The 11 Best Clipless Mountain Bike Pedals (from XC through Enduro to Hybrid) [2023]

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This is a selection of the best mountain bike clipless pedals from manufacturers like Shimano, Crankbrothers, Time, and more. It includes pedals for cross-country, trail, enduro, and also casual mountain bikers.

I spent more than 9 hours researching this topic – I talked to friends who ride mountain bikes, evaluated customer reviews, and read forum threads to save you time.

To help you orient better amongst various types of pedals, I sorted them into 3 categories:

1. Clipless MTB pedals without platforms
2. Clipless MTB pedals with platforms
3. Hybrid MTB pedals (clip-in + platform)

In this article, you find out who are individual categories of pedals suitable for, how to choose MTB clipless pedals, what their benefits are compared to flat pedals, and much more.

NOTE: This selection includes clipless MTB pedals only. If you are looking for platform pedals, read the best mountain bike flat pedals article.

What Are the Best Clipless Mountain Bike Pedals?

Below are the main features, pros, and cons of the pedals I selected. To learn more about them and what to look for when buying clipless MTB pedals, please read How to buy clipless MTB pedals first.

Skip to the comparison table…

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The Best Clipless MTB Pedals Without Platforms

This category of clipless MTB pedals is ideal for cross-country-like terrain, casual mountain bikers, cyclocross, or gravel riders.

These pedals allow you to shed mud easily. In addition, they are relatively light and durable. However, they don’t provide much foot support due to a lack of platform. I recommend using them with stiff mountain bike shoes.

Shimano M520 SPD (Best Clipless MTB Pedals Overall)

Shimano M520 SPD are legendary pedals popular among mountain bikers who ride cross-country-like terrain, cyclocross, gravel, and casual riders. Let me explain the reasons for that.

First, they are made of aluminum and stainless steel. They are durable and almost maintenance-free, so they will last you for years.

You can set their release tension based on your preferences. I recommend lower tension for beginners for easier release. You avoid crashes caused by an inability to clip out on time.

Finally, they will provide you with a good mud-shedding ability so you can ride even after or during rainy days.

They come with a pair of durable recessed cleats compatible with a 2-hole cleat configuration. All these features are packed for a very affordable price.

Their biggest downside is their weight, which is much higher than 0.86lb (380g). If you want lighter SPD-style pedals, buy Shimano PD-M9100 (XTR) instead. They weigh just 0.68lb (310g) and offer the same features.

Also available at jensonusa.com, rei.com, performancebike.com, and wiggle.com

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You might also be interested in this selection of the best pedals for a gravel bike.

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Venzo MTB Clipless SPD Pedals (Best Budget)

Venzo clipless pedals are very like Shimano M520. But they are more affordable, so if your budget is tight, these are for you.

They offer the same features – entry from both sides, you can adjust the release tension, and they are good for mud shedding.

They are about 0.7 oz lighter (20g), which is good news if you care about the weight. The main difference is their price which is much lower than the price of M520.

Just keep in mind that the quality of these pedals is not as high as that of the Shimano M520. But when we consider their price, they are a tempting choice for beginners.

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Crankbrothers Eggbeater 11 (Best Lightweight)

Eggbeater is a line of Cranbrothers’ clipless pedals that include several options based on your budget and demands. 

The Eggbeaters 11 are top-of-the-line titanium pedals, one of the lightest pedals on the market. At just 0.39lb (179g), you will almost forget that you have them on your bike.

Remember, they come with a weight limit of 200lb (90kg), so they are unsuitable for heavier riders.

Their design provides an exceptionally great mud-shedding ability. So, these are perfect if you enjoy riding in the mud.

Crankbrothers’ rotating spring design (Shimano has a fixed clip-in entry) takes some time to get used to, but it allows you to clip in from every side.

The good news is that if Eggbeater 11 are too expensive for you, you can go for Eggbeater 1, 2, or 3, which are a little bit heavier but provide similar features.

With Crankbrothers, you also get float depending on the type of cleats you use. This feature is not common among Shimano SPD pedals.

The main downside of Crankbrothers’ clip-in mechanism is that you can’t adjust the spring tension.

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PRO TIP: Combine Crankbrothers or Time ATAC pedals with Crankbrothers shoe shields. They will protect your shoe insoles so they will last you longer while maintaining the same level of cleat adjustability.

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Time ATAC XC8

Time ATAC XC8 pedals function like the Crankbrothers Eggbeater 11 pedals, besides a few differences.

They have an angular float of +/-5° and a lateral float of 6 mm to ease the pressure on your knees. They also come with two release angles of 13 and 17 degrees, allowing you to set an angle that suits you best.

At 286g, they are a convenient choice for those looking for light clipless MTB pedals. While they may be slightly challenging to grasp when switching from Shimano SPD pedals, they are a good choice for mountain bikes.

Owners praise their durability and reliability. These two features are very important if you are tens of miles away from home. You can rely on XC8 at any time.

According to some users, they have even better mud-shedding ability than the Shimano SPD.

Also available at performancebike.com

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Don’t miss this selection of the best mountain bike shoes for clipless and flat pedals.

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The Best Clipless MTB Pedals With Platforms

Clipless MTB pedals with platforms are suitable for enduro and trail riders because they provide them with additional foot support.

These pedals are heavier than clipless MTB pedals without platforms. You can clip into them from both sides and use them with clipless MTB shoes or casual shoes with softer soles.

Crankbrothers Mallet E (Best Clipless MTB Pedals With Platforms)

Crankbrothers Mallet E line of pedals is suitable for – yes, you guessed it – enduro (Mallet DH pedals are for downhill).

Thanks to their large platform, you get sufficient foot support in every situation. It will increase your confidence and ability to control your bike.

Crankbrothers pedals have float (depending on the cleats you use), which is a feature that some riders love. Some don’t. However, it is something that differentiates them from Shimano pedals.

You can also adjust the pins to improve your grip, which is a huge plus compared to Cranbrothers Candy, for example.

Also, remember that Crankbrothers’ pedals have a rotating spring design which takes some time to get used to. It is not fixed as on HT Components T1 pedals.

If you want the same pedals made of titanium, go for Mallet E 11. They take the Mallet E line to a whole new level.

Also available at wiggle.com

HT Components T1

HT Components pedals have a unique clip mechanism that combines some features of Shimano and Crankbrothers pedals.

I like these pedals because they will “remind” you that you are about to unclip. The 4° or 8° float cleats also allow your feet to move a bit.

They are lighter than Shimano PD-M9120. You can also choose from a larger color variety and tighten the spring tension more so you won’t unclip when you don’t want to.

Speaking of the spring tension, I don’t recommend these to beginners or riders who don’t like too strong engagement. You will struggle to unclip. T1 pedals are better for performance-oriented riders and racers.

Remember that these pedals have a weight limit of 176lb (80kg). So if you are a heavier rider, look elsewhere.

Also available at performancebike.com

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Shimano PD-M9120

Shimano PD-M9120 are very like HT Components T1, but I would say these are more beginner-friendly. This is because you can adjust the release tension to be easy, so you don’t have to put as much effort into unclipping.

The platform shape of these 2 pedals is very similar and provides your feet with enough support when needed.

One of the main differences is in the weight, which is higher than T1. On the other hand, PD-M9120 are more durable and suitable even for heavier riders.

Shimano pedals don’t have float as HT Components pedals. This can be an advantage for you if you don’t like the float and prefer a fixed-foot position.

Both pedals provide similar mud-shedding abilities, making them perfect for enduro and gravel, cyclocross, or cross-country riders.

Crankbrothers Candy

Crankbrothers’ Candy pedals offer great value for the money. However, they are not as suitable for enduro but rather for XC/trail riding because of the small platform (Compared to Mallet E).

They are pretty lightweight, so if you want lightweight, clipless MTB pedals with a platform, you may consider getting a pair of these.

The Candy line of pedals is very versatile, also thanks to many variants. Depending on your budget and needs, you can pay for affordable Candy 1 or more for advanced models like Candy 2, 3, 7, and 11.

The more expensive versions of Candy pedals are lighter and made of more premium materials like titanium.

Remember, with Crankbrothers pedals, you get float based on the cleats you use, and there is no possibility to adjust the spring tension.

They have platforms that may support your feet if you miss clipping in on time. And the spring clip provides a minimal surface for mud to occupy. As a result, they allow you to clip in easily in any weather.

One downside of Candy is that they don’t have any pins, so you don’t get a good grip as with Mallets.

Also available at rei.com, performancebike.com, and wiggle.com

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The Best Hybrid MTB Pedals (Clip-in + Platform)

Thanks to the platform, the following ‘hybrid’ pedals allow you to clip in from one side and use normal shoes on the other. They are ideal for commuting or taking casual trips combined with walking/hiking.

These pedals are also much heavier than clipless MTB pedals without platforms. You can clip into them from one side and use the platform on the other (ideal for shoes with softer soles).

Shimano PD-EH500 (Best Hybrid MTB Pedals)

Shimano PD-EH500 are hybrid pedals perfect for demanding riders who need adjustable pedals. Not only that you can adjust their spring tension but also their pins to get a better grip.

They have a slightly smaller platform than the Crankbrothers Double Shot 2, but you will be fine if you don’t have elephant feet.

Thanks to the SPD mechanism, you can shed mud easily, so you don’t have to fear riding in mud or snow.

Remember, you won’t get any float with Shimano pedals. You can only choose from 2 types of cleats with different exit modes (learn more).

PD-EH500 are perfect for good for enduro, cross-country-like terrain, gravel bikes… Simply for anyone who wants high-quality hybrid pedals for their mountain bike.

Also available at wiggle.com

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Crankbrothers Double Shot 2

If you are a demanding rider who doesn’t want to spend as much money on a pair of good hybrid pedals, Doubleshot 2 are a good alternative to Shimano PD-EH500.

They are more affordable, so they lack one important feature – they don’t offer adjustable pins. They have studs only. This means you won’t be able to adjust the grip level. But don’t worry, if you are a fan of Crankbrothers and adjustability, you can get Doubleshot 3 with adjustable pins.

Doubleshot 2 have a slightly larger platform for better foot support than PD-EH500. This makes them better for riders with larger feet or if you wear shoes with soft soles.

Crankbrothers pedals have a rotating spring clip-in mechanism that is perfect for mud-shedding. If you enjoy demanding terrain, you will enjoy these pedals as well.

Of course, you get float based on your cleats, and you won’t be able to adjust the spring tension. This is typical for all Crankbrothers’ pedals.

Also available at wiggle.com

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XEWEA MTB Clipless Pedals

These hybrid pedals are highly affordable. So if you have a limited budget for hybrid pedals suitable for mountain bikes, XEWEA pedals should catch your attention.

Of course, they are not as durable and well-made as the pedals from Cranbrothers or Shimano, but they are pretty good when considering their price.

You can adjust their spring tension, shed mud pretty easily, and they are even lighter than Double Shot 2 and PD-EH500.

Their main downside is the build quality and used materials. I don’t recommend them for experienced and demanding riders. They are perfect for beginners or as a replacement for stock pedals.

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My Verdict

This is a very simplified guide to follow. Read the following section to learn more about individual types of MTB pedals.

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How to Choose the Best Clipless Mountain Bike Pedals?

In this section, you will find out what to look for when buying clipless MTB pedals. I also compare clipless and flat pedals and explain their benefits and disadvantages.

Material and Weight

Clipless pedals must be durable to withstand the power you put into every pedal stroke. Therefore, most high-quality pedals are made of metals like aluminum, steel, titanium, or carbon/plastic composites.

The general rule of thumb is that the more expensive the pedals, the better and lighter materials.

For example, Crankbrothers Egg Beater 11 are made of titanium, reducing their overall weight to just 0.39lb / 179g per pair. However, they come with a rider’s weight limit (200 lb / 90 kg).

Check the following table that shows the average weight of different types of bike pedals.

Release Tension

Crankbrothers pedals don’t offer the possibility to adjust it. This is probably one of their main disadvantages compared to the pedals of the above-mentioned manufacturers.

Cleats Release Angle & Float

Cleats’ release angle and float are sometimes mixed up together. So, let me explain how these two features differ.

The cleat release angle is the angle at which the shoe releases from the pedal (e.g., 10°, 15°, 20°).

To make things more complicated, there are also release modes.

Release mode means you can only release your feet from the pedals with an outward movement or by twisting your heel in any direction.

For example, Shimano SM-SH51 cleats allow outward release only, while SM-SH56 release in any direction. Therefore, SM-SH56 cleats are better for beginners not used to clipless pedals, while SM-SH51 are for racers and performance-oriented riders who want to avoid unintentional unclipping. 

Cleat float lets you move your heels sideways when clipped into the pedal. If you experience knee problems, you may benefit from cleats with wider float. They allow your heels to rotate a little bit.

The table below shows different Crankbrothers’ cleats, their release angle, and float.

Source: Crankbrothers.com

Platform Size

The pedals’ platform provides your feet with additional support. The general rule of thumb is that the smaller the platform, the stiffer shoes you need because the force you put into pedals is focused on a smaller area (the pedal).

Stiffer soles help you spread the pressure across the larger area, preventing hotspots and discomfort. With larger platforms, you don’t need as stiff shoes because the pressure is already spread.

But, based on the pedal concave/convex shape and the type of shoes you use, the sole of your shoes may or may not touch the pins and the platform. This means that if the shoes and pedals don’t go well together, you won’t be able to take full advantage of the larger platform.

How do you decide whether to buy clipless MTB pedals with or platform?

The more technical terrain you ride, the more you can benefit from a larger platform for added stability. Therefore, clipless MTB pedals with platforms are great for enduro and trail riders. But they accumulate mud, so if you want to ride cross-country-like terrain, SPD-style pedals will be better for you.

Clipless, Flats, vs. Hybrid Pedals

So which type is right for you? 

Clipless pedals allow you to take full advantage of pedaling in circles technique. You will feel like you are one with the bike. They are perfect for cross-country, cyclocross, or gravel riders.

It will probably take you a few rides to get used to them, but once you master the skill of clipping in and out, you will be able to take your riding to the next level.

Read all benefits of using clipless pedals.

You might be interested in this selection of the best mountain bike shoes for clipless pedals.

Flat pedals or platforms provide you with better foot support than clipless pedals. They will also allow you to take your feet off the pedals, improving your security and confidence.

Platforms are not only suitable for beginners but also for ‘trail hunters.’ Thanks to their larger platform, you get a better idea of what the bike is doing and how to control it.

But, due to the lack of an attachment mechanism, your feet may slip off the pedals in some situations. Therefore, go for flat pedals with pins that improve the traction and your overall grip. 

To learn more about flat pedals, read my fully dedicated article on the best mountain bike flat pedals, including a detailed guide.

Hybrid pedals have a clip-in mechanism on one side and a platform on the other. This means you can use them with casual or clipless bike shoes.

They are perfect for people who combine mountain biking with walking or hiking or for commuters who often need to stop at traffic lights, intersections, etc.

Take a look at the following summary of the advantages and disadvantages of different types of bike pedals.

TIP: Learn more about choosing the right bike pedals in my bike pedals buyer’s guide.

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Mountain Bike Clipless Pedals FAQ

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This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please, contact me.