fi’zi:k Terra X5 Shoes Review

Positioned in the mid-range, the fi’zi:k Terra X5 are lightweight and durable off-road shoes that provide good support and excellent comfort. A very good model for those who are not aiming for pure performance, as the sole lacks a bit of rigidity.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: 3bikes.fr

In fi’zi:k’s range of off-road shoes, you’ll first find the Terra Ergolace X2 (a leisure model), then the Terra Power-Strap X4 (purely “light gravel” shoes) before the Terra X5, which are the subject of this test, at €159. Also available with a splendid Suede finish (like leather), the X5 are then superseded by the Vento Overcurve X3 with a stiffer sole at €219, and finally by the Infinito R1, the high-end model with two Boa closures, at €350.

Three other models are also available, but for “alternative” practices, let’s say, semi-high shoes primarily providing very high protection in extreme conditions (Terra Clima X2, Terra Artica X2, and Artica X5).

The Terra X5 are therefore mid-range shoes, suitable for Gravel, MTB, or cyclocross alike. They feature the two-hole SPD cleat mounting system, recessed in the middle of a row of fairly high lugs. Under the soles, there’s another section with lugs under the heels, and two slots for other removable lugs of varying heights just under the front of the foot, which could prove very useful for cyclocross in the mud. The outsoles are made of TPU with a carbon compound, which does not give them maximum rigidity.

Surprising comfort

The laser-perforated, washable, and breathable Microtex upper proves particularly comfortable even in hot weather. The design of this upper is almost perfect, with a comfortable heel that holds firmly, thanks to its shape and small silicone dots inside that prevent the foot from slipping. The cut at the instep is not too loose, and it is connected to a tongue with just enough rigidity so that the Boa closure wire does not cut off circulation over the foot when tightened to the maximum. The Boa® L6 Dial B is simplified, as it tightens with micro-adjustments, but it needs to be fully released to loosen. A Velcro strap stabilizes the forefoot, but it still lacks another Boa dial in the midfoot to have the same tightening feel as with high-end shoes.

The asymmetrical opening of the upper facilitates foot entry, and then closes like an envelope when tightened. Support is very good, even with narrow feet, and even if there’s a tiny something missing in the midfoot as mentioned above, and without causing any discomfort during pedaling. In short, you feel well connected to the bike, which is as important off-road as it is on the road.

In terms of details, we are also at a high level here, with upper protection on the front of the foot and at the heel. Finally, a small tab at the back facilitates putting on or carrying the shoes. The finish is generally excellent for a product in this category.

The insoles confirm this concern for comfort, as they are far from basic with a relatively pronounced heel cup that maintains its shape thanks to a slightly stiffer plate underneath, and another flexible plate under the metatarsals to absorb some shocks.

Well-supported, the foot does not suffer from a slightly small size. With a “normal” size, there is just enough space in front of the toes so that they do not touch the front of the shoe, but without giving the impression of not finding one’s footing. In short, it is difficult to find fault in terms of finish and comfort, especially for an affordable price of €159.

Versatile shoes

The fi’zi:k Terra X5 confirm their comfort when it comes to walking or running next to the bike, whether to overcome an obstacle or to access a coffee break. They hug the foot, but remain flexible enough so that you don’t look like a penguin when going for a snack. This characteristic is also appreciated on certain rough, sunken paths, when pushing or carrying the bike. On dry terrain, the rows of lugs are sufficient to maintain grip with the ground.

Conversely, this relative flexibility of the sole becomes a drawback when pedaling hard, and especially during accelerations or power strokes. The sole flexes a little, until it makes us feel the contours of the pedal. Obviously, we are far from the inflexible rigidity of the soles of the most high-end shoes, even if here the perfect support at the instep partly compensates for what could be felt as a lack of efficiency.

While comfort is always present after long hours in the saddle on various terrains, one can also regret that the outsoles are so exposed to impacts or rough terrain, especially in the midfoot area. Even a slight search for the pedals to clip in on difficult terrain can be enough to mark the soles.

The fi’zi:k Terra X5 nevertheless remain ultra-versatile off-road shoes, comfortable to wear and well-designed, which we imagine at ease on long-distance adventures, gravel, or bikepacking. They are simply a little outmatched by the most extreme practices. But there are other models for that from the Italian brand.

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