Review: Pearl Izumi X-ALP Impact Mountain Bike Shoe

When I received the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Impact mountain bike shoes for review I didn’t research them at all–I just slapped some cleats on them and started riding. I kind of assumed that they were a budget or entry-level model, and my initial impressions were formed from that premise. Once I checked out the specs, however, …

When I received the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Impact mountain bike shoes for review I didn’t research them at all–I just slapped some cleats on them and started riding. I kind of assumed that they were a budget or entry-level model, and my initial impressions were formed from that premise. Once I checked out the specs, however, I discovered that these retail for $90, which means they certainly aren’t the priciest option, but they aren’t the least expensive either.

Fit

The X-ALP mountain bike shoes are a bit on the narrow side, which worried me at first since I have pretty wide feet. I’m happy to report, though, that after two or three rides they broke in nicely and now fit great with no noticeable pressure points or hot spots. I also have insanely high arches, but I am able to lace these up properly, with the velcro strap making adequate contact so it doesn’t come loose when riding.

Form

The X-ALP Impacts come in one color: black with blue accents. They look a bit like a trail running  shoe and are sure-footed for hike-a-bike and general walking. Sometimes after rides I just leave them on for the drive home and don’t bother to change back to my flip-flops.

The material of the uppers is mesh and well-ventilated to keep things cool, but unlike previous Pearl Izumis I have had, they don’t let in a bunch of sand. I am stoked to see that they finally solved this issue!

The shoes also sport a hard rubber toe that is good for deflecting the inevitable rocks, tree branches, and other objects that lurk at the edges of narrow singletrack.

I’m generally not a big fan of laces on mountain bike shoes, but these work reasonably well. They feature an offset lacing pattern, and the laces aren’t so long that they interfere with the chain, especially when they’re tucked away under the velcro strap.

Function

The Impacts seem to employ some unexplainable dark magic, as they are quite stiff on the bike for pedaling efficiency, but they are also flexible when walking. The rubber outsoles are lugged like a hiking shoe and have awesome traction for scrambling over rocks while carrying a bike. Clipping in and out seems the same as other shoes I have had with lugged soles.

Bottom Line

At $90, the X-ALP Impacts aren’t exactly budget or entry-level shoes, and frankly I’d prefer not to have laces when I get into this price range. Still, as designed, they are comfortable and work well. I see these being a good match for a recreational rider who tends to get off the bike a lot, or for rides that incorporate some scenic hiking as well. They would also make a decent commuter shoe, as you can wear them around the office in reasonable comfort and they don’t look too out of place.

I have worn these on solid intermediate and even some black diamond trails and they work just fine, but for exclusive trail use, I think it’s worth dropping an extra $30 to move up to the X-ALP Enduro model which has a similar construction, fit, and shape, but sports velcro straps and a ratcheting buckle.

Thanks to the folks at Pearl Izumi for sending the X-ALP Impact for review!