Mountain Biking - Why are mountain bike shoes so stiff?

Why does MTB shoes is very stiff (you cant bend the shoes even a bit)? It seems a lot of competition shoes are like that and this made me wondering, how are you supposed to get a grip on loose uneven terrain if your shoe cant even bend?

Eggbeaters, sorry to ask this leo but I need to know, why does MTB shoes is very stiff (you cant bend the shoes even a bit)? It seems a lot of competition shoes are like that and this made me wondering, how are you supposed to get a grip on loose uneven terrain if your shoe cant even bend?

The shoes are stiff so they can transfer as much power as possible from your leg to the pedal. The more flex there is the more power you are going to lose. As for them being uncomfortable when walking they aren't really designed to be walked in too much. I don't find my Sidi's all that comfortable to walk or run in but the stiffness is worth the trade off.

Oic, I was wondering that, too bad that kind of shoe is not really good for Malaysia cross country terrain because some of the trail parts you must walk up :(

Oic, I was wondering that, too bad that kind of shoe is not really good for Malaysia cross country terrain because some of the trail parts you must walk up :(

There are a lot of nasty spots in the US as well. You just have to get used to it and tough it out. Either that or buy shoes with soles that aren't as stiff.

lets hope they bring the correct Nike YVRIII shoe size if not im taking SIDI's

sorry bout that, I was hoping to get a short answer so I guess it wouldnt need another thread bout that sorry :(

This place wouldn't be the same without you, Wheelhot. :)

wheelhot, don't take any of the jokes and comments personally. Your presence is appreciated in that you entertain us. There is no malice in any one's comments, at least none that I perceive.

I actually wear a soft soled mtn bike shoe. Its Shimano, and its got a rubber sole and bends like a normal shoe. I use CB Candy pedals with em. Honestly, they work great because even if I dont clip in, the rubber grabs the pedal enough to ride... which allows me to perform some stunts I might not otherwise try with my feet locked in.

Like a concret shell around my feet I have my shoes, so i can pedal to the metal and run like hell, so i beat the Kenyan man, even though Im white.


I should be a poemest:D

Eggbeaters, sorry to ask this leo but I need to know, why does MTB shoes is very stiff (you cant bend the shoes even a bit)? It seems a lot of competition shoes are like that and this made me wondering, how are you supposed to get a grip on loose uneven terrain if your shoe cant even bend?

Why Im I in this? Eggbeaters eh? OK

Why Im I in this? Eggbeaters eh? OK

What are you drinking (or smoking)???

As LowCel has hinted and as you've figured out, it's mainly the competition shoes that are very stiff. This is to combat a number of problems. First and foremost has to do with power transfer efficiency of course. Secondly, SPD style two-bolt MTB cleats are prone to causing hotspots due to the smaller cleat-sole contact area and thus higher contact pressures. Stiffer soles help prevent these hotspots from developing in the foot.

If your're looking for more walkable MTB shoes, try and stick to the line meant for recreational rather than race/competition.

:D, thanks guys, Im getting Eggies and If im not mistaken Nike YVRIII has a stiff yet bendable sole

As LowCel has hinted and as you've figured out, it's mainly the competition shoes that are very stiff. This is to combat a number of problems. First and foremost has to do with power transfer efficiency of course. Secondly, SPD style two-bolt MTB cleats are prone to causing hotspots due to the smaller cleat-sole contact area and thus higher contact pressures. Stiffer soles help prevent these hotspots from developing in the foot.

If your're looking for more walkable MTB shoes, try and stick to the line meant for recreational rather than race/competition.

What he said. I would also add, that if you thought MTB shoes were stiff, try a set of race/competition road shoes :eek: I've got entry level on both, and the road shoes are far stiffer, and the MTB shoes are stiff, but not totally so, as it is.

yeah, and footballers shoes are stiff also, the last time i Check

yeah, and footballers shoes are stiff also, the last time i Check
Its so they dont break there ankle.


[QUOTE] Eggbeaters, sorry to ask this leo but I need to know, why does MTB shoes is very stiff (you cant bend the shoes even a bit)? It seems a lot of competition shoes are like that and this made me wondering, how are you supposed to get a grip on loose uneven terrain if your shoe cant even bend? [QUOTE]

see i am in this :p

Oo, never thought of that

If im not mistaken Nike YVRIII has a stiff yet bendable sole what?
how could it be stiff and bendable

because some shoe which I had is you need quite a force to bend it and its quite stiff (not as stiff as a competition shoe, yet stiff)