Shoes » Pearl Izumi X-alp shoes
# Stiff nylon plates provide toe spring, flexibility and rigidity for pedaling while enhancing off-the-bike comfort
# Lightweight, soft EVA midsoles absorb shock, return energy and provide cushioning
# Quick-drying, breathable mesh and synthetic uppers offer protection and durability
# Rip-and-stick and lace closure system goes on like comfortable tennis shoes to secure the fit
# Rugged carbon rubber lugged outsoles supply superior traction; beveled heel enhances mobility
# Compatible with most clipless pedal systems (cleats not included)
Product website: http://www.pearlizumi.com/product.php?mode=view&pc_id=43&product_id=1236144
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(44 votes, average: 3.11 out of 5)
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November 7th, 2008 in
Shoes
ScottM on 
Dylan on 
AmosIv on 
Preston on 
Jesse on 
Martin on 
Rod on
Could someone who’s used these shoes tell what they thought?
I am considering using a more ‘hikeable’ shoe than my carbon soled ones for bikepacking, but the last time I did a harder ride on them I got very tired from the pressure on my feet.
So I’d like to know how stiff they are underfoot and how well they hike.
Thanks
I have been on Three rides now and I love them. The ratchet mechanism on my right shoe is a littly twitchy, but the overall design, fit and function is superior to anything I have used to date. I bought them online for 89.99.
How stiff did they feel on the pedal and how stiff while walking?
I used these shoes on two bikepacking trips now, as well as a few hundred miles of general riding.
I think they are a great compromise between walking comfort and cycling efficiency. They aren’t super stiff, but they don’t feel squishy on pedals either. I’d use these for any bikepacking trip, even if there isn’t much hike-a-bike — just for the comfort around camp and what not.
That said, I am going to get another pair of shoes for every day riding. It’s not a lack of stiffness in the soles but the bulkiness and higher “cut” of the shoe that makes it feel a little “slow” to me. And we all know it’s all about how fast you feel (as opposed to how fast you are.)
Has anyone tried the pearl izumi X-Alp Enduro?
(ed: added to bikepacking.net here: http://www.bikepacking.net/reviews/shoes/pearl-izumi-x-alp-enduro/)
How much do they weigh? And what size and version is it that you list the weight for?
I agree with Scott. I will very happily rely on these new X-Alps Enduros for all bikepacking trips, for hike-a-bikes and for comfort around camp without having to drag along a pair of Crocs or similar. But for everyday riding, they don’t quite cut it. They’re light enough, just rather bulky and hot and I’m not a fan of being able to feel my Eggbeater under the ball of my foot (the sole could be a tad stiffer).
But for bikepacking, these are the bomb.
Would these shoes be a good choice for the GDR?
They could definitely stand to be stiffer. There is a new “Pro” version that uses a carbon fiber plate and is much stiffer. I’d like to get my hands on a pair of them to try, as the Enduros I have are pretty much useless for rides over 30 miles (due to hot spots under the ball of the foot).
I’ve found them stiff enough after hundreds of kms of use commuting and bikepacking. The negative for me is they do hold water in all the padding and take a while to dry, contrary to the description. They also allow water in very quickly and easily. I’m considering going to a more racey, less padded shoe for the often rainy tours I do. They are very comfy though.
Great shoes for bikepacking. Very comfotable for hiking and around camp. They do hold water and take awhile to dry out. My biggest grip is durability. After 2000 or so miles mine are literally coming apart at the seams. I won’t buy another pair.
I have a lace-up version, and love them. Just did a 325 mile/4 day road tour with them, and used them on other tours, too. I also use them daily for commuting and running errands by bike. I use them with Times mountain pedals.
Just took a new pair of PI’s X-ALP Seek IV’s out to the Great Divide route. LOVE these shoes. Not sure how long they’ll last, but great breathability, and a flexible sole that’s comfortable on and off the bike.
http://shop.pearlizumi.com/product.php?mode=view&pc_id=43&product_id=1643863&outlet=
Anyone with the lace up version (seek 3,4 or similar) – do the laces get in the way (hitting the frame, chainrings etc) or is there some way to tuck them tidy? My Shimano similar style shoes have a velcro top strap to hide the laces, none of the PI lace ups seem to have this?
I have the seek 4 and used them in a few adventure races. Great shoe to run in which is pretty amazing for a bike shoe! The laces did suck IMHO so I replaced them with the Salomon lace system. It works very well. Just tighten the laces using the clip and tuck it in to the top of the tongue.
Scottybeam. Solomon seriously needs to consider making bike shoes. Their GTX high boots with a stiffer sole would be the ideal shoe for bikepacking. I love their lace system as well.
blew the buckle off the x-alp pros, hoping for a warranty replacement. looks like the bolt stripped… already replaced them with a pair of specialized comps, might ask for a pair of the lace ups instead.
X-Alp Enduro II. Bought on Amazon.com and they are built with a rugged/grip sole with SPD insert. The biggest flaw was sizing. They label them sizes 44 (is actually a 43). Buy one size up or regret the purchase. Pos+ Quick dry material, composite rubber sole, traction. Great for bike packing, quick-dry after walking through rivers, or in rain. Neg- SMALL SIZING, beware when purchasing online.