Ever feel like your feet are fighting your pedals on a tough mountain bike ride? That annoying slip or the pinch in your shoe can really ruin the fun. Choosing the right mountain bike shoes matters a lot for your performance and comfort. Sidi is a huge name in cycling shoes, but when you look at all their MTB options, it can feel overwhelming. Do you need a stiff sole for climbing or a grippier one for hike-a-bike sections? Finding the perfect fit and features among the Sidi lineup can be tricky business.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down what makes Sidi MTB shoes special. You will learn about the different models, key technologies, and how to match a pair perfectly to your riding style—whether you shred downhill or love long cross-country tours. Get ready to ditch the foot fatigue and unlock better power transfer. Keep reading to discover the Sidi MTB shoe that will transform your next trail adventure.
Top Sidi Mtb Shoes Recommendations
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. The closure uses a new proprietary Sidi Wire material that is completely non-binding for intuitive and effortless on-the-fly adjustments
- OUTDOOR SOLE: The Outdoor rubber sole has the right density to adapt to different types of terrain and trails. It's designed to have excellent grip and easily expel mud and debris.
- ADJUSTABLE: Equipped with a 4-hole plate for fast-release pedals, the Tecno-3 System, like most Sidi small components, is both serviceable and replaceable.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Everything in contact with the skin is designed for a superior experience, allowing you to focus on the ride. All parts are interchangeable.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 196 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. Sidi's reliable closure systems, fully replaceable, have been improved with a new type of cable that allows for quick adjustment with extreme ease.
- FIRMOR SYSTEM: Secure your foot with Firmor technology, which provides infinite fit adjustments in a blink, designed for smooth adjustment while riding. The open cell structure mesh on the front is designed to allow the shoes to breathe and release internal vapor.
- MTB SR17 SOLE: A lightweight sole that strikes a perfect balance between stiffness and softness due to the use of nylon and carbon fibers. SR17 represents the ultimate in stiffness for pedaling and flexibility for walking. The nylon sole, equipped with a replaceable rubber insert, ensures maximum grip in any situation and enhances walking comfort.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: The shoes are crafted in ultra-lightweight Politex suede effect upper for long-lasting durability. The closure uses a new proprietary Sidi Wire monofilament that is completely non-binding for intuitive and effortless on-the-fly adjustments. The Sidi Mega Last, 4mm wider across the ball of the foot, higher volume, and a wider heel cup, offers Sidi's renowned fit and performance to those with slightly wider feet.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 196 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- TECNO-3 PUSH SYSTEM: The central mounted Single Techno-3 Push mechanism guarantees balanced fit for every type of instep. The Soft Instep Closure System is a wide, anatomically curved strap combined with a soft, thermo-formed EVA pad that distributes pressure evenly over the instep area.
- ADJUSTABLE: The Adjustable Heel Retention Device reinforces the top of the heel cup and improves the fit by closing the back of the shoe securely around the rider's heel. The heel retention device tightens the top of the heel cup so that the heel doesn't slide out during steep climbs or sprints. Each side of the heel can be adjusted independently, for a perfect fit.
- MTB SRS CARBON GROUND SOLE: It raises the standard for mountain bike performance, dropping around 100 grams per pair without sacrificing power or durability. The MTB SRS Carbon-Ground Sole consists of replaceable tread blocks in the toe and heel attached to a medium-modulus carbon sole.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Everything in contact with the skin is designed for a superior experience, allowing you to focus on the ride. The reinforced heel cup stabilizes and supports the heel. Anatomically shaped plastic, reduces heel slip and provides increased power transfer. All parts are interchangeable.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 196 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. Sidi's reliable closure systems, fully replaceable, have been improved with a new type of cable that allows for quick adjustment with extreme ease.
- FITTED ON YOU: Our micrometric instep closure: a Sidi must. Designed with a memory system so that the individual fitting only needs to be done once, it stabilizes the foot at best in the shoe. Our soft instep closure system is replaceable. The REFLEX inserts on the heel provide added safety for the athlete on the road, helping to signal the cyclist's presence in low-visibility conditions.
- MTB SR17 SOLE: Made of nylon with PU inserts to aid mud dispersion and provide stability. The toe can be easily replaced with screws and always allows for cleat attachment. SR17 represents the ultimate combination of stiffness for pedaling and flexibility for walking.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our proprietary dial system is over 30 years in the making, and it is made of high-density resin and the cable in Dyneema, the strongest and lightest fiber on earth. The heel is integrated and reinforced to prevent deformation during prolonged stress and pressure. The anti-slip toe is made of rubber to protect against accidental impacts or debris.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 1960 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. Sidi's reliable closure systems, fully replaceable, have been improved with a new type of cable that allows for quick adjustment with extreme ease.
- GRAVEL TECH: The shoe specially designed for the most technical gravel riding, is structured to support the foot during the most demanding actions. The REFLEX inserts on the heel provide added safety for athlete on the road by helping to signal the cyclist's presence in low-visibility conditions.
- MTB SR17 SOLE: Made of nylon with PU inserts to aid mud dispersion and provide stability. The toe can be easily replaced with screws and always allows for cleat attachment. SR17 represents the ultimate combination of stiffness for pedaling and flexibility for walking.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our proprietary dial system is over 30 years in the making, and it is made of high-density resin and the cable in Dyneema, the strongest and lightest fiber on earth. The heel is integrated and reinforced to prevent deformation during prolonged stress and pressure. The anti-slip toe is made of rubber to protect against accidental impacts or debris.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 1960 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. Sidi's reliable closure systems, fully replaceable, have been improved with a new type of cable that allows for quick adjustment with extreme ease.
- FITTED ON YOU: Our micrometric instep closure: a Sidi must. Designed with a memory system so that the individual fitting only needs to be done once, it stabilizes the foot at best in the shoe. Our soft instep closure system is replaceable. The REFLEX inserts on the heel provide added safety for the athlete on the road, helping to signal the cyclist's presence in low-visibility conditions.
- MTB SR17 SOLE: Made of nylon with PU inserts to aid mud dispersion and provide stability. The toe can be easily replaced with screws and always allows for cleat attachment. SR17 represents the ultimate combination of stiffness for pedaling and flexibility for walking.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our proprietary dial system is over 30 years in the making, and it is made of high-density resin and the cable in Dyneema, the strongest and lightest fiber on earth. The heel is integrated and reinforced to prevent deformation during prolonged stress and pressure. The anti-slip toe is made of rubber to protect against accidental impacts or debris.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 1960 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
- Superior touch plush microfiber for a greater feeling on the shoe
- Protection with stabilization control without extra weight
- Designed for greater comfort with the strength of Dyneema in a personalized fit
- Combines the best for MTB trails, built to last with unbeatable stability on the toughest terrains
- Color: Sand
- TECNO-3 SYSTEM: Allows you to close the shoe along its entire length, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot and thus obtaining a customized fit. Sidi's reliable closure systems, fully replaceable, have been improved with a new type of cable that allows for quick adjustment with extreme ease.
- FITTED ON YOU: Our micrometric instep closure: a Sidi must. Designed with a memory system so that the individual fitting only needs to be done once, it stabilizes the foot at best in the shoe. Our soft instep closure system is replaceable. The REFLEX inserts on the heel provide added safety for the athlete on the road, helping to signal the cyclist's presence in low-visibility conditions.
- MTB SR17 SOLE: Made of nylon with PU inserts to aid mud dispersion and provide stability. The toe can be easily replaced with screws and always allows for cleat attachment. SR17 represents the ultimate combination of stiffness for pedaling and flexibility for walking. The Sidi Mega Last is 4mm wider across the ball of the foot, has more volume, a higher instep and a wider heel cup
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Our proprietary dial system is over 30 years in the making, and it is made of high-density resin and the cable in Dyneema, the strongest and lightest fiber on earth. The heel is integrated and reinforced to prevent deformation during prolonged stress and pressure. The anti-slip toe is made of rubber to protect against accidental impacts or debris.
- SIDI: A story that continues from 1960 to the present day. We work with passion and commitment with the aim of creating a product that is always competitive, cutting-edge, and up-to-date.
Sidi MTB Shoes: Your Ultimate Buying Guide
Choosing the right mountain bike (MTB) shoes makes a big difference in your ride. Sidi is a famous brand known for making strong, comfortable cycling shoes. This guide helps you pick the perfect pair for your adventures on the trails.
Key Features to Look For
Good MTB shoes need several important features. Look closely at these points when you shop.
Closure System
How you tighten the shoe is very important. Sidi often uses different systems:
- BOA Dial System: This uses a thin wire tightened by a small dial. It lets you make tiny adjustments while riding. This system usually offers the best, most even fit.
- Velcro Straps: These are simple and fast. They work well but might not offer the super-tight lock-down that some riders need for very rough terrain.
- Buckles: Some high-end models use a combination of dials and buckles for maximum security.
Sole Stiffness and Tread
The sole is the bottom of the shoe. For mountain biking, you need a balance:
- Stiffness: Stiffer soles transfer your power better to the pedals. This is great for long rides or racing. However, very stiff soles can hurt when you have to walk.
- Tread (Grip): You will sometimes have to get off and walk. The rubber tread needs to grip dirt, rocks, and mud well. Look for deep, aggressive patterns if you ride technical trails frequently.
Important Materials in Sidi MTB Shoes
The materials decide how long the shoe lasts and how it feels.
Upper Material
Sidi uses strong materials for the shoe’s body:
- Synthetic Leather: This material is light and easy to clean. It also breathes well, keeping your feet cool.
- Mesh Panels: These fabric sections allow air to flow through, which stops your feet from getting too sweaty on hot days.
Sole Material
The sole material affects stiffness and durability:
- Carbon Composite: These soles are very stiff and light. They are the top choice for serious racers.
- Nylon or Rubber Compounds: These are often used in trail or entry-level shoes. They flex a little more, making them better for walking short distances.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality in Sidi shoes often comes down to the small details.
Improving Quality
Higher quality shoes usually have replaceable parts. If a strap breaks or the tread wears out, you can often buy and install a new one. Shoes with full carbon soles generally offer superior power transfer. Also, shoes that use multiple closure systems (like a dial plus a strap) usually offer a better, more secure fit.
Reducing Quality (What to watch out for)
Shoes with very thin plastic components might break faster under stress. If the sole is made of soft rubber, it will wear down quickly, especially if you hike-a-bike often. Entry-level models sometimes use fewer durable fabrics for the upper part of the shoe.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you ride. Different shoes fit different needs.
Cross-Country (XC) Racing
XC racers need lightweight shoes with very stiff soles. They focus on speed and efficiency. Sidi models like the *Wire* or similar high-end options are perfect here because they save every ounce of energy.
Trail Riding and Enduro
Trail riders need durability and slightly more walking comfort. Shoes for this use often have rubber soles that give better grip when off the bike. They can handle bumps and scrapes better than pure race shoes.
Commuting and Casual Riding
If you just ride around town or on easy paths, you might prefer a shoe that looks more like a sneaker but still clips into your pedals. These prioritize walking comfort over maximum power transfer.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sidi MTB Shoes
Q: Are Sidi MTB shoes true to size?
A: Generally, yes, Sidi shoes fit true to size, but many riders suggest going up a half size if you plan on wearing thick winter socks or have wide feet. Always check customer reviews for the specific model you want.
Q: Can I use Sidi MTB shoes for road biking?
A: You should not. Sidi makes separate road shoes. MTB shoes have two-bolt cleats that stick out, which are good for walking, but they do not work well on road bike pedals.
Q: How do I clean my Sidi MTB shoes?
A: Use mild soap and a soft brush or cloth with warm water. Never put them in a washing machine or dryer, as high heat damages the materials and glues.
Q: What type of cleats do Sidi MTB shoes use?
A: Sidi MTB shoes use the standard two-bolt cleat system, often called SPD style cleats.
Q: What is the difference between Sidi Dragon and Sidi Dominator models?
A: The Dragon models are usually higher performance, often featuring carbon soles and advanced closure systems for racing. The Dominator is a classic workhorse, known for great durability and trail performance at a slightly lower price point.
Q: Will the BOA dial break easily if I crash?
A: The BOA system is surprisingly tough. While any plastic part can break in a bad crash, the system is designed to handle heavy trail use. Replacement parts are usually available if needed.
Q: Are Sidi shoes good for wide feet?
A: Sidi shoes are historically known for having a slightly narrower fit, especially in the toe box. If you have wide feet, look for models specifically labeled “Mega Fit” or try them on before buying.
Q: How long do Sidi shoes usually last?
A: With proper care, high-quality Sidi shoes often last several years of regular riding. The longevity depends most on how hard you ride and how often you walk in them.
Q: Should I choose a stiff sole or a flexible sole?
A: If you race or ride long distances on smooth terrain, choose stiff. If you ride very technical trails and walk a lot, choose a sole with some flex for better walking comfort.
Q: Are Sidi shoes waterproof?
A: Most standard Sidi models are water-resistant, meaning they shed light rain. They are not fully waterproof unless they are specifically labeled as Gore-Tex or winter-lined models.