10 Best Sidi Cycling Shoes – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Sidi Shoes for Cycling – Guide & Comparison

 

Are you looking for the best Sidi cycling shoes but so many attractive models have you confused as to which ones to go for? Fear not, as we’re here to help. We’ve gone through the trouble of checking some of the most popular Sidi bike shoes, looked at their construction, closure systems, and other perks, and selected those that are really worth your hard-earned money. Our first pick is the Sidi Dominator 7 SR Cycling Shoe. This model has a stylish construction, with a rigid RS17 sole that offers the right traction, a microfiber upper with mesh inserts for proper ventilation, an instep closure and also two Velcro straps, and of course, it allows you to mount all sorts of clipless cleats. Since it’s quite popular and the chances of it being out of stock are high, we’ve decided to make a second recommendation: the Sidi Men’s Genius 7 MEGA Cycling Shoes.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Sidi Cycling Shoes (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Getting your hands on a pair of Sidi cycling shoes is on your mind, but you probably have no idea how you’re going to be able to pick the right one. Since reading dozens of Sidi cycling shoes reviews is out of the question for time-related reasons, we thought you’d be happy to have a list of some of the top models so you know you’re choosing something high-quality.

 

 

1. Sidi Dominator 7 SR Cycling Shoe

 

If you’re looking for high-quality mountain biking shoes and don’t mind paying a bit more, then the Dominator 7 SR are a great choice. These are much lighter than the previous version, and that’s especially thanks to the new RS17 sole that is still strong but not as heavy. Not only that, but the sole has a more aggressive tread pattern which will give you more grip when off the bike.

The toe inserts are replaceable and you can also mount toe spikes which can be really helpful when you have to push uphill, a thing you’d normally do in cross-country and cyclocross competitions.

Thanks to the adjustable soft instep closure system, you get to benefit from a secure and tight fit but be able to customize it to your liking. It also makes putting the shoes on and taking them off a breeze. There are also two Velcro straps that keep things tight.

 

Pros

The adjustable soft instep closure system will help you obtain the right fit, make adjustments on the fly, but also secure these to your feet for a long time since you won’t rely only on velcro closures.

The uppers are made of breathable Technomicro microfiber and they also feature mesh panels so you’ll benefit from adequate ventilation and prevent your feet from overheating and getting soaking wet.

The RS17 sole is quite stiff so you can pedal efficiently but it also has a more aggressive tread pattern for a proper grip.

Thanks to the breathable microfiber and mesh panels, you’ll keep your feet cool and dry even after pedaling hard in hot weather.

 

Cons

These aren’t the cheapest shoes around so some riders might be reluctant to buy them in the first place.

They’re good both on and off-road, but their construction doesn’t make them ideal for riding aggressively on rough terrain all day long.

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2. Sidi Men’s Genius 7 MEGA Cycling Shoes

 

The Genius is a high-quality pair of shoes that are bound to impress many road cyclists. The uppers are made of Technomicro fiber which makes the shoes strong, durable, but also breathable. This combined with the mesh panels ensure that your feet get proper airflow and don’t overheat in warm weather.

The closure is ensured by the ratcheting buckle that provides a tight fit but also by the two hook-and-loop straps. The sole is made of Millennium 4 Carbon Composite which is ultra-light yet strong and stiff so that your feet transfer power efficiently to the pedals and enable you to reach higher speeds.

The padded tongues will ensure that no pressure points will form, eliminating sore spots. Thanks to the reinforced heel cups, your feet won’t slip at any time. The polyurethane heel pads are light and they’re easily removable and washable. These shoes are compatible with 3-bolt road cleats.

 

Pros

The Technomicro fiber is strong and durable and it is also treated with a water repellent substance so light rain or puddles shouldn’t pose much of a problem.

The breathable material and mesh inserts should allow enough airflow to enable your feet to cool down and avoid over-sweating.

The sole benefits from the use of Millennium 4 Carbon Composite which is stiff, lightweight, and very strong, perfect for cranking up the power on the bike.

The instep closure and hook-and-loop straps enable a tight fit but also a secure one so your feet won’t slip when you least expect them to.

The polyurethane heel pads will eliminate discomfort and these can also be washed or replaced.

 

Cons

These shoes are a bit expensive so you’ll need to invest a bit more if you want top-quality for your road adventures.

These are only compatible with 3-bolt road cleats so you won’t be able to wear them with MTB cleats.

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3. Sidi Wire Push Cycling Shoe

 

These shoes are ideal for road use: they’re lightweight, stiff, and good-looking, so you’ll ride well and feel even better when wearing them. The uppers are made of TechPro microfiber that’s resistant to wear and tear. It is also water-repellent so you won’t have any trouble if a few showers catch you on the road.

The Sidi’s Soft Instep 3 system eliminates any pressure points while the Tecno-3 push buckle system allows you to get a better fit and the ability to make small adjustments even while you’re cycling. The tiny holes in the uppers allow for proper airflow so that your feet benefit from ventilation and don’t stay soaking wet for the entire ride.

The Vent Carbon sole is very light yet strong and it eliminates the typical flexibility so you can push harder into the pedals and gain greater speed. Both soles have tiny air channels for extra ventilation.

 

Pros

These shoes come with an elegant construction that will make you proud of wearing them, and the colors help with this aspect as well.

The push buckle system allows you to make adjustments on the fly without a problem, and obtain a customized fit.

The Vent carbon soles are there to provide the right support for your feet while remaining lightweight. There are air channels in the soles which increase airflow.

The Soft Instep 3 system is designed to eliminate any pressure points so you won’t feel any discomfort even after long rides.

 

Cons

Just like many other road shoes from Sidi, these are pretty expensive so unless you really need them, you might find it hard to justify the price, even though you’d be getting a top-notch piece of equipment.

The push buckle system is indeed easier to adjust than the ratchet type, but it’s not as durable and might break easier.

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4. Sidi Men’s Dominator 7 Mega SR Cycling Shoe

 

These aren’t just good-looking cycling shoes: just put them on and you’ll realize what we’re saying. They are light yet durable and quite stylish. The use of Microfibra Microtech is welcome as it makes the uppers resistant to the elements yet also breathable.

The mesh inserts, especially in the front and the ankle area, allow a lot of air in and out so that your feet breathe and that they don’t stay soaking wet and smelly for an entire day. The padded lining offers increased comfort while also wicking sweat away.

The sole is MTB RS17 which actually means nylon with polyurethane inserts so it’s very light yet it has a high stiffness index which translates into more power transferred from your legs to the pedals. The Caliper Buckle system works great and so do the Velcro straps – they provide a tight fit and you can adjust them easily even while riding.

 

Pros

These are attractive shoes, but besides the really sleek design, they also benefit from new materials and technologies which enable them to have rigid soles yet still be lightweight.

The Microfibra Microtech used for the uppers ensures that they are strong but also breathable. Here the mesh panels also do a good job at allowing air to circulate and dry your sweaty feet.

Thanks to the MTB RS17 soles, you’ll be able to crank up the power and pedal faster without losing energy, as these have a high stiffness index.

The Caliper buckles allow you to adjust the fit properly and that’s valid even during a race.

 

Cons

While these are MTB shoes, and they’re definitely a great choice for racing, aggressive riding in rough terrain is probably going to wear them down faster than you’d expect.

The treads on the soles aren’t really that aggressive, so you’ll definitely need to replace the toe inserts with spikes if you’re often riding in muddy conditions.

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5. Sidi Ergo 4 Carbon Road Shoes

 

In case you’re searching for something ultra-light to help you pedal faster on tarmac roads, then the Ergo 4 is just what you need – these shoes weigh only 11 ounces yet they don’t sacrifice stability or resistance for that. The Twelve Carbon composite soles help keep the weight down while being light as a feather and very stiff so you get improved pedaling efficiency.

The Tecno-3 System ensures a tight fit but the best part is that it can be adjusted quite easily and even when you’re riding, which is great especially for competitions. With the Soft Instep 3 closure system, there won’t be any pressure points bothering you so you get to benefit from a snug fit without the discomfort.

The adjustable heel retention device ensures that your heels won’t slip when pedaling hard which is not something you’d want, especially during a competition.

 

Pros

The uppers are made of Tech Pro nylon mesh microfiber which means they’re rugged and resistant to the elements and they’ll also repel water so you don’t get wet after the first summer shower.

The Tecno-3 push buckle system allows you to make adjustments in a jiffy and that includes while you’re in the saddle which is always welcome, especially during a competition.

The soft instep system is there to remove any annoying pressure points and keep you comfy and focused during all your rides.

With the Twelve Carbon composite soles, you’ll get the stiffness you need to pedal hard without worrying about heavy shoes standing in your way.

 

Cons

While the push buckle system is really easy to use and adjust, it may break after a while. The good news is that you can always order replacements and these aren’t expensive at all.

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6. Sidi Wire 2 Carbon Road Cycling Shoes

 

While these aren’t the cheapest around, you get a top-level pair of cycling shoes that will serve you well even in professional competitions. The upper material is made of Microfiber Techpro which is soft on the inside but rugged on the outside.

The sole is made of Vent carbon which means it’s extra stiff but also very light, and it helps make the power transfer from your legs to the pedals much more efficient. Thanks to the Tecno-3 Push Dials, you will be able to immediately tighten and lock the shoes and you can also make tiny adjustments as you go, which can be quite handy in competitions.

The instep strap has been redesigned so that it’s narrower but also more flexible while the extra padding on the edges helps provide increased comfort and eliminate sore spots. These shoes are compatible with 3-bolt cleats and they’re for road cycling.

 

Pros

The Tecno-3 dial has been moved a bit lower so it’s now more intuitive to use, and you can adjust it easily even while in the saddle.

The textured finish makes the shoes look great. The uppers are made of Microfiber Techpro which is resistant and water-repellent so rain won’t cause you any trouble while on the road.

The soles are made of Vent carbon so you know you can trust them to get all the power from your legs to the pedals without the risk of wear and tear.

The soft instep strap gets extra padding for improved cushion and no pressure points that could affect your performance.

 

Cons

These cost quite a pretty penny so people without a lot of money to spare and who are not professional athletes might find it hard to justify the price.

These don’t look like they can take that much abuse so you should probably stick to road cycling if you want them to last.

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7. Sidi Trace MTB Black 44.0

 

Are you looking for a comfy pair of shoes to serve you well while cycling through the forest? Then the Trace model from Sidi is one you shouldn’t overlook. These are quite sleek in appearance, but they’re not just about looks, but about providing you with stable support so you can pedal hard and fast wherever you are.

The upper is made of full grain microfiber which is quite light and resistant, and there’s also a Gore-Tex waterproof but also breathable membrane to ensure that rain or some puddles won’t get your feet soaked. There are tiny holes, especially in the front and the sides of the uppers, that offer some ventilation.

With the Tecno-3 boa buckles, you’ll be able to tighten the shoes or make adjustments easily. There are also two hook-and-loop straps that ensure a good fit. The sole is the usual MTB RS17 which is quite stiff but still comfortable, and it is compatible with the standard 2-bolt mountain bike cleats.

 

Pros

These look good, perform just as well, and they don’t cost as much as many other shoes from Sidi. That does not mean that they skimp on performance, though.

The Tecno-3 boa buckles make for an easy and tight fit any time while the two hook-and-loop straps complete the rig to ensure your feet stay comfy and the shoes on even when cranking up the power.

The sole is the RS17 which is used on many MTB shoes from Sidi and for good reason, as it’s rigid but not too much.

These shoes are an excellent choice for trail riding, cyclocross, cross-country, as well as other similar activities.

Thanks to the Gore-tex membrane, you won’t have water from rain getting in your shoes.

 

Cons

The shoes don’t have any mesh panels, and while this ensures that water won’t get inside easily, it also means that you’ll sweat quite a bit, especially in hot weather.

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8. Sidi Dragon 5 Mountain Bike Shoes

 

These are top-of-the-line mountain biking shoes, so if it’s performance that you’re after, you shouldn’t hesitate to get these. They’re stylish no matter if you go for the red or black version. The uppers are made of Techpro Microfiber that’s resistant to abrasion but also water-repellent so you don’t get surprised by the rain or puddle-filled trails that can ruin your ride.

The padded lining adds comfort and ensures your feet will stay cushioned and relaxed even after hours of riding. The Soft Instep 4 strap gets extra padding as well to eliminate those annoying sores characteristic of cheaper shoes. The Tecno 3 Push Buckles are intuitive and they can be finely adjusted so you get the perfect fit. You can even adjust them while riding.

The soles are made of MTB SRS Carbon Composite which means they’re lightweight but with a high degree of stiffness so power transfer is improved dramatically.

 

Pros

The shoes come with a modern design and new materials meant to reduce weight and improve performance so if it’s the latter you’re after, these are the ones to get.

The Soft Instep 4 strap has been padded for extra cushion so you don’t get any problems even when cranking up the power and riding for many hours.

The Tecno 3 push buckles are extremely easy to use and they’re great for competitions where you can tighten or loosen the shoes according to your needs while being in the saddle.

The SRS Carbon Composite soles are a great addition as they keep the weight down without compromising strength or rigidity so you can pedal hard without a worry.

 

Cons

These are pretty expensive so unless you’re into XC, cyclocross, or other competitions or you simply have money to spare, you’re probably going to have to think twice before buying these.

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9. Sidi Trace 2 MTB Shoes

 

If you’re looking for a pair of Sidi cycling shoes that don’t cost an arm and a leg (many of them do), then this is probably a decent choice. The shoes look pretty good and the materials used are among the latest so you know you benefit from a modern design that’s also long-lasting.

The upper is made of Politex which is relatively strong and it is treated to repel water so a few raindrops won’t spoil your ride. The Tecno-3 boa closure is easy to use and you can make adjustments in a jiffy to ensure the shoes stay tightly on at all times. There are also two hook-and-loop straps that secure the shoes.

These come with the MTB RS17 soles which are stiff and durable and there are also treads to help you handle muddy terrain. The model is compatible with 2-bolt cleats and it’s recommended for XC, cyclocross, trail riding, etc.

 

Pros

This is quite an affordable pair of cycling shoes, at least judging by Sidi standards, so you get to enjoy high-quality gear without making a huge dent in your budget.

The politex material that the uppers are made of makes these quite tough but also light and they are also treated with a water-repellent substance.

There are also tiny holes in the uppers that are meant to let air in and out to help cool your feet.

The Tecno-3 boa system is there to ensure a proper fit while making adjustments a piece of cake, even while you’re riding.

 

Cons

These look pretty good and they are also quite durable, but don’t try to wear these for rugged rides on really difficult terrain as they might become damaged sooner than you’d think.

While the lack of mesh panels makes the shoes better for rainy weather, they might cause your feet to overheat more than you’d like, especially when riding on hot summer days.

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10. Sidi Genius 7 Air Shadow Carbon Road Cycling Shoes

 

The Genius 7 Air Shadow is a medium-level pair of road cycling shoes that’s bound to find a few fans here and there. The shoes aren’t cheap but not too expensive either and they benefit from new technologies that make them lighter and stronger. The uppers are made of Microtech microfiber that’s strong and long-lasting. They’re also water-repellent and eco-friendly.

The soles are made of Millennium 5 carbon-fiber-reinforced-nylon that reduces weight considerably while also having a high degree of rigidity so that power transfer is facilitated and that you can push forcefully in those pedals.

The closure is ensured by the caliper buckle that is very easy to use and it can be adjusted even when riding. There are also two other hook-and-loop straps for each shoe so that you get a tight fit every time. The instep closure system benefits from thermo-formed EVA padding for extra cushion.

 

Pros

The Millennium 5 soles are made of nylon that’s reinforced with carbon fiber for extra rigidity, low weight, and enhanced durability; this also ensures efficient power transfer.

The uppers are made of microtech microfiber which translates into a resistant yet strong material that’s also water-repellent so no rain is going to spoil your riding day.

The EVA-padded instep is great for maintaining your feet comfortable even after long hours of riding.

Thanks to the many tiny vents and the mesh panels, your feet won’t get soaking wet even when riding in warm weather so you’ll stay comfy and focused on the road.

The caliper buckles are there to ensure a tight fit so the shoes stay on and secure at all times.

 

Cons

While the multitude of air holes and mesh panels make these excellent to wear in the summer due to the great ventilation they provide, they’re not so good in cold or rainy weather so you’ll need an extra pair of shoes.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Getting the best Sidi shoes normally implies a lot of research and countless hours spent in front of the computer. The good news is that you can read this short guide here to learn what features to look at when choosing a pair, no matter if you’re after Sidi women’s shoes or a men’s model.

Road vs MTB

Sidi mtb shoes, but models from other brands as well, are compatible with 2-bolt cleats. While nothing is stopping you from using road pedals and cleats on a mountain bike and vice-versa, it’s better to stick to the particular category you’re interested in. Sidi road cycling shoes are compatible with 3-bolt cleats, which means that the cleats and pedals aren’t interchangeable.

Among the main differences, Sidi mountain bike shoes usually feature a more rugged construction. That’s normal, as they’re put through a lot of use and abuse compared to Sidi road bike shoes so they must be able to withstand use both on and off the bike. Road shoes are meant to be lighter and have better ventilation than mountain bike shoes.

 

Sole

Regardless if we’re talking about Sidi women’s cycling shoes or men’s models, there are some differences when it comes to soles that you should be aware of. Most soles are either made of plastics or carbon, with the former being more common in affordable Sidi cycling shoes. Some intermediate models also feature nylon that’s reinforced with carbon fibers.

Road shoes are usually lighter, and the more expensive ones have carbon fiber soles. These are supposed to be more rigid than those of mountain bike models because it’s more important for the road cyclist to be able to transfer power efficiently from the feet to the pedals. It’s all about speed, and flexible soles would rob an athlete of some of that power.

On the other hand, a mountain bike shoe (normally an MTB RS17) is going to have a slightly more flexible sole. Still stiff enough to facilitate power transfer, but a bit more flexible since the terrain is more rugged and steeper in many cases, and mountain bikers also get off their bikes and sometimes push them on some technical sections, so the soles must be able to handle that.

Sidi shoes for mountain biking also have lugs or treads that are meant to offer proper grip and traction. Some models also allow you to mount toe spikes for extra adherence, especially in thick mud.

 

Upper

The uppers can be made of a wide range of materials, from modern microfiber to mesh, etc. Manufacturers try to strike a balance between breathability, weather protection, and weight, but a compromise must be made every time, especially since the price is also a factor.

For example, you can find Sidi women’s mtb shoes that are more rugged and feature resistant materials but they’re not going to have very good ventilation and are going to be quite heavy. On the other hand, road shoes are built to be lighter and with many holes and mesh panels for increased airflow, but they’re not going to offer much protection against rain and cold weather.

Closure system

No matter if we’re talking about cheap Sidi cycling shoes or expensive ones, the closure system is very important and it is supposed to protect the feet while also being comfortable. There are two most common closure systems: there is the caliper buckle and the Tecno-3 System or boa system.

On Sidi women’s mountain bike shoes, for example, you’re more likely to find caliper buckles than boa push buckles. The former are more rugged but a bit tougher to adjust, while push buckles are present on higher-end models and many road shoes have these dials that allow for tiny adjustments that can even be made on the fly, which can be advantageous when in a competition.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: Is Sidi a reliable cycling shoes brand?

Unless you’ve lived in a cave or secluded from the sports world altogether, there’s no chance that you have never heard of Sidi. This is a legendary Italian brand that’s been a major provider of protective equipment for cycling and motorsports for decades. If you’ve watched the Tour de France at least once, you must have noticed the advertisements of the company.

And all that advertisement isn’t for nothing: Sidi is a brand with over 60 years of experience in creating some of the best equipment for cyclists and motorcycle riders. The company was founded in 1960 by Dino Signori, and his initials are what gave the company’s name.

While the initial models had leather uppers and wooden soles, read any modern Sidi cycling shoes review and you’ll notice high-tech microfiber, carbon soles, Gore-tex membranes, and other such materials being used on current models. Even affordable Sidi shoes benefit from new technology so you’re bound to get shoes that are comfortable, light, and durable.

Q: How do I pick the right Sidi cycling shoes?

The first thing you want to take into account, and that before you start reading every single Sidi shoes review above, is to check whether you need road or MTB shoes. While this should be quite obvious, as the mounting systems and the cleats are normally different, there is still some confusion.

Mountain bike shoes are compatible with 2-bolt cleats, while road shoes with 3-bolt cleats. The cleats are also compatible with either MTB or road pedals, so you can’t use one with the other and the other way around. You can use MTB pedals on a road bike, but that’s not necessarily recommended.

Besides the type of shoes, you’re also supposed to look at construction, weight, sole stiffness factor, weather-proof features, etc. As a general rule, you should choose a pair of solid and weather-resistant shoes for mountain biking, and something lighter and with a stiffer sole for road cycling.

 

Q: How much do Sidi bike shoes cost?

Prices can range widely when it comes to Sidi shoes, but since this is a reputable company specialized in sports gear for professional cyclists and motorcycle riders, you can expect the prices to be higher than those of shoes from other brands. That is not to say that you can’t find cheap Sidi shoes, it’s just that they’re going to be a bit more expensive.

For starters, you’ll probably find shoes that are around the 150-dollar-mark, but prices usually go up from there on. You can check our Sidi shoes reviews and see that there are quite a few affordable models, and these will normally cost around or below 200 bucks. These are still more expensive than what you’d find from less specialized brands, but you do get amazing quality for the price.

For higher-end models, expect to pay 300 dollars or even more. In return, you’ll get shoes made of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber soles, that could weigh as little as 11 ounces for a pair.