Cross-country Mountain Bikes

Types of Shoes

• Mountain bike: added traction for rugged trails; options for clipless or flat pedals

• Road cycling: stiffest soles for efficient pedaling; cleats connect to clipless pedals for maximum pedaling efficiency.

• City biking: comfortable, everyday; good for recreational riding or commuting

Find the Right Fit

• Choose shoes that feel comfortable from the start.

• Make sure your toes have enough room to wiggle slightly.

• Your arches should feel snug and supported; your heel should stay in place. 

Shoe Closure

• Lace-up: most customizable fit, can get wet or dirty in bad weather

• Strap: quick to adjust and more likely to stay secure

• Dial lace: delivers an adjustable fit with a quick-release cable system

• Single-pull lace: easy on and off with a single lace toggle

Clipless vs. Flat Pedals 

• Clipless: Offers a high level of control while riding fast or technical moves like hopping up onto curbs or over logs. Despite the name, you do clip in and out of them with special cleated shoes.

• Flat (platform): Don’t require clipping in and out, so it's easier to bail in a crash. No special shoes required.

What kind of riding will you be doing? 

• Mountain biking: Flat pedals paired with grippy bike shoes allow easy dismounts; clipless options offer more pedal efficiency, control and power while climbing, and feature 2-hole cleats. 

• Road cycling: Clipless pedals offer the greatest power and efficiency; often feature cleats with a 3-hole design. 

• Recreational riding: Flat pedals or 2-hole cleats make it easier to walk, mount and dismount. 

• Bike commuting: Clipless pedals boost efficiency over long distances; flat pedals let you wear regular shoes instead of cleats. 

Types of bike helmets

• Mountain bike: Rear-head coverage for off-road trails; often includes added ventilation
• Road bike: Lightweight, aerodynamic; designed for maximum airflow
• Recreational cycling: Budget-friendly choice for casual riding

Fit tips 

• Measure the largest part of your head with a flexible measuring tape (or use string, then measure it)
• Check the brand's sizing chart
• Aim for a snug fit 
• Between sizes? Choose the smaller size 

Added protection 

Look for technologies that reduce rotational forces during a crash, like Mips, WaveCel or KinetiCore.

Features 

• Vents: More vents improve airflow and reduce weight
• Visor/brim: Keeps the sun out of your eyes
• Chin bars: Extra protection for downhill mountain biking