After three years and countless miles of singletrack, gravel paths, and urban commutes, I'm finally sitting down to share my long-term impressions of the Five Ten Freerider Pro mountain bike shoes. As a dedicated flat pedal enthusiast, I've worn these shoes for approximately 80% of my rides through all conditions, and they've become my go-to footwear both on and off the bike.
Sticky Business: The Legendary Stealth Rubber
The hallmark feature of any Five Ten shoe is the Stealth rubber compound, and the Freerider Pro showcases this technology at its finest. When positioned on flat pedals, these shoes create an almost supernatural connection - they literally stick like glue to your platform pedals.
Even after three years of heavy use, the grip remains impressive. Has it diminished slightly? Yes, but the reduction is minimal compared to fresh-out-of-box performance. The soles now sport a few small holes and the pin marks from countless pedal interfaces, but they're far from needing replacement. The rubber has maintained its tackiness remarkably well considering the punishment they've endured.
What impresses me most is how the shoes allow for foot repositioning when needed while still providing locked-in security during technical descents. This balance is what makes the Stealth rubber compound so special - it offers confidence without feeling restrictive.
Style Points: From Trail to Town
One of the major advantages of flat pedal shoes is their versatility, and the Freerider Pros excel here. There's no awkward "click-clack" following you around coffee shops or grocery stores, and their understated design blends in perfectly for post-ride errands.
The shoes feature a sleek silhouette that doesn't scream "cycling shoe" like many clipless options do. I've worn them commuting through London, exploring trail centers in Wales, and grabbing pints after group rides - they transition seamlessly across these environments.
The reinforced toe and subtle branding give them a purposeful yet casual appearance. After three years, the upper material has developed a pleasant patina but still looks presentable. The laces have needed replacement once, but that's minimal maintenance for footwear that sees almost daily use.
Battle-Ready Protection
When designing the Freerider Pro, Five Ten clearly understood that mountain biking involves more than just pedaling. Hike-a-bike sections on rocky terrain are inevitable, and these shoes provide excellent protection when you're off the bike.
The reinforced toe box has saved my feet countless times from rock strikes and unfortunate encounters with trail obstacles. The shoes also offer substantial side protection, which comes in handy during tight technical sections where your feet might brush against rocks or tree roots.
The sole stiffness strikes a perfect balance - rigid enough for efficient pedaling but with just enough flex to make hiking comfortable. My only complaint is their performance in muddy conditions. The otherwise magical Stealth rubber becomes noticeably less effective when caked with mud, requiring more careful foot placement on slippery terrain.
Weather Resistance: Surprisingly Waterproof
Living and riding in the UK means confronting wet conditions practically year-round. While the Freerider Pros aren't marketed as waterproof shoes, their performance in wet conditions has consistently impressed me.
On several occasions, I've accidentally submerged my entire foot in water crossings, expecting the worst, only to finish my ride with surprisingly dry socks. The synthetic upper material and tongue design create an effective barrier against water ingress during typical rainy rides.
For British riding conditions - which span from damp to downright soggy throughout much of the year - these shoes offer excellent protection. They're not completely impervious to prolonged heavy rain, but for most wet weather riding scenarios, they keep your feet comfortably dry.
Temperature Considerations: Winter Warriors, Summer Challengers
If there's one area where the Freerider Pros show a weakness, it's breathability during hot weather. The substantial protection and water resistance that make them excellent three-season shoes in the UK can become a liability when temperatures climb above 25°C (77°F).
The shoes' insulation properties are perfect for autumn, winter, and spring riding. Paired with good socks, they keep your feet comfortable even on near-freezing days. However, during those rare British heatwaves, your feet will definitely feel the warmth accumulating.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Exceptional pedal grip from the Stealth rubber compound
- Impressive durability over years of heavy use
- Stylish enough for off-bike activities
- Excellent foot protection on rough terrain
- Good water resistance
- Perfect for UK riding conditions most of the year
Cons:
- Limited grip in muddy conditions
- Can be too warm during hot summer days
- Not fully waterproof for extended rainy rides
- Sole eventually develops holes from pedal pins (though takes years)
Where to Purchase
If you're convinced the Five Ten Freerider Pro deserves a place in your cycling wardrobe, you can find them here. They're available in various colorways to match your bike or personal style preferences.