Verdict from 2 experts and 23 user reviews
10 reasons to buy
- The Five Ten District Flats shoe is very comfortable, according to a majority of the reviewers.
- Most consumers find this trainer to be stylishly appealing.
- Many users rave about how sticky the shoe felt while pedaling and walking on wet trails.
- Plenty of wearers marvel at this pair’s versatility in style and function.
- A lot of cycling enthusiasts think that the durability and quality build of the shoe make it well worth its price.
- The size and width of the District Flats are perfect, according to numerous owners.
- Multiple users appreciate the footwear’s water-resistant feature as it keeps their feet dry in muddy trails.
- A handful of reviewers have lauded the pair’s adequate stiffness which translates to good power transfer.
- Some users love how easy it is to clean the shoe.
- A few commenters remark at this footwear’s reflective feature and find it as an essential detail.
3 reasons not to buy
- Several people gripe about the shoe’s lack of ventilation.
- Two reviewers claim that the pair’s low collar does not keep dirt and rocks from going in.
- A consumer wishes there were more colorway options to choose from.
Bottom line
The Five Ten District Flats lies in between sneakers and technical cycling shoes. The shoe’s casual design exudes a classic sneaker look on par with Vans or DC shoes. However, the technical cycling side comes in through the construction and materials. This pair packs Five Ten’s famous rubber and sole technology popular for its excellent rigidity and grip.
This model might be shunned for its lack of breathability, but the excellent water-resistance adequately compensates. Its comfort, efficiency, and style versatility are best recommended to urban commuters.
Tip: see the best mountain cycling shoes.
Good to know
The Five Ten District Flats is one half of the District collection. The other half is called the District Clips shoe which offers riders a clipless option to attach their shoes onto the pedals. The Flats version is recommended for urban commuting.
The shoe’s low profile allows for maximum ankle movement. Despite its casual demeanor, it is equipped with technical cycling features such as water-resistance, grip, and rigidity.
Non-marking, durable, and grippy. The outsole is developed using the brand’s Marathon rubber innovation. This type of rubber ensures unbeatable grip and traction, ideal for technical terrains. Combined with a full Dotty tread pattern, the shoe provides high friction. The wearer could stick onto the pedals no matter how uneven the trail gets. It is also non-marking, which means it will not leave marks on indoor floors.
Excellent pedal feel. Crafted with one-piece molded midsoles this pair offers excellent pedal contact for better control. It is minimally engineered to cut out unnecessary weight. Combined with a medium flex construct, it provides enough flexibility for off-bike comfort.
As the shoe name states, this model employs a flat outsole design. It is suitable for the following flat pedal models: Crank Brothers 5050 xx, Twenty6 Predator, Nukeproof Electron, Race Face Chester, Shimano Saint MX80 Flat Pedals, DMR Vault, and many more.
Flat cycling shoes offer cyclists the freedom to plant their feet whenever they need to. This model is also relatively lighter than its clipless counterpart.
Water-resistant and fast drying. Crafted with a PU-coated synthetic leather upper, this shoe is equipped for any rugged outdoor trail. It has a water-resistant finish and dries quickly making it ideal for muddy or slightly wet mountain trails.
Durable and easy to clean. The long-lasting nature of leather could withstand general wear and tear from mountain biking. The material’s smooth texture also allows for easy cleaning.
Reflective accent. A reflective tab located in the rear part of the upper provides cyclists with an added safety measure. This accent reflects light to enhance visibility in low-light conditions.
Classic yet versatile aesthetic. The shoe’s simple upper design matches with a myriad of outfits. From the trails to the workplace or school, the District Flats will look right at home. This style, combined with the technically balanced features of the sole, offers versatility in function as well.
Time-tested lace closure. Completing the upper is a traditional lace-up closure system. This secures feet in place and offers superior lockdown fit.
Five Ten is known for its sneaker-like cycling footwear. Enthusiasts who prefer the casual fit of sneakers but also want the technical features of pro bike shoes tend to gravitate towards the District Flats.
Removable insoles. A slightly cushioned footbed is added to increase comfort. It can also be detached, allowing buyers the option to customize to orthopedic insoles. The shoe’s lining is designed using Polyester textile lining. It provides a soft and smooth feel and prevents friction.
- The collar, tongue, and footbed are well-cushioned for enhanced in-step comfort.
- The tongue’s material is crafted from a different material from the rest of the upper. It is made of mesh textile for added breathability.
- Colorway options include black and utility ivy.
- Branding is found on the lateral side of the upper, tongue, insole, and outsole.
- A lace loop on the tongue keeps it from sliding to the sides.
- The top-most eyelets are round and metal-clad while the rest have a flat design.
- Eyelets are crafted from an extension of the upper’s material.