Hot
- Double Boa closure for micro adjustability
- Extremely stiff sole for superior power transfer
- Very comfortable from the very first ride
- Asymmetrical closure reduces hot spots
- Lots of perforations top and bottom for breathability and cooling
- Heal cups and no-slip heel lining (cat tongue) keeps foot in place through pedal stroke
- Neoprene padded tongue for added comfort
- Heel bumper can be replaced when worn out
- Unconditional Bontrager guarantee
Not
- Pricey
- Runs small, so many need to go up a half size
- Solid storage bag, one side should be mesh for ventilation
- Limited color choices
Price: $399.99 MSRP
Color: Black; White w/Navy accents; White w/Black accents;
Sizes: 36 – 48 (unisex), also half sizes
Closure: Dual, independent IP1 Boa®
Upper material: TPU material (69% Polyester/28% Polyurethane/3% Nylon)
Stiffness index: 14 of 14
Sole material: 100% OCLV carbon
Weight per shoe: 261g/shoe (size 42)
Cleat compatibility: SPD SL 3-bolt
How obtained: Company provided sample
Where sold: Online or at your local Trek dealer.
RBR Advertiser: No
Maximum Stiffness Index = Superior Power Transfer
This summer Bontrager launched a new version of their XXX road shoe. I was excited to receive a pair to test as I’ve never tried their road shoes, only their Flatline MTB shoe.
The XXX is one sexy looking pair of shoes, with performance that is all business. The 100% OCLV carbon sole has a stiffness index of 14 of 14 which I could feel from my first pedal stroke. Excellent power transfer is due to the stiffness combined with the dual Boa closure, heel cup and no-slip cat tongue heel lining that kept my foot secure, preventing any slippage. If you are not familiar with cat tongue lining, it is fabric that is smooth in one direction (let’s your foot slide into the shoe) and rough the opposite direction (preventing your foot from sliding out).
The asymmetrical closure and Superior Form TX lace routing system took the pressure off the top of the foot. Combined with the two independent IP1 Boa closures, you can adjust the fit and avoid hot spots. This model Boa closure allows for micro adjustments both to tighten and loosen for a dialed in fit. A neoprene pad at the top of the tongue reduces pressure against the dorsal tendon allowing more mobility and comfort during the pedal stroke.
With a full carbon sole, the XXX is light weight, at 261g/shoe (size 42) and wont weigh you down. The sole has marking guides for easy cleat placement and is SPD SL 3-bolt cleat compatible.
Another nice feature of the XXX is the ability to replace the heal bumper if it gets warn from walking around. It attaches to the bottom of the heal with a single screw. However, note the toe bumper is not replaceable.
Fit and Sizing
The XXX road shoe tends to run a little small. I normally wear a 45, however had to bump up to a 45.5. Being a unisex shoe, it seems like the shoe also runs a bit narrow, which works to my advantage since I have a narrow foot. I also have flat feet, so as I do with all my road shoes, I replaced the insole with a Bontrager inForm BioDynamic insole for better arch support.
Why the XXX Isn’t a Perfect 5
If it were not for these three minor issues, I’d have given the XXX shoes a perfect 5-star rating.
First, color selection for the XXX is minimal with only 3 color wave choices (black, white with blue trim and white with black trim). As a unisex shoe, it would be nice to see these fine shoes in other colors like red, blue and neon yellow.
I tested the white with black accents, and like with any white shoe I struggle to keep them clean. But using a Mr Clean Magic Eraser, I’m able to keep them looking almost new. (see Quick Tip for keeping shoes white) One suggestion would be if Bontrager added the black accent strip along the tip of the toe line. It would help to hide the dirt and provide a bit of added protection.
Second, Bontrager includes a storage bag for the shoes made from nylon material. With the shoes at a premium price, I’d like to see a bag with one side being mesh for ventilation. If I pull off my shoes after a ride and stick them into the bag, they won’t dry as well as inside a mesh bag.
Third, the XXX is a unisex shoe available in sizes 36-48 (full and half sizes). What I don’t understand is the sizing drop down menu only lists women’s up to 43. Why not continue the sizing description to include women’s sizes through 48? It makes women who have larger feet, like me, feel they are getting a men’s shoe. It’s a simple change that can go a long way.
Bottom Line
Bontrager’s new XXX road shoes are both sexy and high performing. The 14 of 14 stiffness index provides excellent power transfer which you feel from the first pedal stroke. They are very comfortable, breathable and light weight. In unisex sizing, the XXX is the perfect choice for your next pair of racing shoes or to get the advantage on a spirited group ride. Try on a pair at your local Trek store or local bike shop and see for yourself.
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