This review dives deep into the Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 cycling shoes, examining their features and performance on and off the bike. From unboxing to extensive road testing, we explore every aspect of this high-performance shoe, including its stylish design, innovative closure system, and remarkable stiffness. We detail the comfort and customization options offered through included inserts and the strategically placed ventilation. The review also focuses on the shoe's lightweight construction and ease of maintenance, comparing it to other popular cycling shoe models.Discover if the Pro Leader 3 lives up to its promise of exceptional comfort and power transfer. We assess the unique dual Boa dial system, allowing for precise on-the-fly adjustments, and analyze the shoe's stiffness index for optimal pedaling efficiency. Learn about the sizing recommendations, the replaceable heel, and the overall user experience after hours of riding. This comprehensive review provides a detailed look at what makes the Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 a top contender in the world of cycling footwear.
Pros And Cons
- Extremely stiff (stiffness index 13)
- Boa knobs with three functionalities (tighten, loosen incrementally, completely loose)
- Three-hole bolt pattern for cleats with embedded slots for adjustability
- Holes for airflow
- Replaceable heel
- Lightweight (243 grams without insole, 273 grams with insole)
- Multiple insole inserts for arch support and ball of foot cushioning
- Runs small (recommend ordering 1/2 size larger than usual)
- Inserts' slots for airflow don't perfectly align with insole cutouts
Read more: 5 Best Vibram Cycling Shoes: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 cycling shoes arrived in a stylish carrying case with two pouches – a nice touch for storage and transport. Inside, the shoes were snugly fitted with form-fitting inserts. Additional arch support inserts and metatarsal pads were included, offering customization for optimal comfort and performance.
The electric blue color (also available in black and black/white) is vibrant and eye-catching. The shoe’s construction appears high-quality, showcasing Pearl Izumi's attention to detail. The prominent Pearl Izumi logo adds a touch of brand recognition.
Innovative Boa Dial System
The Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 features a unique dual Boa dial system. Unlike traditional Boa dials with just tightening and fully releasing options, these dials offer a third function: micro-adjusting looseness. This allows for on-the-fly adjustments without completely undoing the closure, a welcome convenience during long rides.
The dials themselves are easily accessible and intuitively used. This innovative design promotes precise and comfortable fit adjustments throughout the ride, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
Stiffness and Cleat Adjustment
With a Pearl Izumi stiffness index of 13, this shoe is exceptionally stiff. This contributes to efficient power transfer while pedaling, minimizing energy loss. This remarkable stiffness, however, does not compromise comfort.
The three-bolt cleat pattern is standard, but the shoe includes additional embedded slots for fine-tuning cleat positioning. This provides extensive adjustment options to personalize fit and optimize biomechanics.
Ventilation and Insoles
The shoes feature strategically placed ventilation holes for optimal airflow, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Corresponding holes in the insole further enhance ventilation.
The package includes interchangeable arch support inserts in high and mid-arch sizes and metatarsal pads in 1.5mm and 3mm thicknesses, adding another layer of customization. Although the alignment of the insole's ventilation holes with the metatarsal pad slots wasn't perfect, this is a minor detail.
Replaceable Heel and Sizing
The Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 features a replaceable heel, adding to its durability. Access to the heel replacement screws is easy, ensuring convenient maintenance.
Sizing is crucial. The manufacturer recommends going half a size up from the size chart. The reviewer ordered a size 45 (European) after consulting the size chart and confirmed a good fit.
Weight and Final Verdict
Weighing in at just 243 grams (without insole) and 273 grams (with insole), the Pro Leader 3 is remarkably lightweight compared to other shoes like the Forte (381 grams).
After several hours of riding on the road and trainer, the reviewer found the Pearl Izumi Pro Leader 3 to be an excellent, comfortable and high-performing shoe. The innovative Boa system, exceptional stiffness, and customizable insoles contribute to a superior cycling experience. The shoe's lightweight design is another notable benefit.
