Mavic Crossmax XL Pro shoes review
Comfortable, durable, grippy and good looking, the Crossmax XL Pro checks all the boxes.
What is it
Tired of mountain bike shoes that are stiff as a steel i-beam with almost no tread for those inevitable hike-a-bikes? Designed with input from professional enduro riders Jerome Clementz and Fabien Barel, the Mavic Crossmax XL Pro shoes feature lugged soles, a very aggressive Contagrip rubber tread pattern and flexible nylon midsole for outstanding grip and comfort when walking over rocks. Heel and toe pieces are reinforced for protection, the inner side of the shoe features a high brace and mid-ankle neoprene construction to prevent stray pebbles from entering. Inside the shoe is extensive Ergo Fit OrthoLite innersole cushioning for good breathability and outstanding comfort. A mesh overlapping exterior tongue secures by velcro to protect the lower Quick Lace system, and an Ergo Ratchet flip up release lever dials in fit.
The tread pattern is durable and delivers plenty of grip for frequent hike-a-bikes.
Pros
- Excellent tread grip
- Very well padded and reinforced
- Generous toe box for wider feet
- Ideal walking flex/pedaling stiffness balance
- Extremely tough and durable
- All-day comfort
- Looks great
Cons
- Ratchet system can get damaged by rocks
- Clip-in only, not designed for flat pedals
A neoprene outer cuff helps keep unwanted pebbles and debris out of the shoe.
Mtbr’s Take
After six months of extended abuse barreling down rocky descents and hiking up even rockier ascents around Downieville, CA – a place that destroys most mountain bike shoes in short order – the Mavic Crossmax XL Pros are completely unphased. They’re extremely comfortable, durable and grippy over the most treacherous rocky hike-a-bikes. And thanks to its wide toe box, the Crossmax XL Pro fits those with super wide front feet. Compared to most performance-oriented mountain bike shoes that compromise comfort and flex for light weight and stiffness, the Crossmax XL Pro can be worn comfortably all day, on or off the bike. They are not the lightest mountain bike shoes at nearly 1,000 grams (size 42 with cleats), but for those who are tired of wearing carbon fiber ballerina slippers or more comfortable shoes that start falling apart after five rides, the Crossmax XL Pro can’t be more highly recommended.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Flamin’ Chili Peppers 
Price: $179
More info: shop.mavic.com
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