The best clipless MTB shoes you can buy for trail riding

Giro Terraduro Mid

No sooner do you lace up the Giro Terraduro Mid that their intent is clear, the uninterrupted smooth lines and contoured sole unit screams ‘let’s ride f’cking fast’. The perforated Ariaprene™ mid-top design extends up over the ankle bone, giving great protection and helping keep trail debris and spray out of the shoe. A sturdy toe box helps ward off rock strikes and the fit feels great through the shoe, comfortable but minimalist. The standard laces do not have the precise adjustment potential of the Boa or thinner laces in this group, and without a top strap we did struggle to get the firm and secure feeling that defines the best shoes, but the high cuff and clever asymmetric ankle coverage helped boost confidence. We were very impressed with the weather-proofing on the Giro Terraduro Mid, the large lace shield secures down firmly and water ingress is kept to a minimum on the trail, a rival to even dedicated winter shoes, we did find it a little warm on hot summer days though.

Clippless MTB shoes trail riding review 019 1140x760

When powering down on the pedals the stiff nylon shanked sole transmits great power, and with minimal lateral flex the feel is very ‘race’, albeit lacking a little sensitivity. We liked the Vibram sole unit which has enough bite on slippery terrain, but the stiff sole does make long walks uncomfortable, though the rocker does help if you are climbing something steep. Underneath the cleat pocket is quite short, providing a little less adjustment than the best in test and the tread around the cleat pocket is tall so pedal entry is not always machine-gun quick. The styling of the Terraduro Mid polarised the test team, some loved it’s sleek raciness, while others would not want to be caught in the pub wearing them. Water absorption was very good, initially a little higher than the best in test, but drying very fast.

The Giro Terraduro Mid would suit a rider looking for a high performance shoe that transmits a lot of power and works well in all weathers. Not one for introverts, the loud and proud colours and distinctive styling will appeal to rides who like to shout ‘I smash KOM’s uphill’ everywhere they go. However, during descents the stiff sole limits performance.