Hot Summer Rides? This New Trail Shoe Promises Great Breathability

For me, there’s nothing like a long, hot day on the trails. I might be the odd duck here for enjoying the heat, and my last two rides have been in the peak heat of the day, when the temps were close to 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 °C). But what I don’t like is my feet cooking and stinking; during peak summer heat, that can happen.

Crankbrothers seems to agree with me here, and wants more people to feel the breeze through their toe hairs. The new Trail Speed Lace Vent Shoes aim to do just that. These new kicks are designed for summer, with lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying materials to keep the piggies feeling fresh in the heat.

Mallet Trail & Stamp Trail

The lineup is divided into two distinct models, each designed to suit your pedal setup (clips or flat pedals). Both models feature a sleek “Bone White” color with a grey outsole – a smart choice to hide trail dust and reduce heat absorption from the sun, plus white shoes just look good and develop a better patina.

• Mallet Trail Speed Lace Vent | MSRP: $189.99 / 189.99€
  Built for the clips, this version tips the scales at 408g per shoe (US Size 9/EU Size 42). *Note that cleats are not included with the purchase.
• Stamp Trail Speed Lace Vent | MSRP: $169.99 / 169.99€.
  Engineered for flat pedals, this model drops the weight down to 309g per shoe (Size 9 US/42 EU).

Build Details

The core selling point of these shoes is the highly ventilated mesh upper. It is engineered for airflow and breathability throughout your foot without compromising the shoe’s structure, fit, or long-term durability.

For the practical details, you get a quick and efficient Speed Lace closure system that pairs well with an integrated lace pocket to keep things neat and clear of your drivetrain. Up front, a TPU-reinforced toe box offers impact protection against rocks and trail debris. The tongue is made of non-absorbent EVA foam that dries incredibly quickly, which is great if you need to sit in the creek for a second.

Details

The Match System combines pedal and shoe for an optimal interface. Its outsole provides versatile trail tread for reliable traction on and off the bike, along with good walkability for hike-a-bike moments.

Sizing is also highly inclusive, running from a US Men’s 5 up to 15 (US Women’s 6.5 to 16.5 / EUR 37 to 49). 

The rubber compounds themselves change depending on the model you choose:

• MC1 Mid-Friction Compound: Found on the Mallet Trail, this compound offers smooth pedal entry and exit with long-lasting durability. It uses a stiff fiber-reinforced nylon shank for efficient power transfer.
• MC2 High-Friction Compound: Found on the Stamp Trail, this rubber is made for grip, durability, and reduced rebound to keep feet on flat pedals. Both shoes feature a low-rebound EVA midsole to dampen trail chatter.