Pedals (and Shoes) are a Thing
Who knew that pedals and shoes are a THING?!? This page intends to introduce you to the basics, so that your Rider is prepared appropriately.
Pedals
Entry-level bikes come with pedals, but these pedals do not support good foot-to-pedal adhesion, which is critical for safety on the trail. There are always options to upgrade your pedals.
New to pedal installation?
If you have never installed pedals, contact your local bike shop or ask a coach for help. It's easy to mess this up and damage the crank arm threads.
Flat pedal
Simple platform pedals with a relatively smooth surface. These are the pedals typically included on entry-level bikes.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Easy to use—just hop on and ride
- No special shoes required
- Quick foot adjustment or bail-out
Cons:
- Less grip, especially in wet or rough terrain
- Less secure, feet can slip on bumps
- Not made to last
Best for:
- Beginners
- Casual riding
- Commuting
Flat pedals with metal studs
Platform pedals with metal pins (studs) that dig into your shoe for traction. These pedals are an upgrade and are easy to find online.
Pros:
- Excellent grip and control on trails when paired with correct form and flat-pedal MTB shoes
- Still easy to get on/off—no clipping in
- Great confidence for technical riding
- Cool colors, great way to customize bike
- Built to last
- Slightly more aggressive feel
Cons:
- If pedals come into contact with legs, they could cause nasty gashes
- Slightly more expensive
- If worn with regular sneakers, the pedals will tear the shoes
Best for:
- Mountain biking
- Trail riding
- Riders who want grip without being clipped in
Clipless pedals
Pedals that use a cleat on a special shoe to “clip in” (despite the confusing name). Only experienced riders should use these pedals.
Pros:
- Maximum efficiency—power on both downstroke and upstroke
- Feet stay securely in place
- Better for long rides and racing
Cons:
- Learning curve (everyone tips over at least once!)
- Requires special shoes
- Harder to quickly put a foot down
- Require adjustments to ensure proper fit and tension
Best for:
- Racing
- Long-distance riding
- Experienced riders
Shoes
Guidelines on shoes, friends...
- Fit matters: Shoes should be snug but comfortable—no slipping, no pinching.
- Lace it right: Secure and tuck your laces (or use retention straps). Loose laces + moving parts = bad day.
- Embrace the mess: Mud is part of the sport—your shoes will get dirty.
- Prepare for the funk: Wet rides happen, and so does odor. Let shoes dry out after every ride.
Sneakers
Your everyday running or gym shoes—soft, flexible soles with general-purpose grip. They will work, but they will be destroyed by the end of the season.
Pros:
- Everyone already owns a pair
- Comfortable for walking and all-day wear
- No learning curve
Cons:
- Soles are too soft → lose power when pedaling and are damaged quickly
- Limited grip on pedals (especially wet/rough terrain)
- Less protection for toes and feet
Best for:
- Beginners
- Casual riding
- First few practices
Flat MTB shoes
Shoes designed specifically for flat MTB pedals, with stiff soles and super-sticky rubber that grip pedal pins. The grip helps maintain pedal connection.
There are flat-pedal shoes with the cleat cutout. Do NOT buy these for studded pedal use.
Pros:
- Excellent grip—your feet stay planted
- Stiffer sole = better power transfer than sneakers
- No clipping in—easy to step off
- Durable with toe protection
Cons:
- Not as efficient as clip-in systems
- Heavier/stiffer than regular shoes
Best for:
- Mountain biking, especially beginners to intermediate riders
Recommended brands:
Clipless pedals
Shoes with a cleat on the bottom that locks into clipless pedals (usually 2-bolt SPD for MTB).
Pros:
- Maximum pedaling efficiency (push + pull)
- Feet stay perfectly positioned
- Great for racing and long rides
Cons:
- Learning curve (twist to unclip!)
- Requires compatible pedals + setup
- Less natural for walking
Best for:
- Racers
- Experienced riders
- Riders ready to level up