The best winter MTB shoes keep your feet comfortable when the trails turn cold and wet, without compromising the connection to your pedals. For most clipless trail riders, the Shimano MW7 is our starting point. On flat pedals, the Shimano GF8 and Five Ten Trailcross Gore-Tex solve the same weather problem in different ways.
ELECTRIC MTB UK THE SHORTLIST
Winter MTB shoes: the shortlist
Six starting points for different pedals and winter riding priorities. Jump to a full card for specifications and retailer offers.
These eight choices cover waterproof trail shoes, insulated clipless boots and walking-friendly flat-pedal options. The overall pick comes first; the remaining shoes run in ascending order of the selling price. Prices apply to the exact sizes and colours shown. Confirm dispatch for supplier-stock items before ordering. Delivery charges are not included unless stated.
Choose your pedal system first. Our best MTB pedals guide explains the options, while the broader best MTB shoes guide covers shoes for milder conditions.
Best Overall
Shimano MW7 (MW702)
Best overall for clipless winter trail riding
At Sigma Sports
Shimano MW702; black; EU 42 (UK 7.5). Availability and dispatch vary by retailer.
Check price on Amazon+ Pros
- Gore-Tex protection with higher ankle coverage
- BOA adjustment without exposed laces
- Useful tread for off-bike sections
− Cons
- Only suitable for two-bolt cleats
- Stiffer construction is less walking-focused than the Trailcross
Compare prices
Shimano MW702; black; EU 42 (UK 7.5). Availability and dispatch vary by retailer.
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Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-14 08:07 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The MW702 is our all-round choice for riders who want to keep using two-bolt clipless pedals through a British winter. A Gore-Tex membrane, raised ankle coverage and protected BOA closure put weather protection ahead of the mesh-heavy construction of a summer trail shoe.
The ULTREAD XC outsole gives you tread for muddy dismounts, while the relatively stiff sole suits long climbs and repeated pedalling. Choose it for mixed trail riding rather than frequent, extended hike-a-bike sections. Flat-pedal riders should look at the GF8 or Trailcross below.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- two-bolt clipless / SPD-compatible
- Weather protection
- Gore-Tex membrane; neoprene ankle section
- Closure
- BOA L6 with protective cover
- Outsole
- Shimano ULTREAD XC
- Claimed weight
- 430g per shoe, size 42
Five Ten Trailcross Gore-Tex
Best for flat pedals and hike-a-bike
At Leisure Lakes Bikes (UK8.5 available)
Trailcross Gore-Tex flat-pedal model; available sizes and colour descriptions vary by retailer. Tredz and Leisure Lakes checked UK8.5.
+ Pros
- Designed around riding and walking
- Gore-Tex membrane
- Flat-pedal outsole and reinforced toe
− Cons
- Not compatible with clipless pedals
- Laces are less convenient to adjust mid-ride than a dial
- Not a heavily insulated winter boot
Compare prices
Trailcross Gore-Tex flat-pedal model; available sizes and colour descriptions vary by retailer. Tredz and Leisure Lakes checked UK8.5.
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-21 11:05 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
For rides that include as much scrambling and pushing as pedalling, the Trailcross takes a more walking-friendly approach. The current Gore-Tex model pairs a waterproof membrane with a Stealth Phantom rubber outsole for flat pedals, plus a reinforced toe and a lace-and-strap closure.
It is a sensible option for wet shoulder-season adventures as well as winter trails. Waterproof does not automatically mean heavily insulated, though: riders who suffer in freezing conditions should consider warmth and sock space separately. Check the exact model when comparing offers, because the Trailcross name covers several different shoes.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- flat
- Membrane
- Gore-Tex
- Outsole
- Stealth Phantom rubber
- Closure
- laces and strap
- Use
- trail riding and hike-a-bike
Shimano GF8 (GF800)
Best dial-adjusted winter flat-pedal shoe
At The Bicycle Chain (EU42 offer)
GF800 GORE-TEX winter model, black; sizes and prices vary by retailer. Bicycle Chain offer is EU42; Tredz checked EU40.
+ Pros
- Gore-Tex protection for flat-pedal riders
- Protected BOA adjustment
- Rubber developed for lower-temperature use
− Cons
- No clipless compatibility
- More substantial ankle construction than a summer shoe
Compare prices
GF800 GORE-TEX winter model, black; sizes and prices vary by retailer. Bicycle Chain offer is EU42; Tredz checked EU40.
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Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-14 08:08 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The GF8 is the alternative to the MW7 for riders who want to stay on flat pedals. Its Gore-Tex sockliner and stretch ankle section protect against wet weather, while a shield covers the BOA L6 dial. Shimano specifies its ULTREAD GF rubber for use in lower temperatures.
The TORBAL 2.0 construction allows controlled sole movement rather than chasing the rigidity of an XC race shoe. That makes its design relevant to trail and enduro riding where foot movement, support and pedal contact all matter. It still needs to work with your pedal platform and pin layout; a waterproof upper cannot compensate for a poor fit.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- flat
- Membrane
- Gore-Tex sockliner
- Closure
- BOA L6 with shield
- Outsole
- ULTREAD GF rubber
- Midsole
- EVA with TORBAL 2.0 construction
- Claimed weight
- 390g per shoe, size 42
Northwave Extreme XC GTX
Best for winter XC pedalling
At Tredz
Extreme XC GTX winter MTB shoe; available sizes vary by retailer. Tredz quoted offer: black EU41 (UK7.5); Amazon listing: black UK8.
Check price on Amazon+ Pros
- Winter membrane and insulated insole
- Firm XC-focused sole
- Dial adjustment with a wraparound upper
− Cons
- Less walking-focused than a flexible trail shoe
- Discounted sizing is restricted
Compare prices
Extreme XC GTX winter MTB shoe; available sizes vary by retailer. Tredz quoted offer: black EU41 (UK7.5); Amazon listing: black UK8.
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-21 11:05 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
Northwave combines Gore-Tex Duratherm Kelvin protection with a Carbon XC 12 sole. This is the choice for riders who prioritise a firm pedalling platform on long winter loops, rather than a softer shoe for pushing up slippery banks.
The SLW2 dial and wraparound upper manage fit, with a flexible ankle section and insulated insole completing the winter build. The discounted offer is currently in EU 41. Do not accept a cramped fit to get the saving: room for toes and your normal winter socks matters more.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- two-bolt clipless
- Membrane
- Gore-Tex Duratherm Kelvin
- Sole
- Carbon XC 12
- Closure
- SLW2 dial with XFrame construction
- Ankle
- Climaflex collar
Fizik Terra Artica X5 GTX
Best insulated option for mixed winter off-road rides
At Tredz
Terra Artica X5 GORE-TEX, two-bolt clipless version; sizes and colours vary by retailer. Tredz price checked for black EU44.
Check price on Amazon+ Pros
- Gore-Tex Koala insulation and fleece lining
- BOA L6 dial with ankle strap
- Rubber-covered X5 sole with substantial studs
− Cons
- Checked black offer has limited sizing
- Insulation is less versatile in mild weather
Compare prices
Terra Artica X5 GORE-TEX, two-bolt clipless version; sizes and colours vary by retailer. Tredz price checked for black EU44.
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-21 08:43 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The Terra Artica X5 is a useful middle ground between a light waterproof shoe and a bulky winter boot. Its insulated membrane and fleece lining target cold rides, while the rubber-covered X5 outsole adds walking traction when the trail becomes too slippery to ride. The upper is secured by a BOA dial and an ankle strap. Choose it if you want one winter pair for MTB and gravel, but compare fit with your normal winter socks. This is the two-bolt Terra model; the similarly named Tempo road shoe is not a substitute.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- Two-bolt clipless
- Membrane
- Insulated Gore-Tex Koala
- Lining
- Brushed fleece
- Closure
- BOA L6 and ankle strap
- Outsole
- Rubber-covered X5
Gaerne Ice Storm Winter Gore-Tex MTB
Best alternative insulated clipless boot
At Cyclestore
Ice Storm GORE-TEX MTB two-bolt model, black; sizes vary by retailer. Cyclestore EU40–47 available; Tredz listing EU42.
+ Pros
- Insulated construction and Gore-Tex membrane
- MTB outsole with toe-stud provision
- Dial closure
− Cons
- Boot-like construction is less versatile for mild weather
- Check your cleat and pedal compatibility before ordering
Compare prices
Ice Storm GORE-TEX MTB two-bolt model, black; sizes vary by retailer. Cyclestore EU40–47 available; Tredz listing EU42.
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-14 08:09 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The Ice Storm combines a Gore-Tex Duratherm membrane with an insulated sole construction for riders looking for a dedicated winter clipless boot. A BOA dial tightens the microfibre upper, while the MTB outsole uses a nylon-and-fibreglass structure with provision for toe studs.
It is worth trying alongside the Shimano and Northwave options if their fit does not work for you. Choose the MTB version, since a similarly named road shoe is not a substitute for a two-bolt trail setup. At the checked £239.99 price, this is a fit-led choice rather than the cheapest route to waterproof feet.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- two-bolt clipless
- Membrane
- Gore-Tex Duratherm
- Upper
- microfibre
- Closure
- BOA dial
- Sole
- nylon and fibreglass MTB construction
- Availability
- supplier availability; confirm dispatch estimate
Fizik Terra Nanuq X2 GTX
Best insulated clipless option for rough winter adventures
At Tredz
Nanuq X2 GTX clipless version, not X2 Flat; available sizes vary by retailer. Tredz quoted offer: black EU43. Check each retailer’s size selector.
Check price on Amazon+ Pros
- Insulated Gore-Tex Koala membrane and fleece lining
- Vibram Megagrip tread for walking
- Reinforced ripstop upper and zipped ankle cuff
− Cons
- More substantial than a summer trail shoe
- Limited sizing in the checked offer
Compare prices
Nanuq X2 GTX clipless version, not X2 Flat; available sizes vary by retailer. Tredz quoted offer: black EU43. Check each retailer’s size selector.
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-21 11:04 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The Nanuq brings a more walking-oriented X2 outsole to an insulated winter clipless shoe. Vibram tread, an EVA midsole and reinforced ripstop construction make it worth considering for rough rides with regular pushing or scrambling. Its fleece lining and zipped ankle cuff add weather coverage, but the opening remains a route for water if submerged. Check that you are buying this clipless model: Fizik also sells an X2 Flat version for flat pedals. The EU43 offer has limited stock, so confirm fit and availability before purchase.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- Two-bolt clipless
- Membrane
- Insulated Gore-Tex Koala
- Closure
- BOA L6 and zipped ankle cuff
- Outsole
- X2 with Vibram Megagrip
- Midsole
- EVA with nylon shank
Northwave Celsius XT Arctic GTX
Best alternative for insulated XC and gravel riding
+ Pros
- Insulated Gore-Tex winter construction
- SLW3 dial allows fine adjustment
- Jaws Evo tread for off-bike grip
− Cons
- Limited sizing in the black offer
- Warmer construction can be excessive for mild rides
Compare prices
Black; EU41 (UK7.5)
Prices and availability may change. Prices last checked: 2026-10-14 08:12 UTC. Prices are checked when this guide is updated. Confirm the current price and availability with the retailer.
Why it makes the shortlist
The Celsius XT Arctic is a dedicated winter clipless option for riders who want insulation as well as a waterproof membrane. Its SLW3 dial gives precise adjustment, while the Jaws Evo tread is useful when a wet climb turns into a push. Choose it for cold XC, gravel and mixed trail riding if the fit suits your foot. The black EU41 pair is £229.99 with low stock, so do not compromise on fit just to secure a particular size.
Key specifications
- Pedals
- Two-bolt clipless
- Membrane
- Cirrus XT 4L Gore-Tex
- Closure
- X-Dial SLW3
- Outsole
- Jaws Evo
How to choose winter MTB shoes
Flat or clipless comes first
A flat-pedal shoe relies on its rubber outsole and your pedal pins for grip. A clipless shoe uses a compatible cleat bolted into the sole. They are not interchangeable: the wrong sole can leave you with poor support or no way to attach your cleats. If you already have a comfortable pedal setup, winter is not a reason to change systems.
Waterproofing and warmth are different jobs
A membrane helps keep rain and spray out through the upper. Insulation slows heat loss. You can have one without much of the other, which is why a waterproof trail shoe can work in autumn but still feel cold on a slow January ride. Think about temperature, ride duration and how much walking or waiting your route involves.
No shoe seals the opening around your leg. Water running down your shin can get inside even when the membrane is doing its job. Wear the cuffs of waterproof MTB trousers over the shoe opening where the fit allows, rather than funnelling water into it.
Fit with the socks you actually ride in
Try winter shoes with your usual cold-weather socks. Your toes need room to move without your heel lifting excessively. A thicker sock crammed into an already tight shoe can make comfort worse. Do not automatically go up a size: use the brand’s size information, compare both feet and check the fit before fitting cleats or riding outside.
What changes on an eMTB?
The pedal interface is the same, so you do not need a special electric-bike shoe. The difference can be how you ride. A relaxed assisted climb may leave you generating less heat, while repeated descents or stops can expose a marginal winter setup. Conversely, a hard eMTB ride can still be very warm work. Match insulation to your effort and conditions, not the motor badge.
Walking grip still matters
Winter riding often includes pushing through mud or stepping across wet ground. Look beyond sole stiffness to tread, ankle movement and how naturally you can walk. A stiff XC boot suits sustained pedalling; a more flexible trail shoe may make more sense for exploratory rides with regular dismounts. Neither guarantees grip on wet rock or ice.
Winter MTB shoe questions
Are overshoes enough?
Overshoes can add weather protection to shoes you already own, but check that they are designed for your sole and pedal system. Walking, mud and flat-pedal pins can be hard on the underside. A dedicated winter shoe is a cleaner solution if wet-weather riding is a regular part of your week.
How should you dry waterproof MTB shoes?
Brush off loose mud, clean according to the manufacturer’s instructions and remove the insoles to help them dry. Keep them away from direct heat unless the maker explicitly allows it. Leaving wet shoes in a bag between rides is a poor starting point for the next cold morning.
Have all these shoes been tested by Electric MTB UK?
This is a researched buying shortlist based on the exact models, their stated construction and current UK offers. It is not a claim that we have ridden every shoe side by side. Fit is particularly personal, so try your preferred model with the socks and pedal system you intend to use.
Our verdict
Start with the Shimano MW702 for an all-round clipless winter shoe, provided its fit works; check availability for your size before ordering. The Trailcross is the more walking-focused flat-pedal choice; the GF8 adds a protected BOA dial. For colder mixed-terrain rides, compare the insulated Fizik and Northwave options. Choose the pair that fits with your winter socks, rather than buying a discounted size that does not.