Question

[ACF]

What does 'SPD compatible' mean when referring to mtb shoes?

[Ranger]

Servus!

It means, that the shoes can accept cleats from Shimano SPD pedals and that the design of the shoe will not (in theory) interfere with the operation of the pedal mechanism.

[ACF]

Ok, thanks.

To put my question into context, I'm looking into buying clipless pedals for my bike and am trying to find a pair of shoes that will work with them (mount on them?) I'm not really sure of my options. So these shoes in question would work if I got those Shimano pedals?

[NJPhil]

Yes SPD compatible shoes will work with Shimano or other brands of SPD pedals :) .

[dee lux]

what they said

[bullitking]

SPD stands for Shimano Pedaling Dynamics. So in other words, yes, it will work w/ shimano. Talk to the people at your local bike shop. They are usually very willing to answer questions.

[Serial Midget]

Shimano SPD campatible shoes, cleats and pedals are the easiest to find and have many price levels so you can go cheap at first to find out what you like and don't like about SPDs. I think SPDs are fine buy many people, especially advanced riders, prefer other types of pedals.

Good luck and welcome to the sport!