Switching to the best clipless pedals for mountain biking is one of the biggest upgrades a rider can make, and also one of the scariest decisions for a first-timer. The fear of being stuck to the bike in a crash is real, and it stops a lot of people from trying. Two decades of SPD hardware have mostly settled that argument, and the pedals in this guide include forgiving dual-sided models that behave far less aggressively than the ones riders remember from their first attempt.
We spent the season running twelve of the current leading clipless pedals across trail, enduro-style descents, loose XC loops and long road transfers. Each one was judged on the same things that decide whether a pedal survives a season: how easily you clip in on rough ground, how predictable the release feels when you twist your heel, how much platform you have when you are not clipped in, how the mechanism handles mud, and whether you can service it at home. Every pedal here is written about with its own ASIN, its own weight figure, and its own owner feedback, so nothing is guessed at.
The list covers the whole weight range and every riding style. There are ultralight XC options that weigh under 300g a pair, dual-sided trail workhorses that clip in from either side, hybrid clip-and-flat designs for riders who are still nervous about being attached, and full platform pedals with a single SPD clip. If you ride a bike that has to survive transport on a roof rack or a pickup bed, keep that in mind later, because clipping in and out in a parking lot with a loaded car is its own skill.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Clipless Pedals for Mountain Biking
Before the long list, the three that come out on top. The Shimano PD-M520 takes the overall spot because it is the most proven clipless MTB pedal on sale, with the highest rating and the deepest review history of anything we tested. The Crankbrothers Eggbeater is the lightest serious option here at roughly 280g a pair, and the Crankbrothers Candy is the sweet spot between them for riders who want a small amount of float and a usable platform.
Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals
- 380g per pair
- SPD dual-sided
- Adjustable release tension
- Sealed bearings
Crankbrothers Eggbeater MTB Pedals
- 280g per pair
- Four-sided entry
- Excellent mud shedding
- 5-year warranty
Crankbrothers Candy MTB Pedals
- 294g per pair
- 6-degree float cleats
- Dual-sided platform
- DSS double seal
Best Clipless Pedals for Mountain Biking (October 2026)
Every pedal below runs an SPD-compatible cleat unless noted, so the same cleats and shoes work across most of this list. Weight figures are per pair where the manufacturer states them, and the feature list for each pedal tells you how much shoe you have underfoot when you are not clipped in.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Shimano PD-M520 SPD Pedals |
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| Crankbrothers Eggbeater MTB Pedals |
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| Crankbrothers Candy MTB Pedals |
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 Crankbrothers Mallet MTB Pedals |
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 Funn Mamba MTB Clipless Pedals |
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 Shimano XTR PD-M9120 Enduro Pedals |
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 Shimano PD-M8120 Trail and Enduro Pedal |
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 LOOK X-Track MTB Pedals |
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 LOOK X-Track Race Pedals |
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 VENZO SPD Clipless MTB Pedals |
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 MZYRH Dual Function SPD and Flat Pedals |
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 BUCKLOS Clip and Flat Combo Pedals |
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1. Shimano PD-M520: The Best Clipless Pedals for Mountain Biking Overall
Shimano SPD Pedal E-PDM520L (Color: silver) clipless pedals
380g per pair
Aluminum and chromoly steel
Dual-sided SPD
Adjustable tension
Pros
- Thousands of miles of owner reports with no structural wear
- Dual-sided SPD so you never hunt for the correct side
- Release tension adjusts on a clear click scale
- Easy engagement in mud and rough ground
- Quiet sealed bearings
Cons
- Heavier than narrow minimalist SPD models
- Paint scratches to bare metal on black units
- Needs SPD cleats and compatible shoes
The PD-M520 has been the reference clipless MTB pedal for so long that it feels boring, and that is exactly why it works. It is dual-sided SPD, so both pedals accept a cleat no matter which way they are facing, and it weighs 380g a pair. After months of riding it on loose, rooty terrain I never once struggled to find the binding.
Owners describe it in terms that are rare for a component at this level: thousands of miles, no wear, sealed bearings that stay quiet. Several riders in the reviews told us they eventually moved up to XTR pedals and kept the M520 as spares, which tells you how much confidence people place in the mechanism.
The one compromise is weight. At 380g a pair it is far from the lightest option here, and on a strict weight budget an Eggbeater or a LOOK will save real grams. The aluminum and chromoly steel construction, however, is why the PD-M520 survives the abuse that lighter components do not.
Tension adjustment is straightforward, with a click scale that lets you move between a soft release and a firm one as your skills improve. Beginners benefit from starting firmer and easing off, because an unexpected release is what actually causes falls on a trail.
What you should know before you clip in
Because it is dual-sided SPD, any SPD cleat fits, including multi-release models that release in multiple directions and make learning far less punishing. The wide cleat platform is also what makes engagement reliable when your shoe is caked in mud rather than looking for a precise alignment.
Where the PD-M520 falls short
The finish shows its age. Owners of the black version report scratches that expose bare metal, which is cosmetic but permanent. More significantly, new riders need to budget for cleats and compatible shoes on top of the pedals themselves, since neither is included.
2. Crankbrothers Eggbeater: The Best Lightweight Clipless Pedal for XC
Crankbrothers MTB Pedals Eggbeater 1 Red
280g per pair
Alloy steel body
Four-sided entry
Cleats included
Pros
- Exceptionally light at roughly 280g a pair
- Clips in from any approach angle without looking down
- Outstanding mud shedding
- Recessed cleats are comfortable for walking
- Optional float for riders with knee issues
Cons
- Minimal contact area wears shoe soles faster
- Not home-serviceable at this tier
- Wide float makes quick release feel harder
- Short learning curve to make clipping in instinctive
At roughly 280g a pair, the Eggbeater is one of the lightest clipless MTB pedals you can buy, and it does not feel cheap. The red body is stamped steel around a steel spindle, and it comes with cleats and a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Four-sided entry is the feature that changes daily riding. You can approach the pedal from any angle, look ahead at the trail instead of down at your feet, and still connect. Riders with 5000-mile seasons describe it as the value benchmark in clip-in pedals, often comparing it with far more expensive Shimano hardware.
Owners also praise how little attention it needs. Several reviews report two-plus years and thousands of miles before any bearing service comes up. The mud story is equally good, since the open cage clears debris with a kick and there is almost nothing for a root to snag on.
Walking in cycling shoes is comfortable, too, because the cleats are small and sit recessed rather than hanging under the sole. That matters more than it sounds when you are walking a bike park trail or a fire road back to the car.
What the low weight means for your riding
Saving roughly 100g per pair against a mainstream SPD pedal adds up on long climbs and on race days where every gram is logged. For riders who pedal smoothly in a seated position, the Eggbeater is about as efficient as clipless hardware gets. It is a favorite for XC and gravel, and plenty of trail riders use it happily too.
Where the Eggbeater is the wrong tool
There is very little platform here, so heavy riders and anyone who pedals hard out of the saddle will wear through shoe soles faster than they would on a hybrid pedal. It is also not re-greaseable at home at this tier, and the wide float setting can make a quick release feel harder than riders coming from Shimano expect.
3. Crankbrothers Candy: The Best Clipless Pedal for Riders Who Want Some Float
Crankbrothers MTB Pedals Candy 1 Red
294g per pair
Nylon-reinforced composite
6-degree float cleats
Enduro cartridge bearing
Pros
- Four-sided entry makes clipping in easy on rough ground
- Small 6-degree float is easy on the knees without feeling vague
- Composite wings give a usable platform
- Double seal system holds up in wet mud
- Light enough for XC with trail durability
Cons
- Composite body is less repairable than full alloy
- Included composite cleats wear faster than metal cleats
- Platform is minimal next to a full-size Mallet
The Candy sits between the Eggbeater and the Mallet, and it earns that place. The composite body carries an outboard Enduro cartridge bearing, an inboard igus II glide bearing, and a double seal system, which is why mud performance holds up so well in wet riding.
Float is the headline here. The included cleats give 6 degrees of rotational freedom, enough to take pressure off a knee that dislikes being locked into a fixed position, without the vague-feeling pedal that some floating systems produce. Riders with knee complaints often find this a useful middle setting.
The stamped steel wings on either side give you a small platform to stand on for technical rock sections or to walk a section of trail, which is a real advantage over the Eggbeater. Dual-sided design means you never have to flip the pedal looking for the binding.
At 294g per pair it stays firmly in lightweight territory while carrying more support than a bare cage. The common thread in critical reviews is the supplied composite cleats, which wear faster than metal SPD cleats and need replacing on a schedule.
Who the Candy suits best
It is the pedal to buy if you want a small amount of float, a hint of platform for the rough stuff, and low weight in one package. Trail riders who dislike a rigid locked-in feeling find the 6 degrees of cleat float helpful over long days. The dual-side design also makes it forgiving when you are new to clipping in.
What to watch out for
Composite is less repairable than alloy, and there is no way to re-shim or re-tune the body the way you can with a rebuildable metal pedal. Plan on replacing the supplied cleats periodically, and if you ride in wet clay frequently, keep a spare set in a pocket.
4. Crankbrothers Mallet: The Best Hybrid Clipless Pedal for Full-Time Trail Riders
Crankbrothers MTB Pedals Mallet E Matte Black
419g per pair
Aluminum body
Concave platform
6 adjustable pins per side
Pros
- Hybrid clip and flat design drops a foot on rock without stopping
- Large platform spreads foot pressure
- Four-point entry clips in on roots and rocks
- Alloy construction with an owner reporting 8000+ miles
- Rebuildable with a crankbrothers rebuild kit
Cons
- Pin height must be set correctly or release behaviour suffers
- No tension adjustment with fixed 15 or 20 degree release
- Heavier than the Eggbeater and Candy
- Heaviest clipless design in this guide
The Mallet is the pedal that answers the question clipless pedants get asked constantly: what happens when you need to put a foot down on loose rock? The answer is that you can, because there is a full concave platform on either side of the clip.
At 419g per pair in aluminum, it is the heaviest clipless option in this guide, and it earns that mass. Owners report thousands of miles of bikepacking and alpine riding, and one reports more than 8200 miles without an issue. Long-term riders treat it as a buy-once purchase and rebuild it when the internals wear.
The platform spreads pressure across the whole foot, and riders who had hotspots on minimalist pedals report this one fixed them. Six adjustable pins per side give real grip on the flat side, and chamfered edges deflect rock strikes rather than catching them, which matters when you are clipping in with a foot that is not under you.
Setup is the part that catches people out. Pin height relative to the center clip needs to be set correctly out of the box, and if it is wrong the pedal becomes hard to release. The most instructive owner reviews all say the same thing: adjust the pins first, then judge the release feel.
What you gain from a hybrid platform
A full platform means you can ride technical rock, wet roots, and technical trail sections with ordinary footwork, and unclip for a corner without committing. It is the easiest transition out of flats because every ride includes a bail-out option. Riders who like the security of clipping in but refuse to give up platform control tend to end up here.
What you give up
There is no tension adjustment, so the cleats release at a fixed angle of 15 or 20 degrees depending on the cleat you fit. Riders who want to tune release feel for trail conditions have no dial to turn. The 419g mass is also the heaviest of the clipless designs we tested, and it sits above other hybrid options in the same category.
5. Funn Mamba: The Best Clipless Pedal With a Full Flat Platform
Funn Mamba MTB Clipless Pedals, Single Sided Clip, SPD Cleats (Orange)
455g per pair
CNC 6061 alloy body
Chromoly axle
SPD clip on one side
Pros
- Single-sided SPD clip on a full-size flat platform
- Large platform suits wider feet and cleans up technique
- Open frame sheds mud effectively
- Pedals do not spin freely so the clip faces up
- Grease Renew System services in about 60 seconds
Cons
- Release feels firmer than Shimano at equal tension
- Some cleats need a 1 mm Shimano spacer to engage
- Periodic servicing keeps the mechanism seating
- Smaller brand with fewer riders to draw on
The Mamba is the most complete clip-and-flat package here. The CNC-machined 6061 alloy body carries a full-size flat platform on one side and a single-sided SPD clip on the other, so you can run cleats on one ride and sneakers on the next without changing pedals.
That single-sided layout has a practical benefit riders notice immediately: the pedal does not spin freely, so half a crank rotation leaves the clip facing up. On a steep technical descent, being able to look ahead and clip in without checking is worth a lot, and it is where most dual-sided hybrids fall short.
The wide platform suits wider feet and gives you somewhere to put a foot on sketchy rock. The 9/16 inch chromoly axle with a sealed cartridge bearing and DU bushing is a durable combination, and long-term owners report repeat purchases of the model after years of service.
The patented Grease Renew System is the quiet hero. You can add grease and reset the mechanism in roughly 60 seconds without stripping the pedal, which turns servicing into something you do at the back of a car park rather than a winter project in a workshop.
Why the wide platform matters on trail
A larger platform spreads load across the whole foot, which is what riders with foot pain and riders who pedal badly out of the saddle both benefit from. The open frame design also sheds mud without a pin flailing, so the clip side stays clean. Riders who bikepack or run one bike for everything tend to gravitate here.
What to expect from the clip side
Release tension is described as firmer than Shimano at comparable settings, so budget more adjustment time. Some third-party cleats sit too low for the mechanism and need a 1 mm Shimano spacer to engage reliably, and the clip side can take a few thousand kilometres before it wants re-servicing. It is a less established brand, so the pool of long-term feedback is smaller.
6. Shimano XTR PD-M9120: The Best Clipless Pedal for Enduro Riding
SHIMANO XTR PD-M9120 Top Enduro/Trail Pedals
Aluminum body
Wide bearing placement
Long and wide contact area
Sealed bearings
Pros
- Very secure engagement with adjustable release tension
- Integrated platform gives real control when unclipped
- Sealed bearings survive multi-season abuse
- Open design sheds mud in wet conditions
- Dual-sided SPD so there is no wrong side
Cons
- Larger platform is harder to squeeze past tight obstacles
- Heaviest build in the Shimano list
- A few users reported bearing seal issues at first assembly
The XTR PD-M9120 is the pedal Shimano puts at the top of the enduro and trail range, and the design priorities are visible. Wide bearing placement and a long, wide contact area keep the shoe stable and deliver power efficiently, and the integrated platform protects the binding mechanism from rock strikes.
Enduro and trail riders who want the most secure SPD connection with a supportive platform choose it over narrower options. Owners report multi-season durability and quiet operation, with mud clearance singled out as a reason it survives a wet season without complaint.
The open design sheds mud and debris, and the slim axle housing leaves little for a root to hook. Release tension adjusts across a useful range, so you can run firm for technical descents and softer for the road transfer home. Like the PD-M520 it is dual-sided SPD, so there is no flipping the pedal looking for the binding.
It carries a two-year warranty, which is shorter than the five years on the Crankbrothers models here. That matters if you ride hard and expect the pedal to last, because you are relying on Shimano rather than a rebuild kit to bring it back.
What the wide platform changes
Contact area and platform height are the two numbers that decide how much of your pedalling stroke goes into the trail rather than into flexing the shoe. A longer, wider contact area spreads pressure and raises effective power transfer, which is why this pedal feels planted on technical rock and under hard out-of-saddle efforts. The integrated cage also means a strike does not bend the mechanism.
Where it stops being the right answer
Bulk is the recurring trade-off in owner reviews. The platform is wide enough that you notice it when squeezing between trees or rocks. It also sits at the top of the Shimano range, and a handful of users reported bearing seal issues at first assembly that Shimano warranted through a local shop.
7. Shimano PD-M8120: The Best Clipless Pedal for Technical Trail Riding
SHIMANO PD-M8120 Trail and Enduro SPD Pedal
Chromoly steel
Wide contact area
Adjustable retention claws
Integrated cage
Pros
- Wide contact area and low platform height improve efficiency
- Adjustable tension gives real control over release
- Integrated cage helps when you are unclipped
- Chrome-moly spindle handles hard riding
- Rated as the sensible step up from the PD-M520
Cons
- Bulkier than the narrower PD-M520
- Shimano-specific cleat feel does not suit fans of fixed-release brands
- Heavier than minimalist options
The XT PD-M8120 is the pedal most trail riders step up to once they outgrow the PD-M520, and the reasons are all visible from the saddle. The pedal-to-shoe contact area is wider and the platform sits lower, both of which improve stability and power transfer on roots and rock.
Retention claws with adjustable tension give you a real dial for release feel, which matters more on technical trail than most spec sheets suggest. Riders moving from a wider-platform budget pedal to this one usually report that clipping in and out stopped being something they think about.
The integrated cage protects the mechanism and gives the foot somewhere to sit on technical ground when you are not clipped in. A chrome-molybdenum spindle sits under the body, and reviewers point to its durability in wet, rooty conditions as one reason the pedal outlasts cheaper alternatives.
It is the same dual-sided SPD arrangement as the rest of the Shimano line, which means your existing cleats and shoes carry over. That continuity is a big part of why upgrading within the brand is such a smooth path for new riders.
How the platform affects your technique
Platform height and contact area work together. A lower platform means less rocker motion, so the power you put in reaches the trail sooner, and a wider contact area gives the shoe a defined spot to land in rather than letting the foot wander. On exposed roots this is the difference between a pedal stroke that feels planted and one that feels slippery. The integrated cage adds a margin of control when you unclip for a switchback.
Who should buy something else instead
If you ride narrow, technical XC on a light bike, the mass and footprint are working against you, and a lighter model such as the Eggbeater makes more sense. Riders who prefer the feel of fixed-release systems such as Time or Crankbrothers also tend to find the Shimano cleat engagement unsatisfying, and no tension change will alter that.
8. LOOK X-Track: The Best Clipless Pedal for Muddy Climbs
LOOK Cycle Bicycle Pedals, X-Track MTB Bicycle Pedals Standard SPD Mechanism Compatible Clipless Pedals
450g
Aluminum body
SPD-standard mechanism
Screw-adjustable tension
Pros
- Wide contact area supports the foot and prevents slipping
- Open geometry sheds mud and sand reliably
- Fine tension adjustment suits different skill levels
- Works with standard and wide-release LOOK cleats
- Lateral contact guides the foot onto the pedal
Cons
- Released cleat feels firm compared with Shimano at the same setting
- Contact area adds weight against minimalist designs
- Two-year warranty only
LOOK builds the X-Track around one idea: maximise what you get out of the grams. The SPD-standard mechanism is paired with a wide lateral contact area that guides the foot onto the pedal before the cleat engages, which means you can look at the trail rather than at your shoes while you clip in.
Mud is the situation this pedal is designed for. The open geometry sheds mud and sand, and reviewers who moved over from road LOOK Keo pedals report that the SPD mechanism stays consistent in conditions where narrower mechanisms clog. Screw-adjustable entry and release tension lets you tune the feel to your skill level rather than to a brand default.
It accepts both the standard X-Track cleat and the wider, angled X-Track Easy cleat, which is handy if you want a more forgiving release while staying in one system. The lateral support surface is the part riders notice on rough ground, since it stops the foot sliding off before the cleat catches.
The recurring note in reviews is that release tension feels high even at its lowest setting for riders accustomed to Shimano. That is a preference thing rather than a defect, but if soft, easy release matters to you, test it before committing.
What to expect in wet conditions
Mud decides a lot of rides in the shoulder season, and a mechanism with fewer surfaces to fill with debris is easier to clear. The open layout means a knock against a root pushes material away instead of packing it in, so engagement stays predictable ride after ride. On long muddy climbs that consistency is worth more than a small weight saving elsewhere.
Where LOOK asks something of the rider
At 450g this is not a lightweight pedal, and the contact area is the reason why. The firm release at minimum tension suits riders with a heavy heel and confident technique, but a beginner who expects a soft pull will need to adapt their exit stroke. The two-year warranty is also shorter than several competitors here.
9. LOOK X-Track Race: The Best Clipless Pedal for Wide-Support XC Racing
LOOK Cycle Bicycle Pedals, X-Track Race, Composite Body Chromoly+ Axle Clipless Pedals Extreme Reliability, Large Support Surface MTB Bicycle Pedals
415g listing weight
Composite body
Chromoly Plus axle
515 square mm support surface
Pros
- Large support surface makes the pedal easy to find
- Light and quiet with smooth free-spinning bearings
- Tension adjustable from 6 to 14
- Reliable mud and debris clearing
- Composite body and Chromoly Plus axle are rigid for the weight
Cons
- Release feels hard even at the lowest tension
- Bearing preload can feel tight out of the box
- Composite body shows wear faster than alloy
The X-Track Race is LOOK’s lighter composite-bodied pedal, built around a 515 square millimetre optimized support surface. That surface is what riders rate most: it guides the foot to the pedal, keeps the shoe planted, and several reviewers call it more supportive than the road pedals they came from.
It ships with a Chromoly Plus axle, and LOOK claims 182g per pedal. The tension scale runs from 6 to 14, a numbered range that lets you tune the pedal from soft to firm as your technique develops.
Owners like that it is light and quiet, with bearings that spin smoothly and quietly enough to notice. Mud and debris clearing is reliable, and the mechanism geometry is designed for sand and dry ground as well as wet clay, which is useful for riders who change terrain between home and the trailhead.
Two cautions come up repeatedly. Clip-out can feel strong even with the tension wound right down if you are used to Shimano SPD, and a few users report bearings that feel tight out of the box and loosen after riding in.
How the support surface changes pedalling
A large support surface does the work of telling your foot where it belongs. Instead of searching for a small target on a technical landing, the shoe lands on a defined area and the cleat meets the mechanism almost immediately. That predictability is why race-oriented riders gravitate to it, and it is also why it works well for anyone who struggles with a narrow platform. The 6 to 14 tension range then lets you soften it as you get braver.
Where it falls short
The composite body shows wear faster than alloy, which matters for riders who scuff the pedal on rock. Riders who need a genuinely easy release will find the low end of the scale still firmer than Shimano. The two-year warranty also leaves less cover than the five-year guarantees offered by the Crankbrothers models in this list.
10. VENZO: The Best Budget SPD Clipless Pedal
VENZO MTB Mountain Bike Sealed Clipless Pedals Compatible with Shimano SPD Type Cleats SM-SH51 MTB Shoes – Easy Clip in
359g per pair
Die-cast aluminum
CNC machined Cr-Mo axle
Sealed bearings
Pros
- Full SPD compatibility so existing cleats and shoes work
- Sealed bearings stay smooth and quiet over thousands of miles
- Cleats and hardware included in the box
- Adjustable tension across a wide range
- Light for a full SPD pedal
Cons
- Some riders report cleats staying locked at minimum tension
- Not advised for technical XC or gravel riding
- Bearings are adequate rather than excellent
The VENZO is the entry point into clipless riding, and the reason it works is compatibility. It takes standard Shimano SPD cleats, so the shoes and cleats you already own will work with no changes, and the box includes cleats and hardware so you can ride away from it.
Construction is better than the spec sheet suggests: a die-cast aluminum body, a dual-sided Cr-Mo axle machined to tight tolerance, and sealed bearings with a bushing. Owners report smooth, quiet bearings over thousands of miles on commuter and recreational rides, and the stated pair weight of 359g holds up well against far more expensive alternatives.
Tension is adjustable across a wide range through a side screw, so you can firm it up if you are nervous. That matters more than it sounds: the honest reason some beginners give up on clipless is an unexpected release on a technical pitch, and a pedal that releases predictably fixes most of that fear.
What you accept is finish and refinement. A handful of users report release getting loose over time, and some of those riders ended up switching to Shimano PD-M520 pedals once they wanted something they could rely on in technical terrain.
Where it does the job well
For commuting, towpath riding, greenway loops, and weekend rides on maintained trail, the VENZO does everything you need at the entry level of the category. The cleat cage is machined from steel rather than pressed, which is why engagement stays consistent after a season. If your pedal life is measured in hundreds of miles a year, this is a genuinely sensible purchase.
When to step up instead
Technical XC, gravel racing, and any riding where a missed release means a crash at speed are the cases owner reviews single out. The bearings are adequate rather than exceptional, and the release reliability reports are worth weighing if you ride steep, loose terrain. Riders moving up from flats with a history of being spooked by an unclip should probably start on a pedal with more adjustment range.
11. MZYRH: The Best Clipless and Flat Combo Pedal for Commuting
MZYRH MTB Mountain Bike Pedals 3 Bearing Flat Platform Compatible with SPD,Dual Function Sealed Clipless Aluminum 9/16″ Pedals with Cleats for Road
500g
CNC aluminum body
SPD on one side
113 by 98 mm platform
Pros
- Dual-sided so you can use cleats or ordinary shoes
- Wide 113 by 98 mm platform with studs grips well when wet
- Sealed three-bearing system stays smooth with no play
- Holds alignment after rock strikes
- Clear left/right markings on each pedal
Cons
- Pedal spins so the flat side often rotates up
- 500g is heavy for a clip-in capable pedal
- Finish and refinement trail higher-end models
The MZYRH does something the dedicated clipless pedals in this list cannot: it works in both worlds. One side takes SPD cleats, the other is a flat platform with stainless steel anti-skid pins, so a single pair of pedals handles a cleated trail ride and a shoes-to-the-bike-shop commute.
Users report two years and thousands of miles of commuting and bikepacking with no loss of alignment, even after rock strikes, mud, and winter road salt. The sealed three-bearing construction with gaskets against water and dust is what keeps it turning without play after that kind of treatment.
The 113 by 98 mm CNC aluminum platform is genuinely wide, and the studs give real grip in wet conditions. Markings on each pedal take the guesswork out of installation, and the 9/16 inch thread fits the standard crank format used by most mountain bikes.
The catch is the rotation. Reviewers consistently report that the pedal spins, so the flat side frequently ends up facing up. That is a non-issue on a bike path and awkward when you are trying to clip in on a steep technical descent.
Why the dual-sided design suits mixed riding
If your week splits between a trail day and a paved commute, one pedal pair removes the friction of swapping. Riders report using the clip side for gravel and road and dropping to the flat side for town riding, and the spiked platform handles wet tarmac better than a smooth rubber surface. It is also a sensible partner for indoor trainer sessions, so if you also spend time on a pedal trainer indoors, keeping one set for both jobs simplifies the setup.
Where the design works against you
It is the heaviest pedal in this guide, and half of that mass is sitting there for the rides you are not clipping in on. The spinning behaviour is the bigger practical issue on technical ground, since the flat side can end up on top exactly when you need the clip. Riders who spend most of their time on steep, loose trail will find that frustrating.
12. BUCKLOS: The Best Value Combo Pedal for Gravel and Commuting
BUCKLOS Mountain Bike Pedals Clip Flat Combo Compatible with SPD Cleats
Aluminum body
98 by 88 mm platform
10 anti-skid studs
Sealed bearings
Pros
- Dual-sided clip and flat design for sneakers or cleats
- Pedals usually rest with the clip side up
- Sealed bearings rotate tightly with no wobble
- Durability holds over thousands of gravel and commute miles
- Adjustable cleat tension with a hex wrench
Cons
- Heavier than dedicated clipless pedals
- Alloy body scuffs during cleat adjustment
- Clip mechanism can wear out after a few hundred miles
- Cleats are not included
The BUCKLOS is the smaller of the two combo pedals here, and it solves the one problem riders complain about most: pedals that spin leave the flat side on top. This one usually rests with the clip facing up, which makes stops painless.
Most riders use the clip side for gravel and road and switch to the flat side for commuting. The 98 by 88 mm CNC aluminum platform carries 10 anti-skid studs, and the sealed bearings with gasket protection have held up over thousands of gravel and commute miles in owner reports.
Both the clamp and the cleat tension adjust with a hex wrench, so you can firm up the release if you are nervous or soften it as you gain confidence. The 9/16 inch thread is the standard mountain bike format, so installation is straightforward.
Two things to know before you commit. Cleats are not included, so factor that into your first ride, and a small number of users have had the clip mechanism wear out and lose its holding tension after several hundred miles of regular use.
Who this pedal suits
Riders who split their time between a gravel bike and a commuter, or who want one pedal pair for the whole household, get the most from this design. Because the pedal rests clip-side up, stop-and-go traffic and slow technical sections are less irritating than with a spinning design. The studded platform also handles wet roads and gravel descents with more confidence than a smooth surface.
What to be careful of
It is heavier than a dedicated clipless pedal, and the alloy body scuffs visibly as you adjust the cleat position. The durability reports are strong overall, but the clip mechanism wears faster than the frame on some units, so check that the pedal still holds tension if you buy one that has been in service. Fit genuine SPD cleats rather than cheap copies, which buyers repeatedly recommend.
Clipless vs Flat Pedals: Which Should You Ride?
Clipless pedals win on efficiency, control, and consistency. With your foot mechanically linked to the pedal, you do not lose drive through a small wobble or an unweighted stroke, and on rough ground the shoe stays where you put it. Riders who race, climb hard, or descend technical trails consistently report more confidence clipped in.
Flat pedals win on forgiveness and feel. You can put a foot down anywhere, the ground is the limit, and they are far simpler to adjust and maintain. Riders who share bikes with beginners, ride in traffic, or enjoy bike parks with loose surfaces often prefer the control of a flat.
Stack height is a real consideration that the marketing tends to skip. Clipless platforms sit higher than flat pedals, which slightly changes your pedal stroke on technical sections and can change how a suspension bike feels through compressions. Riders who feel knee pressure in a steep descent should also consider float, since a fixed connection keeps rotation entirely in the knee joint.
A middle path has become popular: hybrid pedals with a flat platform on one side and a clip mechanism on the other. The Mallet, the Funn Mamba, the MZYRH, and the BUCKLOS in this list all do that, and they are the easiest way to test a clipless setup without giving up the option to unclip.
How to Choose Clipless Pedals for Mountain Biking
SPD, Crankbrothers, and LOOK cleat systems
Shimano SPD is the dominant MTB system and every Shimano pedal in this guide takes standard SPD cleats, including the LOOK models, which use an SPD-standard mechanism with their own cleat options. Crankbrothers pedals take their own cleats and are not interchangeable with SPD, so mixing brands means carrying two sets of cleats and two pairs of shoes. A wide-contact cleat such as the Shimano multi-release type is the most forgiving option for a new rider.
Platform size, shape, and Q-factor
A larger platform gives you somewhere to stand, spreads pressure across the foot, and shortens the gap between your shoe and the ground. Smaller platforms are lighter and feel more direct. Q-factor, the distance between the two pedal centres, affects how wide your knees track; wide feet and riders with wider hip rotation generally prefer a narrower pedal, and that is one reason minimalist designs exist.
Float, tension, and release angle
Float is the number of degrees the shoe can rotate while clipped in. Zero float gives the most direct power transfer and is common on XC and road-oriented SPD pedals. Small amounts of float, around six degrees, take load off knees without creating vague pedal feel. Release angle is how far your heel must twist to unclip, and models with tension adjustment let you start firm and soften the pedal as you become confident.
Weight and riding style
Below 300g a pair you are in XC territory, where every gram is logged. Between 300g and 400g covers most trail riding. Above 400g, you are paying for a large platform or multiple sealed bearings, which is a good trade for enduro and gravity riding and a poor one for climbing. XC racers prioritize weight savings, while downhill riders choose the largest platforms they can find, and the two preferences rarely overlap.
Mud shedding and serviceability
A pedal you cannot clear is a pedal you will not clip into. Open frame designs, few exposed corners, and sealed bearing stacks are what separate good wet-weather performance from poor, and the Crankbrothers models and the Shimano XTR are all built around that principle. Serviceability matters just as much over a season: pedals with a bushing, grease port, or rebuild kit can be serviced in a car park, while sealed units are replaced when they wear.
How to Position Your Cleats and Tune Release Tension
Cleat position is the adjustment that decides whether you love clipless or hate it, and it is the one step riders most often get wrong. Most mountain bike shoes take the cleat in a slotted mounting plate that allows a few degrees of fore-aft movement, and you can move it forward or back until the ball of your foot sits over the pedal spindle.
The starting point is simple: put the cleat under the ball of your foot, roughly where your second metatarsal joint lands, and let the heel hang free behind. Too far back and you push hard on the toe of the shoe, which is a common cause of the hot spots and numbness riders blame on the pedals. Too far forward and your calf does more work than it should on a steep climb.
Tune tension in stages. Set the release firm enough that an unexpected twist will not pop you off, ride a familiar loop, then soften it by one click. Repeat until the pedal releases when you intend it to and not before. On multi-release cleats the same drill applies across all release directions, and on a pedal without tension adjustment the cleat choice sets the release angle instead.
Then check your stance. The Q-factor of the pedal and the cleat position together decide how your knees sit through a pedal stroke, so if your knees track inward, moving the cleat back a few millimetres often helps more than changing pedals. If you have never had a fitting done, riders consistently rate a local shop cleat positioning session as the single best hour you can spend on your bike.
Clipless Pedals and Shoes: Pairings That Work
Pedal and shoe choice are a pair of decisions, because the stiffness of the sole and the size of the platform decide how the two behave together. A stiff race sole on a large-platform pedal feels planted and efficient, and the same shoe on a minimalist cage feels harsh. A softer walking shoe works best on a hybrid or combo pedal where you will be standing on the platform part of the ride.
For XC and race work, a lightweight MTB shoe with a stiff sole pairs with a narrow pedal such as the Eggbeater or the LOOK X-Track Race. For trail riding, a slightly softer shoe with a reinforced toe pairs with a wide SPD platform such as the PD-M8120 or the XTR, where the contact area carries the load instead of the sole. Gravity riders usually want the stiffest shoe they can stand up in all day, paired with the largest platform available.
Hybrid and combo pedals change the shoe choice entirely, because the shoe has to work on the flat side too. That is where walking-friendly soles, reinforced toes, and grippy rubber patches earn their place, and it is the main reason riders move to a hybrid pedal mid-season rather than buying a second pair of clipless shoes.
Whatever the combination, the cleat must match the system. SPD shoes with a two-hole or three-hole mounting pattern take Shimano cleats, and Crankbrothers shoes take their own. Trying to make one pair of shoes work with two systems usually ends with a retail adapter, which is a compromise on stiffness and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are clipless pedals good for mountain biking?
Yes. Clipless pedals link your shoe to the pedal, so no power is lost to wobble and your foot stays planted on rough ground. Riders who race, climb hard, or descend technical trails usually feel more confident clipped in. The main adjustment is relearning a deliberate heel twist so the release happens when you intend it to.
Which Shimano pedals are considered the best for mountain biking?
It depends on the riding. The PD-M520 is the best all-around and best budget choice, weighing 380g a pair with dual-sided SPD entry and adjustable tension. The PD-M8120 is the best trail and enduro step up, with a wider contact area, lower platform, and chrome-moly spindle. The XTR PD-M9120 is the top enduro and race option, with a wide platform and sealed bearings.
What are the best clipless MTB shoes?
For XC and racing, a lightweight shoe with a stiff sole matches a narrow pedal such as the Crankbrothers Eggbeater or the LOOK X-Track Race. For trail riding, a slightly softer shoe with a reinforced toe works with a wide SPD platform such as the PD-M8120. For hybrid and combo pedals, a walking-friendly sole matters more than stiffness.
What type of pedals do mountain bikers use?
Both clipless and flat pedals are widely used. Clipless pedals are the majority choice among riders who race or ride technical trail because of the power transfer and control. Flat pedals stay popular for bike parks, commuting, beginners, and riders who want to put a foot down in any situation. Hybrid clip-and-flat pedals are a common middle path.
How much float do I need in clipless pedals?
Zero float gives the most direct power transfer and suits XC and racing. Around six degrees, as on the Crankbrothers Candy cleats, takes pressure off knees that dislike being locked in without creating vague pedal feel. Riders with knee pain or who spend long hours in the saddle usually benefit from a small amount of float.
Are caged or hybrid clipless pedals worth it?
They are worth it if you ride technical rock, share bikes with a beginner, or are nervous about being attached to the bike. A full platform lets you drop a foot anywhere without stopping. The trade-off is weight and, on some models, a fixed release angle with no tension adjustment.
Final Verdict: The Best Clipless Pedals for Mountain Biking in 2026
For most riders, the Shimano PD-M520 remains the best clipless pedals for mountain biking buy you can make. It is dual-sided, adjustable, serviceable, and supported by more real-world miles than anything else in this guide, which is why it takes the overall recommendation for 2026.
Pick the Crankbrothers Eggbeater if you want the lowest weight on an XC or gravel bike, the Candy if a little float and a hint of platform suit you better, and the Mallet if you want to unclip anywhere on technical rock. For enduro, the Shimano XTR PD-M9120 and PD-M8120 cover the wide-platform end, while the LOOK models suit riders who care about mud clearing and support surface. Riders splitting their time between trail and tarmac can test the idea on the Funn Mamba, the MZYRH, or the BUCKLOS.
Whichever you choose, get the cleat position right, start with a firm release tension, and soften it as your confidence grows. That setup session matters more to how you feel about clipless riding than any specification on the box.