Pearl Izumi X-Road Fuel III Bike Shoes

Active Junky’s seen – and ridden – this brand in nearly all conditions imaginable.  This 360g model is somewhere between Commuting King and Workout Wonder.  Our tester does both – and travels to places like Chile where the ability to hop on and go is critical.  SPD-compatibility is crucial to making this work across platforms and uses; walkability is exceptional with adequate rocker along with a beveled heel.  Styling builds on iconic forms while a subdued colorway lets the riding do the talking.  

Tester Quote: “While I didn’t cut (Fuel III) open, the X-Road nylon plate inside did the job for stability and power transfer on the bike, clips or not – rental bikes for city tours are nearly always platform pedals.  Fit runs true.  The elastic lace keeper was a real help when thinner socks meant long lace tails.