Summary

We spent 9.6 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what cyclers think:

6 reasons to buy

  • Almost all of the reviewers commend the comfort delivered by the Sidi SD15 during hike-a-bikes.
  • Numerous owners praise the durability of the outsole.
  • The quick adjustability offered by the dial closure is appreciated by many bikers.
  • Despite its bulky appearance, this mountain cycling shoe is quite light, says a lot of users.
  • Multiple individuals mention that their feet don’t feel too hot while wearing this product.
  • Plenty of consumers like the rugged looks of this model.

3 reasons not to buy

  • Several cyclists are disappointed that the outsole of the SD15 is too flexible for pedaling.
  • This cycling trainer from Sidi is a bit pricey for some shoppers.
  • The insole feels cheap, leading a few people to replace it rather soon.

Bottom line

The Sidi SD15 sports a rugged and sturdy built. It is constructed to withstand the treacherous terrains of enduro trails, whether wearers are on or off their bikes. Despite a few drawbacks, it comes highly recommended for the comfort it delivers and overall performance.

Facts

Expert Reviews

63 / 100 based on 2 expert reviews

  • 61 / 100 | OutdoorGearLab | | Level 3 expert

    Our expectations for the SD15 were met with a truly underwhelming performance due to inferior power transfer and on-the-bike performance. While we like the concept of a walkable Sidi mountain bike shoe with a grippy rubber sole, they failed to create one that excels at the shoe's primary task, riding a bike. If only they would glue this sole to the bottom of one of their proven high-performance models, then they would be on to something.

  • 70 / 100 | Bike Packer | | Level 1 expert

    The Sidi SD15 Shoes are great for hiking off the bike with their flexible sole and aggressive tread pattern, but were they stiff enough to be efficient in pedaling power transfer

  • First look | Bikepacking Summit

Become an expert

Make the most of your trail riding adventure with the help of the SD15. It is created with both pedaling and trekking in mind, so you won’t have to worry about slipping regardless if you’re on the bike or hiking. From top to bottom, it is made of durable materials that protect your feet from various outdoor elements like sharp rocks or flying debris.  

Pedal power. The Sidi SD15 features a thick rubber outsole. The hefty built of this layer contributes to its rigidity, preventing the sole from bending too much while pedaling. The stiffness allows bikers to tackle treacherous terrains with ease.

Traction and durability. The bottom of this cycling trainer is made of high-performance rubber that doesn’t quickly wear out, even when used on rough surfaces. On top of that, the lugs on the outsole allow it to bite onto uneven surfaces. They are adequately spaced to make it easier to remove mud and debris.

The SD15 uses the SPD cleat system. It pairs well with the following clipless pedal models: Shimano XTR M9020, Nukeproof Horizon CS CrMo, Crank Brothers Mallet E, DMR V-Twin, to name a few.

The recessed section securely cradles the cleat while still allowing for fast clipping in. The design also ensures that the fastener won’t get in the way when its time to take a hike. 

Protection. The top section of the Sidi SD15 is made of Politex material. It is crafted from several overlapping layers of knitted fabric, felt, and compacted PVC to provide a structured and supportive foot wrap.

Comfort. Having hot and sweaty feet is not ideal in any situation. At first look, this model doesn’t seem to offer much in terms of breathability. But mesh is present on the tongue, the vamp, and the collar to allow air to pass and cool the foot chamber.

Lockdown. This Sidi cycling shoe uses the TECHNO-3 closure system. It has a dial that tightens the wire when it is turned and loosens the fit when the dial is pulled. This type of closure aims to deliver even pressure throughout the instep.

Meanwhile, the heel is adequately secured by the plush collar and the external heel panel. The light foam lining also prevents chafing. As for the heel reinforcement, it prevents warping and keeps the back of the foot in an optimal position to avoid power loss.

  • Because mountain biking can be brutal, it is quite common for some parts of the shoe to break. Sidi created this model to be serviceable, as the dial and the wire of the TECHNO-3 system can be replaced.
  • The Politex upper is made using environmentally friendly materials.