At first glance, the two-in-one concept of the Five Ten Tailcross seems unusual for an MTB shoe: The new Trailcross Mid Pro is supposed to be suitable for both mountain biking and hiking... Why??
On second glance, this concept makes sense: How often have you wished for a shoe while biking that also works on foot – or vice versa? We tried out the new shoe developed in collaboration between Adidas and Five Ten. Here we reveal whether it really delivers the promised versatility on the road. Or better: On the trail.
General information about the Five Ten Trailcross Mid Pro
One thing is clear before our test begins: This shoe is full of interesting details, the result of close collaboration between Adidas and Five Ten. It's no surprise that the new Trailcross Mid Pro has already won a Design & Innovation Award. So what makes this shoe so versatile?
What are the best features of the Trailcross Mid Pro?
Hard to say! Picking out individual details that define this model is practically impossible. It's the overall concept that convinced us.
- The entire shoe is relatively lightweight.
- There is a very airy, breathable upper material, so it provides a pleasant foot climate even without wind.
- For good grip while hiking and biking, the proven Stealth sole is intended, optimized in the middle part for optimal grip on the pedal, and in the heel and toe area for the best grip as well as comfort and shock absorption while hiking.
- For good protection while biking, the high ankle area with D30 protector is intended.
- The highly raised neoprene sock is meant to ensure that stones, dust, or twigs do not end up in the shoe, especially when running.
Sure, there are also features that simply belong to the basics of a shoe, because – to be honest – no one is reinventing the wheel when it comes to shoes!
Ordinary laces close the Five Ten Trailcross – no magic closures, BOA, or Velcro. While the shoe is breathable, it does not use warming or waterproof materials. And last but not least, it is not designed for use with clipless pedals. It is clearly an all-rounder, not a specialist.
The facts at a glance
- Regular fit
- Upper made of textile and mesh
- High-cut mountain bike shape with D30 ankle protection
- Laces
- EVA midsole
- Stealth Rubber sole
- Sizes: 38 2/3 to 49 1/3
- Colors: Feather Grey/Core Black/Signal Coral
📊 The Trailcross Mid Pro MTB Shoe in Quick Check
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Comfort |
👍👍 |
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Features |
👍👍 |
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Waterproofness |
👎 |
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Grip |
👍👍 |
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Durability |
👍👍 |
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Value for Money |
👍 |
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Application |
Flatpedal; Enduro, Trail |
The Five Ten Trailcross Mid Pro in Test
Does it really make sense to wear a shoe suitable for both hiking and biking? We say yes, because there are many situations where you want a shoe that can do both.
When does the MTB/Hiking combo make sense when buying shoes?
Often, it is quite simple occasions where shoes reach their limits. You know the "Just going for a quick ride to the store" and then you find yourself – completely unintentionally, of course – back on the home trail. But also more specific plans (like bikepacking trips, an alpine crossing, or trail building) require switching between pedals and ground. Situations where you're out with the bike and then have to walk a few steps. Especially when the terrain is difficult, pure MTB shoes often do not provide enough support.
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Particularly exciting are, from experience, off-road carrying sections. With the additional weight of your bike on your back, shoes that are uncomfortable to walk in are a real nuisance! |
And for all these situations, the new Adidas/ Five Ten Trailcross Mid Pro seems tailor-made. There is only one major limitation upfront: The shoe only works with flat pedals, the installation of clipless pedal cleats is not intended.
Upon first slipping in, the Trailcross gives a really comfortable impression. The outer material is pleasantly airy, and the shoe does not constrict the foot in any area. You hardly notice the high ankle area. The shoe just fits well – perfect for wearing all day long.
Our Bike Shoe Test Terrain
Let's go with the bike. We want to ride a technically demanding round that makes a detour into rocky terrain. There, dismounting is necessary, the bike needs to be pushed or even carried for a bit.
On the bike – the grip of the Trailcross MTB shoe convinces!
Right from the first contact with the pedal, the well-known Stealth sole from Five Ten becomes noticeable: The shoe literally sticks to the pedal, we can pedal safely and efficiently. Even on descents, the grip is excellent, and the ankle protection with D30 protector provides safety on loose sections where stones fly.
Running smoothly?
What about when you have to dismount and walk? The good impression remains. It is extremely comfortable to walk in the new Trailcross. The grip is excellent when walking, we climb safely and confidently even with the bike shouldered over any steep rocky passage. The neoprene socks apparently fulfill their purpose: small stones, leaves, mud, or sticks must stay outside.
Is the Trailcross Mid Pro waterproof?
What happens if it rains or you step into a puddle? Quite simply: then your feet get wet. The MTB shoe offers no protection against water – it can't and doesn't intend to. There is no membrane, GoreTex, or the like. Instead, the manufacturer follows a different concept: It is built so airy, that water immediately runs out of the shoe and everything dries quickly again. Of course, the Trailcross is not the optimal shoe for constant rain. But if you're caught in a shower, it's no problem. The water runs out of the shoe, and your feet dry quickly again. In an emergency, waterproof cycling socks help!
Our conclusion on the Adidas/Five Ten Trailcross Mid Pro MTB shoe
How do you know if a shoe works well? By forgetting it and only being reminded of it when taking it off after the tour. With the new Adidas/Five Ten Trailcross Mid Pro, that was exactly the case. It fits perfectly and comfortably and is so pleasantly airy that you simply forget it and would prefer not to take it off at all. Thus, it is Optimally suited for everyone who loves long bike tours, has no room for a second pair of shoes on bikepacking trips, is planning an alpine crossing, or simply wants to be as flexible as possible. This shoe is also very suitable for a somewhat more specialized purpose: trail building. Here, too, you switch between bike and walk mode and benefit from a shoe that can handle both! Basically, there are only a few real limitations: Anyone who wants to ride with clips or is looking for a pure "bike specialist" must look for another model. Also, if you feel particularly comfortable in the rainy bike park, the Trailcross might not be optimal. For all other adventurers, we can highly recommend this Five Ten bike shoe.
Relevant categories in the BMO online shop
MTB Shoes | Five Ten Brand Shop | MTBs | eMTBs
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