Shoes » Pearl Izumi X-alp shoes
# Stiff nylon plates provide toe spring, flexibility and rigidity for pedaling while enhancing off-the-bike comfort
# Lightweight, soft EVA midsoles absorb shock, return energy and provide cushioning
# Quick-drying, breathable mesh and synthetic uppers offer protection and durability
# Rip-and-stick and lace closure system goes on like comfortable tennis shoes to secure the fit
# Rugged carbon rubber lugged outsoles supply superior traction; beveled heel enhances mobility
# Compatible with most clipless pedal systems (cleats not included)
Product website: http://www.pearlizumi.com/product.php?mode=view&pc_id=43&product_id=1236144
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(9 votes, average: 3.33 out of 5)
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November 7th, 2008 in
Shoes
Could someone who’s used these shoes tell what they thought?
I am considering using a more ‘hikeable’ shoe than my carbon soled ones for bikepacking, but the last time I did a harder ride on them I got very tired from the pressure on my feet.
So I’d like to know how stiff they are underfoot and how well they hike.
Thanks
I have been on Three rides now and I love them. The ratchet mechanism on my right shoe is a littly twitchy, but the overall design, fit and function is superior to anything I have used to date. I bought them online for 89.99.
How stiff did they feel on the pedal and how stiff while walking?
I used these shoes on two bikepacking trips now, as well as a few hundred miles of general riding.
I think they are a great compromise between walking comfort and cycling efficiency. They aren’t super stiff, but they don’t feel squishy on pedals either. I’d use these for any bikepacking trip, even if there isn’t much hike-a-bike — just for the comfort around camp and what not.
That said, I am going to get another pair of shoes for every day riding. It’s not a lack of stiffness in the soles but the bulkiness and higher “cut” of the shoe that makes it feel a little “slow” to me. And we all know it’s all about how fast you feel (as opposed to how fast you are.)
Has anyone tried the pearl izumi X-Alp Enduro?
(ed: added to bikepacking.net here: http://www.bikepacking.net/reviews/shoes/pearl-izumi-x-alp-enduro/)
How much do they weigh? And what size and version is it that you list the weight for?
I agree with Scott. I will very happily rely on these new X-Alps Enduros for all bikepacking trips, for hike-a-bikes and for comfort around camp without having to drag along a pair of Crocs or similar. But for everyday riding, they don’t quite cut it. They’re light enough, just rather bulky and hot and I’m not a fan of being able to feel my Eggbeater under the ball of my foot (the sole could be a tad stiffer).
But for bikepacking, these are the bomb.
Would these shoes be a good choice for the GDR?
They could definitely stand to be stiffer. There is a new “Pro” version that uses a carbon fiber plate and is much stiffer. I’d like to get my hands on a pair of them to try, as the Enduros I have are pretty much useless for rides over 30 miles (due to hot spots under the ball of the foot).