Summary

We spent 6.8 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what cyclers think:

5 reasons to buy

  • The majority of reviewers express their delight at the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate SL’s incredibly light construct.
  • The shoe is stiff and very efficient with every pedal, according to most testers.
  • Several users adore this pair’s design.
  • It is very breathable, says a number of wearers.
  • This road cycling shoe is very comfortable, affirms a couple of riders.

2 reasons not to buy

  • An expert reviewer claims that the pair’s dial requires a lot of turning to achieve a lockdown fit.
  • A cyclist gripes at how the shoe cannot be worn during chilly weather rides.

Bottom line

Comfort, speed, and effortless style are the main strengths of the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate SL shoe. Every watt of power you pour into your pedaling is maximized thanks to the excellent power transfer of its Full Carbon SLR sole and light upper.

If you seek a wider fitting Mavic road shoe that is light and efficiently stiff, this pair could fit the bill.

Facts

Rankings

A top rated Road cycling shoe
A top rated Mavic cycling shoe
A popular pick

Expert Reviews

90 / 100 based on 1 expert reviews

  • 90 / 100 | Bike Radar | | Level 2 expert

    I didn’t feel any lack of efficiency from the light uppers, they handled every sprint and climb effort as well as the best shoes I’ve tested. They are a shoe with quite a specific window of operation and unless you live somewhere warm, with mountains on tap, they’re hard to justify.

  • First look | Mavic |

Become an expert

This pair of road cycling shoes from Mavic is created with a low-profile collar that permits a full-range of ankle movements. It employs a seamless upper construction that prevents hot spots while the overlays shield against the harsh elements of the outdoors.

Meanwhile, the sole unit is constructed to be lightweight and rigid. The build ensures no power is lost while pedaling.

Lightweight built. The sole unit of the Cosmic Ultimate SL is crafted from a full-length Carbon Energy SLR compound. This material is said to be 10 grams lighter than Mavic’s previous outsoles. The lightness helps cyclists endure long rides.

Stiffness. The outsole is also constructed to be low-to-the-ground and rigid. The thin profile and stiff nature promote a more efficient pedaling experience.

Traction. Compared to mountain bike shoes, the sole of this model is relatively smooth. Road cyclists don’t need their outsoles to provide traction since they spend the majority of their time on their bikes.

Breathability. Vents are built into the outsole. These slots aid in temperature and moisture regulation in the foot chamber.

The Mavic Cosmic Ultimate SL features a 3-holed cleat system. It is common in road cycling shoes because the wider cleat offers more stability and efficient energy transfer. It is often called the Look-style system and is compatible with Look-branded pedals like the Keo Blade Carbon Ceramic and Keo Max.

There are noticeable markings on the cleat area. These help cyclists adjust and align the cleats so that their feet would be in the most comfortable pedaling position.

Comfort. An ultralight mesh makes up the top of the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate SL. The thin fabric helps with aeration to keep the foot feeling fresh during long rides.

According to Mavic, the overlap design of the upper serves two purposes: power transfer and comfort. The brand explains that the snug fit ensures no pressure spots are experienced by the wearer and that all the energy produced goes directly into the pedal.

Protection. A thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) frame has been laser-welded onto the mesh. This element protects the underlying material against abrasion. It also retains the structure of the top for support.

Foothold. The last used on this cycling trainer delivers a rounded toe box and a precise anatomic heel hold. This construction eliminates the need for external heel structures to prevent slippage. At the front, the extra room allows for toe splaying, and it also improves in-shoe comfort. 

Lockdown. As for the closure, this trainer uses the BOA IP1 system. The dial can make 1-mm increments. These micro-adjustments help users find the right amount of snugness. And if the fit gets too tight, just pull the dial to activate the quick-release function.

  • Mavic products are created to be repairable. The Cosmic Ultimate SL’s replaceable parts include the BOA IP1 closure and the Titanium V-Plate.