Etnies Men's Culvert Mid Top Michelin Rubber Mountain Bike Shoe Review
The Etnies Men's Culvert Mid Top Michelin Rubber Mountain Bike Shoe is a versatile option designed specifically for mountain biking enthusiasts. Featuring a sleek black design with reflective accents, these shoes not only offer aesthetic appeal but also high functionality. The shoe's sticky Michelin rubber compound ensures exceptional pedal grip and surface traction, enhancing your performance on rugged terrains.
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Features
- Sticky Michelin Rubber Compound: Provides excellent pedal and surface grip, essential for maintaining control during rides.
- Adjustable Power Strap: Offers additional support and stability for your foot while pedaling.
- Force Shield Reinforced Upper: Enhances durability and protection against abrasions.
- Hot-melted Toe and Heel Cap: Protects the shoe's structure and extends its lifespan.
- Repel Treated Upper: Blocks moisture, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
Pros
- Outstanding grip thanks to the Michelin rubber.
- Durable construction with reinforced areas.
- Water-resistant capabilities for wet weather riding.
- Comfortable fit with adjustable power strap.
Cons
- May take time to break in for optimal comfort.
- Limited color options might not suit everyone's style.
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Product | Sole Material | Closure Type | Moisture Resistance | Grip Technology |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Etnies Men's Culvert | Rubber | Lace-Up | Yes | Michelin Rubber |
| Fox Racing Comp 2 | Rubber | Single BOA | No | Rubber Outsole |
| Five Ten Freerider | Rubber | Lace-Up | No | Stealth Rubber |
Detailed Review
When it comes to mountain biking, the right footwear can make all the difference. The Etnies Men's Culvert Mid Top stands out not only for its grip but also for its adaptable features. This shoe delivers a secure fit due to its adjustable power strap, which allows you to customize the level of support according to your needs.
The Force Shield reinforcement along the upper provides additional durability, making them suitable for challenging trails and rough handling. If you're concerned about wet conditions, the Repel treated upper effectively keeps moisture at bay, ensuring that your feet remain dry throughout your ride.
However, it's worth noting that some users report needing a break-in period before achieving maximum comfort. While the black color scheme with reflective detailing adds style, the limited color choices may not appeal to everyone looking for personalization.
Overall, if you prioritize grip, support, and durability in your biking shoes, the Etnies Men's Culvert is a strong contender that will elevate your riding experience.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Grip | 9/10 | Exceptional grip from Michelin rubber enhances safety and performance. |
| Comfort | 7/10 | Good overall comfort, though a break-in period is necessary. |
| Durability | 8/10 | Reinforced areas add to the longevity of the shoe. |
| Water Resistance | 8/10 | Effective water-repellent properties keep feet dry. |
| Style | 7/10 | Simple yet stylish design; however, limited color options available. |
User Reviews
I have used other types of biking shoes for downhilling and these are by far the most grippy and comfortable. Taking me back to my 8th grade skater vibes with style. The strap allows for quick adjustment and increased performance as it holds my foot tighter compared to just laces. I reccomend these for multiple uses. After a few rides the soles seem very durable thus far. No major wearing even after a few days of aggressive downhill.
Overall, I do really like these shoes. The soles grip really well on the petals, but allow enough movement to maneuver accordingly. The only major flaw I find in this is that they lack appropriate airflow through the material. They stand up well against wet weather but I find them to get very warm on my feet very quickly. They also run a little small, so keep that in mind. Realistically, I think that if there was more air movement through the shoe, they would be perfect.
Like everything cycling, these were too small.
I bought these before traveling for months so have put many miles on these by now. The soles are extremely cheap. Walking on these is noticeably loud because the rubber is so hard. The material also scuffs up every floor you walk on. I've never had a shoe cover my floor in black marks just from walking around for a few minutes. They are still somewhat comfortable but really disappointed in the quality.
Comfortable, nice looking and the grip is amazing. Took a while to be delivered but im happy with the purchase
These shoes are fantastic! Couldn't ask for more grip. Extremely comfortable! Haven't got to test out how water resistant they are yet. Waiting for a good rainy day to take them out on a ride and test them out!