Mavic XA Elite
Ever since Mavic painted the sport of enduro yellow, they have been synonymous with high performance mountain biking. While their Crossmax range is iconic in enduro, the new XA range is targeted firmly at trail riders, promoted as tools for exploration in all conditions. The €110 Mavic XA Elites are the most affordable shoes in this group test, but there is nothing budget about the fit. Stepping into the Mavic XA Elites is like donning a tailored suit, contouring perfectly and with padding in exactly the right places. The Quick Lace closure is easy to adjust and pulls up smoothly over the superb Endofit tongue, improving the already secure body-mapped feel – Mavic are true masters of fit. Once done up, the XA Elites feel sensitive and light and heel hold is perfect.
Stamping on the pedals, the stiff sole puts down the power hard, but the firm sole does not impact on the all-day comfort. Off the bike, the Contagrip sole unit is aggressive with wide spaced lugs which give great purchase on gruelling muddy pushes. However, hikers beware, we found the toe section very stiff with almost no articulation, and long mountain pushes reduced our heels to blistered tatters, we would not recommend these shoes to riders who spend a lot of time pushing or carrying. On the bike though, the Mavic’s are awesome, often the first to be grabbed for fast loops, the sublime fit and well chosen lateral twist ensures maximum sensitivity when you are seeking grip in loose terrain. The long and open cleat box allows total flexibility with different pedal systems and cleat position and the clip in/out process was uninterrupted and smooth. Often chosen first, the Mavic’s received a little more wear than most, but have stood up well with only some slight pulls to the stitching, and despite many wet-dry-wet cycles are still solid.
The Mavic XA Elites are a phenomenally comfortable shoe, light and sensitive. Boasting superb sensitivity and feel for long days on the pedals they were a firm tester favourite. However, the very stiff sole makes heel rub on long hikes a battle.
Tops
- Contoured padding hugs the foot
- Precise fit
Flops
- Stiff for walking
- Minimal weather-proofing
Weight: 490 g
Price: €110
More info at: mavic.com
