Five Ten

Impact VXi Clipless Shoe - Men's

Five Ten's Mi6 (yeah, like the British intelligence agency) is some of the stickiest rubber around—it's used by Hollywood stunt performers when they need serious grip—so there's no question that it'll keep you glued onto the pedals. It also provides a grippy platform that makes hike-a-bikes way less sketchy than traditional cleats, and it provides cushioning that absorbs impacts and blocks the vibrations caused by bombing down rough 'n' rugged trails (an EVA midsole serves up even more cush comfort).

Mi6 is also fairly stiff, which means you'll be able to get plenty of power out of them. The classic recessed two-hole MTB cleat design allows for easy walking, and the cleats are set slightly further back to provide a more platform-like feel than traditional road and XC cleats, which are positioned closer to the front of the foot.

The synthetic upper is durable, flexible, and lightweight, not to mention lined with quick-drying hydrophobic foam to keep your feet drier on wet rides. A burly hook-and-loop strap covers the laces to make sure they stay tied, and rubber overlays on the toe protect you from the inevitable rock and pedal strikes that could otherwise ruin your day.