Five Ten has built a pretty solid reputation when it comes to high performance mountain biking shoes. Worn by a host of the world’s best riders and equipped with the same super grippy compound that was developed for one of the Mission Impossible films this is a brand that knows a thing or two about quality materials.

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So you can imagine I was pretty excited to put the brand spanking new Five Ten Aescent to the test. This lightweight shoe is very much a performance shoe and perfect for those who like to ride less than predictable terrain.

Featuring a slightly different style to what we have become accustomed to with Five Ten, the Aescent has a narrower more functional look compared to the most skate style appearance of the brand other flat pedal shoes.

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For me this was a huge bonus. I enjoy riding on unmarked trails where hike-a-bike is often a necessity. These shoes were super comfy and light both on and off the bike and dealt with a long climb with bike on the back up steep loose shale perfectly. The reinforced toe, ample Achilles support and grippy sole all made for a comfortable trek.

On the bike, these shoes get even better. I have never worn Five Ten’s before and was utterly amazed by the security they offered me – it almost felt like I was clipped in. The sole clamped onto the pedal so easily and literally did not budge. Almost to the point where I had to ensure my foot was hitting the pedal in the right position as shifting your foot around from side to side on the pedal without lifting it off is almost impossible.

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The shoe itself was great for high octane activity. The upper was super breathable and comfortable and wicked away moisture really efficiently. Sizing comes up a little on the large size, but not massively so. A UK 7 proved to be just a tiny bit bigger than expected and would be perfect with thicker socks in winter.

Price: £79.99

Available from: Chain Reaction Cycles