Price: $195 (on sale at the time of this review), $260 MSRP
Sizes: Unisex 39-49 (no half sizes)
Fit: Runs true to size
Color: Urban Sage
Closure: Double BOA Fit System with L6C dials
Sole: 60% carbon fiber, 38% TPU, 2% steel
Upper: 100% rubber/plastic
Weight: 319 grams (size 42)
Cleat Compatibility: 2-bolt SPD
How Obtained: Company sample
Availability: Online and retail
RBR advertiser: No
What do you get when you combine a road and MTB shoe?
Pearl Izumi did just that. They blended the lightweight and stiffness of a road shoe with the durability of an MTB shoe to come up with the new Expedition PRO. At 319 grams for a size 42, this shoe is perfect for long gravel or MTB rides. I found it durable, breathable, and comfortable, yet with a stiff sole for ideal power transfer to the pedals.
This new shoe replaces the GravelX with all new features. It uses dual BOA Fit System L6C dials and soft TX lace guides to prevent hot spots. Having dual dials, I could independently loosen or tighten different areas along the top of the foot, providing ideal comfort on gravel rides, even those exceeding 40 miles.
Adding to the ride comfort are the perforated uppers. My foot was able to breathe, and the ventilation prevented overheating. For colder days, I slipped on the Pearl Izumi AmFIB Light shoe covers and my feet stayed warm. (Read my shoe cover review)
To add to the durability of the carbon sole, the company added a TPU toe and heel bumper. While the wider tread might be nice for preventing mud from accumulating, I’d be concerned about the traction when bikepacking or hike-a-bike situations. Just keep in mind the conditions and type of riding you’ll use these shoes. It’s 2-bolt SPD compatible with plenty of fore and aft movement for perfect cleat alignment.
Sizing for the Expedition PRO is unisex and ranges from 39-49 EU with no half sizes. I found the fit to be true to size and recommend you order whatever you usually wear in Pearl Izumi shoes. Unfortunately, these shoes only come in one color choice, so if you aren’t partial to the earth tones of sage, you’re out of luck.
Bottom line
Pearl Izumi’s new Expedition PRO shoe is lightweight, comfortable, and durable, making it the ideal choice for specific gravel and MTB riding. They are currently on sale so snag them at the lower price.
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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