When biking sneakers carry a premium price ticket, we need to know that the shoe is an equally premium product; on this case, we expect the Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5 biking sneakers actually are – and that’s why these sneakers match firmly into our round-up of greatest sneakers for Peloton (opens in new tab).
These sneakers are the second costliest pair we examined, however we had been shocked that they technically sit throughout the mid-range market. That stated, the sneakers feel and look like they might simply be effectively over $200, so maybe they’re a steal in any case. The tight and slim match will divide cyclists, so if you already know you want a wider design, this won’t be the shoe for you.
Specs
Sizes: 4.5-14
Out there colours: Matte Black, Black/ Pink Fluo, Black/ Yellow Fluo, Metallic Gun Psychological/ Black, White/Black
Clip compatibility: Look Delta, SPD-SL
These sneakers carry the timeless Italian class of the Fizik model, with an understated clear look and a spread of beautiful coloration combos like matte black and metallic gunmetal. The micro-adjustable BOA dial offers a delicate tightening across the foot to safe (somewhat than suffocate) your foot, and Fizik has nearly struck the proper stability between suppleness and rigidity.
We examined the white Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5 biking sneakers from the vary (which have a a lot much less delicate look), however they paired effectively with our Peloton bike (opens in new tab) — one of many greatest train bikes (opens in new tab) presently out there.
In the event you’re in the marketplace for a brand new pair of biking kicks and we’ve already piqued your curiosity, learn on for our full Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5 biking sneakers evaluation.
Worth and availability
The MSRP for this shoe is $159.99/ £140 from the Fizik web site. That is the second costliest shoe in our round-up (fortunately, there’s nothing low-cost concerning the Italian design), however we discovered offers elsewhere for lots much less – round the price of the Shimano RC1 biking shoe. It’s price purchasing round before you purchase direct, as cleats are bought individually.
Design and options
- Design and options rating: 4.0/5
The Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5s are constituted of an opulent seam-free Microtex higher and carbon fiber strengthened nylon composite sole. Carbon fiber tends to be the selection materials for premium vary biking sneakers (just like the Rapha Traditional biking shoe (opens in new tab)) as a result of it vastly improves biking effectivity and energy output, and it’s nice to seek out Fizik inside those self same ranks. Nevertheless, these sneakers weren’t as stiff as manufacturers sporting a carbon footplate.
We examined the white pair of R5s, that are close to similar to the Rapha biking shoe, but in addition have the look of a ’90s bowling shoe. That stated, there’s nothing else outdated concerning the design.
The biking model has stated they goal to stability consolation and pedaling effectivity utilizing their alternative of sole and strap system. The only offers little give but in addition doesn’t really feel too inflexible, and the BOA-dial system seamlessly tightens the shoe round your foot, permitting for the smallest of micro-adjustments. There’s additionally a small velcro strap to safe your forefoot, however the dial is a function we’ve persistently praised all through testing and will also be discovered on extra inexpensive sneakers, just like the Santic biking shoe.
Maybe the important thing function of those biking sneakers is the overcurve (as talked about within the identify). In the event you’re as puzzled as we had been, this refers back to the building. The staggered collar wraps the ankle to “hint the pure misalignment of your ankle’s two bony protrusions,” based on Fizik. “The result’s an asymmetrical form, with the throat of the shoe curving over the foot from its outdoors to its internal aspect.” Briefly, it’s an ergonomic resolution that helps the shoe conform to your pure foot form. It’s an clever design consideration and a nod to the model’s reimagining of typical highway shoe options.
Nevertheless, the perforations all through the shoe cease across the toe space, and there’s no inbuilt vent on the underside of the shoe. We are able to’t communicate for different cyclists, however this might trigger breathability points in the course of the summer season months.
Consolation
The higher feels sturdy and durable, however sadly, there’s just about no wiggle room for wider-footed wearers. That is nice information in the event you’re desperately looking for a shoe to hug slim ft, however different cyclists may require sizing up or going elsewhere.
We discovered these sneakers too slim for our person to comfortably sort out an endurance trip, and the toe field felt like a squeeze, too. In the event you already know this could be an issue for you, Santic biking sneakers are designed for wider ft and will effectively be your reply.
If we put the oh-so cosy match apart for simply a second, the shoe is well-padded with nearly sufficient rigidity required for highly effective sprints. We now have discovered the dial system essentially the most compliant in contrast with laces or straps, and it’s a superb approach to make tiny changes to tightness.
Efficiency
In comparison with a shoe just like the Peloton biking shoe, which is actually designed for the bike, this shoe can’t compete. That stated (apart from our points with match), we had been impressed with the steadiness and key options of the Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5 biking sneakers.
We didn’t expertise any pinch factors – most certainly right down to the delicate strap system – and there wasn’t any slippage on the heel, both. The toe field started to squeeze throughout uphill resistance climbs, however this was much less of an issue when seated, and once more, is down to suit. We additionally liked how the raised heel and toe bumpers assist defend the only real from injury, and the cleats had been tremendous easy to connect earlier than testing started.
In the event you’re new to clipping out and in, we suggest swatting up on how biking sneakers work (opens in new tab) to avoid wasting you time and endurance earlier than you get spinning.
Worth for cash
- Worth for cash rating: 3.5/5
Contemplating the hefty $159.99/ £140 MSRP, we extremely suggest that you just try-before-you-buy in the event you’re not sure about key components like your arch peak or foot width.
In the event you’re already clued up and positive these sneakers might be your good match, then they’re a sound funding in our books, but it surely’s price venturing elsewhere for an honest deal. Cleats aren’t included, so keep in mind to buy these elsewhere.
Verdict
As we talked about, the Fizik Tempo Overcurve R5 is just too slim for our style, however this doesn’t take away from the shoe as a hard-wearing, sturdy, and thoughtfully designed addition to the biking attire world.
You wouldn’t count on much less from a well-respected Italian footwear model, and the fine-tuned particulars just like the ergonomic tongue, dial strap system, perforated higher, and nylon composite sole all culminate right into a premium product that we expect warrants its worth.
Alternate options
Peloton biking sneakers had been our favourite amongst the eight pairs we examined. They’re inexpensive, supremely trendy, and supply snug cushioning to see you thru these testier rides.
If the worth doesn’t panic you, the Rapha Traditional biking shoe might be the closest match to the Fizik shoe for design and magnificence. They’re Look Delta suitable and likewise include high-arch pads.
How we examined
We examined the Fizik biking sneakers in our purpose-built testing middle and scored them from 1-5 throughout the next standards:
- Design and options
- Consolation
- Efficiency
- Worth for cash
For all fashions, we tackled a fast-paced HIIT class and an energetic restoration session to make sure every shoe may energy via and ship – whatever the person’s exercise preferences.
We then gave the sneakers an general ranking out of 5 with a remaining verdict summarizing every mannequin’s strengths and weaknesses, and whether or not we reckon they’re ride-ready.
Consumer critiques
Amazon charges these sneakers 4.6 out of 5, with 80% of the critiques being 5 stars. Customers liked the aesthetics, which they stated had been clear and delightful, and the way snug the shoe felt. Destructive critiques point out the dearth of breathability and the way simply they scruff.
