Verdict from 7 experts and 10 user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- Airflow: The Fizik Vento Powerstrap R2 Aeroweave astonishes droves of cyclists with its unprecedented breathability.
- Rigidity: Plenty of reviewers commend the pair's stiff soles for their excellent power transfer.
- Comfort: Many owners praise this road cycling shoe's exceptional comfort.
- Style: This shoe gains the approval of a lot of consumers thanks to its one-of-a-kind design.
- Support: A number of users appreciate the Vento Powerstrap R2 Aeroweave's supportive fit.
- Straps: Its easy-to-use and effective strap closures are a treat to use, according to a few wearers.
- Lightweight: A couple of testers say it feels very light.
2 reasons not to buy
- Pricey: A tester gripes at the shoe's costly price and says he's paying more for fewer materials.
- Future concerns: One blogger worries about whether the thin upper materials would survive a crash and if the Velcro straps will retain their sticky closure.
Bottom line
The shoe might be a lot of money, but it works very well for the purpose it was intended for. You can definitely spend less to buy shoes with more technology. Still, these Fizik shoes provide very similar high-performance in terms of stiffness and more breathability than other models in the same price range.
Tip: see the best cycling shoes.
Fizik Vento Powerstrap R2 Aeroweave: A bike shoe unlike any other
What makes it unusual? Well, there are two reasons.
The first reason is the shoe's unprecedented upper material and design. The material used is called the Aeroweave, which is a woven fabric that is integrated with nylon fibers and thermoplastic polymer. The result is a shiny looking, see-through mesh. The weave varies throughout the shoe to promote next-level airflow and support in key areas.
Second is its Powerstrap closure. The Vento Powerstrap R2 Aeroweave employs two large Velcro straps that resemble car seatbelts. Each strap is responsible for either the lockdown of the instep or the midfoot area. This closure works by wrapping around the foot in just a tug of the strap while distributing pressure evenly.
This last portion is not unusual, but it is worth mentioning as it plays a significant part in the shoe's high-performance. We're talking about its R2 outsoles, which are made from pure carbon fiber designed to reduce weight and provide increased stiffness. It has the highest stiffness index in Fizik's index chart.
Who is it for? This bike shoe is recommended to cyclists who value the following elements in their gear:
- Optimal breathability
- Easy to use closure system
- Super lightweight footgear
- Sleek-looking bike shoes
- Uniquely designed cycling footwear
- Very stiff outsoles for excellent power transfer