When it comes to mountain biking, every component of your bike plays a role in your performance and comfort—and pedals are no exception. The right pedals can enhance your control, efficiency, and overall riding experience, while the wrong choice might leave you struggling on the trails.
There are two main types of mountain bike (MTB) pedals: flat pedals and clipless pedals. Flat pedals offer a simple, versatile flat platform. Most people are already familiar with flat pedals as the “standard go-to” pedal that most new bikes are equipped with! While clipless pedals provide a secure connection between your feet and the bike by using cleats that connect your shoes to the pedals.
There is also a third type of pedal: hybrid pedals. Hybrid pedals can be a versatile option with a dual-sided design offering a flat platform on one side and clipless on the other if you are torn between flat and clipless pedals. Each type has its advantages and drawbacks, making the decision highly personal.
So, how do you know which pedals are right for you? It all comes down to your riding style, experience level, and personal preference. Whether you’re a beginner looking for confidence on the trails or an experienced rider seeking efficiency, this guide will help you find the perfect match.
Personally, I have been a fan of clipless pedals since I started mountain biking many years ago. I used to use the old toe clips and straps when I was initially road cycling, which can be awkward and fiddly to use trying to get your feet in quickly, so it was an easy decision for me transition to clipless pedals. My decision to use clipless pedals does not mean I will be biased towards them in this article. This is going to be a “neutral” article illustrating the pros and cons of each pedal type, leaving you to decide which type you would ultimately prefer as you will want the best pedals for you!
Understanding MTB Pedals
MTB pedals are one of the most critical contact points between you and your bike. While often overlooked, they play a crucial role in your bike control and overall riding experience. Whether you’re tackling technical trails, climbing steep inclines, or speeding down descents, the right pedals can make all the difference. Unlike road cycling pedals, which prioritize aerodynamics and power transfer, MTB pedals are designed to handle rough terrain, sudden movements, and unpredictable conditions.
There are three types of MTB pedals:
- Flat pedals – Large, platform-style pedals that allow free foot movement.
- Clipless pedals – Pedals that use a cleat system to attach your feet securely to the bike.
- Hybrid pedals – Pedals with a dual-sided design – flat on one side, clipless on the other.
Each type serves a unique purpose, catering to different riding styles and skill levels. Choosing the right one depends on how you ride, where you ride, and your comfort preferences.
Flat Pedals – Pros & Cons Clipless Pedals – Pros & Cons Hybrid Pedals – Pros & Cons
How MTB Pedals Impact Your Riding Experience
Your choice of pedals directly influences control, efficiency, and comfort, three key factors that shape your mountain biking experience.
Control: Flat pedals allow for quick foot adjustments, making them ideal for technical trails, jumps, and downhill riding. Clipless pedals, on the other hand, keep your feet locked in place, providing stability and consistency on rough terrain.
Efficiency: Clipless pedals maximize pedaling efficiency by enabling power transfer on both the upstroke and downstroke of the pedaling cycle. This can improve endurance and climbing ability. Flat pedals, while less efficient in power transfer, promote a natural foot position and allow easy maneuverability.
Comfort: Some riders prefer the freedom and flexibility of flat pedals, especially for long or casual rides. Others find clipless pedals more comfortable because they keep the feet in a fixed position, reducing strain over long distances.
Ultimately, MTB pedals are more than just a platform for your feet—they shape how you ride, how much energy you use, and how confident you feel on the trail.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the differences between the two main pedal types first – flat pedals and clipless pedals and we will look into hybrid pedals afterwards to help you make the right choice.
Flat Pedals: Pros & Cons
Flat pedals are the most common type of mountain bike pedals, known for their simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics or an experienced rider tackling technical trails, flat pedals offer a level of freedom and control that many riders prefer.
MTB flat pedals do not have toe clip cages or clip-in mechanisms to connect your feet to the pedals. Instead, to improve grip, they utilize small spikes, also known as pins, to help stop your shoes from slipping off the pedals. Depending on the pedal manufacturer, these pins can be adjusted to improve grip, and even replaced if they break or fallout. But are they the right choice for you? Let’s break down the pros and cons.
✅ Pros of Flat Pedals
1. Easy to Use – No Clipping In or Out
One of the biggest advantages of flat pedals is their ease of use. Unlike clipless pedals, which require you to clip in and out, with flat pedals you can take your foot off the pedal any time you want to put your foot down. This makes them great for beginners or riders who prefer a more intuitive experience.
2. Better for Beginners and Technical Riding
Flat pedals are ideal for learning proper foot positioning and bike handling skills. Since you’re not clipped in, you can quickly adjust your stance, shift weight, and place a foot down quickly if needed. This is especially beneficial for technical trails, where balance and maneuverability are crucial.
3. Allows Quick Foot Adjustments
With flat pedals, you have the freedom to reposition your feet at any time. Whether you’re adjusting for a corner, absorbing impact from a jump, or shifting weight on a steep descent, this flexibility allows for more natural movement and better bike control.
4. Works Well with Standard Shoes
Flat pedals don’t require special cycling shoes. While many riders opt for grippy MTB shoes, you can use any comfortable, sturdy footwear. This makes flat pedals a convenient option for casual rides or multi-purpose biking adventures.
❌ Cons of Flat Pedals
1. Less Efficient Power Transfer
Unlike clipless pedals, which allow you to pull up as well as push down in the pedaling cycle, flat pedals only let you transfer power when you press down while pedaling. This means you lose efficiency, especially on long climbs or endurance rides.
2. Feet Can Slip Off on Rough Terrain
Since your feet aren’t attached to the pedals, there’s always a chance they might slip—especially when riding over bumpy, rocky, or wet trails. While MTB-specific shoes with sticky rubber can help minimize this, the risk of losing foot contact remains.
3. Less Control on High-Speed Descents
At high speeds or aggressive downhill sections, clipless pedals provide more stability by keeping your feet locked in. With flat pedals, sudden bumps or jumps can cause your feet to lift off the pedal or slip/ slightly shift, potentially affecting control.
Best For:
Flat pedals are a great choice for many types of riders, particularly:
- Beginners learning bike control and foot placement.
- Downhill riders who need the ability to put a foot down quickly.
- Technical trail riders who frequently adjust their stance.
- Casual riders who want a simple, hassle-free pedal option.
Final Thoughts
Flat pedals offer freedom, flexibility, and ease of use, making them a favorite for many MTB riders. However, if you’re looking for more efficiency and stability, clipless pedals might be worth considering. In the next section, we’ll explore the pros and cons of clipless pedals and see how they compare.
Clipless Pedals: Pros & Cons
For mountain bikers looking to maximize efficiency and control, clipless pedals offer a secure connection between rider and bike by connecting your feet to the pedals. Unlike flat pedals, clipless pedals use a cleat system that locks your shoes into place, allowing for better power transfer and stability on the trails. However, they do come with a learning curve, making them a better choice for more experienced riders. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of clipless pedals to see if they’re the right fit for you.
Please note: If you are interested in learning more about switching to Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals, you can find my in-depth gude to the whole installation and setup process here.
✅ Pros of Clipless Pedals
1. Better Power Transfer and Pedaling Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of clipless pedals is improved efficiency. Since your feet are attached to the pedals, you can apply power not only when pushing down but also when pulling up while pedaling. This creates a smoother, more effective pedal stroke, making long rides and steep climbs easier.
2. Keeps Feet Secure on Rough Terrain
With clipless pedals, you don’t have to worry about your feet bouncing off on rough trails, jumps, or high-speed descents. Your feet stay firmly in place, providing better stability and control, especially when navigating technical sections.
3. Reduces Foot Fatigue on Long Rides
Since clipless pedals hold your feet in an optimal position, they help reduce strain on your legs and feet. This is particularly beneficial for endurance riders and racers who spend hours on the bike. By keeping your feet locked in place, you avoid unnecessary foot movement that can lead to fatigue.
❌ Cons of Clipless Pedals
1. Learning Curve – Requires Practice to Clip In/Out
Unlike flat pedals, where you can simply place your foot down, clipless pedals require you to clip in and out of the pedals. This takes practice, and many beginners experience the dreaded “slow-motion fall” when they cannot unclip in time.
2. Can Be Intimidating for Beginners
The idea of being attached to the bike can feel unnerving, especially for new riders. If you’re used to putting a foot down quickly for balance, transitioning to clipless pedals might feel restrictive at first.
3. Requires MTB-Specific Clip-in Cycling Shoes
Clipless pedals only work with compatible cycling shoes that have cleat mounts. This means an additional investment in proper footwear, unlike flat pedals, which allow you to ride with any sturdy shoes.
Best For:
Clipless pedals are ideal for riders who prioritize efficiency, control, and endurance, including:
- XC riders who need consistent power output for long climbs.
- Endurance cyclists looking to reduce fatigue on extended rides.
- Racers who want every watt of power transferred efficiently.
- Experienced riders comfortable with the clipping-in/out system.
Final Thoughts
Clipless pedals provide superior power transfer, control, and endurance benefits, making them the go-to choice for serious riders. However, they require practice to get used to the clipping/unclipping process.
Still unsure? In the next section, we’ll compare flat vs. clipless pedals side by side and help you decide which type best suits your riding style.
How to Choose the Right MTB Pedals for You
Now that you understand the differences between flat and clipless pedals, the next step is deciding which type is best for you. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—your ideal pedals depend on your riding style, experience level, comfort preferences, and budget. Let’s break it down so you can make the right choice for you.
Consider Your Riding Style
Your choice of pedals should match the type of riding you do most often. Different styles require different levels of control, efficiency, and maneuverability.
- Trail Riding – If you ride a mix of climbs, descents, and technical sections, you can go either way. Clipless pedals offer better power transfer on climbs, while flat pedals allow for quick adjustments on technical terrain.
- Downhill & Freeride – Flat pedals are the top choice for downhill riders since they allow for quick foot placement and emergency dabs. Being clipped in at high speeds can feel restrictive.
- Cross-Country (XC) & Endurance – Clipless pedals are preferred by XC and endurance riders because they provide maximum efficiency, reducing fatigue over long distances.
- Enduro & All-Mountain – Enduro riders often choose clipless for climbs and efficiency, but some opt for flats to handle technical descents more confidently.
Think About Your Experience Level
Are you a beginner, or do you already have MTB experience? Your skill level can influence your choice.
- Beginners – Flat pedals are usually the best option because they allow you to focus on bike handling without worrying about clipping in or out.
- Intermediate Riders – If you’ve mastered basic bike control, consider clipless pedals if you want better power transfer and efficiency.
- Advanced Riders – Experienced riders often choose based on personal preference and riding style. Some prefer clipless for efficiency, while others stick with flats for technical control.
Factor in Comfort and Safety Preferences
Your riding comfort and confidence level matter. Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer the freedom to move your feet easily? If so, flat pedals are the better choice.
- Do you want a secure connection for better efficiency? If yes, clipless pedals may be the way to go.
- Are you comfortable with the idea of being clipped in? If not, starting with flats is a safe bet.
- Do you ride in unpredictable conditions? Flats allow for quick foot placement, while clipless pedals keep your feet locked in even on rough terrain.
Budget Considerations
Pedals come in a wide range of prices, and your budget can influence your decision.
- Flat Pedals – Basic flat pedals start at around $20-$50, while premium models with better grip and durability can go up to $150+.
- Clipless Pedals – Entry-level clipless pedals start at $50-$100, but high-end models with lightweight materials and adjustable tension can cost $200+.
- Shoes – Remember, clipless pedals require MTB-specific shoes, which can add an extra $100-$300 to your total cost.
If you’re on a tight budget, flats are the more affordable option, while clipless pedals require a bigger upfront investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right MTB pedals comes down to how you ride, your skill level, comfort preferences, and budget. If you’re still unsure, you can always start with flats and transition to clipless later. Some riders even keep both types for different riding conditions!
So, now, we’ll have a look at hybrid pedal features that offer the best of both worlds.
Hybrid Pedals – The Best of Both Worlds?
Now that the Flat vs Clipless pedal comparison is done, let’s take a look at the third, less common pedal option: Hybrid MTB pedals.
If you’re torn between flat and clipless pedals, you’re not alone. Many mountain bikers appreciate the benefits of both but struggle to choose just one. That’s where hybrid pedals come in—a versatile option that offers the best of both worlds.
How Hybrid Pedals Work
Hybrid pedals, have a dual-sided design, and are also known as dual-sided pedals:
One side is flat, giving you the freedom to ride without clipping in, while the other side has a clipless mechanism, allowing you to lock in for better pedaling efficiency.
This design makes them perfect for riders who want versatility—whether it’s switching between casual rides and intense climbs or adapting to different trail conditions. But are they the right choice for you? Let’s explore their benefits and drawbacks.
Hybrid Pedals: Pros & Cons
Hybrid mountain bike pedals, also known as dual-sided pedals, offer both a flat platform and a clip-in mechanism, providing versatility for different riding styles. Here’s a breakdown of their advantages and disadvantages:
✅ Pros of Hybrid Pedals
1. Versatility for Different Riding Styles
Hybrid pedals allow you to switch between flats and clipless on the fly. Use the flat side for technical trails where quick foot adjustments are needed, then flip to the clipless side for efficiency on climbs and long rides.
2. Ideal for Riders Transitioning to Clipless
If you’re curious about clipless pedals but not ready to fully commit, hybrids provide a safe way to gradually build confidence. You can start with the flat side and use the clipless side when you feel comfortable.
3. Convenience for Mixed Terrain & Casual Riding
Hybrid pedals are perfect for riders who use their MTB for multiple purposes. You can ride clipped in for serious trail sessions, then use the flat side for commuting, casual rides, or when wearing regular shoes.
❌ Cons of Hybrid Pedals
1. Can Be Hard to Find the Right Side Quickly
One of the biggest challenges with hybrid pedals is that you can’t always predict which side will be face up when you go to place your foot. This can be frustrating, especially when starting on a steep incline or needing to clip in quickly.
2. Heavier Than Standard Pedals
Hybrid pedals tend to be bulkier and heavier than dedicated flat or clipless pedals, which can be a downside for weight-conscious riders, especially those focused on XC or endurance riding.
3. Less Specialized Performance
While hybrids offer convenience of a dual-design, they don’t excel in any one area. They don’t have the grip of high-end flats or the firm connection of top clipless pedals. If you’re highly focused on performance, a dedicated pedal type may be the better choice.
4. You still need MTB-Specific Clip-in Cycling Shoes
Because of the clip-in mechanism for the clipless pedal side, MTB-Specific Clip-in Cycling Shoes will be required to make full use of this side. The cleat on the sole of the shoe may also hinder the gripability of the flat side of the pedal.
Are Hybrid Pedals Right for You?
Hybrid pedals, also known as dual-platform pedals, offer a mix of both flat and clipless designs. One side features a standard flat surface, while the other includes a clip-in mechanism for compatible cycling shoes. These pedals provide a level of versatility that can be appealing to a range of mountain bikers.
Who Should Consider Hybrid Pedals?
Riders Who Want Flexibility – If you like the option to ride clipped-in for efficiency on long trails but also prefer the freedom of flats for technical descents, hybrid pedals give you the best of both worlds.
New Riders Transitioning to Clipless – If you’re new to clipless pedals, hybrids can ease the learning curve. You can start with the flat side and gradually build confidence clipping in when you feel comfortable.
Multi-Purpose Riders – If your MTB doubles as a commuter bike or you use it for different types of riding, hybrid pedals make switching between cycling shoes and regular footwear easy.
Convenience Over Specialization – While hybrid pedals may not be the best choice for high-performance racing or aggressive downhill riding, they are ideal for riders who value ease of use and adaptability.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a pedal that provides versatility without locking you into one style of riding, hybrid pedals could be for you. They allow you to enjoy both the efficiency of clipless pedals and the simplicity of flats, making them an excellent option for casual riders, commuters, and those still deciding which style suits them best.
But, this ‘dual-sided’ design is also a disadvantage due to making sure the right side of the pedal is facing up for your foot. This is not an issue with flat or clipless pedals that have the same design/platform on both sides.
Another disadvantage is the requirement for MTB-Specific Clip-in Cycling Shoes. If you are going to aquire the shoes, why not just go for the Clipless Pedals? This is why this pedal design is less popular than Flat or Clipless Pedals and most people choose Flat or Clipless right away.
Tips for Transitioning to a New Pedal Type
Switching to a new type of MTB pedal can feel like a big adjustment, but with the right approach, you can make the transition smooth and stress-free. Whether you’re moving from flat pedals to clipless for better efficiency or clipless to flats for more freedom, taking the time to practice and set up your pedals properly will help you ride with confidence.
Please note: If you are interested in learning more about switching to Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals, you can find my in-depth gude to the whole installation and setup process here.
Here are some tips to make your transition easier.
If Switching to Clipless: Practice Clipping In & Out in a Safe Area
Clipless pedals can feel intimidating at first, but with consistent practice, they’ll soon feel natural.
Tips for a Smooth Transition:
- Start on soft ground – Practice clipping in and out while standing over your bike on grass or dirt. This way, if you do start to tip over, it’s a softer landing.
- Use a stationary trainer – If you have access to a bike trainer, use it to get comfortable clipping in and out without worrying about balance.
- Practice slow-speed stops – Many new clipless riders struggle to unclip quickly when stopping. Practice unclipping as you slow down, giving you plenty of time before you come to a full stop to avoid tipping over.
- Use your dominant foot first – Pick one foot to always unclip first. Most riders unclip their dominant foot for a more stable dismount.
With enough practice, clipping in and out will become second nature, and you’ll enjoy the increased efficiency and control that clipless pedals provide.
If Switching to Flats: Choose Shoes with Good Grip
If you’re moving from clipless to flat pedals, your choice of shoes matters just as much as the pedals themselves. Clipless riders often rely on their cleats to stay connected, but with flats, grippy shoes are essential for stability and control.
What to Look for in MTB Shoes for Flat Pedals:
- Sticky rubber soles – Look for shoes with high-friction rubber that grips the pedal’s pins.
- Stiff soles for better power transfer – Unlike running shoes, MTB shoes should have a stiff midsole to help distribute pedaling force evenly.
- Reinforced toe and ankle protection – Flat pedal riders often drag a foot or hit obstacles, so extra protection helps.
Adjust Pedal Tension to Find the Right Feel
Whether you’re transitioning to clipless or flats, adjusting your pedal setup can make the experience much more comfortable.
Here are some key tips to make your transition easier, before I provide some personal clipless pedal set-up advice:
For Clipless Pedals:
- Lower the release tension – Many clipless pedals have adjustable tension settings. Starting with a lower tension makes it easier to unclip, reducing the risk of getting stuck.
- Experiment with cleat position – Your cleats can be adjusted to ensure you achieve your optimal foot position on the pedal. Adjusting the position helps with comfort and power transfer.
For Flat Pedals:
- Adjust pin height – Taller pins provide better grip, but they can also make foot repositioning harder. If you find it difficult to shift your foot, try lowering the pins slightly if the pedal allows for this option.
- Try different pedal shapes – Some flat pedals have a more concave shape that helps lock your foot in naturally. Testing different models can help you find what feels best.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to a new pedal type takes patience and practice, but once you find what works for you, it can transform your riding experience. Whether you’re embracing the efficiency of clipless pedals or enjoying the freedom of flats, taking the time to get comfortable with your new setup will make a big difference.
Now for my personal clipless pedal set-up
Like all new clipless pedal users, I learned the hard way about initially adjusting the pedals’ tensions – At a 4-way traffic junction red light when the bike started leaning to the opposite side of my “down foot” and I could not release my other foot in time before crashing to the ground!! A lot of car horns started tooting!! Lol!!
Please note: If you are interested in learning more about switching to Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals, you can find my in-depth gude to the whole installation and setup process here.
So, I hope this pedal set-up advice learned from my own experience will help make your use of clipless pedals that much more enjoyable and confidence-boosting without learning the hard way!
This pedal set-up advice is referring to pedals that utilize the Shimano-compatible clipless system, which is the only system I have used. If you have acquired another brand of pedal, please refer to their set-up recommendations.
The following set-up advice for clipless pedals is especially for brand new pedals, where the pedal mechanism plates and shoe cleats still have the new, unused, sharp edges to them. This adjustment will make your transition from regular/ flat pedals to clipless pedals so much easier.
Firstly, realize which foot you always take off the pedals first when you are about to stop – your dominant “down foot”. The pedal for this side will be the main pedal to be adjusted.
On each side of the pedal, you will see an Allen Key screw, usually with a “+’ and “-“ sign above it. Taking the appropriate Allen Key, usually 3mm, turn it to the “-“ as far as you can, reducing the pedal’s spring tension to its minimum. As you turn the screw, you will feel the adjustment to be in small, incremental ‘clicks’.
This minimal tension setting makes it much easier to unclip while still providing enough tension to keep your foot clipped in to the pedal while cycling.
Now for the other pedal!
For me, the pedal for the foot that usually stays connected to the pedal when standing, has a slightly tighter tension than the other side as it is not taken off the pedal as much and usually does not need to be quickly removed suddenly.
As I said, pedal adjustment is done in small, incremental clicks. Start by adjusting the other pedal by just 2-3 clicks initially and then test clip/unclip while standing over the bike to see if the pedal cleat tension for quick release feels right for you. If not, try another click or two until you are satisfied. But, if it ends up too loose, then adjust the tension back until you find the right tension.
Remember!!! To also adjust the spring tension on both sides of each pedal to the same tension to make sure that each pedal is completely correctly adjusted!
Please note: If you are interested in learning more about switching to Shimano SPD Clipless Pedals, you can find my in-depth gude to the whole installation and setup process here.
Over time, the pedal plates and shoe cleats will start to wear down a little, losing their new, sharp edges and this may make the pedal/cleat connection feel a little looser than when you started using the pedals. All you need to do when you feel this looseness is re-adjust the tension in the pedals to your desired level to continue enjoying your biking adventures.
Conclusion
Choosing the right MTB pedals is a personal decision that depends on your riding style, experience level, and comfort preferences. Let’s do a quick recap:
- Flat pedals are great for beginners, downhill riders, and technical trail riders who value freedom, easy foot placement, and quick adjustments.
- Clipless pedals offer better efficiency and power transfer, making them ideal for XC riders, endurance cyclists, and racers who prioritize speed and long-distance performance.
- Hybrid pedals provide a mix of both, perfect for riders who want versatility and the ability to switch between flats and clipless on the fly.
At the end of the day, there’s no single “best” pedal—only the best one for you. If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to experiment. Many riders start with flats, then transition to clipless as their confidence grows, while others prefer to stick with what feels natural.