Shoes

Shimano S-phyre $500

Positioned as Shimano’s top-end road racing shoe, the S-phyre is packed with performance and comfort-enhancing features that appeal to any competitive cyclist. Shimano starts with a supremely rigid carbon sole that is mated to a similarly sturdy external heel counter for maximum power transfer. Shimano then employs a new lasting construction that not only eliminates excess weight, but also reduces stack height for improved stability and power. With the upper, the company has chosen a soft, stretch-resistant and highly breathable synthetic that easily conforms to your foot without the over-stretching encountered with some materials. Finally, two Boa IP1 closures provide a lockedin fit and allow for on-the-fly micro-fit adjustments. ( bike.shimano.com)

Specialized S-works 6 XC $450

The S-works 6 XC are Specialized’s top-of-the-line cross country racing shoes. Their light weight (570 g for a pair of Size 42) is achieved by using a minimalist upper that is reinforced with thermo-bonded directional Dyneema Cubic Tech fibres. This combination not only reduces weight, but also prevents stretch and helps create a more efficient connection to the pedal. For the sole, Specialized opts for its lightest and stiffest carbon outsole, which sheds unwanted grams without comprising the pedalling efficiency required to win races. This obsession with weight reduction is carried over to the cleat mounting nuts where Specialized has used titanium alloy hardware. As for closures, the S-works 6 XC features a very savvy combination of two micro-adjustable Boa S2 dials and a single hook-and-loop closure at the front. ( specialized.com)

Bontrager Women’s Tinari $350

This women’s-specific mountain bike shoe is a great choice for XC racing or cyclocross. Bontrager starts with a lightweight carbon/fibreglass composite sole that delivers excellent power transfer and adds a series of aggressive lugs for exceptional traction in muddy conditions. A supple synthetic upper is matched with a women’s-specific last creating a comfortable and secure fit. For extra control in challenging conditions, Bontrager specs a tried-and-true closure combination of a micro-adjustable Boa ip1 dial with a hook-and-loop strap at the front. ( trekbikes.com)

Mavic Cosmic Pro $350

Mavic created the Cosmic Pro to offer riders the ideal balance of comfort and performance during long rides. To achieve this goal, Mavic starts with its thin, lightweight and stiff Energy Carbon outsole that provides efficient power transfer. To this feature, it adds a supple foot-hugging upper with a unique Endofit tongue construction that ensures comfort and control during powerful pedalling efforts. Two dial closures further enhance the shoe’s fit and allow for easy on-the-bike adjustments. ( mavic.com)

Giro Sentrie Techlace $325

The Giro Sentrie Techlace combines the almost limitless fit adjustment of laces with the speed and convenience of their Techlace D-ring Velcro system and Boa L6 closure. The result is a shoe that offers a supremely comfortable and adjustable fit without compromising the locked-in feel necessary for hard sprints. For even greater comfort, Giro employs a lightweight bonded breathable upper that minimizes the need for traditional seams, which can cause hot spots during longer rides. Finally, to ensure that no watts are wasted during pedalling, Grio specs a light yet stiff Easton ec70 carbon outsole. ( ogc.ca)

Shimano XC7 $290

Created for off-road racing, Shimano’s xc7 shoes combine the durability, performance and low weight sought by XC racers. Shimano starts by spec’ing a carbon-fibre reinforced midsole, which is mated to an exclusive Michelin-made grippy, yet mud-shedding rubber outsole. The combination provides excellent power transfer when pedalling as well as supreme traction and control when forced to dismount and run with the bike. The upper consists of a supple ventilated synthetic that easily conforms to your foot. A single Boa ip1 dial and a forefoot hook-and-loop closure provide a secure fit even during out-of-the-saddle sprints. ( bike.shimano.com)

Diadora Vortex Pro II $489

The Vortex Pro II is Diadora’s pro-level shoe and as such it sports all the high-end features competitive riders expect in this category. Starting with the sole, Diadora specs its Pro Road 3 carbon unit that sacrifices a bit of weight for increased stiffness and power-transfer efficiency. For the upper, Diadora uses a foot-hugging, subtly perforated synthetic upper with mesh panels that provides comfort in warmriding conditions. The addition of two Boa closures allows for an almost infinitely adjustable fit ensuring comfort and control during long rides and big efforts. ( logicasport.com)

Five Ten Kestrel Lace $200

The Kestrel showcases performance and construction features optimized for all-mountain riding. Starting at the outsole, Five Ten uses its durable C4 rubber at the forefoot for easy clipping and increased longevity in this high-wear area. The eva midsole soaks up some of the roughness of walking on a trail, as a nylon shank firms things up somewhat while still allowing for some flex. The result is a shoe that delivers all-day comfort without compromising long-term durability. And everyone loves the look of proper laces. ( fiveten.com)—gusalexandropoulos