Diadora X-Trail Evo Carbon Shoes
Review: Diadora X-Trail Evo Carbon Shoes
By Scott Mares | Published Nov 23, 2009
We Liked
Since 1948, Diadora has crafted fine Italian shoes for many sports, but they are not often mentioned in the world of cyclocross. They have a big following in Europe, and are well known for their soccer and road cycling shoes. Trialtir is the current US distributer for Diadora. We met with both of their representatives at Interbike to discuss some the features in the current line of shoes. When I was handed the X-Trail Evo, I was very impressed with the design of the shoe sole. Most soles are usually made of hard rubber, but I generally prefer a softer rubber that offers more grip. The gripping capabilities of the sole are especially important when a promoter has the racers run on concrete stairs as part of the course. There is nothing like dismounting and heading for muddy concrete stairs to get your heart rate up. Diadora's field testers must have met the same concrete stair challenge as the X-Trail's rubber is soft and sticky but wears like iron. Designers at Diadora have packed this shoe with loads of cool features that can help achieve the perfect fit. The main buckle is adjustable, with 2 screw holes each in the buckle and shoe respectively. With multiple options for placement, the buckle can be placed in 4 different positions. Nice! This feature is especially important if you need to vary sock weights (thick, thin, neoprene, etc.). The next feature is the middle strap, which has 2 metal loops instead of the standard single loop. This adjustability allows for variances in foot anatomy (ie. tall, small) and enables the rider to put the right tension on the strap. The X-Trails also have an additional tab below the loops which prevents pressure spots from developing and offers some extra padding when tightened down. Combine this with the full rubber outer toe for plenty of protection in the off road world and you are set. The outer leather upper is soft as butter and has an embossed bicycle chain pattern and punched holes for breathability. Quite frankly, I'm really digging that. Surprisingly, the holes did a really good job of keeping water out. After evaluating the X-Trails on the trainer, road, and trail, I have noticed that they run a little large. While I usually wear a 45 in a SIDI, the Diadora X-Trails were a bit big for me at 44.5. The shoes were tested at the Cross Crusade Series race in Astoria, OR and I was happy with them for the most part. Even though the shoes are very comfortable,, they are just a little too stiff, falling just short of the mark for a the perfect cyclocross shoe. We have scheduled an evaluation of the 2010 X-Trail which features a nylon sole. If the 2009 carbon model is anything like the 2010 nylon version, I am especially excited to try them.
We Didn't Like
The X-Trail is a bit too stiff. We would like to see this addressed and are looking forward to testing the 2010 X-Trail.
The Final Say
If you want to stand out from the pack and need a fine Italian-made shoe with tons of features, these are an excellent choice. With the added buckle adjustability, you can tweak the fit to accommodate winter or neoprene socks and the shoe will still fit. That flexibility will allow you to ride in just about any weather.
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Vitals
- Manufacturer
- Diadora
- Model
- X-Trail Evo Carbon Shoes
- MSRP
- $219.00
- Website
- X-Trail Evo Carbon Shoes
- Materials
The upper is made from microfiber with D-Skin technology. Additional support is offered by a stretch resistant medial and lateral Morpho Cage in Tpu. Outer MTB Nylon sole is reinforced with fiberglass and combined with Rubber Duratech tread. Diadora also provides additional screw on toe spikes for added traction. EVA removable insole, perforated for ventilation.
- Fit
- Available in sizes 38-48.
- Colors
- Silver gray with black and red accents. Also available in white with red and black accents and black with silver accents.
- Serviceability
- Toe spikes and buckle are replaceable.
- Design
The X-Trail Evo is an all-synthetic leather shoe with rachet-style buckle. It has a moderate toe box that is reinforced with a rubber outsole for added protection. There is an extra layer of padding sewn into tongue to prevent hotspots and ensure a snug fit.
The buckle is a tear drop design with a central red release button. It is large enough to give the rider excellent leverage when cinching down. The buckle base plate has it's own compartment and is encased in the upper material.
The heel of the shoe has a lot of shaped padding for the achilles tendon. This structure will adequately hold your heel down and keep your foot in the shoe. The heel cup is reinforced with carbon fiber, giving protection and support.
One of my favorite things about the Evo is the rubber Duratech sole, which is very wear-resistant, while offering flexibility and excellent traction in all but the worst conditions.
