• Amorphous transition metal-based ribbon electrocatalysts exhibit superior catalytic performance for water splitting compared to crystalline counterparts due to unique atomic configurations.
• Dealloying is a promising method to enhance the electrocatalytic activity of ribbon-shaped catalysts.
• Strategies such as morphology control, defect engineering, composition optimization, and heterostructure creation are effective in boosting the activity of amorphous TM-based ribbons.
• The review highlights the potential of self-supporting TM ribbon electrocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production, addressing challenges and future directions.