When it comes down to it, there are really no appreciable differences between cross-country MTB, gravel, or cyclocross shoes. They all need to accomplish the same tasks: be lighter than most other bike shoes, be stiff, have some spikes and lugs on the sole, and be relatively comfortable.
That’s why I appreciate that the brand claims the new Ferox Carbon PNS X Fizik shoe is not just a one-trick pony, and that it’s for XC, CX, and GRV.
About the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon bike shoe
- Price: $299 ($330 PNS collab edition tested)
- Buy from Backcountry
The Vento Ferox has a dual closure system: a BOA Li2 dial toward the toes and a Velcro “Powerstrap” toward the top of the foot. Fizik says the strap gives the foot security, especially while pedaling at a high cadence in off-road situations.
The sole is balanced for both speed and power transfer with its 10/10 stiffness rating and carbon plate. Then there are meaty studs and lugs for grip in loose dirt when you happen to come off of the bike.
And to keep in line with the rugged, off-road nature of the shoe, the Vento Ferox upper is made from a polyurethane-laminated fabric, layered over a translucent mesh. This, Fizik says, keeps the shoe breathable and tear-resistant.
The shoe comes in four standard colors; black, lilac, mud/grape, and red/aquamarine, with sizing from 36-48 and many half-sizes in between.
The retail price for the standard Vento Ferox Carbon is $299.
Then, there is this Ferox Carbon PNS X Fizik edition (PNS stands for apparel brand Pas Normal Studios, of course) and retails for an additional $30 if you would like for your shoes to match your kit.
On the bike
The Vento Ferox Carbons strike a nice aesthetic, and personally I’d opt for the non-special edition, because I am not familiar with Pas Normal Studios, and the PNS acronym is just not something I love on footwear. I’m sure in Denmark, folks probably don’t think twice about it, but some things don’t translate cross-culturally. Moving on.
I went with my standard size of 41 (or 8-8.5ish) and the fit is about spot on. There is a little room in the toes and a slight lift in the heels, but it is mostly unnoticeable on the move.
The BOA Li2s is a trusted lace system and is one of the nicer dials you can have on a bike shoe, with the ability to ratchet backwards and release tension if necessary. The “Powerstrap” makes for a nice fit too, though it’s hard to say if I can feel any difference it makes at a higher cadence compared to a shoe with two BOA dials. But the strap does add to the shoe’s unique look. That said, it may not be for everyone who just wants a dual BOA system.
The maximum stiffness of the Vento Ferox is great for putting the power down and the shoes have remained comfy with no pinching, discomfort or compromise as they hold their position between foot and pedal.
The upper fabric feels tough and it seems likely I won’t see any durability issues for some time. As Fizik promises too, they bring an exceptional amount of ventilation into the shoe too, but they probably won’t offer too much protection from the elements.
Pros and cons of the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon bike shoe
Pros:
- Good looks
- Good fit
- Stable, secure and comfortable
Cons:
- Some might not prefer the Powerstrap
- Pricey, though in line with competitors
Bottom line
The Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon shoe delivers a comfortable and secure, but powerful option for cross-country MTB and gravel riding.
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Apr 4, 2024