When the temperature drops and the sleet is coming down, it can be tempting to head straight home from work and put your feet up with a cup of tea. Riding your bike becomes a thing best left for sunnier days and your fitness and endurance drop right off just in time for actually good riding conditions.

A lot of what we fear in the depths of winter is getting cold, wet and being miserable. We think that's got quite a lot to do with the clothing you wear and the gear you equip yourself with.

In this article, we’re going to take a brief look at Winter MTB shoes, with and without clips and with and without waterproof. We’ll look at shoes and socks with the aim of getting you a bit happier about getting out in the cold.

Flat Winter MTB Shoes

Fizik Terra Nanuq X2 Flat MTB Shoes

The Fizik Terra Nanuq X2 Flat MTB Shoes are built for winter off-road adventures, offering warmth, grip, and all-weather protection. A GORE-TEX waterproof membrane ensures they are fully waterproof and breathable, while an insulated fleece lining keeps your feet warm in icy conditions.

The Vibram X2 outsole provides optimal grip on pedals and varied terrain, with a durable EVA midsole for stability. Reinforced with thermo-laminated PU, these shoes resist wear from tough trails. The BOA® Fit System and zippered ankle cuff offer a secure, adjustable fit to keep the elements out. Designed for flat pedals, they deliver performance and comfort for winter riders facing the harshest conditions.

Shop Fizik Terra Nanuq X2 Flat MTB Shoes

Shimano GF8 (GF800) Boa Gore-Tex Flat Pedal Shoes

The Shimano GF8 Boa Gore-Tex Flat Pedal Shoes are designed for cold, wet conditions with sticky ULTREAD® GF rubber for exceptional pedal grip. A GORE-TEX sock liner and ankle collar block water, while layered EVA foam absorbs impacts for stability on descents.

The TORBAL® 2.0 torsional plate ensures flexibility and control during aggressive riding, and the BOA® L6 Fit System with a shield prevents accidental release. Side drainage channels enhance grip in wet conditions, and a reinforced toe cap adds protection. With a balance of stiffness and comfort, these shoes thrive on technical winter trails.

Shop Shimano GF8 (GF800) Boa Gore-Tex Flat Pedal Shoes

Clipless Winter MTB Shoes

Shimano MW5 (MW502) Dryshield SPD Shoes

The Shimano MW5 (MW502) Dryshield SPD Shoes are a dependable choice for year-round riders tackling wet, cold, and muddy conditions. Featuring a DRYSHIELD membrane and fleece liner, these shoes offer insulation and comfort while maintaining breathability for all-day wear. Although not fully waterproof, their wraparound shield and tall cuff effectively keep out water and debris during unpredictable weather.

A low stack-height midsole optimises power transfer, while the rubber XC outsole provides stable pedal engagement and reliable grip during off-bike sections. The speed lacing system ensures quick adjustments for a secure fit, and a fleece-lined insole enhances heat retention on cold rides. With 360-degree reflectivity for added safety in low-light conditions, the MW5 balances performance, comfort, and durability for riders who don’t let the weather dictate their adventure.

Shop Shimano MW5 (MW502) Dryshield SPD Shoes

Fizik Terra Nanuq GTX MTB Shoes

The Fizik Terra Nanuq GTX MTB Shoes deliver ultimate winter performance with a GORE-TEX Koala membrane for waterproofing and breathability, paired with a fleece lining for added warmth. Built for extreme winter conditions, these shoes protect against snow, slush, and icy trails, making them an ideal choice for riders tackling technical terrain in harsh weather.

A reinforced ripstop upper resists abrasions, while the BOA® L6 dial and zippered ankle cuff ensure a snug, weatherproof fit. The Vibram X2 outsole combines a nylon shank, EVA midsole, and grippy rubber tread for stability on your pedals and traction on challenging terrain. Whether climbing snowy trails or navigating frozen gravel, the Nanuq GTX keeps you comfortable, warm, and ready for adventure.

Shop Fizik Terra Nanuq GTX MTB Shoes

Shimano EX9 (EX900) Boa Gore-Tex Shoes

The Shimano EX7 (EX700) Gore-Tex Cycling Shoes are built for adventure, offering versatility and comfort on and off the bike. With a mid-top design and dual BOA® L6 dials, these shoes provide a micro-adjustable fit for stability during pedalling or hiking.

The breathable mesh upper and GORE-TEX liner keep feet dry in wet conditions, while the ULTREAD EX rubber outsole ensures secure footing on uneven terrain. Plastic shielding on the BOA® system prevents accidental release, and the EX midsole with layered EVA foam absorbs impacts for smoother walking. Designed with sustainable materials and featuring a wider forefoot contact area for enhanced grip, these shoes are perfect for riders exploring rugged trails and unpredictable weather.

Shop Shimano EX9 (EX900) Boa Gore-Tex Shoes

Socks

Socks are an underestimated and important factor in your layering system, you can wear whatever you've got but the aim here is making the most of the winter riding so we'd recommend picking out something good.

Fox Defend Water Socks

Your shoes aren't waterproof and you don't want new ones. These have a 3 layer construction: Fabric on the inside and outside, polyurethane membrane in the middle. Like putting carrier bags over your socks, these will definitely keep your feet dry, just watch out for hotter weather.

Shop Fox Defend Water Socks

Endura BaaBaa Merino Winter Socks

Magical Merino. These feature a synthetic and Merino wool blend, a thicker construction and excellent warmth and breathability. You'll find that while they let in water, they wick away sweat and dry really quickly. Ideal for lining a pair of Gore-Tex shoes.

Shop Endura BaaBaa Merino Winter Socks / Women's BaaBaa Merino Winter Sock

Madison Isoler Merino Deep Winter Knee-High Socks

A statement piece; probably not one to wear with shorts. These knee high, merino blend socks will keep the heat in the lower legs and stop drafts effectively. 

Shop Madison Isoler Merino Deep Winter Knee-High Socks

When the trails call, make sure you're ready to answer with the right winter gear. From waterproof MTB shoes to weather-defying socks, having the best equipment can turn a cold, wet ride into an epic adventure. Explore our full range of winter-ready cycling gear and keep pushing your limits all season long.

Enjoyed this article? Here’s 3 more to check out:
1.Trail Side Tools: Mountain Biker's Rescue Kit
2.Clipless Mountain Bike Pedals: A Short Guide
3.Yeti Cycles: Ultimate Racing Performance

Where To Next?

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