The all-new Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Leader v4 bonds a seamless upper directly to the carbon sole plate to give it an incredibly low 5mm stack height. Up top, the dual BOA IP1 closure system pulls together an offset opening, keeping the pressure off the top of your foot.
The composite upper has mesh strips running all the way along both sides to maximize breathability and flexibility, helping it form to your foot’s shape. Pearl Izumi shares the wide toe box and more foot-shaped of sister brand Shimano’s shoes.
A replaceable heel bumper sits on the back of the otherwise full carbon outsole, which gets their top stiffness rating of 13. Claimed weight is 265g (size 43), retail is $350. Oh, and that polished prism chrome finish on the bottom? It’s all aesthetic, because why not?
Below the Leader is the all new P.R.O. Road Race v5, which uses the same offset opening but a single BOA L6 reel. The upper is a 3-layer seamless construction that also gets mesh sections for breathability. The outsole is a composite construction with carbon forefoot plate, stiffness rating of 8. Claimed weight is 284g (size 43), retail is $160. Also available in all black, and in women’s versions (shown above in white, also comes in black).
The new P.R.O. Pursuit Speed Jersey ($150) and Tri Speed Suit ($170) use aerodynamically tailored fits and materials to reduce drag. Specifically, the dimpled arm material helps keep air running smoothly off your body rather than flapping off in wild wake patterns. And, as you get into the cycling position, the fabric stretches to create small “wings” along your lats, further smoothing air flow.
Rear pockets have gusseted bottoms to hold more cargo without sagging, and internal stitching reinforcements keep everything together, longer. Available in men’s versions for both, and women’s for the jersey.
LIFESTYLE & COMMUTER CYCLING CLOTHING
The new Versa lineup covers your commuter and casual cycling. On right is the Quilted Hoodie ($220), which is a mix of Primaloft Gold over the chest and softshell, weather resistant material elsewhere. The Versa Pants get stretch fabric, a gusseted crotch and reflective elements. On left is the Versa Barrier Jacket, which gets some cool features for cool weather:
An extra collar flap keeps cold air at bay by creating a high neck, leading into a hood that fits under you helmet. Mini wind-blocking lobster gloves unfold from a pocket inside the arms, then tucks away again when not needed. Material is water resistant with reflective hits all around. Retail is $140.
The Versa line also includes a number of shirts that get reflective hits and, depending on model, some jersey-like elements like a grippy waist band and accessory pockets.
There’s also tees and shorts with padded liners.
2018 PEARL IZUMI MOUNTAIN BIKE SHOES
The new X-Alp Launch mixes street style with all-mountain performance thanks to a 3/4 length composite shank and Vibram outsole to keep your foot solidly positioned on the pedals. But the forefoot flexes when it’s time to walk.
These uppers are also seamless, using bonded construction. The midsole is EVA foam for all-day cushioning, and the mid-foot uses an extra grippy Vibram MegaGrip insert to stay planted on your flat pedals.
Or opt for the SPD version. Retail is $150 to $160, available in men’s and women’s colorways and sizing.
The new X-Alp Elevate is their do-it-all mountain bike shoe. The seamless upper breathes well, mixes BOA and Velcro for adjustable fit, and has their just-in-front-of-the-cleat toe flex to make hike a bike sections more manageable. They also use carbon rubber lugs for traction, and strategically placed EVA foam (same as what’s in running shoes) for bump absorption. Retail is $180, claimed weight is 405g for a size 43. Available in men’s and women’s colors and sizing.
