WorldIRC

Hi All,

Looking for a new pair of mid / mid-high range shoes. The Sidi Ergo 3's I have now are unfortunately a tad too small, and unfortunately, thought I would try it due to the price I paid.

Looking at models like the Fizik R3B, Bontrager Velocis, Sidi Kaos, Specialized Expert, etc...

I'm not racing, so while I like a stiff sole, I'm ok with a bit of comfort too. Breathability is also important to me. Most of the shoes will cost me in and around the same, but I get the largest discount on the Fizik and Bontrager due to my relationship with one of my LBS.

I am open to other brands / models too. I will be using with SPD-SL.

Thoughts?

Mulberry20

If I needed shoes the Giro Empires would be at the top of the list.

RPK79

@PepeM

PepeM

Bontrager Classique.

WorldIRC

They look sleek, but I'm not sure I'm into the laces.

WorldIRC

Not sure if I'm feeling the laces.

PepeM

Laces are the new crabon.

PepeM

LG Signature 84?

S-Works Sub6?

Mulberry20

Well.....comfort is most important. They are really nice shoes and very sleek.

RPK79

I directed you here so you could get recommendations for real shoes not give this poor guy recommendations.

PepeM

Oh...

WorldIRC

I took a quick look and unfortunately finding a shop that carriers them locally is a challenge.

Mulberry20

Shoes and tires I would never buy at a shop. Buy two pairs online in two sizes and try them on. Most online retailers have free return policy. Send them both back if you hate them.

Shops never have the size I want and always have to order them and they charge a lot more. Not worth shopping at a local shop for me. The ones around here have very few choices except their house brand.

WorldIRC

I typically buy online when I can, but due to the relationship I have with one of my LBS, certain items I can have cheaper locally...like the Fizik and the Bontrager shoes for example. When it comes to wearables, I will buy local (or at least try on local) when possible, so long as it makes sense financially and time-wise.

As well, being in Canada, most of our online purchases are coming from the US or UK which means shipping times, taxes, etc...and then sending back the package means the cost of postage and labour involved in getting the taxes back.

WorldIRC

@Mulberry20, I found a local dealer that stocks the Giro Empire ACC. Better price than online too ($300 CDN).

Mulberry20

Wow $230 US. Name of the shop? Its duty free up to $800 to the US.

WorldIRC

Will let you know once I confirm they have stock I'll be in the area of that shop tomorrow so I'll check it out.

Owlex

Sidi Kaos owner here.


Absolutely love them, would highly recommend!

WorldIRC

Any specific feedback? Air ventilation? Long-ride comfort?

Owlex

I don't have the Kaos "Air" version. Mine are the standard Kaos. That being said, my feet have never been the issue even when I stupidly chose to go for a spirited ride in 110 degree heat and got heatsick. So I'd say the ventilation is totally adequate in the standard version, but YMMV and if you have hot sweaty feet then maybe spring for the "Air" version.

Long rides have always been comfortable for me, but I do use aftermarket molded insoles. I haven't had many pairs of shoes at this quality/price point so I don't have a ton of marks to reference against... but I've absolutely loved my pair of Kaos. Highly recommend.

WorldIRC

The Kaos are another pair that can be had locally, with all sizes in stock, for $300 CDN (vs. $300 USD in the USA). My feet are also not the issue on warm days, I just wanted to make sure ventilation is adequate.

Owlex

Yeah. I paid $300(usd) + s&h for mine not too long after model was first launched.

woodcraft

https://www.biketiresdirect.com/prod...-acc-road-shoe

WorldIRC

That's $275 USD (which is the standard price for those shoes). $300 CDN = $230 USD.

woodcraft

I've been thinking about getting those, or the higher one. Even got a used pair of similar

to confirm the fit. Missed the best sale price, 'tho, & the used ones are pretty nice for $25.