We’re fortunate in the UK to be able to ride year-round. In the MTB hotspots of mainland Europe and North America, mountain biking has to pause for the snowy season. But us lucky Brits can trudge on through our own, rather gloomier, winter, only stopping our two-wheeled adventures for a cuppa and a slice of cake. However, that does leave us needing appropriate kit, which can mean the difference between a marvellous mud-filled memory and a soaking, shivering shocker of a ride.
While a decent waterproof jacket is often the first priority, keeping your extremities – such as fingers and toes – comfortable in the cold and wet is an equally important piece of the puzzle. Not that long ago, winter MTB shoes were essentially winter road-bike shoes with an XC tread pattern added around the clipless cleat, and woe betide any flat-pedal riders who wanted to plough through puddles. Fortunately, plenty of brands now see the necessity for dedicated trail/enduro-style winter footwear, and are making quality weatherproof MTB designs.
We’ve tested 10 pairs this issue – five clipless and five designed for flat pedals – to keep you up to date on the latest and hottest (pun fully intended) winter bike shoes. Each features some form of waterproof membrane, to help keep rain and puddle-spray out, as well as varying levels of insulation, to keep body heat in. The different brands have their own takes on
