Inspired by the Spring Classics, these shoes are special editions of Fizik’s new Overcurve R4 and come complete with a mud-splatter print design that hides a multitude of sins for those of us who don’t stay on top of keeping our shoes clean.
The print also disguises a clever construction that bonds a polyurethane material over a mesh upper, allowing the shoes to breathe better than ones with a PU upper. This is further enhanced by a laser-cut matrix of dots running along the flank of the shoe.
The design of these Overcurves has the same offset cuff as the Tempo R5 Powerstrap shoes, meaning the outer edge of the tongue’s throat extends further back than the inner edge, while the throat curves from the outer edge to the inner to follow the natural shape of your foot.
The closure is a single Boa IP1 dial that draws the shoe together and reduces its volume, thanks to a large triangular shape on the instep.
The heel-cup shape holds your foot in a stable position, but the Boa adjustment just wasn’t good. Tightening the dial to get the mid-shoe and heel to fit closely meant uncomfortable pinching on the instep, just behind the base of my big toe. On releasing it enough to prevent pinching, the rear of the shoe didn’t feel secure enough.
Shoe fit is quite personal, so I’d recommend trying before you buy.
The R4 outsole offers mid-level stiffness and its 15 per cent carbon-infused nylon material is ideal for longer endurance rides. The matt sole looks great and the channelled vents do a good job of pushing air through the mid-foot, keeping the temperature regulated.
A substantial toe and heel rubber bumper saves against scratching when walking, while the weight of 556.4g a pair for size 45s is welcomingly light.
If the fit works for you, then the R4s are up to the company’s usual quality standards. For this Fizik-admiring tester, these are a rare miss.
Product
| Brand | fizik |
| Price | 200.00 EUR,190.00 GBP,200.00 USD |
| Weight | 556.4000, GRAM (45) - |
Features
| Closure | dial |
| Sole | Carbon-infused nylon R4 |
