MTB Shoes/Trainers
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Discussion

Original Poster

Original Poster:

5,429 posts

205 months

Tuesday 30th August 2011
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I have been riding for a couple of weeks now, combination of road/Trains and general woodland riding.

So far I've been wearing plimsoles and subsequently my legs are cut to pieces, I look like a 10 year old boy that loves the outdoors!

I ride a hard tail and use DMR V8's. What trainer/shoe would you recommend? Budget quite negotiable. Ideally £40 - £80.

-C-

518 posts

224 months

Tuesday 30th August 2011
quotequote all
5:10's.

Jimbo.

4,215 posts

218 months

Tuesday 30th August 2011
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Many run "skate" style trainers: as long as they've a sticky sole, yer' sorted. They can be sourced a little cheaper than a cycling-specific shoe, and look a damn sight better.

If however you want something bike-specific (stiffer yet stickier sole, more foot/ankle support, more durable, some have a vague attempt at keeping water out), your best bet is EITHER something from the 5.10 line ( http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Brands.aspx?BrandID=247), such as the Impact Low 2 (http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=18195) or Freerider ( http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=63950), OR the Shimano AM41 ( http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Models.aspx?ModelID=55371).

I've used the Impact 2s and the AM41s predecessor, the AM40 (same, just with utterly horrid-to-the-point-of-amazing colours biggrin), and much, much prefer the Shimanos: infinitely better made, nowhere near as big/clumpy, dry out quicker and keep water out better, and the stiffer sole makes for better pedalling. The Vibram sole offers 99% the grip of the 5.10s "Stealth" rubber sole.
The 5.10s are comically ugly and clumpy, soak up a LOT of water, weigh 2 metric tonnes when they do, and take an eternity to dry out. They also seem to fall apart and rot quickly after a few wet/dry cycles.

Original Poster

Original Poster:

5,429 posts

205 months

Tuesday 30th August 2011
quotequote all
Funnily enough I've just been looking at the 5.10's, they seem perfect!

subsea99

464 posts

202 months

Tuesday 30th August 2011
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Another vote for 5-10's just got a pair of the impact 2 low,can't believe how much grip they have

subsea99

464 posts

202 months

Wednesday 31st August 2011
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Another vote for 5-10's just got a pair of the impact 2 low,can't believe how much grip they have

Fetchez la vache

5,898 posts

243 months

Wednesday 31st August 2011
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More Five10's here.. freeriders.
My old pair wore out after 2 or 3 years of mtbing + commuting + general kick about wear - basically I lived in them. Alas I couldn't get hold of the same colour (red & white ones) and this years colours are a matter of love/hate. Personally I hate all the current colours but they were so good I've ordered another pair and they arrived an hour ago oddly enough..

... they won't stay white for long smile