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My Giro Terraduro shoes are getting on a bit, so looking for suggestions...
3 season usage, mostly XC and Gravel, need to be pretty stiff, but also suitable for occasional Peak District rides
So far I have seen the newer Giro Sector, but I am put off by the breathable mesh materials - probably great in California, but not UK
Shimano xc502 - look quite 'racey' and also quite a few air holes, but the way the straps go over the tongue looks ok
Any more to look at?
There's not a lot TBH. I've a pair of Spesh Recon, but they're not as comfy or weatherproof as Terraduro, and they've been regulated to summer-wear only. For the rest of the time I use Shimano ME7. They're comfy, a bit too wide for me; again not as weather-proof, but for the times when they're just too hot, I use the Recons.
I've tried others in the Giro range, but nothing else comes close, and some of the Fizik Terra series look similar to what the 'duro was trying to do, so I might try some of those. They are expensive by comparison though, so it might be an expensive mistake...
There isn't obvious alternative, I got Recons too but they really are a summer shoe.
I don't get on with Shimano shoes, most of the previous ones do feel like sock bolted on board and do not keep my foot on top of the sole.
Leatt DBX 5.0 or Lake MX168 might be suitable but their fit does not work for me.
Those Fizik Terra look OK, but a bit pricey.
I'm now looking at Shimano me502, which are in their Enduro range - they look a bit more like what I had in mind - a bit concerned if they will be too flexy though
Maybe some of these
Or something else from their sale
Mine are starting to look like they might be on there last legs, I only wear them for hike a bike days now as they're sure footed and really comfy. So following with interest.
Went through this a couple of years back and didn't really find an answer then either.
Spesh Recons the obvious option, but as NickC noted, no where near as weatherproof. Also no where near as walking friendly - especially as on mine (the 3.0) the cleat sits proud of the outsole - and as a result nowhere near as stable on the pedals either. Mine are relegated to summer gravel.
Shimano AM9s are fine for MTBing in, and much more walk friendly, but still a bit too permeable and a bit flexy if you're after racey type shoes.
Shimano EX7 or RX8R?
I like my Northwave rebel stiff soul and deffo XC/gravel and can be had for £100.00 or less in sales
Ps Merlin cycles have them at 99.99 at mo in various colours
I've had the same problem and have gone for the Shimano me5's. They look like they should cover the trail/gravel I want them for.