Hot
- Powerstrap configuration uses two ribbon wraps to secure the foot.
- Velcro straps adjust instep and midfoot separately for a customized fit
- Nylon outsole provides good power transfer
- Rubber tread outsole for grip and durability
- Notched tongue for added ankle mobility and comfort
- Silicon heal gripper prevents the foot from sliding out during pedal stroke
- 2-bolt compatible
- Good price point
Not
- Minimum ventilation
- No micro adjustments like with BOA-type closures
- Difficult to tighten or loosen while riding
Price: $149.99
Colors: Black, Anthracite/Grape, Mud/Caramel, Light Grey
Sizes: 36-48 EU
Weight (per shoe): 395g (size 45EU)
Outsole: Nylon and rubber
How Obtained: Company sample
Availability: Online, retail
RBR Advertiser: No
Powerstrap Design Secures and Envelops the Foot
I’ve reviewed Fizik’s Powerstrap technology on their Tempo road shoe, but this was my first experience with an off-road model. Back in October, the company released a grey version to their Terra Powerstrap X4 gravel line. As with the road shoe, the two Velcro ribbon closures envelop the foot and keep it secure. Working independently, one strap secures the instep and the other strap secures the midfoot for a customized fit.
The Terra Powerstrap fits true to size, but is made for a wider foot than mine. Using the two straps I was able to adjust the fit to my narrow foot which caused a few wrinkles in the shoe’s synthetic upper. The silicone gripper dots printed on the inside heel prevented slippage during the pedal stroke or when walking. A notched tongue provided additional ankle mobility which translated to added comfort.
The synthetic uppers have laser-cut ventilation slits, but not sure how breathable the shoes truly are. The warmest test ride was at 75 degrees and my feet started to feel warm.
There are a couple of concerns regarding the Velcro ribbons. First, I’m not sure how they will hold up once caked with mud. Second, there are no micro-adjustment capabilities like with BOA-type closures and it isn’t easy to tighten/loosen while on the bike.
No “Break-in” Period
From the first ride, these shoes were very comfortable. A stiff nylon sole allowed for good power transfer to the pedals and the mildly aggressive rubber tread (somewhere between a true MTB shoe and road shoe) provided sure footing on loose dirt. Markings on the sole made installing the two-bolt cleats easy, with plenty of forward/aft positioning options.
For those road riders that prefer a two-bolt SPD cleat shoe for walkability, the Terra Powerstrap X4 is a great option. It easily blurs the line between gravel and road shoe letting it be worn for either type of riding.
Bottom Line
A $149.99 price point for the Terra Powerstrap X4 gravel shoe is quite reasonable. The new grey color added to the offering is a nice neutral alternative and compliments any bike frame color. At the time of writing this review, inventory levels were good, which has been a real challenge lately for most cycling gear.
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.
Fizik’s web site is terrible! They offer no description of the Terra Powerstrap X4 shoe at all. And there’s no sizing information. Disappointed!