Trek Cambion MTB Shoe Review
Hot
- A Roomy toe box won’t cramp your toes
- METNET relief zones stretch for added comfortable
- OCLV carbon and fiberglass composite plate provides a stiff 10/14 sole for solid power transfer
- BOA fit system with two L6 dials allows for micro-adjustments and better fit
- Tachyon rubber outsole and removable spikes for excellent off-the-bike grip and walkability
- GnarGuard rubberized toe and heal guards protect the shoe from damage
- 30-day unconditional guarantee – take them for a test ride
Not
- Only offered in two colors
Price: $259.99
Sizes: 36-48 (half sizes from 38.5 – 45.5)
Fit: True to size
Weight: 383 grams/shoe (size 45 EU)
Stiffness index: 10/14
Closure: BOA fit system with two L6 dials
Spikes: Removable toe and heel
Cleat compatibility: Two bolt
Colors: Black, Bronze Age
Availability: Online or LBS
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Fit and Performance at an Affordable Price
When Trek released three new MTB shoes this summer, the company initially sent me their top-of-the-line RSL shoe. While I gave it a 4.5-star rating (read my review here), the nearly $500 price tag was steep for the average recreational rider. So, they sent me the new Cambion shoe, which is almost half the price and within reach of most avid cyclists.
The Cambion shoe has many features similar to the RSL, including the METNET relief zones that improve fit and comfort. Trek’s research found the most common areas where cyclists have foot discomfort are at the head of their 1st and 5th metatarsal and the outside of the foot at the 5th metatarsal tuberosity.
The triad-shaped perforations give the non-stretch upper material of the shoe the ability to stretch and conform to a rider’s foot. The METNET material in these zones is designed to stretch, enhance comfort, and ease pressure points while supporting the foot.
My test rides were on gravel roads and limestone trails with varying distances (30-65 miles) and temperature ranges (45-85 degrees). The shoes were just as comfortable as the RSL version, only slightly heavier.
The OCLV carbon and fiberglass composite plate delivers a 10/14 stiffness rating for solid power transfer while pedaling. The BOA fit system, featuring two L6 dials, allows for micro-adjustments and snug fit along the entire length of the foot. Unlike the RSL version, the Cambion does not have cat tongue-like fabric inside each heel cup, which means the heel may feel less secure when walking but remains secure during pedaling. While I have a narrow foot and heel, riders with wider-width feet may not have the same experience.
Protection and Traction
A rubberized GnarGuard coating is applied to the toe and heel to protect the shoes from scrapes. A Tachyon rubber outsole provides excellent off-the-bike grip and walkability. For added traction, there’s an option to add spikes should you need to hike a bike or are racing. However, I’ve noticed the removable rubber spikes on my RSL shoes have worn down flush with the tread, and on one shoe, the screw fell out and is missing. The Cambion shoes have the same design, so I’ll need to be diligent in tightening the spike cover screws.
The Cambion shoes are two-bolt cleat compatible, with two positions for greater fore and aft cleat adjustments. There are two color options — black and bronze age. The black version has tan soles, while the bronze age has a fun pop of color with orange BOA laces and soles.
Bottom Line
If you struggle to find comfortable shoes for gravel, MTB, or even road, Trek’s new Cambion shoes with METENET are definitely worth a try. At $249.99, the Cambion fits true to size and is available in sizes 36-48 (half sizes 38.5-45.5). Take a spin in without worry since the shoes have a 30-day money-back guarantee.
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.