World Champion Thor Hushovd spends his days "in the office" in a pair of rainbow-themed Bont Vaypors.
(Photo: Yuzuru Sunada)
Per usual, the closets at the majestic RBA offices are overflowing with the latest and greatest in cycling footwear. Here's a sampling of new shoes we've received recently - be sure to look for full reviews of these and other fine products in future issues of Road Bike Action magazine.
BONT VAYPOR
The choice of World Champion, Thor Hushovd, the Vaypor is from Australian shoemakers Bont and features a heat-moldable design that yields a fully-custom fit. Available with either a leather or microfiber upper, the Vaypor is secured using a ratcheting buckle and single Velcro strap. The carbon fiber outsole features replaceable treads and a low stack height, which Bont claims provides exceptional pedal feel.
Price: $369.99
SPECIALIZED S-WORKS ROAD
Specialized's highest-end road shoe features their full Body Geometry technology, which ensures a fully anatomical fit. Their proprietary FACT 12.0 outsole is comprised of high-modulus, unidirectional carbon fiber. Two independent Boa dials offer a secure fit in an easy-to-use design, and the S-Works shoe comes in three color choices.
Price: $350
FIZIK R3
Known for their popular line of saddles and bar tape, Fizik has recently developed a line of gear for riders' third contact point on the bike: shoes. Two models are available in Men's and Women's specific designs, with the lower-cost R3 featuring classic Italian style and modern performance. Inspired by Italian formal footwear, the cow/kangaroo sourced leather R3 features a carbon fiber outsole, custom ratcheting buckle, and sail cloth and Velcro closures. The pricier R1 (used by Alessandro Ballan and David Millar) is made with all kangaroo leather.
Price: $300
MAVIC AVENIR
One of the latest in Mavic's line of footwear, the Avenir features their proprietary Enery Carbon Composite outsole mated to a lightweight synthetic upper. Mesh panels up top ensure breathability, and a secure fit is provided by two hook-and-loop straps and a ratcheting buckle closure.
Price: $129.99
SCOTT ROAD TEAM ISSUE
A microfiber and nylon mesh upper provides Scott's Team Issue shoe with superb adjustability, while their Index 9 carbon fiber outsole ensures efficient power transfer to the pedals. Available in Euro sizes 38-48, the Team Issue also comes with a removeable insole, and features a closure system that utilizes two hook-and-loop straps and a ratcheting buckle.
Price: $285
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