Upgrading your ride with better control and efficiency often starts with the right pedals. If you’re looking to make the switch to clipless, finding a pedal that matches your riding style—whether it’s trail, cross-country, or commuting—is essential for performance and confidence on the bike.
In this guide, we review the top 5 best clip-in mountain bike pedals for 2025. These models were selected for their durability, mud-shedding capabilities, ease of entry, and real-world rider feedback, ensuring you get a confident and efficient connection to your bike.
At a Glance: Top 5 Best Clip-in Mountain Bike Pedals
| Product Name | Key Features | Ideal Use |
| Crankbrothers Candy | 4-Sided Entry, Composite Body, Mud-Shedding | All-around trail and XC riding. |
| Crankbrothers Eggbeater | Minimalist Design, 4-Sided Entry, 290g | XC, gravel, and maximum mud clearance. |
| BUCKLOS PD-M680 | Dual-Sided (SPD/Flat), 10 Anti-Skid Pins | Commuting, trail, and versatile use. |
| Clipless Clip-in Adapter Pedal | CNC Aluminum, Universal Compatibility | Converting clipless pedals to flats for casual use. |
| SPD Bike Pedals, 9/16 | Adjustable Tension, Sealed Bearings, SPD | Beginner-friendly, all-purpose SPD riding. |
Top 5 Best Clip-in Mountain Bike Pedals in 2025
🥇1. Crankbrothers Candy
Balanced Trail Performance: This pedal hits the perfect balance between lightweight speed (294g) and rugged trail reliability. Its four-sided entry system is a standout, allowing you to clip in quickly from any angle and shedding mud effectively. The ribbed composite body also provides extra grip and stability when you’re unclipped in technical sections.
- Four-sided entry for fast engagement and excellent mud-shedding.
- Lightweight composite body (294g per pair) for less fatigue.
- Stamped steel wings provide stability and a secure feel.
- Premium brass cleats with shims for customizable float and release.
- Durable build with chromoly spindle, Igus bearings, and a double-seal system.
- Backed by a five-year warranty.
🥈2. Crankbrothers Eggbeater
Minimalist & Mud-Proof: The Eggbeater is a minimalist marvel designed for maximum efficiency and mud resistance. Its unique, open four-sided entry design makes clipping in effortless from any direction and makes it virtually impossible for mud, snow, or debris to clog the mechanism. At just 290g, it’s an ultralight choice for XC or gravel riders.
- Ultralight 290g per pair with a durable stamped steel body.
- Unique four-sided entry ensures easy clip-in from any angle.
- Open design provides unbeatable mud, snow, and debris clearance.
- Includes brass cleats and adjustable float options.
- Features premium Igus bearings and a double-sealed system for durability.
- 52mm Q-factor for an ergonomic and efficient pedal stroke.
🥉3. BUCKLOS PD-M680
Ultimate Versatility: This dual-sided pedal is a dream for riders who switch between serious rides and casual use. One side is a traditional flat platform with anti-skid pins, perfect for regular shoes, while the other side is compatible with Shimano SPD cleats. It’s the ideal all-in-one solution for commuting, trail riding, and gravel.
- Dual-sided design: one SPD clipless side, one flat platform side.
- Flat side features 10 anti-skid pins for excellent grip with regular shoes.
- CNC-machined aluminum platform (98x88mm) offers a stable footprint.
- Sealed bearings keep the spin smooth and resist dirt, water, and grit.
- Standard 9/16-inch threads with clear L/R labels for easy installation.
🏅4. Clipless Clip-in Adapter Pedal
Instant Platform Conversion: This clever adapter isn’t a pedal, but a tool to transform your existing clipless setup into a flat platform in seconds. If you ride clipless but want to use sneakers for a quick commute or errand, these pop right in. They provide a stable, slip-resistant surface without forcing you to swap your pedals.
- Converts clipless pedals to flat platforms for use with any shoes.
- Universal compatibility works with SPD, SPD-SL, Crankbrothers, LOOK Keo, and more.
- Made from strong, CNC-machined aluminum alloy.
- Compact (75x65mm) and provides a stable, slip-resistant surface.
- Installs and removes in seconds, just like a cleat.
🏅5. SPD Bike Pedals, 9/16
Classic SPD Performance: This is a fantastic option for riders who value the proven, simple, and efficient SPD system. These pedals are built to last, with an aluminum alloy body, chrome-moly spindle, and sealed cartridge bearings that keep grit and water out. They deliver crisp, predictable engagement and excellent power transfer for all types of riding.
- Durable aluminum alloy construction with a chrome-moly spindle.
- Sealed cartridge bearings keep the spin smooth and low-maintenance.
- Adjustable entry and release tension to customize your clip-in feel.
- Open-channel layout helps shed mud and debris.
- Beginner-friendly installation with pre-threaded spindles.
- Includes pedals, cleats, washers, and Allen keys.
Final Verdict
Choosing the best clip-in mountain bike pedal depends on your riding style. For all-around trail performance and mud-shedding, the Crankbrothers Candy is a top pick. If you’re an XC or gravel rider prioritizing weight and mud clearance, the Crankbrothers Eggbeater is unmatched. For maximum versatility, the BUCKLOS PD-M680 offers the best of both worlds (clipless and flat).
| Product | Best For |
| Crankbrothers Candy | All-Around Trail & XC |
| Crankbrothers Eggbeater | Lightweight XC & Mud |
| BUCKLOS PD-M680 | Versatile (SPD & Flat) |
| Clipless Clip-in Adapter Pedal | Casual Use Conversion |
| SPD Bike Pedals, 9/16 | Classic SPD Performance |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the advantage of clip-in mountain bike pedals?
Clip-in pedals lock your shoe to the pedal, allowing you to pull up as well as push down, which creates a more efficient 360-degree pedal stroke. This gives you better power transfer, control, and stability, especially on rough terrain and climbs.
What does 4-sided entry mean on Crankbrothers pedals?
Four-sided entry, found on the Candy and Eggbeater, means you can clip into the pedal from four different angles (front, back, or either side). This makes it much faster and easier to engage your cleat, especially in technical terrain where you might need to quickly unclip and clip back in.
What is the difference between SPD and Crankbrothers cleats?
They are two different, incompatible systems. SPD (by Shimano) typically uses a 2-bolt metal cleat that’s known for its durability and adjustable tension. Crankbrothers uses a 2-bolt brass cleat that’s prized for its excellent mud-shedding and customizable float/release angles.
Can I use regular shoes on clip-in pedals?
Not effectively on most. Standard clipless pedals (like the Eggbeater) are too small to be used safely with regular shoes. However, you can use dual-sided pedals like the BUCKLOS PD-M680, which have a flat platform on one side, or use a product like the Clipless Clip-in Adapter to temporarily create a flat surface.
What does “adjustable tension” mean on SPD pedals?
This feature, found on the SPD 9/16 pedals, allows you to use a small screw to adjust how much force is required to clip in and out of the pedal. Beginners can set it to “loose” for easy release, while experienced riders can tighten it for a more secure, locked-in feel.
