The Lab: Mavic XA Pro shoes in review
In the “The Lab” we present the latest products and put them through their paces for you. Some undergo long-term tests, while we check others out only briefly. This time we reveal how the Mavic XA Pro shoes fared.
Trev had the pleasure – and displeasure – of riding the previous generation of Mavic XA Elite trail shoes for most of the last season. The shoes offered the best fit and support, but the stiff, non-articulated sole was total purgatory for long-hikes or chilling out after a ride. Mavic have now released a new model, the XA Pro shoe, and claim “This walkable MTB shoe is designed to keep you going on all types of trail adventures”. Trev has found the difference to be night and day. The new XA Pro shoe features a carbon composite plate that is flexible for walking and holding both models of the shoe in your hands the difference is easily felt with a much smoother flex on the latest model. The XA Pro features the same huge cleat pocket that we love, with enough range to run the cleats slammed right back, and the Energy Grip Trail outsole features aggressive, widely spaced lugs for great traction if you find yourself pushing up something filthy.
Importantly for all weather riders, the shoes only absorb 90 ml of water per shoe, which is very impressive. Mavic have always had the uncanny ability to make the most comfortable shoes and the XA Pro’s are no exception, contouring to the foot like an old friends handshake. Mavic use their own Ergo Dial QR retention system for a firm and precise adjustment and the dials are high enough to avoid being ripped off in a crash, the fit is finished with a strong velcro tab that sits firmly and neatly. On the bike, precision and energy transfer are perfect for trail riding, but more suited to a rider who likes a light and efficient shoe rather than an armoured clog. After around 30 rides the shoes are holding up extremely well and the thermal bonded construction is proving tough for hard shredding.
Conclusion
Light, robust and comfortable both on and off the bike, Mavic have really knocked it out of the park with the XA Pro shoe, highly recommended.
Strenghts
– Comfortable on and off the bike
– Huge cleat pocket
Weaknesses
– Expensive
Tester Trev
More Info mavic.com
Weight 387 g per shoe in size 43
Price € 180