Fizik’s Artica X5 mountain bike winter shoes have been some of my favorites for years. Warm, comfortable, and very weather resistant. The new Tempo Artica (road) and Terra Artica (MTB) winter cycling shoes up the fashion quotient and introduce a comfy new interior and weatherproof construction.
Outside, the PU upper is non-absorbent and easy to wipe clean, which is a good thing if you’er going for the white option. Both the Terra (MTB, on left) and Tempo (road, on right) are also available in black.
Sandwiched in the upper is a 3-layer GoreTex Koala membrane that adds breathable wind and water protection.
And inside is a fleecy interior for warmth. A Velcro strap at the top helps you seal out cold air and create a snug fit over your ankles.
The X5/R5 models before this used a Speed Lace closure, which I liked, but once the exterior shell was zipped over it, on-the-bike adjustments weren’t (safely) possible. The Tempo/Terra Artica switches to BOA L6 dial closure, so it’s more easily adjustable while riding.
They both have a Stiffness Index of 6, but the Tempo Artica road model uses a new R5 nylon sole that’ll be used on new road shoes in 2023. The Terra Artica MTB version uses the same wider sole as their Terra Atlas shoes.
Both use a different last that has a little more volume than their standard shoes, so you shouldn’t need to size up unless you’re going to wear really thick socks.
MSRP is €259 ($259 / £249) per pair. Claimed weights are 319g/shoe for Tempo and 432g for the Terra. Available in sizes 36-48, with half sizes from 37-47.
