#7 on this list
Concepts Tallac Clip
Ride
The Ride Concepts Tallac Clip is an armored, aggressive all-mountain and enduro shoe built to survive demanding alpine terrain and rough descents. Testing outlets highlight the Tallac Clip as a top contender for riders who find cross-country shoes too flimsy and downhill shoes too clunky. It occupies a sweet spot, combining tough protective materials with a supportive pedal interface that can handle rough trail conditions. The shoe's upper is constructed from an advanced Cordura mesh, providing high abrasion resistance and breathability while shedding water effectively. Protective TPU overlays guard against rock strikes at the toe and heel. For retention, this version uses traditional laces backed by an instep hook-and-loop power strap that locks the heel into the pocket. Underfoot, the Tallac Clip employs Ride Concepts' Clip Grip rubber with an extended cleat runway, paired with reverse-hex traction lugs on the toe and heel that bite reliably into loose dirt during steep push-ups. The robust construction does add noticeable bulk and weight compared to streamlined trail shoes. Additionally, the fit is somewhat stiff around the ankle collar out of the box, requiring a short break-in period before the materials soften. While it may feel like overkill for smooth, flowy cross-country loops, the Tallac Clip delivers exceptional durability and impact defense for aggressive trail and enduro riders. **Highlights** - Cordura fabric upper delivers high abrasion resistance and long-term durability - Extended cleat channel provides ample room for rearward cleat adjustment - Clip Grip rubber outsole with reverse-hex lugs for hike-a-bike traction - TPU mudguard and toe cap guard against rock strikes and trail roost - D3O impact-absorbing insole cushions harsh landings and chatter **Watch-outs** - Heavier and bulkier profile than standard all-around trail shoes - Stiff ankle collar can require a break-in period to eliminate pressure points - Laced configuration lacks the rapid on-the-fly adjustment of BOA systems
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#8 on this list
Stamp
CrankBrothers
The CrankBrothers Stamp flat pedal shoe is designed specifically to interface seamlessly with modern flat pedals, particularly CrankBrothers' own Stamp series, though it performs admirably across any pinned platform. Recognized by testing outlets as an excellent flat shoe for everyday trail riding, it combines a skate-inspired silhouette with trail-specific engineering, offering solid pedal engagement and casual comfort at an approachable price. The foundation of the shoe is CrankBrothers' proprietary MC2 high-friction rubber compound. It is formulated to allow pedal pins to sink into the tread for a secure hold while still letting riders reposition their feet on the pedal body without excessive binding. Ramped lugs at the toe and heel assist with traction when hiking up loose trail banks, while the EVA midsole absorbs trail vibration on rough descents. The synthetic upper features perforations along the tongue and side panels to promote airflow during warm trail sessions. Compared to Five Ten's ultra-sticky Stealth rubber, the MC2 compound provides slightly less outright grab in wet, chattery downhill terrain. However, the rubber compound wears more slowly over repeated seasons of sharp pedal pins digging into the sole. The lace-up closure is reliable, though it lacks the fast tensioning of mechanical dials. For riders seeking a durable, comfortable, and reasonably priced flat shoe for everyday trail riding, the Stamp remains a very capable choice. **Highlights** - MC2 high-friction flat rubber compound optimized for pin engagement and durability - Directional toe and heel lugs for reliable grip during hike-a-bike sections - Cushioned EVA midsole dampens trail vibrations and hard impacts - Ventilated synthetic upper promotes airflow on warm rides - Lace pocket on the tongue prevents laces from tangling in the drivetrain **Watch-outs** - Slightly less outright stickiness on pedal pins than Five Ten Stealth rubber - Moderate toe protection is less protective for heavy gravity use - Can feel warm in midsummer conditions despite upper perforations
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Concepts Tallac Clip | Stamp |
|---|---|---|
| Closure System | Laces with hook-and-loop strap | — |
| Upper Material | Cordura mesh with TPU welding | — |
| Outsole Rubber | Clip Grip rubber compound | CrankBrothers MC2 high-friction compound |
| Insole Cushioning | D3O High Impact Zone insole | — |
| Cleat Compatibility | 2-bolt SPD with extended runway | — |
| Target Discipline | All-mountain, enduro, and backcountry | — |
| Shoe Type | — | Flat pedal trail shoe |
| Midsole Material | — | Cushioned EVA foam |
| Closure Style | — | Laces with elastic tongue pocket |
| Published Weight | — | 1 lb 11 oz per pair |
| Retail Price | — | Approximately $130 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Concepts Tallac Clip
- Rugged Cordura upper resists abrasion from rocks and debris
- Deep, extended cleat channel allows a modern rearward foot position
- D3O insole helps dampen trail chatter and hard landing impacts
- Aggressive toe and heel tread offers confident footing during hike-a-bikes
- Heavier and bulkier than streamlined trail or cross-country shoes
- Stiff ankle collar requires a break-in period before softening
- Laced closure takes longer to adjust on the trail than dial systems
Stamp
- Predictable rubber grip allows on-the-fly foot adjustments on pedals
- MC2 compound resists pin gouging better than ultra-soft racing rubbers
- Integrated tongue pocket prevents loose laces from tangling in drivetrains
- Balanced sole flex makes off-bike walking and line scouting comfortable
- Less outright pin adhesion in wet or high-speed chattery terrain
- Moderate toe cap padding offers minimal defense against hard rock strikes
- Perforated synthetic upper absorbs water easily in wet conditions
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