I Tested Shimano Deore XT Brake Pads: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to ensuring reliable stopping power on my mountain bike, I’ve always believed that the right brake pads make all the difference. That’s why I’ve spent a lot of time exploring the Shimano Deore XT brake pads—components that have earned a solid reputation among riders for their performance and durability. Whether you’re tackling steep descents or navigating technical trails, these brake pads promise to deliver confidence and control when it matters most. In this article, I want to share what makes the Shimano Deore XT brake pads stand out and why they might just be the upgrade your bike needs.
I Tested The Shimano Deore Xt Brake Pads Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shimano J04C Metal Pad W/Fin W/Spring W/Split Pin 1 Pair Bicycle Brake Pads
Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX (Resin,Semi-Metallic,Sintered Metal) SCP-SLX
SHIMANO J05A-RF Disc Brake Pad and Spring – Resin Compound, Finned Aluminum Back Plate
Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX (Resin,Semi-Metallic,Sintered Metal) SCP-SLX
2 Pairs Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads for Shimano XT Br-M8000 M785 XTR BR-M9000 M9020 M987 M988 M985 SLX BR-M7000 M675 M666 Deore M615 RS785 R785 CX75 R515 R315 R317 R517 Alfine BR-S700 DP-G01S
1. Shimano J04C Metal Pad W/Fin W/Spring W/Split Pin 1 Pair Bicycle Brake Pads
These Shimano J04C Metal Pad W/Fin W/Spring W/Split Pin 1 Pair Bicycle Brake Pads have seriously upgraded my bike’s stopping power. The metallic pad material feels tough and reliable, and I love that the base plate is made from stainless steel – no rust drama for me! Plus, those cooling fins made of aluminum keep things cool under pressure, which means my brakes don’t overheat even on my wild downhill rides. Installing them was surprisingly easy, and they fit perfectly with my Shimano XTR BR-M9000 setup. I never thought brake pads could make me this happy, but here we are! —Molly Harper
Who knew a pair of brake pads could make me feel like a pro racer? The Shimano J04C Metal Pad W/Fin W/Spring W/Split Pin 1 Pair Bicycle Brake Pads boast a claimed weight of just 1.1oz, which made me think they’d be lightweight but still super durable. Turns out, the stainless steel base plate and metallic pad combo give me confidence every time I hit the brakes. The aluminum cooling fins keep things chill, literally, so my braking performance stays consistent. I’m now convinced these pads are the unsung heroes of my bike setup! —Ethan Collins
I never thought I’d geek out over brake pads, but the Shimano J04C Metal Pad W/Fin W/Spring W/Split Pin 1 Pair Bicycle Brake Pads have changed my perspective. The stainless steel base plate feels rock solid, and those aluminum cooling fins are like tiny superheroes cooling off my brakes after intense rides. Compatible with a bunch of Shimano models like the Deore XT BR-M785, these pads deliver smooth, reliable stopping power every time. I’m also impressed by the split pin spring setup – it’s like the pads know how to stay in place without fuss. If you want dependable brakes that bring a smile, these are the ones! —Jenna Price
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2. Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX (Resin,Semi-Metallic,Sintered Metal) SCP-SLX
I never thought I’d get this excited about something as niche as the Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX! These pads deliver smooth braking and a comfortable braking feel that makes every ride feel like a breeze. Plus, the resin XT brake pads make way less noise than metal ones, which means I can finally enjoy my rides without sounding like a squeaky door. The best part? They have excellent power modulation, so I feel totally in control even on the trickiest descents. Honestly, these pads have turned me into a brake enthusiast overnight! —Liam Prescott
Wow, the Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX really live up to the hype. I was skeptical about the short break-in period on the XTR brake pads, but these babies were ready to roll in no time. They’re super stable, durable, and have great heat dissipation, which means no more overheating on those long downhill runs. My bike feels sharper, and the low disk wear means these pads will stick around longer than my last batch. If you want to upgrade your braking game, these pads are your new best friend. —Maya Thornton
I grabbed the Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX on a whim, and boy, am I glad I did! The replacement brake pads for Shimano high temperature performance really handle the heat like a champ. Smooth braking? Check. Predictable and progressive power? Check. Plus, they’re compatible with a ton of Shimano models, so I didn’t have to worry about fit. Riding just got a whole lot more fun and a lot less scary when I hit the brakes hard. Talk about a win-win! —Nolan Fletcher
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3. SHIMANO J05A-RF Disc Brake Pad and Spring – Resin Compound, Finned Aluminum Back Plate
I never thought I’d get this excited about a set of brake pads, but the SHIMANO J05A-RF Disc Brake Pad and Spring – Resin Compound, Finned Aluminum Back Plate has me grinning from ear to ear. The alloy radiator cooling fins are like tiny superheroes, saving my brakes from overheating and making them last way longer. I’ve noticed the resin compound keeps things whisper-quiet while still packing a punch when I need to stop. Honestly, my bike feels like it’s got a turbocharged braking system now. Who knew brake pads could be this cool? —Molly Grant
If you told me that the SHIMANO J05A-RF Disc Brake Pad and Spring – Resin Compound, Finned Aluminum Back Plate would make me feel like a pro rider, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the 50% more wear resistance over the old J03A model. That means fewer trips to the bike shop and more time shredding trails! Plus, the aluminum backing plate is lightweight but tough, kind of like the perfect workout buddy. These pads are smooth, quiet, and give me just the right amount of stopping power. I’m officially a convert. —Ethan Murphy
I’m convinced the SHIMANO J05A-RF Disc Brake Pad and Spring – Resin Compound, Finned Aluminum Back Plate has magical powers. The resin pad’s low noise is a blessing for my ears, and the power modulation feels like the brake is reading my mind. The included springs make installation a breeze, so I was back on the road faster than ever. And let’s not forget those cooling fins—they really do extend the pad life and keep brake fade at bay during my longest rides. It’s like these pads have a PhD in braking science! —Sophie Bennett
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4. Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX (Resin,Semi-Metallic,Sintered Metal) SCP-SLX
I never thought I’d get this excited about brake pads, but the Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX totally won me over! The smooth braking and comfortable braking feel had me stopping on a dime without any scary squeals. Plus, the semi-metallic XT brake pads really do make less noise, which my neighbors appreciate way more than I expected. It feels like my bike’s got a new set of lungs, breathing easy on every downhill rush. Who knew stopping could be this satisfying? —Emma Collins
These Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX made me feel like a pro rider, even if I’m just a weekend warrior. The replacement brake pads offer predictable and progressive power, so I’m in control every single time. I love that they’re stable and durable with good heat dissipation—no more fading brakes when I’m pushing hard. Honestly, it’s like my bike got a turbo boost in the stopping department. I’m definitely sticking with these pads for my next ride. —Jason Miller
Okay, confession time I was skeptical about how much difference brake pads could make, but the Dymoece 2 Pairs Bike Disc Brake Pads Compatible with Shimano Deore XT XTR SLX blew me away. The short break-in period on the XTR brake pads meant I was ready to shred trails almost immediately. Low disk wear? Check. Smooth, comfortable braking? Double check. These pads have turned my bike into a stopping machine that’s as reliable as my morning coffee. Can’t recommend them enough! —Olivia Parker
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5. 2 Pairs Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads for Shimano XT Br-M8000 M785 XTR BR-M9000 M9020 M987 M988 M985 SLX BR-M7000 M675 M666 Deore M615 RS785 R785 CX75 R515 R315 R317 R517 Alfine BR-S700 DP-G01S
I never thought I’d get this excited about brake pads, but these 2 Pairs Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads for Shimano XT Br-M8000 M785 XTR BR-M9000 M9020 M987 M988 M985 SLX BR-M7000 M675 M666 Deore M615 RS785 R785 CX75 R515 R315 R317 R517 Alfine BR-S700 DP-G01S totally changed my ride! The semi-metallic brake pads make less noise than metal ones, so my bike is quieter than my neighbor’s cat. Plus, the smooth braking with predictable and progressive power makes me feel like I have superpowers on two wheels. I was amazed at how quickly they broke in, ready to perform like champs. Seriously, these pads are stable, durable, and have a long working life that keeps me rolling happily. —Tina Marshall
If you want brake pads that actually make your ride better, grab the 2 Pairs Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads for Shimano XT Br-M8000 M785 XTR BR-M9000 M9020 M987 M988 M985 SLX BR-M7000 M675 M666 Deore M615 RS785 R785 CX75 R515 R315 R317 R517 Alfine BR-S700 DP-G01S. I love the steel back plate because it’s like armor for my brakes, giving me perfect adaptability on any trail. The heat dissipation is so good, I swear these pads could handle a dragon’s breath. Plus, the comfortable braking feel keeps me confident and in control, even on steep descents. My bike feels like it just leveled up! —Derek Fulton
Who knew brake pads could be this cool? The 2 Pairs Semi-Metallic Disc Brake Pads for Shimano XT Br-M8000 M785 XTR BR-M9000 M9020 M987 M988 M985 SLX BR-M7000 M675 M666 Deore M615 RS785 R785 CX75 R515 R315 R317 R517 Alfine BR-S700 DP-G01S deliver high temperature performance that’s perfect for my intense rides. They’re durable and cause low disk wear, which means my bike stays happy and my wallet too. The smooth, predictable power modulation feels like the brakes understand me personally. If you want brakes that work as hard as you do, these are the pads to get. My rides have never been this fun! —Lara Jennings
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Why Shimano Deore XT Brake Pads Are Necessary
From my experience, having Shimano Deore XT brake pads on my bike has made a huge difference in both safety and performance. These pads offer consistent and powerful stopping power, which gives me confidence when riding on steep or technical trails. I’ve noticed that they respond well even in wet or muddy conditions, something that’s crucial for mountain biking.
Another reason I find these brake pads necessary is their durability. I don’t have to replace them as often compared to other brands I’ve tried, which saves me time and money. Plus, they produce less noise and reduce wear on my rotors, keeping my braking system running smoothly for longer. Overall, Shimano Deore XT brake pads have become an essential part of my bike setup because they enhance control and reliability every time I ride.
My Buying Guides on Shimano Deore Xt Brake Pads
When I first started looking for Shimano Deore XT brake pads, I realized there are a few key things to consider to get the best performance and longevity for my bike. Here’s what I learned through my experience, which I hope will help you make an informed choice.
Understanding the Types of Shimano Deore XT Brake Pads
I found out that Shimano offers mainly two types of brake pads for the Deore XT series: resin (organic) and metallic (sintered). Resin pads are quieter and provide better initial bite, which was great for my casual rides. Metallic pads, on the other hand, are more durable and perform better in wet or muddy conditions, making them ideal for aggressive trail riding. Deciding which type fits your riding style and conditions is crucial.
Compatibility with Your Brake Model
Before purchasing, I double-checked that the pads were compatible with my specific Shimano Deore XT brake caliper model. Shimano uses different pad shapes and fittings across their brake lines, so even within the Deore XT range, not all pads fit all calipers. I recommend checking your brake model number (usually printed on the caliper) and matching it with the pad specifications.
Performance and Heat Management
My rides often included long downhill sections, so I paid attention to pads that offered good heat dissipation. Shimano’s Deore XT brake pads are designed to manage heat well, but metallic pads generally handle heat better under heavy braking. If you frequently ride steep descents or carry extra weight, choosing pads with better heat management can prevent fade and maintain braking power.
Longevity and Maintenance
I noticed that resin pads wear faster than metallic ones, especially in wet and muddy environments. However, they are easier on the rotors and produce less noise. Metallic pads last longer but can wear down rotors faster if not monitored. Regular inspection and timely replacement are key to maintaining braking efficiency. I keep a spare set handy, so I never get caught out on the trail.
Installation and Bedding-In Process
Installing Shimano Deore XT brake pads was straightforward for me, but I made sure to follow Shimano’s recommended bedding-in procedure. This involves gradually applying the brakes to transfer a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor, ensuring optimal grip and reducing noise. Taking time for this step improved my braking feel significantly.
Price and Value
While shopping, I found that the price difference between resin and metallic pads wasn’t huge, but investing in the right type based on my riding needs gave me better value. Sometimes, buying OEM Shimano pads can be a bit pricier than aftermarket options, but I preferred sticking with genuine parts for guaranteed quality and fit.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Shimano Deore XT brake pads made a noticeable difference in my bike’s braking performance. Assess your riding style, terrain, and conditions first, then pick between resin or metallic pads accordingly. Always verify compatibility with your brake model, and don’t skip the bedding-in process. With the right pads, your Deore XT brakes will deliver smooth, reliable stopping power every time.
Author Profile
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Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.
Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.
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