Pearl Izumi 'Octane SL II' Ultralight Cycling Shoes

The Pearl Izumi Octane road cycling shoes (about $260) are a great-looking shoe at a very reasonable price for a pro-grade shoe.

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Pearl Izumi 'Octane' road cycling shoes

I received a positive reaction from my wife on the visual appeal. Since women and shoes are a dangerous area, favorable comments about a road cycling shoe are very good karma. I also happen to think the Octanes are about as good looking a road cycling shoe as I’ve seen, compared to the grungy-looking black Giro ProLight SLX and the good looking Shimano R315.

Giro Prolight SLX, Pearl Izumi 'Octane' SL II, Shimano R315 road cycling shoes

Pearl Izumi states:

The Octane SL II confirms the axiom that "less is more." The feather-light and ultra stiff Octane Carbon 1:1 Power Plate provides optimal pedaling power and efficiency while the minimalist design of our 1:1 Anatomic Upper delivers the finest in fit and comfort.

• OCTANE 1:1 Power Plate: Octane Grade Uni-Directional Carbon for feather-light stiffness; Direct-Vent technology for cooling and drainage; concave shaping for ultra low 7.0mm stack height, enhanced plate stiffness and anatomic Support; built in Longitudinal Arch Support for optimal Support, power, and efficiency
• P.R.O. 1:1 Anatomic Closure: follows the natural anatomic shape of the foot to eliminate hot spots and remove pressure from your instep
• P.R.O. 1:1 Heel Cup: with synthetic leather lining and external Carbon Power Band for maximum heel hold and power transfer
• P.R.O. Insole with dual density EVA for optimal Longitudinal and Transverse Arch Support
• Pearl Izumi one piece upper with laser technology provides a second skin fit, minimum weight and maximum comfort

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Weight

Shoes weighed on a lab-grade scale with Shimano cleats installed for DuraAce pedals:

Shimano R315: 663g (+156g = +5.5 oz)
Pearl Izumi Octane: 633g (+126g = +4.5 oz)
Giro ProLight SLX: 507g

The Octane SL II is not as light as the Giro Prolight SLX, but it’s lighter than the Shimano R315, and ultimately fit and comfort matter more than a few ounces.

In use

The shoes fit well, but a report will have to wait until I have more riding experience with them.