Pearl Izumi Pro Leader v4
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
Pros
- Comfortable cycling shoe
- Deliver excellent power
- Quick micro-adjustments
- Offers a snug hold
- Lightweight
- Visible on the road
Cons
- Lack of breathability
- BOA dials needs improvement
- Upper tends to stretch
72% say it's true to size.
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Rankings
- Top 6% in Pearl Izumi cycling shoes
Comparison to similar cycling shoes
Who should buy the Pearl Izumi Pro Leader v4
The Pro Leader v4 shares many features with its predecessor, the Pearl Izumi Pro Leader v3. It is a solid option if you:
- Need a shoe that has stiff outsole with replaceable heel pads, a Look-style cleat system, and vents for aeration.
- Need a shoe that has a more straightforward design with an all-black colorway.
- Need a shoe that features a pop of color on its outsole and the closure is now placed at an angle for a pleasurable riding experience.
Integrated carbon power plate
The bottom of the Pro Leader v4 is made of 1:1 Integrated Carbon Power Plate. This compound is light yet very stiff. The rigidity makes for better pedaling motion as it doesn’t easily bend, reducing power loss.
The outsole has been treated to electroplating as marked by the mirror-like finish in some areas. This element amps up both the style factor of the shoe and the rider’s visibility.
Look-style cleat system
The Pro Leader v4 has three holes to accommodate the use of a Look-style cleat system. This road cycling trainer is compatible with the following pedals: Look Keo Blade, Time Xpresso 10, and Shimano Dura-Ace PD-R9100, to name a few.
Soft and comfortable
The top of this Pearl Izumi cycling shoe is made of a 3-layer Seamless Composite. It has no stitches inside that could cause blistering or chafing. The material is soft and breathable, ensuring in-shoe comfort at all times.
Secure fit
Atop the tongue is two BOA dials. They can be micro-adjusted using 1mm increments and can quickly be released by popping up the dial. The use of two dials evenly distributes the pressure on the instep to avoid any discomfort as the cables get tighter.
The ‘T’ structure at the back serves as a heel cup. It keeps the rearfoot steady while pedaling and also prevents unnecessary heel lifts.