The best clipless MTB shoes you can buy for trail riding

Best value – ION Rascal

Sometimes it’s cool to belong, to show our sport as part of our identity. However, once you have left the trail XC style disco-slippers are about as cool as the classic sock and sandal combo. Function should never follow form, but can we have both? Yes we can. Mixing funky sneaker styling with great all round performance, the ION Rascal is leagues ahead. The standard laces cannot match the precise adjustment of the Specialized’s BOA, but the supportive fit and velcro top strap ensure a secure feel on the pedals. When putting down the power the SupTraction Rubber Soul CL with EVA midsole offers a good transfer of watts, with enough flex to let you slam your heels into corners and feel the edge of grip. Playful riders will love the lateral flex that gives a more flat pedal vibe to the riding feel.

Clippless MTB shoes trail riding review best value 1140x760

When it gets steep and you need to hike, the articulated toe makes walking a comfortable affair, however the tread lacks the bite to cut into deep mud. The cleat pocket is wide and gives just enough range to slam the cleat to the back for a more gravity style. We experienced no compatibility issues with any of the leading pedals, however the deep cleat recess cannot match the unobstructed clip-in of the Mavic and Shimano shoes. All testers liked the protective fit, with a sturdy toe box to ward off rock strikes and asymmetric ankle cuff, commenting especially on the firm heel hold. The perforations in the last allow just enough ventilation for summer use, but we found them best for the spring and fall. In our absorption testing, they were middle of the road, no match for the best but offering more padding. At a price of only €139.99 they take our Best Buy award with ease and were one of the favouritesoften first to be chosen by our testers for quick trail rides.

The ION Rascal is the perfect all-rounder trail shoe, great looks, great flex, great power transfer and easy on the wallet. While they cannot match the brutal power transfer and firm hold of the best in test, they offer more feel for playful riding, and are a breeze to walk in, a firm test team favourite.