Mountain Bike Shoes
Pearl Izumi X-alp Launch $180 A
Some riding conditions are best experienced with flat pedals and the Pearl Izumi X-alp Launch is the perfect highperformance flat-pedal shoe. A seamless bonded upper reduces weight, improves fit and eliminates the blowouts often encountered with regular sewn uppers. For the outsole, Pearl Izumi specs the dual-compound Vibram Megagrip sole, which features a grippy compound in the pedal zone and more durable rubber in the heel and toe. A reinforced toe cap provides added protection; the thin eva midsole absorbs the impact from any big drops. Finally, the laces provide an easily adjustable, custom-like fit. ( pearlizumi.com)
Mavic XA Pro $250 B
With the XA Pro’s aggressive outsole and supportive yet flexible carbon plate, the shoe delivers the perfect blend of pedalling efficiency and walking comfort. Mavic’s rubber outsole compound, which offers 25 per cent more grip in both wet and dry conditions, further enhances the XA Pro’s off-the-bike versatility. For all-day comfort, Mavic specs a plush Ortholite insole. The adjustable dial and hook-andloop strap allow for a secure fit during hard efforts. Finally, the addition of a welded toe bumper increases the XA Pro’s durability and protects your foot from trail debris. ( mavic.com)
Garneau Copper T-flex $375 C
The Copper T-flex is Garneau’s top-end cross country/cyclocross shoe. Unlike similar high-end models, it does not sacrifice comfort for performance. Garneau achieves these often conflicting qualities by using a savvy combination of materials and construction techniques. Starting with the upper, Garneau specs a microfibre material that is light, breathable and foot-conforming. For a closure, the Copper T-flex employs a Boa dial with offset straps that minimize pressure on the top of the foot. To ensure efficient power transfer, the company uses a carbon composite midsole that is shod with a soft and grippy outsole. This outsole excels in muddy conditions thanks to its deep and widely spaced lugs. Other details that competitive riders will appreciate include a non-slip heel lining, a reflective tab on the heel and a low shoe-to-pedal stack height. ( garneau.com)
Fiveten Hellcat Pro $240 D
You don’t always ride on dry trails. In case you encounter a bit of wet, the Fiveten Hellcat Pro shoes have a durable water-repellent coating on their tough uppers to keep the water at bay. On each shoe, your toes are well protected by a strong thermoplastic-polyurethane toe box. The outsole is the durable Stealth C4, which not only addresses vibrations coming up from the pedal, but is designed to accept spd cleats. The three-quarter thermoplastic-polyurethane shank also handles vibrations. It strikes a nice balance between the rigidity needed for pedalling hard and the flex that makes walking around easier after the ride. ( adidasoutdoor.com)— Gusalexandropoulos