Platform pedals and....Birkenstocks? Don't laugh.

I threw on my Birk sandals the other day and went for a ride. My pedals are VP Vice.

What an excellent combination! The Birk sole is totally rigid and grips the pedals as well as a dedicated MTB shoe. And Birks are made in Germany, not China like 99% of bike shoes (IE are much higher quality).

I watch for sales and usually pay less for my Birks ($80-90) than bike shoes. Construction quality is, as mentioned typically German so these will last far longer than most bike shoes.