Verdict from 4 experts and 29 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Excellent quality: Almost everyone who has reviewed the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Gravel thinks it is well-made.
- Comfort: This MTB shoe is commended by plenty of users for its excellent comfort.
- Versatile: Many users praise this pair's ability to perform on varying surfaces.
- No hotspots: The X-Alp Gravel's almost seamless upper and off-center BOA placement eliminates pressure points, according to several wearers.
- Stiff yet walkable: This pair yields enough power transfer and flex for walking comfort, say some testers.
- Value for money: A number of buyers claim it has an excellent performance-to-price ratio.
2 reasons not to buy
- Retention issues: Several reviewers gripe about how the closure design requires trial and error to get the correct fit.
- Limited colors: A tester wishes there are more color options to choose from.
Bottom line
That said, individuals keen on getting their fit right the first time might find this shoe off-putting. Nevertheless, the X-Alp Gravel by Pearl Izumi is a more than competent shoe for its intended purpose.
Tip: see the best mountain cycling shoes.
Pearl Izumi X-Alp Gravel: A hybrid of road and mountain bike shoes
The X-Alp Gravel is purpose-built for cycling on gravel surfaces. Footwear for this activity requires road cycling shoes' comfortable snug and sleek upper and MTB shoes' grip and walking capability for hike-a-bike sections. This is precisely what the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Gravel provides.
Who is it for? Despite its gravel-focused build, this pair's construction is generally considered versatile. Aside from gravel cycling, it can also be used for the following activities:
- Cyclocross
- Leisure mountain cycling
- Urban commutes
- Touring
Other gravel bike shoe models you can try
Fizik Terra X5. Compared to the X-Alp Gravel, this Fizik model's main differences include a micro-Velcro strap to separately cinch the toe area, more color choices, a heel pull-tab, cutout tip of the tongue, and an option to choose from two upper materials. Both the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Gravel and Fizik Terra X5 retail for $150.
Giro Privateer Lace. The most apparent distinction of this pair from the X-Alp Gravel is its use of the traditional lace-up closure system. Hence, it is for cyclists who love retro-inspired cycling shoes. Price-wise, the Privateer Lace is $10 cheaper at $140 compared to Pearl Izumi's $150 offering.