{"id":2025306,"date":"2026-07-03T09:55:00","date_gmt":"2026-07-03T06:55:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2025306"},"modified":"2026-07-03T09:55:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-03T06:55:00","slug":"drift-arc-review-a-clipless-and-flat-pedal-mtb-shoe-in-one-and-its-waterproof-too","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2025306","title":{"rendered":"Drift ARC review: A clipless and flat pedal MTB shoe in one, and it\u2019s waterproof too"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"entry-content\">\n<div id=\"wp_content_article\" class=\"st_article_class\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2400\" height=\"1600\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%202400%201600&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a black and orange biking shoe resting on a green bicycle pedal, with a blurred background of foliage. The shoe features a unique design with perforated detailing and is paired with patterned socks. The bike frame and pedal are visible, showing some dirt, indicating outdoor use.\" class=\"wp-image-722489 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9.jpg 2400w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-9-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Drift ARC might look like a casual sneaker, but it\u2019s actually a fully functional shoe for mountain biking. The PNW-rooted brand, previously known as DZR, is staking its relaunch on this waterproof, clipless\/flat-pedal shoe that\u2019s sure to turn heads. I\u2019ve been testing a pair this spring and summer, and here\u2019s what I\u2019ve learned.<\/p>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\">\n<h3 id=\"h-drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-key-specs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Drift ARC mountain bike shoe key specs<\/h3>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lace closure system<\/li>\n<li>Waterproof<\/li>\n<li>Leather uppers and composite midsole shank<\/li>\n<li>Clipless or flat \u2014 cleat receiver covers included<\/li>\n<li>Weight: 575g per shoe, size men\u2019s size 12<\/li>\n<li>Price: $240<\/li>\n<li>Buy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/wp-json\/click\/track\/4aopqJ\/\">from Drift<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-wide\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a cyclist&apos;s foot wearing a black and brown biking shoe, placed on a pedal of a bright green mountain bike. The cyclist is also wearing a patterned sock, and the bike features elements of off-road design, showcasing a natural outdoor background.\" class=\"wp-image-722491 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-8-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"h-a-stiff-sole-for-mountain-biking\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">A stiff sole for mountain biking<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sneakers are comfortable and look good, but there\u2019s a reason most riders don\u2019t wear them on the bike. A bike shoe needs a stiff sole to help transfer power from foot to pedal. The Drift ARC mountain bike shoes feature a composite shank for stiffness, resulting in a shoe I would describe as medium-stiff for a clipless pedal shoe and stiff-stiff for a flat pedal shoe. It\u2019s not quite as stiff as the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/crankbrothers-trail-speed-lace-vent-clipless-mtb-shoes-keep-your-feet-cool-review\/\">Crankbrothers Trail Speed Lace<\/a> shoes I reviewed last month, but notably stiffer than flat-pedal shoes like the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/the-lems-trail-thrasher-is-the-colorado-brands-first-mountain-bike-shoe-review\/\">Lems Trail Thrasher<\/a>\u00a0and, certainly, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/five-ten-sleuth-dlx-2-review-a-comfortable-flat-pedal-shoe-with-stealth-rubber-grip\/\">Five Ten Sleuth<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" data-id=\"722494\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of the sole of a black and gray sneaker with yellow laces, featuring a clip for attaching to a cycling pedal, resting on a bed of small gray stones.\" class=\"wp-image-722494 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-7-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" data-id=\"722493\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of the textured sole of a shoe, featuring a unique tread pattern with small dots and waves, along with two metallic cleats positioned in the center. The background is blurred, emphasizing the shoe&apos;s details.\" class=\"wp-image-722493 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Drift ARC is the rare mountain bike shoe that you can run with flat or clipless pedals, thanks to a removable cleat-receiver cover. As a flat pedal shoe, I found the ARC offers excellent grip. I thought the recessed area around the cleat channel might feel unstable, but it does not.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-c2bd33b3c9f9267e6f575b3559232686 singl-content\" id=\"singl-c2bd33b3c9f9267e6f575b3559232686\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I also tested the Drift ARC shoes with a set of Shimano clipless pedals. It\u2019s easy to find the cleat when clipping in, and unclipping is smooth too. I hammered hard on several rides with the ARCs in clipless mode and found they do a great job delivering power to the pedals.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Off the bike, the patterned outsole delivers confidence-inspiring grip and stability on wet rocks and roots. The tightly spaced tread isn\u2019t ideal for grip in muddy conditions, but short of shoes with toe spikes or hiking-boot-like tread, nothing is.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up image of a pair of black sneakers featuring yellow laces and a black logo tag on the tongue. The design includes leather and fabric materials with a contrasting tan detail on the heel.\" class=\"wp-image-722492 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Heel-lock lacing for the win.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"h-comfortable-fit-and-handy-lace-options\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Comfortable fit and handy lace options<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Drift ARC shoes are offered in US sizes from 5 to 12, and half sizes are not available. The Drift website notes, \u201cDRIFT shoes are designed to fit\u00a0snug for performance, so if you typically wear a size 10 in casual shoes, our size 10 will feel tighter at first.\u201d The brand goes on to note that, \u201ca close fit improves comfort, control, and efficiency on the bike,\u201d which is absolutely true. However, for many of us, a close fit and a comfortable fit are mutually exclusive.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since I generally wear 11.5 US, I sized up to 12 US. I found this offers a good fit with just enough room inside the toe box for my slightly wide forefoot.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Laces aren\u2019t my first choice for bike shoes, but that\u2019s not to say they don\u2019t work. Unlike most laced MTB shoes I\u2019ve tested, the Drift ARCs feature double eyelets at the top, which allows a heel-lock lacing pattern that\u2019s crucial for a fit that won\u2019t slip.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-7860aef6f4b1d3f1939feaa8ae4fd4df singl-content\" id=\"singl-7860aef6f4b1d3f1939feaa8ae4fd4df\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The other key to making laces work for biking is a lace keeper. This ensures the looped ends of the laces don\u2019t get snagged on your drivetrain or a branch in the trail. The Drift ARCs come with a prominent leather tab that snaps over the bow to lock everything down.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of the tongue and lacing area of a black sneaker with yellow laces. The sneaker features a mesh tongue and a gray fabric overlay, with metal eyelets and a snap button at the top. The background shows a textured, gravel surface.\" class=\"wp-image-722929 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now, here\u2019s the part I overlooked initially: there\u2019s also a stretchy cord on the tongue to hold the bow so it\u2019s pointed down toward the toe, rather than out toward the sides. The cord can be hard to see because the laces cover it up, but you can see it clearly in the photo above.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a black sneaker with yellow laces, featuring a leather strap with a button closure. The shoe is partially dirty, set against a background of gray gravel and scattered leaves.\" class=\"wp-image-722932 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-2-2-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The shoe with everything locked into place.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tying the shoe, then tucking the bow under the cord, and snapping the cover in place is a hassle. At the same time, it\u2019s super secure and gives the shoe a clean look.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a black sneaker with yellow laces, showing water droplets on the surface, resting on a bed of small gray stones.\" class=\"wp-image-722930 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-4-2-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"h-they-re-waterproof-too\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">They\u2019re waterproof too<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Waterproof mountain bike shoes aren\u2019t as common as you might think, which makes this Drift ARC feature all the more welcome. Though the uppers are made with full-grain leather, a hidden, internal waterproof membrane keeps feet dry. Looking at the shoes, I was skeptical they were fully waterproof, but after several shallow creek crossings I can confirm they are.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-2904bbb951e49181856bb09579beab93 singl-content\" id=\"singl-2904bbb951e49181856bb09579beab93\"><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On one particularly deep crossing, water poured over the top of the shoe, filling the inside. After pedaling for a bit, it was clear the water wasn\u2019t going to work its way out, so I took the shoes off, emptied them, and kept riding.<\/p>\n<div style=\"padding: 15px;background: #f1f1f1;max-width: 800px;margin: 0 auto 25px auto\">\n<h3 style=\"margin: 0;padding: 0 0 5px 0\">Share your Drift ARC mountain bike shoe review<\/h3>\n<div style=\"font-size: 12px;margin-bottom: 15px\">Tried it? Tell us what you think about it.<\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\t&lt;!&#8211;  &#8211;&gt;<\/p>\n<div class=\"rar_rating\">\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_5\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_4\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_3\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_2\"><\/label><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t<label for=\"rar_gear_rating_1\"><\/label><\/p><\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(function() {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).on( &#8216;submit&#8217;, function( event ) {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tevent.preventDefault();<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery.ajax({ \/\/ create an AJAX call&#8230;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdata: jQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).serialize(), \/\/ get the form data<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\ttype: &#8216;post&#8217;,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\turl: ajaxurl + &#8220;?action=rar_save_input&amp;st_nonce=&#8221;+stUserObject.nonce,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tsuccess: function (response) { \/\/ on success..<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\/\/ display the review below<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tif ( response.id == 0 ){<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).html( response.message );<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t} else if ( response.id == 9 ){<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).html( response.message );<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t} else {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_form&#8217;).empty().html(&#8216;<\/p>\n<div>Thank you for sharing!<\/div>\n<p>&#8216;);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t}<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t},<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tdataType: &#8216;json&#8217;,<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t});<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t});<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tconst ratingInputs = document.querySelectorAll(&#8216;.rar_rating input&#8217;);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tconst resultElement = document.getElementById(&#8216;result&#8217;);<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tratingInputs.forEach(input =&gt; {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  input.addEventListener(&#8216;change&#8217;, () =&gt; {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tconst selectedRating = input.value;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tconst ratingName = input.name;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#rar_gear_rating&#8217;).val(selectedRating);<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  });<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\tfunction rar_login_check(formid){<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#&#8217;+formid+&#8217;form&#8217;).hide();<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tjQuery(&#8216;#&#8217;+formid+&#8217;login&#8217;).show();<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t}<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tunicode-bidi: bidi-override;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdirection: rtl;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\ttext-align: left;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; label {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdisplay: inline-block;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\twidth: 30px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\ttext-align: center;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcursor: pointer;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tfont-size: 24px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; input {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tdisplay: none;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; label:before {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcontent: &#8216;&#9733;&#8217;;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tpadding: 5px;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #ccc;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t  .rar_rating &gt; input:checked ~ label:before {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t\tcolor: #066;<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\t  }<\/p>\n<div><textarea name=\"rar_gear_comment\" style=\"height: 100px;width: 100%\"><\/textarea><\/div>\n<div style=\"display: none\" id=\"rar_gear_login\">\n<div>Please <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/login\/?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.singletracks.com%2Fmtb-gear%2Fdrift-arc-review-a-clipless-and-flat-pedal-mtb-shoe-in-one-and-its-waterproof-too%2F\">login<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/create\/?redirect_to=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.singletracks.com%2Fmtb-gear%2Fdrift-arc-review-a-clipless-and-flat-pedal-mtb-shoe-in-one-and-its-waterproof-too%2F\">create an account<\/a> to continue.<\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Though the ARCs don\u2019t offer much ventilation by design, they don\u2019t run as hot as other shoes I\u2019ve tested like the Five Ten Freerider Canvas shoes.<\/p>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The real leather material is a nice touch, and after a month and a half of sweaty riding, I can still smell the cowhide. Made in China, Drift notes that the shoes are handcrafted in small batches.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1170\" height=\"780\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201170%20780&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-1170x780.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of the back of a sneaker, featuring a combination of smooth black leather and tan suede, with a gray emblem in an oval shape and stitching details. The sole of the shoe is white with a textured finish. The background is blurred, emphasizing the shoe design.\" class=\"wp-image-722497 lazy\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-1170x780.jpg 1170w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-750x500.jpg 750w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-375x250.jpg 375w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe-5-600x400.jpg 600w\" data-sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Drift has five colorways of the ARC available, and all feature a reflective logo on the back of the heel to help you stay safe at night. Drift ARC shoes are designed for men and women.<\/p>\n<div style=\"min-height: 250px;padding: auto;margin-bottom: 20px\" class=\"singl-c37b919ff65cde13f29cf6c7c3e3e044 singl-content\" id=\"singl-c37b919ff65cde13f29cf6c7c3e3e044\"><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"h-pros-and-cons-of-drift-arc-mountain-bike-shoe\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros and cons of Drift ARC mountain bike shoe<\/h2>\n<h4 id=\"h-pros\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pros<\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sole stiffness is just right for pedaling without being too stiff for walking<\/li>\n<li>Waterproof<\/li>\n<li>Looks good<\/li>\n<li>Quality materials and construction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4 id=\"h-cons\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Cons<\/h4>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Takes some work to get laces secured<\/li>\n<li>At 575g per shoe (size 12M), they are heavier than most<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"h-bottom-line\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Bottom line<\/h2>\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Drift ARC is an excellent choice for riders who want a good-looking MTB shoe for trail riding that performs well and is comfortable all day long.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t&lt;!&#8211;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4>Related articles<\/h4>\n<p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t&#8211;&gt;<\/p>\n<div style=\"height: 30px\">\u00a0<\/div>\n<p>\t\t\t\tjQuery(function() {<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tpostpayloads._56433758d87de011a0833cb1cd8ea5e5 = {&#8220;ids&#8221;:&#8221;686777,604556,708350,710809&#8243;,&#8221;posts_per_page&#8221;:null,&#8221;offset&#8221;:0,&#8221;style&#8221;:&#8221;4up&#8221;};<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t\tpostcounter._56433758d87de011a0833cb1cd8ea5e5 = {start: 0, step: 0, end: 0};<br \/>\n\t\t\t\t});<\/p>\n<div class=\"row\" style=\"background: #fff\">\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/leatt-hydradri-7-0-clip-winter-mtb-shoes-are-warm-and-dry\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201%201&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Shoe_Review-14-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up view of black waterproof biking shoes, partially covered in mud, positioned on a leaf-strewn trail. The shoes feature a sleek design with gray accents, showcasing the brand name &quot;Leatt&quot; on the side. The background is blurred, emphasizing the shoes against a natural, outdoor setting.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/?gear=clipless-pedal-shoes\">Clipless Pedal Shoes<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/leatt-hydradri-7-0-clip-winter-mtb-shoes-are-warm-and-dry\/\">Leatt Hydradri 7.0 Clip winter MTB shoes are warm and dry [Review]<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/five-ten-hellcat-pro-shoe-review\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201%201&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/five_ten_hellcat_pro_shoe-2-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up of a black and yellow athletic shoe resting on a wooden stump, with visible dirt and mud, indicating outdoor activity. The shoe features a textured design and a distinct branding logo on the side.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/?gear=clipless-pedal-shoes\">Clipless Pedal Shoes<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/five-ten-hellcat-pro-shoe-review\/\">Five Ten Hellcat Pro Shoe Review: What&#8217;s Different?<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"clearfix visible-xs\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-gf600-mountain-bike-shoe-review-after-one-year-of-testing\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201%201&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/shimano-gf6-bike-shoe-3-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of a worn shoe sole with a hexagonal tread pattern, showing dirt and debris, held up against a blurred natural background.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/?gear=flat-pedal-shoes\">Flat Pedal Shoes<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/shimano-gf600-mountain-bike-shoe-review-after-one-year-of-testing\/\">Shimano GF600 mountain bike shoe review after one year of testing<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"col-xs-6 col-md-3 st_archive_4up\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/the-lems-trail-thrasher-pro-is-waterproof-and-brings-a-vibram-sole-to-the-surprise-hit-mtb-shoe\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"lazy\" src=\"\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg&apos;%20viewBox=&apos;0%200%201%201&apos;%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.singletracks.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Lems-Trail-Thrasher-2-1-750x500.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up of black sneakers, partially covered in snow, positioned on a large rock. The person wearing the shoes is dressed in brown outdoor pants, with a snowy landscape in the background.\"><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"st_archive_tag\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/?gear=flat-pedal-shoes\">Flat Pedal Shoes<\/a><\/div>\n<div class=\"st_archive_title\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.singletracks.com\/mtb-gear\/the-lems-trail-thrasher-pro-is-waterproof-and-brings-a-vibram-sole-to-the-surprise-hit-mtb-shoe\/\">The LEMS Trail Thrasher Pro is waterproof and brings a Vibram sole to the surprise hit MTB shoe<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"clearfix visible-xs\"><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Drift ARC might look like a casual sneaker, but it\u2019s actually a fully functional shoe for mountain biking. The PNW-rooted brand, previously known as DZR, is staking its relaunch on this waterproof, clipless\/flat-pedal shoe that\u2019s sure to turn heads. I\u2019ve been testing a pair this spring and summer, and here\u2019s what I\u2019ve learned. Drift [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[226,274],"class_list":["post-2025306","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-crawlmanager","tag-singletracks-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2025306","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2025306"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2025306\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2025306"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2025306"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2025306"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}