Best MTB Pedals 2025: Top Flat and Clipless Options

Finding Your Perfect Connection

Your pedals are one of the three key contact points on your bike. They are the direct way to transfer power. But they also control how much confidence you have on the trail. Choosing the right set isn't just an upgrade - it's a basic decision about how you want to ride your bike and handle different terrain.

The debate between the two main types can be confusing. Grippy flat pedals versus efficient mtb clipless pedals both have fans. Our goal is to cut through the noise and help you decide. In this guide, we'll explain the options, review the top models for 2025, and give you a clear way to make a smart decision that fits your riding style.

Flat vs. Clipless Pedals

Understanding the basic difference between these two systems is the first step. Each offers a different feel and set of benefits. They work for different priorities and types of riders.

What are Flat Pedals?

A flat pedal is the simplest design. It's a platform, usually made of aluminum or nylon, with small pins that stick out to grip your shoe. There is no mechanical connection between your foot and the pedal.

Pros:
- Builds confidence, especially for new riders
- Putting a foot down is instant and easy
- Helps you learn good technique
- You learn to use body weight and "heavy feet" for grip, rather than pulling up on the pedals
- Allows for instant foot changes and quick escapes in technical terrain
- Works with any flat-soled shoe, though special MTB shoes offer much better grip

Cons:
- Less pedaling efficiency, since you can only push down effectively
- Your feet can bounce off or slip in very rough terrain or wet conditions, especially with poor technique or wrong shoes

What are MTB Clipless Pedals?

Despite the name, "clipless" pedals involve clipping in. The name comes from when cyclists stopped using old-school toe clips and straps. This system uses a small metal cleat bolted to the sole of a special cycling shoe. The cleat locks into a mechanism on the pedal. This creates a more secure connection between a cyclist's feet and the bike.

Pros:
- Better pedaling efficiency
- You can transfer power through more of the pedal stroke by pulling up and pushing forward
- Your feet are always in the best position and will never slip off
- This gives security in rough sections
- Creates a feeling of being "one" with the bike, making control better during dynamic movements

Cons:
- A big learning curve to master clipping in and, more importantly, clipping out smoothly
- Can be scary and lead to slow-speed falls for beginners
- Requires specific, often expensive, clipless-compatible shoes
- Can be harder to get out of in a panic situation

Which Pedal is for YOU?

The "best" pedal is totally personal. Instead of a simple "beginner vs. expert" rule, let's break it down by how you ride. Find your profile below to see our recommendation.

Best Flat MTB Pedals of 2025

We've put countless hours on flat pedals. These are the models that always stand out for their performance, durability, and value.

Leoguar Pedals

Best For: Premium Durability for E-MTB Riders

Key Specs:

• Material: Forged Aluminum Body
• Platform Size: 109mm x 100mm (approx. 4.29" x 3.96")
• Pins: Interchangeable grip pins for customizable traction
• Weight: ~450g (0.99 lbs per pair)
• Axis: CrMo 9/16" with sealed bearings

Our Take: Built with forged aluminum, the Leoguar Pedals are made to take a beating. Whether you're climbing steep singletrack or bombing rocky descents, these pedals stay planted and responsive. The sealed bearing system ensures smooth rotation with minimal maintenance, and the interchangeable pins allow riders to dial in their preferred grip.

While they lean toward the premium end in both material and build, they’re specifically designed for e-MTBs—especially the Fastron lineup—making them a smart upgrade or durable replacement. These aren’t your average trail pedals; they’re built for torque-heavy abuse without sacrificing smoothness or rider comfort.

Race Face Chester

Best For: All-Around Value

Key Specs:

• Material: Composite Nylon
  
• Platform Size: 110mm x 101mm
  
• Pins: 8 replaceable steel pins per side
  
• Weight: ~360g

Our Take: The Chester is the benchmark for which all other composite pedals are judged. For its price, the durability is shocking. We've smashed these into countless rocks, and while they get scarred, they rarely break. The grip is excellent, with a slightly concave shape that cups the shoe well. The bearing system is simple and easily serviceable. It's not the grippiest or thinnest pedal out there, but its combination of performance, toughness, and price is unbeatable.

Deity T-Mac

Best For: Ultimate Grip

Key Specs:

• Material: 6061 T6 Aluminum
  
• Platform Size: 110mm x 105mm
  
• Pins: 14 replaceable steel pins per side
  
• Weight: ~409g

Our Take: If your number one priority is a locked-in feel, this is your pedal. The T-Mac features a deep, balanced concave profile that your foot sinks into. Combined with 14 pins per side, it feels like you're standing on flypaper. The large platform is incredibly supportive on long, rough descents, reducing foot fatigue. The machining and finish are top-tier, and they've proven to be very durable. The only downside is that the intense grip can make small foot adjustments slightly harder.

Chromag Dagga

Best For: Massive Platform & Aggression

Key Specs:

• Material: Alloy
• Platform Size: 120mm x 115mm
  
• Pins: 12 long, aggressive replaceable pins per side
  
• Weight: ~480g

Our Take: The Dagga is an unapologetic gravity pedal. The platform is enormous, providing a massive target and unmatched support for riders with larger feet or those who simply want the most real estate possible. The pins are some of the longest and sharpest on the market, offering strong grip. This pedal is built for downhill tracks and bike park laps where maximum connection is non-negotiable. Be warned: the long pins are not kind to shins or the soles of softer shoes.

Best MTB Clipless Pedals of 2025

Clipless systems demand reliability. The main players are Shimano SPD, known for its durability and adjustable tension, and Crankbrothers, praised for its 4-sided entry and mud-shedding capabilities. Our picks reflect the best of these systems.

Shimano PD-M520

Best For: Unbeatable Value and Durability

Key Specs:

• System: Shimano SPD
• Platform: None
  
• Float / Release Angle: 4 degrees / 13 degrees
  
• Weight: ~380g

Our Take: There is a good chance more miles have been ridden on the M520 than any other clipless MTB pedal in history. It is the definition of a workhorse. The engagement is a loud, positive "clack," leaving no doubt you're connected. The tension is adjustable, allowing beginners to set it very light for easy release. They are not light or flashy, but we have sets that are over a decade old and still function perfectly with minimal maintenance. For anyone entering the clipless world, this is the place to start.

Shimano XT PD-M8120 Trail

Best For: Aggressive Trail and Enduro

Key Specs:

• System: Shimano SPD
  
• Platform: Integrated Cage
  
• Float / Release Angle: 4 degrees / 13 degrees
  
• Weight: ~438g

Our Take: This is the gold standard for all-around trail riding. It takes the proven reliability of the Shimano SPD platform and adds a small integrated cage. That cage makes a world of difference, providing extra support to the shoe for better stability on descents and acting as a small platform if you need to pedal a short section before clipping back in. The engagement is crisp and predictable, and the durability is what you'd expect from the XT name. It's the perfect balance of efficiency and control.

Shimano XTR PD-M9100 Race

Best For: XC Racing and Lightweight Performance

Key Specs:

• System: Shimano SPD
  
• Platform: Minimal
  
• Float / Release Angle: 4 degrees / 13 degrees
  
• Weight: ~310g

Our Take: When every gram matters and every watt counts, the XTR Race pedal is the answer. It is a beautifully machined, lightweight evolution of the classic SPD design. The wider pedal body compared to older versions offers better stability, and its shape is optimized for shedding mud—a critical feature in messy race conditions. The action feels more refined than lower-tier models, with a smooth bearing feel and the same definitive "click" on entry. It's a pure performance component built for the pursuit of speed.

Beyond the Pedal

Your pedal choice is only part of the system. The shoes you wear and how you set up your cleats are just as crucial for performance and comfort.

Shoes Are Half the Equation

For Flat Pedals: Don't underestimate the power of a good shoe. A standard sneaker with a soft sole will simply fold over the pedal pins, leading to poor grip and foot fatigue. A dedicated flat pedal shoe uses a special sticky rubber compound for grip and has a stiffened midsole. This stiffness prevents the shoe from flexing, transferring more of your power into the pedal and providing a stable platform for your foot.

For Clipless Pedals: The spectrum runs from ultra-stiff carbon-soled XC shoes to more flexible trail/enduro models. Stiff XC shoes are all about maximum power transfer, but they are often difficult to walk in. More flexible trail shoes offer better comfort for hike-a-bike sections and feel more natural off the bike, at the cost of a small amount of pedaling efficiency.

A Guide to Cleat Setup

For clipless users, cleat position is critical. A poor setup can lead to inefficiency, discomfort, and even knee pain. The most common starting point is to position the cleat so the center of the pedal axle sits directly under the ball of your foot. From there, you can make small adjustments. Moving the cleat further back can increase stability on descents, while a more forward position is sometimes favored for sprinting. Make only small changes at a time and avoid extreme positions unless you're working with a professional bike fitter.

Conclusion: Your Choice

Ultimately, there is no single best mtb pedal. The best choice is the one that gives you the most confidence and makes riding more fun. Remember the core concepts: flats for freedom and skill-building, clipless for efficiency and connection. Don't be afraid to experiment. Many riders own both types and switch them out depending on the day's ride. The right pedals are waiting to unlock a new level of control and enjoyment on the trail.

The right pedals can completely change how connected and confident you feel on the trail — whether you go flat for freedom or clipless for control. To get the most out of your setup, check out the Leoguar best mtb pedals, where you’ll find gear designed to keep your rides smooth, durable, and tailored to your style.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Can I use regular sneakers with flat pedals?
A: While you can use regular sneakers, dedicated flat pedal shoes with sticky rubber soles and stiff midsoles will give you much better grip and power transfer.

2. Q: How long does it take to get comfortable with clipless pedals?
A: Most riders feel comfortable clipping in and out within a few rides, but it can take several weeks to develop the muscle memory for smooth, automatic engagement and release.

3. Q: Are expensive pedals worth the extra cost?
A: Higher-end pedals typically offer better materials, lighter weight, smoother bearings, and longer durability, but mid-range options often provide excellent performance for most riders.

4. Q: Can I switch between flat and clipless pedals on the same bike?
A: Yes, as long as both pedals have the same thread size (most modern bikes use 9/16" threads), you can easily swap between different pedal types.

5. Q: What's the best way to maintain my pedals?
A: Clean them regularly with water and a brush, check that pins are tight on flat pedals, and service the bearings annually or when they feel rough or loose.