MTB and gravel shoes

SPD Cleats with Two Screws or Flat Pedals: Two Philosophies

Launched by Shimano in 1990, the SPD system was the first designed for off-road use: a small metal cleat with two screws, embedded in the sole, locks into the pedal and releases by rotating the heel outward. The foot pulls as much as it pushes, which helps on steep climbs. Shoes for flat pedals have no cleat socket: their soft rubber, with a shallow tread pattern, grips the pedal spikes, and the foot can be placed on the ground immediately in technical sections. You choose your sole based on your pedals, never the other way around.

The Rest of the Gear

MTB gear also includes:

• Helmets.
• Gloves.
• Jerseys.
• Shorts and Tights.
• Jackets.
• Textile Accessories.

All the gear can be found on the equipment page.

Sole Stiffness: Cross-Country, Trail and Gravel

The stiffer the sole, the more effort is directly transferred to the pedal. Cross-country shoes, like the Northwave Extreme, aim for this efficiency with a very stiff sole and a micro-adjustable dial closure. Trail models, like the Northwave Corsair or the Shimano from the ET range, retain some flex at the front of the foot for walking while pushing the bike. The Shimano RX range, the Giro Cylinder, and the Quoc with laces, featuring a carbon sole, are suitable for gravel and long mixed outings; the London brand, founded in 2009, maintains a style akin to city shoes.

Winter Boots and SPD Sandals: Riding in All Seasons

When the temperature drops, the winter boots Northwave Celsius XT, with a Gore-Tex membrane, and Himalaya, high and lined, cover the ankle and retain heat without sacrificing cleat space. They are often bought a half size up to accommodate a thick sock without crushing the foot, as a tight foot cools faster. Conversely, the SPD Shimano sandals ventilate the foot during summer hikes and cycling trips, and can also be worn at the stage. You adjust their ankle straps and rinse off mud before it dries.

Good Deals

Good deals can also be found in good plans, promotions, clearances, sales, Black Friday. The new arrivals showcase the latest collections, and items shipped in 24 hours are prepared and sent within 24 hours. The year's highlights follow a stable order: Black Friday at the end of autumn, the end-of-year holidays, winter sales, the French Days in spring, followed by summer sales and back-to-school.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Position MTB Cleats?

You place the centre of the cleat under the big toe joint, then orient it according to the natural angle of the foot, with the heel slightly inward or outward. Many mountain bikers then move the cleat back a bit to relieve the calves on descents.

What’s the Difference Between MTB Cleats and Road Cleats?

The MTB cleat, with two screws, is small and lodged in a recessed area of a cleated sole, allowing walking. The road cleat, with three screws, is wider and protruding: more stable on the pedal, it makes walking difficult.

Can SPD Cleats be Fitted to All MTB Shoes?

No, only shoes with a two-hole socket, often covered by a removable plate, can receive a cleat. Shoes for flat pedals have a solid sole and cannot be fitted.

Dial, Velcro or Laces: Which Closure to Choose?

The dial adjusts the fit to the millimetre, even while riding, and distributes pressure evenly. Laces provide a snug feel but can hold mud, and Velcro straps remain simple and economical for leisure rides.

How to Dry Wet MTB Shoes?

Remove the insoles, rinse off the mud with clean water, and stuff the shoes with newspaper, changing it after a few hours. Keep them away from a radiator, as heat can detach the sole and stiffen the upper.