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Mountain Bike Shoes - Efficient grip and cozy comfort? Check.
Most MTB shoes are designed for 2-bolt cleats, such as SPD (and equivalent systems). This is the most common standard for off-road cycling because it allows for a discreet cleat that is compatible with walking
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- Stiffer = better power transfer (ideal for XC, sustained pace).
- More forgiving = greater comfort and better walking (trail/enduro, long rides).
The "right" sole is one that lets you go for it without destroying your feet when you have to walk.
- BOA®: precise, quick, consistent micro-adjustment (great when you want a snug fit).
- Speedlace/laces: simple, lightweight, effective, easy to adjust, often feels more "flexible."
Choose according to your needs: locked fit (BOA®) or natural comfort (laces/Speedlace).
Mavic tip: heel well supported (no pumping), forefoot comfortable (toes free), and no areas that "pinch" when tightened. Keep in mind that when mountain biking, your feet swell a little over time: if they are too tight at the start, you will experience pain after an hour.
Remove the inner sole, loosen the laces, clean with warm water and a soft brush, then leave to dry in the open air, away from direct heat sources (radiators are a bad idea).
Two tips:
- Remove the inner sole to dry it faster.
- Leave the shoe open in a well-ventilated place. And if you ride often, alternating between two pairs of socks/soles can help.
Most often, it's because the cleat is worn, the cleat is not tightened properly, there is mud in the pedal, or the pedal tension needs to be adjusted. "Quick fix": clean, check that the cleats are tight, and replace them if they are very worn (rounded edges, play).
Workshop base: cleat in the middle of the metatarsal area, foot straight (no forced rotation).
- Pain in front of the knee: often cleat too far forward → move back slightly.
- Pain on the outside/inside of the knee: often the angle/rotation needs to be corrected → gradually realign.
- Foot "burning"/numbness: check for wedges too far forward, excessive tightness, overly rigid sole, or shoes that are too narrow.
Make micro-adjustments (2–3 mm), test on a ride, then readjust.
Quick check:
- Pedal tension (adjustment screw): left/right balance.
- Cleat: wear (rounded edges), play, tightness of screws.
- Alignment: if the cleat is turned too far, you are "forcing" the mechanism.
- Mud/sand: clean the pedal + cleat (rinsing + brushing often solves the problem).
If you often ride in wet conditions, remember to check your cleats more frequently: they are a wearing part.
This is the classic "mix": you want rigidity without losing practicality.
- Look for a rigid sole for pedaling, but with an effective walking zone (studs that grip).
- Choose a precise fit (BOA® or effective tightening) to prevent your foot from moving when you accelerate.
- For carrying, the important thing is the grip of the cleats and a reinforced toe cap: this prevents the shoe from being damaged on rocks.
In short: "locked fit + rigid sole + serious crampons" = efficiency without hassle when you put your foot down.