Five Ten Hellcat Pro
GET ITIt was on a recent bikepacking trip, which ended up being more bike-hike, where we were thankful for the grippy Hellcat Pros. Hopping off the gravel bike, wearing a lesser shoe would have made schlepping our ride over impassable terrain far more nerve-wracking. The Five Ten’s rubber soles have an exceptional grip on damp terrains like boardwalks, loose gravel, and slick boulders. And they are ridiculously comfortable with a styling that reads more lifestyle shoe than technical footwear.
Underfoot there is a compression-molded EVA midsole that is supportive and cozy without adding extra weight. There are clip shoes that weigh less sure, but these still feel very light despite they’re built like a pickup truck. There is a 3/4 length, stiff TPU plate underneath your foot that transfers power to the pedals. It stops just behind the toes, which gives the front of the shoe enough flex to allow for comfortable walking.
We used them with Magped’s magnetic pedals, where they provided excellent and smooth power transfer, but you can also ride them clipless. Not only are Hellcats stiff front-to-back, but they refuse to twist, no matter what you’re riding over or how hard you push them. Up top, a wide band of hook and loop tape covers the laces and lets you quickly cinch down for a snug fit, locking that heel in place, even with gloves on. The Hellcat Pros were comfortable all day, from breakfast to riding to carrying the bike, and a few beers at the end of the day. Designed for mountain riders, we think the styling, durability, breathability, and performance extend beyond the downhill rider—including gravel bikers.—Sal Vaglica, Men’s Journal contributor
[$180; adidas.com]
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