Hot
- Comfortable for off-road riding or when you need to hike a bike
- Well ventilated, including the tongue, to keep you cool
- Wider platform and plenty of tread to grip in all types of terrain
- TPU reinforced toecap for extended wear
- Notched tongue for added ankle mobility and comfort
- A deep heel cup and silicon heal gripper prevents the foot from sliding out during pedal stroke
- True to fit sizing
- Variety of unisex colors and sizes
Not
- A second BOA closure would improve fit
- BOA only tightens; no micro-adjustments to loosen
- It gapped around my ankle, so it might not be ideal for narrow feet
- No arch support
Price: $159.99
Sizes: 36-48 EU (37-47 also in half sizes)
Weight (per shoe): 355g
Cleat Type: Two-bolt compatible
Colors: Black, Army/Black, Grey/Black, Grape/Pink/Black
Closure: Single L6 BOA Fit System
Material: X5 Nylon outsole with rubberized tread, TPU overlay reinforces toecap, removable toe studs, silicone heel grips, Synthetic leather uppers
Stiffness Index: 5
How Obtained: Company sample
Availability: Online, retail
RBR Advertiser: No
The Perfect Option for Off-Road Adventures
Fizik introduced the new Terra Atlas off-road shoe at the end of February. If I’m being totally honest, I was initially drawn to the shoe’s press release because of the color options—they came in purple and in my size! But we all know color doesn’t matter if the shoe isn’t comfortable, durable, and functional. I’ve been on several gravel rides testing out the Atlas, including Rapha Chicago’s A Day in Hell. The shoes were very comfortable on the 46-mile mixed-terrain adventure.
Fizik redesigned their X5 outsole to give riders the grip and traction needed on loose rocks and muddy terrain, making it versatile for mountain biking or gravel riding. With a stiffness index of 5, these shoes are stiff enough for pedaling efficiency but not so stiff you can’t walk in them should you need to hike a bike. The padded, notched tongue and low cut around the ankle add to foot comfort and mobility.
The Atlas is two-bolt cleat compatible, with plenty of fore and aft maneuverability, enabling you to set cleats in your preferred position. Other features of the new Atlas include plenty of ventilation, including the tongue, to prevent feet from overheating. A deep heel cup and silicon dots keep the heel from slipping to improve power transfer and reduce the chance of chafing. The single L6 BOA lace closure locks your foot in place, but unfortunately, this style dial doesn’t permit micro loosening adjustments. Also, I’d prefer a two BOA closure to better dial in the fit over the length of my foot.
Color Selection and Sizing
The Terra Atlas comes in four colors: black, army/black, grey/black, and my favorite grape/pink/black. My two cents is I’d have gone with the darker color over most of the shoe because of riding off-road. However, I will say that the shoe has been easy to clean so far. The sizing for Fizik has always been true to size for me. The Atlas comes in sizes 36-48, with half sizes available from 37-47 EU. For riders with flat feet, like myself, you may want to add an arch support as the insole doesn’t provide any.
Bottom Line
The new Terra Atlas off-road shoe by Fizik is durable and comfortable. There was no breaking-in period, and I had no discomfort even on a 46-mile mixed-terrain ride. With several unisex colors and a variety of sizing, you’ll be able to snag a pair that fits your style.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
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