Size EU 45)
- Upper Body Material: Synthetic leather
- Midsole: Vibram
- Outsole: Vibram
- Footbed: Cup insole
- Closure: Laces plus power strap
- Acceptable Cleat Mount: 2-bolt (SPD)
- Size: 36EU-48EU
- Color: Gray/Blue, Lime Green, Black
- Outsole stiffness: 6 (out of 12 for Shimano off-road shoes)
- Expanded cleat-adjustment range: 22 mm of the total combined cleat-adjustment range offers each rider the ability to select the best possible cleat position. Designed to be longer towards the back to support a wider variety of riding styles and preferences, specifically tuned for gravity riding
- Synthetic Upper: A perforated synthetic upper with mesh ensures optimum heat management. Composite mesh and TPU upper absorb less water and dry faster.
- Lace Cover: The lace cover is a really neat touch and helps fend off instantly wet feet from splashes, though it only delays the inevitable. There is also an instep strap to help reduce heel lift that provides great arch support too
- Ultra-grip rubber sole: AM7/AM7W shoes feature a new proprietary Shimano rubber outsole for maximized grip and durability. An original compound and toe/heel tread pattern will increase traction for superior off-the-bike grip.
- High-wall protection: Reinforced sidewall protects feet on aggressive gravity rides. The inside of the shoe is also slightly raised to help protect your ankle and overall they’re a very pleasant place for your feet to be in on a long ride.
- Pedal channel: An extended pedal channel provides more stable contact between shoe and pedal when clipped out. The profile of the channel is designed to mirror the engagement ‘wings’ of a Shimano SPD pedal, where you can rest your shoes on top of the pedal without actually clipping in
- Cleat compatibility: These shoes are optimized to connect with Shimano SAINT PD-M820 pedals
- Size Guide: It is suggested to order Shimano shoes one size larger than usual. as they usually run narrow and may be smaller than expected.
- Could be stiffer
- Though the adjustment range is extended, it certainly makes the process longer.
- Can be a little slippery on harder surfaces such as roots or rock.
- Not as attractive as other shoes
The Shimano SH-AM7 shoes are versatile downhill and enduro shoes that offer exceptional pedal performance and a pedal channel to improve contact when clicked out. the AM series (clip-in pedals) has been updated with improved protection, new uppers, and grippier rubber soles. This shoe pairs perfectly with large platform clipless pedals but also works well with small platform pedals.
AM series features the ‘Volume Tour Last’, which basically means they’re wider at the ball of the foot to provide more freedom to spread out feet. They deliver a middle-of-the-road fit. The lace-up design offers a better fit that any plastic ratchets or dials could ever achieve and they are more durable too. Elastic ‘lace guard’ with a Velcro retention strap at the top increases security while the molded heel cap better lock your foot in place. We also find the addition of a sturdy loop at the back for pulling the shoes on. A softer rubber compound with built-in proper tread lugs allows superior traction, with far more grip on scrabbly dust and lose rocks. The neoprene ankle gaiter is a stretchy little skirt that is surprisingly effective at keeping out seeds and tiny pebbles. Even when blasting through muddy puddles, shoes did not fill up with dehydrated mud. For the EU 45 size, they weigh 445 g which means that the shoes are certainly not light.
Shimano SH-AM7
4. Mavic Deemax Elite: Exceptional traction & control, Asymmetrical design
- Riding Type: MTB
- Gender: Unisex
- Weight(Single)/Size : 445 g (Size EU 42)
- Upper Body Material: synthetic
- Midsole: EVA
- Outsole: Energy Grip AM
- Footbed: Ortholite
- Closure: Quick Lace
- Acceptable Cleat Mount: 2-bolt
- Size: EU36 – EU48 ⅔
- Color: Black/Smoked Pearl/Black
- New Energy Grip AM Outsole: The Energy Grip AM outsole offers optimal stability and pedal control allowing to ride harder.
- Index Energy Transfer: These shoes score 40 out of 100 on Mavic’s Power transmission index
- OrthoLite: This is a high-quality insole designed to prolong comfort performance and reduce vibration. OrthoLite foam compresses less than 5% over the lifetime of the product—so the cushioning, fit, comfort, and performance will remain consistent. This insole is extremely lightweight and provides the best comfort with better performance.
- Contagrip: The Contagrip stud profile means you will experience maximum traction and a longer lifespan on any surface.
- Adjustable: The Velcro cover provides excellent support and protection. The Quick Lace lacing can be quickly fixed and fine-tuned.
- Added ankle and foot protection: Medium-high ankle protection made of elastic, perforated neoprene material. Additional toe and heel protection for use in rough terrain. The cover holds the laces in place more securely.
- The grip could be improved as it is not sufficient for secure foot positioning.
- Compound performance is affected by temperature drops.
A blend of durable grip, secured retention, and comfort – Mavic’s Deemax Elite Shoe is the ideal companion for all-mountain adventures. Tightening down the fit is an effortless and simple affair with Mavic’s Quick Lace single-pull system, with a large protective hook-and-loop strap across the top of the foot for extra security and fit adjustment.
Mavic has put in a band of perforated neoprene around the ankle for added protection from errant branches, rocks, and other trail obstacles, while the Energy Grip AM outsole is very efficient to transfer power. Features Contagrip rubber allows confident pedal contact and exceptional grip when scrambling over rocky surfaces. The Ortholite insole ensures great comfort – thanks to superior cushioning when pedaling and on foot. Mavic gives the Deemax Elite a design that is asymmetrical on the trail while performing best in tough operating conditions. Also, heel and toe caps provide even more protection and durability. Check out the size and fit chart for Mavic below:
Mavic Deemax Elite
5. Fizik M6 Donna: High-performance cycling shoes w/ maximum pedal power
- Riding Type: MTB, CX or even commuting to work.
- Gender: Women
- Weight(Single)/Size : 385 g (Size EU 42.5)
- Upper Body Material: Laser-perforated Microtex and Nylon mesh
- Midsole: Carbon-reinforced
- Outsole: Rubber sole
- Footbed: Sculpted Fizik’s Superlight
- Closure: Boa and welded Microtex strap
- Acceptable Cleat Mount: 2-hole mountain
- Size: EU36-EU43
- Color: Black/Anthracite/Emerald
- Carbon-reinforced nylon midsole: a carbon-reinforced nylon outsole is stiff enough for efficient power transfer while remaining on the lower end of the carbon cost spectrum.
- Rubber Outsole: the outsole is engineered to drive power to the pedals while remaining flexible enough for comfort on long rides. Fitted with high friction rubber treads for extra grip
- Microtex with Nylon Mesh: M6B is made from strong but breathable Microtex and nylon mesh. Microtex fabric with nylon mesh windows is highly breathable and ensures proper ventilation within these shoes. Microtex is lighter than leather, very durable, good in wet conditions, and is very easy to clean up.
- Insole: Fizik’s Superlight Insole supports arches and absorbs road vibration by providing a bit of cushion. They are clearly shaped to provi
