Five Ten Kestrel Pro BOA review
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
Verdict from 10 experts & 100+ users
Pros
- Breathable
- Easy to wear
- Right level of stiffness
- Excellent traction
- Suitable for casual wear
- Strap at the forefoot
- Snug fit
Cons
- Needs break-in period
- Too heavy
- Outsole detached after a few weeks of rigorous use

97% say it's true to size.
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Rankings
- Top 27% in boa cycling shoes
- Top 28% most popular cycling shoes
Comparison to similar cycling shoes
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Who should buy the Five Ten Kestrel Pro BOA
This cycling trainer from Five Ten shares a lot of its features with the original iteration. However, the layout of the closure has been redesigned to deliver a better fit. It is a solid option if you:
- Need a shoe that is located much higher to better secure the instep.
- Need a shoe that has a single strap and allows the user for better fit adjustments near the toes.
Durable rubber
The bottom of the Five Ten Kestrel Pro BOA is lined with Stealth C4. It is a durable rubber that is also innately grippy on various types of terrains. The Dotty tread pattern amplifies its traction, which is great for the hiking part of trail rides.
Carbon-infused shank
The sole unit also uses a carbon-infused shank. It reinforces the middle section, so it doesn’t bend when the person pushes down on the pedal. This construction ensures that no power transfer is lost.
Shock-absorption
The Stealth C4 rubber works well in decreasing the shock that travels up the foot. However, this trainer also features an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) midsole that heightens shock attenuation to keep the foot comfortable for more extended periods.
Cleat system
The Five Ten Kestrel Pro BOA features a two-holed recessed cleat system. It is compatible with the following pedals: Shimano XTR M9020, Nukeproof Horizon CS CrMo, Crank Brothers Mallet E, DMR V-Twin, to name a few.
Five Ten's all-weather comfort
The Kestrel Pro BOA uses a weather-resistant top, making it suitable for the varied conditions experienced while trail riding. It is also quick-drying, so it is easy to keep the upper clean. There are micro-perforations on the vamp, allowing outside air to cool down the foot chamber.
The interior is lined with soft textile that prevents chafing. The tongue is covered in mesh, which aids in the ventilation of the footwear.
Secure fit of the Kestrel Pro BOA
Lockdown. The Kestrel Pro BOA uses two types of closure: BOA and Velcro strap. The Velcro strap increases the support at the broadest part of the foot. As for the BOA, it allows for quick on and off action. The cable adjusts by merely turning the dial, applying even pressure on the instep.
Ortholite insole
Inside the trainer is an Ortholite insole. This thin layer works with the midsole to further attenuate shock. It also prevents the foot from moving too much inside the shoe.