Trend 2020: Knitted road bike shoes - Eight pairs of knitted road bike shoes put to the test

The price level in this shoe test is high. Even the cheapest models cost 240 euros. The most expensive pair from Pearl Izumi even costs 400 euros. The fit of the knitted shoes is impressive because the upper shoe can be flexibly adapted to the shape of the foot. Most manufacturers use the Boa IP1 fastener, which can be closed and opened click by click. The lacing on the shoes from Giro and Scott is light and gives the shoes a certain retro look, but is not as comfortable to use in practice - especially while riding.

• Bontrager Ballista Knit
• DMT KR1
• Fizik Infinito R1 Knit
• Giro Empire E 70 Knit
• Giro Empire E 70 Knit W
• Pearl Izumi Pro Road V5
• Rapha Pro Team Shoes
• Scott Road RC Lace made of fabric

You can find all the results in detail below in the paid download.

How TOUR tests

We assessed weight, closure/adjustment including heel hold and tongue shape, workmanship,
equipment/handling and power transmission, which we determined using the sole stiffness. We measured this with a defined load (200 Newton metres) on the test bench. The harder the sole, the more efficient the power transmission. The bandwidth in the test field ranged from a tenth to just under half a millimetre. Such measured values are in the "very hard" to "hard" range and are favoured by competition riders in particular.
preferred by competition riders. We rate workmanship and weight less highly, as this has little effect on pedalling efficiency and all candidates are similarly light. The overall standard of workmanship is high, with hardly any weaknesses to be found. In terms of equipment, special multi-zone insoles offer a comfort plus. Thin soles made from just one material, on the other hand, provide hardly any support and do not score any points.
score no points. Twist fasteners scored significantly higher than laces in the fastening/adjustment category.

• Weight (15%)
• Closure/Customisation (30%)
• Processing (10%)
• Equipment/handling (25%)
• Power transmission (20%)

The test with detailed information and grading can be downloaded below for 0.99 euros.

Why not free of charge? Because quality journalism has its price. That's why we guarantee independence and objectivity. The TOUR tests are based on standardised and reproducible test procedures, which we always disclose. TOUR articles can be bought - TOUR test victories cannot!

Downloads:
PDF: Chic knitwear: Exclusive cycling shoes put to the test