Our verdict
The search for uber-stiff yet comfortable road shoes seem to be put to a halt by the Replaceable Sole Guards. This top-rated bike shoe provides excellent power transfer and quality without sacrificing comfort. Some individuals, however, are critical about its closure system and breathability.
Pros
- Impeccable comfort
- Excellent quality
- Excellent power transfer
- Lightweight
- Sleek design
- Excellent power transfer
Cons
- Need a shoe that has a stiff outsole and prevents power loss throughout the pedaling cycle
- Limited airflow
Who should buy the Replaceable Sole Guards
This pair of Sidi road cycling shoes optimize user performance. It is a solid option if you:
- Need a shoe that features a top that snugly wraps the foot, keeping it in a comfortable position on the bike.
- Need a shoe that has a stiff outsole and prevents power loss throughout the pedaling cycle.
Tweleve carbon composite
The bottom part of the Ergo 5 is made of TWELVE CARBON COMPOSITE. This compound is engineered from a nylon matrix injected with carbon fiber. The resulting material is a very rigid compound that doesn’t absorb water or lose shape with use.
Because the outsole is very stiff and very hard to walk on, polyurethane (PU) pads are on the heel and toe sections. These components make it easy to walk on hard surfaces.
Replaceable Sole Guards cleat system
A 3-hole cleat system is a standard for road cycling trainers like the Replaceable Sole Guards. It is compatible with pedals like the Look Keo 2 Max, the Shimano PD-RS500, the Time Xpresso 2, and the Garmin Vector 3S. A 3-hole base plate can be used with the 4-hole Speedplay cleat to make the Ergo 5 compatible with Speedplay pedals. Markings are visible on the cleat area. They help cyclists align the cleat, so their foot is positioned comfortably on the pedal.
Techpro microfiber
The top of the Replaceable Sole Guards is made of TECHPRO MICROFIBER. This Italian-made PU material withstands abrasions, repels water, and keeps its shape with regular use. It also received anti-mold treatment that prevents it from harboring mold and bacteria.
The SOFT INSTEP 4 can be found on this cycling footwear. It is the wide strap seen atop the shoe that features an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) pad which evens out the pressure when the dial is tightened. It helps accommodate low and high insteps. The strap can be adjusted on both ends, making it easy to keep the foam pad at the center.
Secure fit
There are three straps on this pair of cycling shoes. The first two are kept locked down using the TECHNO-3 PUSH dial. To tighten the dial, push the button to lift the buckle and then start turning until you reach the desired fit. To loosen, push the side buttons to release the wire. These buttons can also be used to make micro-adjustments by pressing them one at a time.
As for the third strap, it uses HIGH-SECURITY VELCRO. This Velcro closure has been enhanced with integrated locking polymer teeth. These elements prevent the belt from disengaging when pedaling hard and fast.
Heel security
The back of the shoe is covered in synthetic overlays. They cup the heel, avoiding lifts or unnecessary movements that could affect power transfer.
