Verdict from 10 experts and 63 user reviews
7 reasons to buy
- Almost all of the owners of the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Elevate love its stiff yet pliable enough sole for power transfer and walking comfort at the same time.
- Plenty of the wearers describe this mountain bike shoe as very comfortable.
- A lot of cyclists applaud the shoe's grippy Vibram soles, making it ideal in hike-a-bike sections.
- The X-Alp Elevate's BOA dials are a breeze to adjust and their position protects from rock strikes in narrow trails, according to a handful of reviewers.
- Several buyers say that this model has excellent quality.
- A number of purchasers like that it offers a lot of space for cleat adjustment, providing the most ideal cleat positioning.
- It is lightweight, say a few users.
2 reasons not to buy
- A couple of riders claim that the heel feels too wide and causes heel slippage.
- An expert reviewer says that this Pearl Izumi shoe lacks protection in the sides of the midfoot area and on top of the forefoot.
Bottom line
The first flaw mentioned is a case to case basis while the majority of riders will find the protection of the X-Alp Elevate to be more than adequate. Overall, this pair's excellent performance on- and off-bike, as well as its versatility, makes it a must-cop.
Tip: see the best mountain cycling shoes.
Good to know
Who is it for? Both men and women MTB cyclists can reap the benefits of the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Elevate as it is manufactured in both genders' last shapes.
As with what type of MTB rider, this footwear is described to accommodate all kinds of MTB cyclists except competitive racers.
What is it for? According to the brand, the X-Alp Elevate is down to ride anything. Activities include the following:
- Scouting lines
- Hike-a-bike
- Technical climbs
- Singletrack
- Gravel
- Cycling around town
The only thing that this shoe isn't recommended for is professional races.
Traction. This Pearl Izumi MTB shoe employs aggressive and durable Vibram outsoles to deliver optimum grip on and off the bike.
The tread design features a directional pattern to help propel the rider forward and help put on the brakes when needed.
Efficient power transfer and walking comfort. Equipped with Nylon and Carbon Composite 3/4 shanks, this pair yields adequate rigidity for the transfer of energy as well as walking comfort.
Vibration dampening. The Pearl Izumi X-Alp Elevate features a lightweight EVA midsole for cushioning, all-day comfort and stifling tremor from the rugged trails.
This mountain cycling shoe is two-bolt SPD compatible. It also comes with a cleat cover so the user can also opt to use it as a flat bike shoe. Some of the MTB clipless pedals that pair well with this footwear are Shimano Saint SPD M820, Xpedo Ambix and Crank Brother Egg Beater 3.
Plenty of cleat positioning. The X-Alp Elevate features plenty of space for optimal cleat positioning.
Recessed cleat area. Wearers don't have to sacrifice walking comfort thanks to this pair's recessed cleats.
Comfort and durability. This cycling shoe employs the brand's Advanced 3-layer Seamless Composite upper to provide a secure and comfortable fit without hot spots and pressure points.
Lockdown. The closure utilizes both a BOA IP1 dial and a hook and loop toe strap. The BOA dial is placed directly on top of the foot, putting it out of damage's way. The dial also offers tightening and loosening in increments as well as an instant full release.
The Velcro strap is easy to adjust and cinches the forefoot area.
The inside of the shoe is decked out with a supportive footbed that works together with the EVA midsole to provide cushioning and enhance comfort.