“Lightweight carbon fiber cycling shoes are typically limited to higher-end collections of shoe manufacturers. This unfortunately means if your counting grams and you want stiff cycling shoes you have to shell out hundreds of dollars. The FLR F-XX II shoes are an exception to that trend, and feature stiff R500 carbon soles and impressive light weight (406 grams for our EUR 40) at a retail price of only $249. The shoes also feature a dual ATOP dial closure system to equally distribute tension in fine increments. As the name implies, the F-XX II shoes have been updated by FLR to have a sleeker profile and more rigid sole. The overall design matches those of more expensive shoes with subtle graphics and a soft seamless upper. The FLR F-XX II is constructed around a stiff carbon fiber sole, which FLR refers to as their R500 sole. The R500 sole has a stiffness index of 14 (be careful not to compare that across brands as it isn’t a standard measure) and provides direct power transfer with no flex. A toe and heel rubber bumpers are strategically placed to avoid damaging the aesthetic carbon finish. These bumpers aren’t replaceable like more expensive shoes though. A ventilation hole on the sole near the toe also funnels air underneath your feet for increased cooling. Overall, the FLR F-XX II offers impressive comfort and stiffness. The sleek understated design and seamless microfiber upper give the shoes a premium look with enough ventilation for the hottest day. In particular, we found the dual ATOP dial system to offer great adjustability to really dial the fit in. As with other FLR shoes, we do wish they offered more color variations and were available in stores in the US to better compete with other shoes on the market. If you’re thinking if these are worth the premium over FLR’s own F-11 shoes? That’s be a Yes if you’re looking for speed and comfort. The stiff carbon fiber sole, lightweight and dual dial system make the F-XX II shoes an ideal for breaking those PRs or conquering steep climbs.”

Read more at The Sweet Cyclists.