This detailed review dives into the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II road shoes, examining their design, features, and initial impressions. From the moment they arrived, their exceptional lightness and comfortable fit were immediately apparent. This first look focuses on the shoe's construction, highlighting the unique blend of carbon fiber and synthetic rubber, resulting in a surprisingly soft yet durable feel. Key features like the full carbon sole, Ergo Fit 3D OrthoLite insole, and BOA dials are also explored, showcasing Mavic's commitment to performance and comfort. The review acknowledges the significant price point of $399 but suggests the high-quality materials and innovative design may justify the cost for dedicated cyclists.This initial assessment provides a first glimpse into the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II’s potential. The review will continue with a comprehensive, six-month long-term test to thoroughly assess their durability, performance in various conditions, and overall value. This extended evaluation will offer a more complete picture of these high-performance road shoes, providing valuable insight for cyclists considering this significant investment. Stay tuned for the full, in-depth review.
Pros And Cons
- Very light
- Very durable
- Comfortable fit
- Breathable mesh on the bottom
- Ergo fit 3D Ortholite insole (molds to feet)
- Energy transfer rating of 100 (very stiff)
- BOA dials
- Pricey ($399)
Read more: 5 Best Vibram Cycling Shoes: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II road shoes arrived today, and I immediately did a quick unboxing. The first thing that struck me was how incredibly light they are. The carbon weave construction is immediately apparent, promising both durability and a low weight.
I took a quick walk around in them to test the fit and comfort. They felt surprisingly comfortable right out of the box, a good sign. The lightweight design is truly impressive, making them feel almost weightless on my feet.
Shoe Construction and Features
The shoes are predominantly constructed from a carbon weave, giving them their exceptional lightness. Unlike some carbon shoes, this weave feels soft, not stiff and rigid. This unique construction seems to be a blend of carbon fiber and synthetic rubber.
The shoes feature a full carbon sole (Energy Full Carbon SLR), boasting an energy transfer index of 100, ensuring maximum power transfer to the pedals. Other noteworthy features include the Ergo Fit 3D OrthoLite insole for a comfortable fit, BOA dials for easy adjustability, and breathable mesh panels for ventilation.
Mavic: The Brand and its Heritage
Mavic, a renowned French cycling company, is known for its high-quality cycling equipment. Their involvement in the Tour de France, where their support vehicles are easily identified by their distinctive yellow color, highlights their dedication to cycling excellence.
Mavic's SSC (Special Service Course) team provides neutral support to riders throughout the Tour, showcasing the brand's commitment to performance and reliability.
Initial Verdict and Future Review
At $399, these shoes are a significant investment. However, their lightweight, durable construction, and high-performance features might justify the price tag for serious cyclists. The initial comfort and impressive energy transfer suggest promising performance.
I will be conducting a more extensive, long-term review (possibly a six-month test) to evaluate their durability and overall performance under various riding conditions. This follow-up review will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the Mavic Cosmic Ultimate II road shoes.
