Pearl iZUMi Men's Pro Leader Spinning Shoe Review
Discover a new level of performance with the Pearl iZUMi Men's Pro Leader Spinning Shoe. This premium spinning shoe is designed to cater to cyclists who demand speed and comfort. The shoe's sleek and slim silhouette is crafted from high-quality leather, ensuring both durability and style. The anatomically designed buckle closure effectively alleviates pressure points on your instep, allowing for a comfortable fit even during extended rides.
At the core of this shoe is the innovative Power Plate P.R.O. base, which provides a stiff platform essential for powerful push-offs. Coupled with a Longitudinal Arch that delivers superior support, you can be assured of optimal energy transfer throughout your ride. Additionally, the three-point cleat system enhances efficiency in motion, making it an ideal choice for serious cyclists.
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Features
- Fabric Type: 100% Synthetic
- Sole Material: Manmade
- Closure Type: Buckle
- Anatomical Design for Comfort
- Stiff Power Plate P.R.O. Base for Enhanced Performance
- Longitudinal Arch Support for Stability
- Three-Point Cleat System for Efficient Motion
Pros
- Lightweight construction enhances speed
- Comfortable fit due to anatomical design
- Efficient power transfer while pedaling
- Durable materials ensure longevity
Cons
- May run small; consider sizing up
- Limited color options available
- Buckle closure may take time to adjust
Comparison With Other Similar Products
| Feature | Pearl iZUMi Men's Pro Leader | Shimano SH-RP9 | Giro Empire E70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Leather/Synthetic | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Closure Type | Buckle | Laces | Laces |
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium | Medium |
| Arch Support | Longitudinal | Standard | Standard |
Detailed Review
The Pearl iZUMi Men's Pro Leader Spinning Shoe stands out in the realm of cycling footwear. It's engineered for those who crave high performance without sacrificing comfort. The use of synthetic materials ensures that these shoes are not only lightweight but also breathable, perfect for long rides. The closure system is thoughtfully designed to provide a snug fit, minimizing any potential slipping as you pedal.
On the road, you'll notice how effectively the stiff sole translates your power into speed. The Longitudinal Arch support is particularly commendable, providing stability that many other brands lack. Whether you're sprinting or climbing, the shoe's design helps maintain optimal foot positioning.
However, it's worth noting that the shoe may feel narrow for some users. Therefore, trying them on before purchase or opting for a half-size larger could enhance your experience. The initial adjustment to the buckle closure might require some getting used to, but once you find the right setting, it performs admirably.
Detailed Rating
| Category | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | 4.5/5 | Anatomically designed for reduced pressure points. |
| Performance | 5/5 | Exceptional energy transfer and speed facilitation. |
| Durability | 4/5 | High-quality materials ensure longevity. |
| Fit | 3.5/5 | May require size adjustments for perfect fit. |
User Reviews
everything you'd expect in a shoe of this price. the orange is bright and snazzy. fits well. i'm happy with the purchase, ended up getting a size 43 and i wear a size 9 in everyday shoes.after owning it for a about 4 months of about 250-350 miles per month of riding, and walking only to get my bike out of the building and when i unclip at red lights in Brooklyn, the shoe's heel cleats are beginning to show slight wear. i do not yet find the level of wear unacceptable, but will write back if it becomes a problem. apparently, the heel cleats can be replaced (if you remove the sole, you can see two screws) but i've not yet found a vendor who sells them. but i also have not called Pearl Izumi.WINTER UPDATE: I ride in NY/MA. the shoe has a total of three vents on the sole that are lovely in the summer but problematic during the colder months. however, if you purchase a neoprane bootie that covers the vents in the shoe's sole (I use the Castelli Diluvio 16), your feet will be fine. i have biked in temperatures below 32 in these shoes with no problem.
Have a Shimano MTB shoe for my KTM full carbon hard tail bike. bought it 1 size up (Im normally 42, got a 43) fits good and tight. Looking at the reviews bought a size 43 on this ones just to be sure. Every one or at least almost all said "true size" BS. · fits just, should have gone for a 43.5 or even 44 to fit in more warm socks for winter time.
Loved the look of these but after only 20-25 miles they begin to cause severe pain in my arch as well as the side of my foot and I wore them on numerous rides over the last month to be sure they were "broken in". I have tried adjusting the tension on all straps as well as moving the clips around slightly to see if it makes a difference, it hasn't. I bought these at a time when I was riding a lot and when they came in I got held up on riding for a while so I missed the 60 day return. I will see if I can recoup some of my $$ by reselling them. My old $55 Bontragers are more comfy than these on long rides, they just squeak real bad.
Check shoe size when box comes. Box listed size 42, and shoe inside was size 40.
I need to break these in.
This is my first part I have bought. My buddy gave me his shimanos. Got to say these are way better. Lighter, look stylish, and the adjustable strap makes for a perfect fit. Love the feel and the colorway. Could have made a better purchase. Now I can ride my kestrel legend with style.
My feet are between normal and wide. I wear 12 size 47 Europe. I have shimano 47 and they fit perfect. This shoes fill like I have size 11 or 11.5 on me. I don't want to take a chance for 270 dollars to break them, going to return to amazon. Going to try size 48, may be fits me better.Also compare insole with R-170 Shimano, 1/4 inch shorter.Perfect shoes with great lacing idea, but problem with size. I also bought PI Race III- same problem.Probably keep Shimano r-170, but they have less vent and feel warmer, also don't like red color on the black model, but more comfortable and less expensive.
Awesome and very stiff road shoes. These will make you go faster! Not kidding. That rigid carbon footbed improved my speed 15-20%.I recommend getting an insole though, as on long rides (say more than five hours), your metatarsal bones will be complaining and you might think you're getting blisters.Fit is on the small size. You want them snug, but I'd order 1/2 size larger if I were to order another pair...and the color is highly visible.