Mavic XA PRO H2O GTX
With just simple laces and a velcro strap to bind your foot down, the mid-cut Mavic XA Pro looks far more ‘normal’ than many of the other winter boots. This means that you’re more likely to wear them in marginal conditions rather than just wait for full nuclear winter conditions, and the more you want to wear them, the better value they seem. The XA PRO uses a Gore-tex liner to keep the boot waterproof and breathable but forgoes any extra flaps or covers which means that mud can collect in the folds of the laces.
The fit was small, our tester’s normal size 46 feet were too big for the equivalent sized XA Pro, so we had to size up to the 47. Even then, the boot felt narrow across the mid-foot and toe and we found that our heel lifted when walking. With no cover to tighten things up, the laces seemed to loosen or stretch, especially when wet, so we couldn’t clamp the heel down enough without over tightening the shoe.
The Mavic sole felt stiff underfoot, giving an efficient platform to get the power to your pedals. Padding around the ankle gives the rider extra protection from impacts without sacrificing mobility or pedalling comfort. The sole’s deep cleats gave 4×4 levels of traction during hike-a-bike sections, even in thick mud and the Contagrip wet traction rubber compound felt secure for all but the most treacherous of surfaces. Cleat engagement was fine despite the high tread, just remember to fit spacers to raise the cleat.
Results from the water absorption test placed the XA PRO mid table at just under 25%: however, they achieved the second quickest drying time, losing over 41% of the water in 24 hrs.
Conclusion
With its enduro aesthetic, the Mavic XA PRO H2O GTX hasn’t got all the bells and whistles of other winter boots, so it feels much more of an ‘all-season’, rather than pure winter boot. This will appeal to riders looking for a great 3 season boot, especially those who ride in wetter regions.
Weight: 1076 g
Price: € 199
Info: mavic.com
Strengths
– Normal looks broaden the appeal
– Quick to dry
– Grippy sole
Weaknesses
– Odd sizing
– Heel lift when hiking
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