Mavic Zxellium
Mavic's Zxellium is a lightweight road-racing shoe that provides stiffness as well as comfort. With its full carbon outsole and its injected TPU frame, the Zxellium gives wearers an effective power transfer, and its mesh upper and adjustable-length straps allow for a dry, well-fitting shoe. Bicycling.com notes the Zxellium's power transfer, saying "its carbon sole is exceptionally stiff" and that it would be an excellent gift for "a rider who obsesses about power transfer."
Shimano R105
Shimano's R105 road racing shoe has a silver and carbon fiber composite outsole for effective power transfer, while its mesh panels and supportive heel cup keeps riders comfortable for long hours in the saddle. Cycling Plus's Paul Vincent reviewed the R105, saying that it was "very close to race-shoe nirvana." Vincent lauded the R105's silver/carbon sole as well as the shoe's low weight.
Specialized BG S-Works
With a lightweight profile and Specialized's Body Geometry (BG) design, their S-Works road shoe is one for comfort and performance. The full carbon sole and a dual BOA closure system provide power transfer and a custom-fit feeling, while breathable upper material keeps feet dry. BikeRadar.com's James Huang reviewed the S-Works, calling it a "total win." Among its strengths, Huang cited the S-Works' fit and feel as well as its efficiency, noting that they were "just as comfortable at hour five as they are at hour zero."
Article Written By Billy Brown
Billy Brown is an outdoor sports writer living in Northern California.
An avid rock climber and trail runner, he's been writing about outdoor activities, fitness and gear since 2005. He regularly contributes to "The Record Searchlight," uncooped.com, and Trails.com, as well as other print and online publications. Brown holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Simpson University and is a NASM-certified personal trainer.
