The crux of this shoe has been around in various guises for several years, refined from its original Axo template (we’re really showing our age now). It was one of the earliest clipless ready freeride/trail-riding shoes on the market, predictably taking design cues from the skate world. Six Six One has largely stuck to this proven formula over the years.

The latest incarnation of the Filter is a mid-cut design, improving ankle support and has a trademark single strap Velcro closure lace-saving device. A removable feature should you feel it an unnecessary security measure, although in our opinion it’s always been useful, particularly on the chainset foot where it pays to keep lacing flush. Hidden lacing eyelets are also a neat detail. While the arrival of the shocking white finish — which highlights the vented upper — shook up the aesthetics of the original black model (suede rather than leather-finished upper), the familiar comfort has been retained, even in box-fresh form. Generous in width and stiff enough to be pounded in anger when pedalling, integration is higher on the agenda than merely keeping up with the trail-centre Joneses. Off the bike, the wave-pattern sole offers marginally better scrabbling potential than obvious rivals, such as the Shimano DX. And durability is addressed via a ribbed heel bumper and abrasion-combating toe panel. While these aren’t the lightest trail shoes you’re likely to encounter, or the cheapest, you’ve only got to see how the model has stood the test of time to realise the Filter remains a very versatile and durable alternative plus the DH World Champ wears them.

Mbr rating: 9