Hot
- A Roomy toe box won’t cramp your toes
- METNET relief zones stretch for added comfortable
- Tachyon rubber outsole and removable spikes for excellent off-the-bike grip and walkability
- Lightweight and breathable
- 100% OCLV carbon plate provides a stiff 14/14 sole for excellent power transfer
- BOA fit system with two Li2 dials allows for micro-adjustments and better fit
- GnarGuard rubberized toe and heal guards protect the shoe from damage
Not
- Pricey
- Limited colors – white is not a good option for MTB or gravel
Price: $449.99
Sizes: 36-48 (half sizes from 38.5 – 45.5)
Fit: True to size
Weight: 288g/shoe
Stiffness index: 14/14
Closures: BOA fit system with two Li2 dials
Spikes: Removable toe and heel
Cleat compatibility: Two bolt
Colors: Black, White/Black
Availability: Online or LBS
How obtained: Company sample
RBR advertiser: No
Designed to Optimize Power Transfer, Comfort, and Weight
In July, Trek launched three new MTB shoes and sent me the line RSL shoe to test. This top-tier shoe is ideal for serious MTB, cross-country, and gravel racers. They are designed to optimize power transfer, comfort, and weight.
While unboxing, I immediately noticed the toe box was roomier and rounder than the Trek shoes I’ve tested in the past. This new design uses METNET relief zones to ensure your toes aren’t cramped during long rides.
METNET Relief Zones: Alleviates common pressure points
Earlier this year, Trek introduced their latest METNET technology as part of their new road shoe collection. The METNET relief zones are made to stretch, enhance comfort, and ease pressure points while still supporting the foot. This feature and the shoe’s lightweight (288 grams per shoe) and breathability ensure comfort during extended rides. I tested these shoes on numerous rides, covering distances from 20 to 64 miles on gravel roads and trails with no discomfort.
Excellent Power Transfer and Stiffness
The 100% OCLV carbon plate provides a 14/14 stiffness rating, ensuring excellent power transfer with every pedal stroke. The BOA fit system with two Li2 dials allows for precise micro-adjustments, ensuring a snug and secure fit. A cat tongue-like fabric inside each heel cup keeps the foot from slipping and enables more power to the pedals.
The GnarGuard rubberized toe and heel guards add an extra layer of durability, protecting the shoes from damage. Off the bike, the Tachyon rubber outsole and removable spikes offer excellent grip, making these shoes versatile for walking on various terrains. Unfortunately, I had the opportunity to test the walkability of the RSL shoes when two friends crashed on a trail ride. One bike was unrideable, and one rider had a broken tailbone. We had to walk the bikes about half a mile before getting to an access point where we could leave the riders and get the cars. It wasn’t my preferred scenario to test walkability, but the RSL MTB shoes are comfortable and secure.
Trek’s New Insole for Added Support
Earlier this year, Trek launched all new BioDynamic Cycling Insoles, improving on Bontrager’s InForm Insoles with enhanced heel capture and shoe fit. They come in three support options (low, mid, and high arch), and riders can be measured at their local Trek store using a proprietary pressure mapping tool. I use the yellow mid-arch insole.
These insoles are made in collaboration with Superfeet, and the new versions feature 70% recycled material. Priced at $44.99, it’s an inexpensive option for improving foot comfort.
Bottom Line
In summary, the Trek RSL MTB shoes are an all-out race shoe that excels in power transfer, comfort, and durability. Whether you’re tackling cross-country trails or rough gravel roads, these shoes offer a high-performance fit and exceptional support. However, the RSL MTB shoes come with a few drawbacks. They are on the pricier side, retailing at $449.99, and the color options are limited – black and white with black accents. The white version is not ideal for mountain biking or gravel riding due to its tendency to get dirty easily. The shoes fit true to size and are available in a wide range of sizes from 36 to 48, including half sizes from 38.5 to 45.5.
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.
You state white is not a good color for mtb or gravel but there are a LOT of road cyclists who opt for the convenience of mtb shoes. I’ll definitely be looking at these shoes.
Richard
My bad. Yes, I prefer white road shoes. I forgot people use MTB shoes on their road bikes. I stand corrected.
Sheri