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Submitted by
Mark Lindros
a Cross Country Rider
from Belize
Date Reviewed: September 9, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$115.00 | | Purchased At: | NJ | | Strengths: | Looks, durability, and usability. | | Weaknesses: | None that I can see, except that they could be more user friendly for walking. | | Similar Products Used: | All sorts of shoes, road and MTB... | | Bike Setup: | Many bikes.... | | Bottom Line: | I read all the reviews before I post, and I was really surprised to see any problems with durability. Maybe Chilis were made better back in 1998. Yep, you read that right, I've had these babies since 1998 and they are still going strong. In the first two years my friend went through something like 4 pairs of MTB shoes. Here it is, 2004, and 7 years later I still have the same shoes and they rock. I have had absolutely no problems with the cleats or the spikes. They do make marks on the floor or can scratch hardwood floors if you aren't careful, so shoes off at the door.
I have used these with SPD and with Time A.T.A.C. setup and feel that the real issue with ease of clipping in and out is the pedal mechanism itself. I broke both wrists at the same time once because an SPD pedal let me go when it shouldn't have. I've also had problems with SPD when riding in mud or snow and trying to get back in easy. The A.T.A.C.s totally took care of that and there is no problem with finding your pedal groove with these shoes.
I bought mine one size too small because they didn't have the right size at the LBS. That was a little painful in the beginning, but now they are perfect and still a little snug.
I actually felt bad in the beginning about paying this much for a shoe at the time, because I had already spent so much money on my bike. But now that I look back, since these shoes have lasted so long they have saved me all the money that I didn't have to spend buying new shoes.
Nothing beats the durability. If this 7 year track record doesn't prove that I don't know what will. I have broken about 5 bones in these shoes, including 3 in the ankle and they didn't even have to cut the shoe off. They cut the sock off, but who cares?!? the shoes live on!!! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from St. Louis
Date Reviewed: October 21, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Kokopelli Trail loops in Fruita | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | Touring Cyclist | | Strengths: | durable, comfortable to walk in, versatile, relatively water resistant, snug fit | | Weaknesses: | a little heavy?, not as comfortable on the trail as they were in the store | | Similar Products Used: | Answer Speedsters, Axo Terras | | Bike Setup: | franken-hardtail | | Bottom Line: | i'd recommend these shoes to a more advanced ridee; they seem like they'll last me a while. i find myself having to adjust the straps periodically to relieve pressure, but not so much to make me want to get new ones yet. good shoes all around. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Conrad Griffith
a Cross Country Rider
from Chagrin Falls, OH USA
Date Reviewed: August 18, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | East Providence Cycle | | Strengths: | Reasonably-priced shoe, fairly comfortable | | Weaknesses: | Problems with cleat attachment platform, toe spikes, stretching | | Bottom Line: | I have used these shoes for cross country riding and racing for 2 years. The toe spike "stubs" (inserted when not using toe spikes) fell out on all four locations soon after I started using the shoes, and yes, they were wrenched down snugly. More recently, the one shoe's SPD cleat mount has come loose at inopportune times - primarily when I am trying to disengage the pedal. I also find it difficult to locate the pedal due to the prominent rubber lugs on either side of the cleat, and that is with both Bonetrager and Shimano pedals. They are not bad shoes, but there are better out there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mr T
a Cross Country Rider
from South Africa
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Good looking shoe. In theory, having the whole top of the shoe (the top flap) as the strap should distribute pressure better than seperate straps. | | Weaknesses: | The 2003 Models seem to have a manufacturing fault:
The top flap on the left shoe is sewn on too close to your ankle. To check for this fault, undo all the velcro and then close it again (Diadora ships the shoes with the top flap closed in such a way that it's hard to see the fault unless you do this). Note that the velcro pad on the shoe, closest to your toes), does not line up with the velcro on the top flap properly. The whole top flap is shifted towards your ankle, which can cause the part of the flap closest to your ankle to dig into the tendons at the front of your ankle. Very uncomfortable.
I had the shoe replaced twice (so that's 3 different pairs), and they all had the same fault on the left hand shoe (size 44). Seems to be a whole bad batch. I'm not impressed that Diadora hasn't recalled them. | | Bottom Line: | Check that you're not buying a shoe from this bad batch. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Franklin
a Cross Country Rider
from Albany, NY USA
Date Reviewed: April 2, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | bike shop | | Strengths: | Initial fit was very good, after 1.5 years the shoe feels real sloppy. The spikes come in handy and have never loosened, laces way too long. Easy shoe to clean, just hose down when gunked up. Easy to access and to change cleats. | | Weaknesses: | The sole of the shoe is fairly stiff but the body of the shoe has definatley stretched. | | Similar Products Used: | Many, over 15 yrs, 4rth pair of Diadora's | | Bike Setup: | Several mountain bikes and a roadbike | | Bottom Line: | I ride 2-3 times a week in mostly tight technical single-track, lots of roots and rocks and some decent mud at times. This shoe has performed well, recently did a 24 mountain bike race, however, and ever since the shoes have not been the same. They are sloppy and stretched out, like a pair of granny's slippers. Overall, however, if you asked me if I would buy them again I would say yes, they are a decent value and they look cool.
I can't see paying $200+ on a pair of shoes that you are going to have to replace every 1 or 2 years, yes even Sidi's have to replaced, they just get to crusty to own longer than that. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
henry reeds
a Cross Country Rider
from vail co.
Date Reviewed: January 4, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | bufers creek | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | local shop | | Strengths: | they have great durability,they are stiff and very comfortable.the laces make a nice grab on your feet. its got good ventilation. | | Weaknesses: | the look is not as nice as the sidis or vittorias, but that doesn't really matter. | | Similar Products Used: | vittoria riders | | Bike Setup: | k2 team and clark kent f14 | | Bottom Line: | buy them, you wont be disappointed, very durable and the most comfortable mtb shoe I'v ever had. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Conway, Ar
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$50.00 | | Purchased At: | Sierra Traders | | Strengths: | cheap, decent fit | | Weaknesses: | floppy sole, funky seems in toe box | | Similar Products Used: | Nike Cairns, Northwave Compacts, Specialized Sports... | | Bottom Line: | Okay for 50 bucks, but they just don't hold up to serious riding. I weigh 170 and feel them flex all over the place. Also after a few weeks started developing wicked forefoot hotspots, switched out the innersoles which helped some, but now have the mushy underfoot feeling. Anything up to 1:30 hours they're fine, over that and you start looking for a new shoe. Hot too.
Look at Specialized's shoe line. Not sexy, but work a whole lot better and can usually be found to try on, which is a must. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill Anderson
a Racer
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cedro Peak, ABQ | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$135.00 | | Purchased At: | Rapid Transit Cyclery, Chicago | | Strengths: | Fairly comfortable. | | Weaknesses: | Fell apart after 1 year. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized El Gato Comp, old Shimanos | | Bike Setup: | Too many to list here. | | Bottom Line: | Junk. Pure and simple. These shoes barely lasted one year. Aside from the velcro wearing out and becoming virtually useless, the stitching on both heel cups came out 6 months ago, and the soles began delaminating from the uppers. But the absolute kicker is the flimsy sole construction. They use plastic platforms to hold in the cleat mounts, which evidently crack from repeated stress. I found out because the cleat in my right shoe ripped right off during my last race, leaving the cleat and screw assembly stuck in my pedal. Sorry, that shouldn't happen on $135 shoes after only one year. That's garbage.
I liked these shoes at first but now I know they suck. I put my old junk Specialized shoes through five seasons of hell, and outside of a couple holes, I could still dig them out and use them today with no problem. In fact, I'm going to have to, because I have to save up for a new pair of shoes.
Diadora should stick to making soccer shoes. No one should buy these shoes. I'm buying Sidis. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rodoc1
a Cross Country Rider
from Asheville, NC
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$65.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | good price - lots of satisfied user reviews | | Weaknesses: | fit was too narrow in my standard size. | | Bottom Line: | This is a quick note on sizing since my experience differs from some other postings. My foot is 9.5, D width (these are US measurements). I wear a 43 metric shoe. When ordering the Chili's in size 43, i found the fit much too narrow (kind of like older shimano road shoes). I hope this advice helps you in correctly sizing you on-line purchase.
p.s. also noticed some dropped stitches in the toe box- a likely source of future troubles. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JCRUM
a Racer
from BFLO
Date Reviewed: January 20, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | alleghany state park | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | nashbar/oerformance | | Strengths: | stylin'. hard to argue wit'som'thin' that has got ya thru three years. | | Weaknesses: | after about the fourth puddle, the velcro gets a little loose. | | Similar Products Used: | specialised shoes. | | Bike Setup: | i have several bikes. | | Bottom Line: | while i would most certainly get the sidis if i ever had the resources, the chilis seem to be doing a more than adequate job | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karen
a Cross Country Rider
from Eagle River, WI
Date Reviewed: December 29, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Hidden Lakes | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$85.00 | | Strengths: | Women's model fits well and is durable. | | Weaknesses: | Sole not stiff enough. I ended up with a stress fracture in my foot. It's hard not to blame the shoes. | | Similar Products Used: | Gaerne - circa 1993 | | Bike Setup: | Kona King Kahuna - ti, XTR, Marzocchi Atom 80, Race Face cranks, Speedplay frog pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I loved these shoes until I ended up with a stress fracture in my foot. I'm finding it hard not to blame the shoes. I wear them for both mtb and road riding. After long rides my left foot was just burning and extremely painful. Eventually I went to the doctor and it turned out I had a stress fracture. The stress fracture was caused by my forefoot being allowed to twist too much while riding.
I recently purchased a very stiff pair of Axo road shoes. And, I think I will resurrect my old Gaernes which never caused me any trouble and are still going strong after 9 years and many miles of regular wear.
I loved these shoes at first but am hesitant to recommend them to serious cyclists who put on high miles. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal
Date Reviewed: November 5, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$78.00 | | Strengths: | Great shoe. Comfortable and durable. | | Weaknesses: | Velcro frays. | | Similar Products Used: | See below. | | Bottom Line: | These are the best cycling shoes I have ever owned. Period.
After six months of heavy use [@ 8,500 km], they still fit as well as ever. I use these primarily on my road bike [I'm mostly a roadie] though they're equally good on the MTB.
The one drawback is the velcro, which is beginning to fray. I hope I can have that repaired.
I like these shoes so much that I don't have road pedals on my bike anymore. I hope I can find a pair of road Diadoras that are as good as these so I can put a pair of Speedplay pedals on my bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO USA
Date Reviewed: September 8, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$111.00 | | Purchased At: | Cutting Edge Sports | | Strengths: | The best fit or any shoe that I tried by a long, long way. It was also the only mtb. shoe that you could wear and not relaize that it is a mtb shoe and not just a comfortable casual shoe. | | Weaknesses: | Slightly roomy, great for hot days, but i wear two socks on cold ones. The shoe is a litle high volume for my foot. | | Similar Products Used: | Sidi, Northwave, Answer, AXO, Lake, Shimano, Specialized, Vans | | Bike Setup: | GT i-drive 2.0 with Time ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | I tried on almost every brand of shoes that i could find at about 6 or 7 different shops. When i Finally tried on these shoes it is instantly apparent that they fit better and differently that any other shoe that I tried. This fit may not be for everyone, but the only other shoe that was even close was the Sidi Dominator 2. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kokopelli about Chili WOMEN'S
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado
Date Reviewed: July 18, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Meyer Ranch for now | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$119.00 | | Purchased At: | Turin Bikes in Denver | | Strengths: | Durability! Appearance. The lace cover has protected the shoe, my socks and my feet. Sole has been great for walking on trails when I just can't ride a section. | | Weaknesses: | None that I have found yet | | Similar Products Used: | Tried on about every pair of women's biking shoe made. | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Joshua FS stock except for Time ATAC Carbon pedals | | Bottom Line: | This is probably the most comfortable pair of shoes I own right now! Too bad my pumps aren't made by Diadora! Well worth the price and perfectly made for this woman's feet. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Sparta
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$96.00 | | Purchased At: | Rt. 15 Bike | | Strengths: | -Looks
-Lace and Strap
-Rubber Sole | | Weaknesses: | None yet | | Similar Products Used: | Diadora Jalepeno/Piccante | | Bike Setup: | 00 Schwinn Moab 3, Judy XC Fork, XTR deraileurs, XT brakes/Crank, Ritchey Logic Pro Pedal | | Bottom Line: | Sweet shoes. i havnt had them 3 weeks and i love them. they are a tight fit with the lace and strap. The vent well too. they just molded to my feet, unliek some shoes that take 2 months. they are comfortable for running onthe trail when needed ro walking on rocks to carry. I got mine for 20% off, so i wasnt complaining, but even at normal price, they are a good deal. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | Le Maillot Jaune | | Strengths: | Excellent durability. | | Weaknesses: | Poor fit for wide feet, ugly colors, heavy. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale, Shimano | | Bike Setup: | Fisher Paragon with Shimano 747 pedals | | Bottom Line: | These shoes are a great value, considering the price, but it could be made a lot lighter and a bit stiffer. Also, they are EXTREMELY narrow shoes, so people with wide feet should steer away from them. (Get Shimano shoes, they're wider.) They also seem to develop pressure points on the outside edge of the foot.
However, they are incredibly durable, I have put them through rain, mud, rocks, snow, you name it, and I have yet to notice any sort of damage other than normal sole wear.
They are decent shoes, but get some Shimano M220's or Sidi Dominator 2's if you can afford them. I'm getting the M220's to replace the Chili's. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, Quebec
Date Reviewed: June 1, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$78.00 | | Strengths: | Very comfortable, rigid sole, lace closure, looks | | Weaknesses: | Stitching on the lace cover MAY be weak... I haven't quite decided that yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized El Gato Comp, 2001 Specialized Comp (In store), Shimano M81 (In store), Shimano M152 (In store), other Shimano shoes over the years whose names I forget | | Bike Setup: | Ritchey pedals | | Bottom Line: | I have very sensitive feet that are prone to injury and infection. Consequently, I was looking for a pair of MTB shoes that fit snugly, but comfortably, with a rigid sole and which immobilized my foot without pinching it.
In the store, I tried the Specialized and, though I liked the sole and the whole BG design AS A CONCEPT, I found that the arch was WAY too far forward to be comfortable. I tried both of the Shimano shoes, but couldn't find one that fit. With one model, the 42 was roo small and the 43 was too large. In the other model, which comes in half sizes, the store didn't have 42.5...
But the Diadoras fit. They felt compfortable right away, and after a month, I find that they keep getting more comortable. In fact, next to my converse sneakers, these are probably the most comfortable shoes I own.
The soles are wonderfully rigid, and the lace closure allows me to really fit these puppies snugly, using the velcro straps to fine-tune the fit.
I will have to wait and see if the stitching on the lace cover holds up for the long-term. If it doesn't, I'll take the shoes to the local shoe repair shop and have them fixed there.
These shoes are keepers, and they look GREAT -- black and grey with no annoying day-glo colours. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Racer
from Colorado Springs, CO, USA
Date Reviewed: February 26, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$99.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Velcro + Laces = nice, tight fit
Nice look
Fit my feet great
Work great for cyclo-cross
| | Weaknesses: | ..the flap everyone else talked about (not a big deal, it takes like an extra 10 seconds to lace them)
| | Similar Products Used: | Specialized (ouch)
Shimano (ugh...don't go there)
Northwave (didn't fit me right...too wide)
Lake (felt cheap) | | Bike Setup: | Lemond Poprad - 8 spd Campy, barends, old skool | | Bottom Line: | I've always liked Diadora's soccer shoes. I got the Chilis on sale for $99. I would have went for Sidis but a divorce would cost me much more. Great shoes for the money. Fit comfortable out of the box. Mine are the 2001 models so they look better then the ones shown above. If I ever wear these out it'll be tough to choose between another pair these and some Sidis. Do yourself a favor go to your local LBS and try them on, walk around the store a little and feel how comfortable they are. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Boston
Date Reviewed: February 9, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Porcupine Rim | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | nashbar | | Strengths: | Good Looks......solid construction.....very comfy (plenty of room for wide feet)....no clicking when you have to walk in em'......works great with my Time ATACs | | Weaknesses: | the front strap does fold the shoe over if cinched too tightly....but I'd rather have the room and not need it then vis versa. | | Similar Products Used: | Adidas......Nike.......Answer...... | | Bike Setup: | StumpJumper with bomber fork...xt throughout....517 rims......Time ATACs (quite possibly the best mb product I've ever used) | | Bottom Line: | I wanted to upgrade to a better shoe without breaking the bank. I have used the "always on sale" Answer shoes, which delaminate within hours of riding.
These Chilis have fit the bill very nicely....the sizing is true.....the are mega comfortable out of the box, with plenty of toe room.....they are stiff without being like some roadie shoes.......I've had several 4+ hour rides since getting them....my feet are very happy for these new shoes.
If you are seeking a shoe that can be used to race/train/have fun in then buy some Chilies and go out and ride. I have seen them around on sale, but never in the size 46 I need so do some shopping!
Overall, a great high-quality shoe that won't destroy the budget. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Krystian
a Racer
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: February 7, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | too flat around, some nice trails around the Willow Spring | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$120.00 | | Purchased At: | ExcellSports (mail) | | Strengths: | Very durable, withstands a lot of soaking and drying cycles. Hard to tear and couldn't trash those over the two years of training and racing. Flexing only in the far nose of the sole. Comfortable, yet secure fit. Very good ventilation. Wet weather? - Every shoe gets soaked this doesn't get heavy. I've got the spikes on all the time. | | Weaknesses: | Sole will be too soft for somebody who prefers to use the "wood" stiff shoes. And they don't hold the heels too well during mud racing (like Kentucky's Mud Fest). Had to seal the very front upper to the sole with a silicon because of the small tear. | | Similar Products Used: | Other Diadora shoes, Nike, Sidi Genius/Dominator | | Bike Setup: | XC Mongoose/Manitou/Shimano XT | | Bottom Line: | Very tough and good all around shoes. Will never hurt your feet, even after six hours of riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
butzow
a Cross Country Rider
from indianapolis
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | wouldn't we all ride ANYWHERE?! | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$89.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | light, stiff, cool and comfy - these shoes employ lace AND strap closure for a very secure fit. decent looking shoe, too. | | Similar Products Used: | airwalk, specialized, answer | | Bike Setup: | specialized stumpy m2 - but more importantly here, pedals: specailized "spud"-compatible | | Bottom Line: | i researched several manufacturers, dealers and the reviews posted on this site to find an inexpensive, durable racing/training/goofing-around clipless shoe. frankly, i was disappointed with 90% of the shoes i'd tried that didn't cost somewhere in the neighborhood of 200 bones.
then i found the chilis (chili pro, actually). i wish i had a pair of street shoes that were this comfortable to wear! i read reviews that warned about a break-in period with these shoes - not for me. from the first ride, these shoes were dead on. i take a 45 - i ordered a 45 - the 45 fit like a 45. no surprises.
the outsole provides a fairly aggressive, deep tread - good for when you have to shoulder the bike. the shoes seem to be holding up pretty well, and in my opinion the chilis are the best-built shoe i've seen for the price. (these shoes retail for $130, but you can find them on several internet sites for a lot less.)
the platform is sturdy, and engaging and disengaging the cleat from the pedal is crisp and clean.
if you're looking for a GREAT shoe at a reasonable price - buy the chilis!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie
a Cross Country Rider
from OH
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Harbin | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Great shoe, very comfortable, and durable. | | Weaknesses: | Nothing comes to mind | | Bike Setup: | Kona steel Hardtail, XT, Avid, Geax | | Bottom Line: | These are great shoes. I have had them for about 2 years, and I still love them. They have held up really well. I've thought about getting new shoes just because I've had them for a while and I seen some cool newer models, but I haven't needed to because my Chilis are great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zane
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: August 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | anything | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | feel great, preform well, all around a good shoe | | Weaknesses: | nothing, this shoe rocks | | Similar Products Used: | lake mx200r | | Bike Setup: | judy c's, time pedals | | Bottom Line: | This shoe is a great buy for the price. Anyone who buys this shoe will have no regrets!!!!!! I give it 5 flamin' chili's | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Susan
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington, NJ
Date Reviewed: July 16, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Allamuchy | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Fit, Warranty. | | Weaknesses: | Durability, price. The velcro and nylon retaining straps starting ripping apart. It gets pretty wet and muddy here, but since I was planning my wedding I wasn't riding that much. | | Similar Products Used: | Sidi Dominator 2 | | Bike Setup: | Stumpjumper M2, Judy XC, Frog Pedals. | | Bottom Line: | Shoes just don't hold up under normal mountain conditions. Diadora did make good on the warranty and gave me a brand new pair to replace the old ones. Shop had a killer deal on the Sidi Dominator 2's at the same time so I traded up.
I give them 2 chilis for durability, but an extra one for making good on their warranty. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Susan
a
from Hibbing, Minn.
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Wonderful fit. Quality construction. | | Weaknesses: | Laces are too long and have to be carefully tucked under tongue and velcro flap to keep them out of the way. | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano, Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Ritchey Logic Mountain Pedals | | Bottom Line: | These shoes work great for me! They felt a bit snug in the store and, after reading these reviews, I figured they'd take some break in time to stretch out the toe box. But this wasn't the case. They felt better on the bike than in the store.
They're super comfortable with resposive stiff soles. No hot feet or numbness on long rides.
The lace-velcro combination gives a lot of adjustability. And the mesh sides are way coooool.
The only complaint is that the laces are a lot longer than they have to be and so they have to be carefully tucked away to keep from hanging out and getting caught in the drivetrain.
Your results may vary -- based on your foot and what you like in a shoe. But I've been very pleasantly surprised with these. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | South Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Solid sole
Stylish | | Weaknesses: | Toe box
Thin sole for cleats
Little heavy | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano low end | | Bike Setup: | F2000
Z.1 BAM 130 mm
Hellbent riser | | Bottom Line: | I reviewed these shoes a few months ago. Well they didn't last. The toe box actually got smaller. My big toe never hurt so bad. It has been tingling for the past 4 days after a 12 hour ordeal in Tucson.
These shoes held up to the ricks and cactus, but some how they shrunk. The cleat bolts are now almost through the sole and sticking into my feet. My feet feel cramped and very uncomfortable. They worked well at the start, but began to fail. I would probably recommend these shoes to narrow small footed riders. But you semi-large wide foot riders stay away. I am in the process of looking for a better shoe. Sidi, Shimano, Northwave who knows. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a Weekend Warrior
from Annapolis, MD
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Good fit, holds my foot, not expensive | | Weaknesses: | ? | | Similar Products Used: | Sidi Dominator 3, Nike Yuha, Cannodale C-Soles, Specialized Ground Controls. | | Bike Setup: | What does this have to do with shoes? | | Bottom Line: | Best fitting shoe for me that I have found...tried alot of shoes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross Country Rider
from Manitoba
Date Reviewed: May 10, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Well Made, Stiff, Comfortable, Toe Spikes, Lace & Velcro closure, Grippy Sole, Nice Looking | | Weaknesses: | Some heel lift after 2 years and winters of wool sock stretching. Can be hot. | | Similar Products Used: | Lake | | Bike Setup: | 98 fisher Genisis frame, 99 XT kit, Z2 atom bomb, Race Face control, Mavic wheels, Michelen tires. | | Bottom Line: | Great shoe. In every review of the Diadora Kava, the writers said that the Kava would be a great shoe if it did not have the Micro lock buckle. Well guess what? The Chili is that shoe. It has all the same great fabrics, sole and construction as the Kava but with a far superior lace and 2 velcro closure. I bought the Chili Forest, that is also the womens version, however it fits my size 45 big guy feet very well and looks alot better than the neon yellow. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from Antioch, CA
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Ridge Tr. | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Very comfortable, high quality, room for footbeds/orthodics. | | Weaknesses: | The shoe can take two toe cleats (supplied). Unfortunately, if you don't use the cleats, the two plugs in the screwholes don't provide much grip and can unscrew and fall out (which is what happened to me). Also, you can't rotate the SPD cleat much with the backing plate that's imbedded in sole, that only moves fore and aft. This could be a problem with duck or pidgeon toed individuals. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike and Shimano shoes (both nowhere as nice or as comfortable as this shoe). | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale Killer V-HT. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great shoe. I like it so much, I bought an extra pair. I use them for roadbiking too. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Susan
a Weekend Warrior
from Lewisville, TX
Date Reviewed: January 24, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | cool looking | | Weaknesses: | Hot in summer | | Similar Products Used: | Sidi Rampa women's MTB shoe | | Bike Setup: | WSD trek 8000 | | Bottom Line: | I have not talked to a person in my area that has had these shoes and liked them. All have had similar complaints. They make the toes tingle, they are unbelievably hot, they are heavy and the sole does not work well on our dry Texas soil. Most have taken them back or at the very least wished they had something else. I hate to be in the minority here, but I just can't recommend them. I'll take my Sidi's over them any day. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kleinstein
a Weekend Warrior
from Jacksonville
Date Reviewed: January 16, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Stiff Sole, Spikes, laces/straps, color choices | | Weaknesses: | look like they have chicken pox | | Similar Products Used: | Duegi trailblazer, SBI Elgato sport | | Bike Setup: | Ritchey WCS pedals | | Bottom Line: | I sold shoes to put myself through college, and understand more than most that fit is the most important characteristic of any shoe. That given, I have a flat foot and an odd size (45.5) and a difficult time finding a shoe that does not make my arch "burn". The Chili does well with broviding a stable platform and a comparitively wide toe box that has felt comfortable on my first two rides. Those of you with flat feet, consider these shoes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim Silliman
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle, WA
Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Tiger Summit | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | fits great (roomy toe-box)
looks great
seem very durable and well made
well ventilated for summer | | Weaknesses: | strap cover gets in the the way when tying the laces
heel a little loose | | Similar Products Used: | Old Shimano M080 | | Bike Setup: | Ritchey Logic clipless pedals | | Bottom Line: | I can't say enough good about these. Mine are actually the Chili Pro and as far as I can tell, the only difference from the Chili is that mine are silver colored leather where the others are black suede.
Anyway, They have a roomier toe box and are more comfortable than the 20-30 other shoes I tried on while shopping for a new pair. As mentioned in some other reviews my heel does slip around slightly in the shoe but it isn't enough to matter. The treads are great for hike-a-bike in the mud or up hill and are tall enought that the cleat doesn't touch the pavement when walking on flat surfaces.
The shoe lace cover is cumbersome while lacing the shoe but like the heel slippage it's minimal and dwarfed by the numerous great qualities of the shoe. The sole is more rigid than my old Shimanos. These are an excellent shoe especially for the price (I got mine at Performance Bike for $100) and they came with toe-spikes which I'm learning to like, especially in the thick mud.
The mesh pars on the shoe will be great in the hot season and on rides like tonights which had lots of mud and an inch or two of snow, a good thick pair of socks got me through the cold.
I hope they last a long time but when they finally give in, I'll get another pair of Chili's! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Weekend Warrior
from Berkeley, CA
Date Reviewed: December 10, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
light weight, super stiff sole, fits my foot well, dries quickly, well vented for summer | | Weaknesses: |
Velcro strap is badly placed (directly over laces): makes laces hard to tie, removable toe cleats | | Similar Products Used: |
had a non-clipless pair of Nikes one time... | | Bike Setup: |
'99 Bontrager RE-1's | | Bottom Line: | I've got the '99 model, which only have on Velcro strap and no leather cover flap thing, but I also got them for about $60, which was nice. Super stiff, really light. Not much fun to walk around in, but then again I don't intend to spend much time off my pedals. The strap should be a little lower on the instep; tying the laces is a major pain. I wear a 12 1/2 athletic shoe (and a bit wide), and the 46's fit me perfectly. I thoroughly recommend it to those who need a good shoe but don't have $100+ to drop on a Cadel Evans-esque shoe. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Na Joisey
Date Reviewed: November 8, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Price, awesome sole, toe spikes, accepts wide feet. | | Weaknesses: |
None yet. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized, NorthWaves, Diadora Jalapenos | | Bike Setup: |
Two wheeler. No training wheels. | | Bottom Line: | Besides being a friendly shoe to those with wide feet, what impressed me the most was the sole. The rubber on the sole is soft, yet durable, so it grips to rocks VERY well. This really helps when attempting spiderman impressions. Toe spikes are a plus for the mud, and for $110, I can't complain. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rye-guy
a Cross-Country Rider
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: October 10, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
very comfortable
light-weight
fast drying | | Weaknesses: |
heel cup a little loose | | Bike Setup: |
Norco Nitro, Azonic pedals | | Bottom Line: | This is a great pair of shoes. They are really stiff and transfer power to the trail effectively.
I have been riding and racing with them for a couple of years and they seem to be very durable. I recomend these shoes to anyone who is looking for new shoes. (even more so with the new color scheme) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rich
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
South Mountain | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Cool looking
Very durable
Comfy
Solid sole | | Weaknesses: |
cleat plugs fall right out.
The laces need to go further down on the shoe. | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano M-somethings (low end shoe)
Tried on a pair of Sidi's(Oh my, can't wait to justify spending that kind of $$ on shoes) | | Bike Setup: |
C'dale F2000 w/ Hell-Bent riser | | Bottom Line: | I can see what people are talking about when it comes to the break in period. Took me a good month to be confident in these shoes and for them to form to my foot. I have beaten these things pretty well, scrapped on some sharp rocks and cactus. Held up great. No problems clipping into and out of the pedals. Lets hope that they can last on the rocky AZ trails. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kyle
a Cross-Country Rider
from Brandon, Mb
Date Reviewed: July 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Comfort, Style, Toe spikes, Breathability | | Weaknesses: |
slight stretch in the heel box | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
98 Fisher Big Sur
Slightly customized | | Bottom Line: | Great shoe for the price. The same sole and similar construction to the Kava, but without the terrible ratchet closure. Laces and velcro may take a bit more time to get in and out of, but the fit of these shoes is second to none. I have owned them for two years, and the durability of these shoes has surprised me. I bought the womens style forest green in a mens 45 and it still looks great. The synthetic forest coloured suede still looks fab, and the lack of neon makes me wonder why anyone would buy the other version. My only complaint is that the heel cup has stretched, due to my frequent wearing of wool socks last summer. A seperate heel strap, like the tounge ones, would make these shoes perfect. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sherpa
a Racer
from Lac Beauport
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Mont Ste-Anne (liberiste) | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Those shoes have stiff soles, solid heel cup, they dries quickly and they provide a good ankle support. | | Weaknesses: |
They are a bit complicated to lace, you must hold the top flap with your other feet if you want to see what you're doing. They are a bit narrow for the first 2 month but now they're ok. | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano SH-M051 (they don't even come close to the Chilis) | | Bike Setup: |
Rocky Mountain Thin Air, Race Face crank/stem/BB/seatpost/headset/carbon handlebar, XT Vee's/derailleurs/hubs, Mavic X517ceramic wheels, Sram shifters. | | Bottom Line: | A good all around shoe if you're looking for a stiff shoe that's not too wide. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Real Fortin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Halifax Nova Scotia
Date Reviewed: May 16, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Wrandees | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Stiff
Very Good Traction | | Weaknesses: |
durability, durability and durability | | Bottom Line: | I liked these shoes. They provided good traction with the aggressive tread, spikes and stiff sole. The only unfortunate part is that the stiching is worn off and I've blown a couple of the large-lugges treads. I've only had them for 2 months. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chucho
a Cross-Country Rider
from Dundee, IL
Date Reviewed: May 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
The Kettle (WI) | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
versatility | | Weaknesses: |
The tongue seems a bit short | | Bike Setup: |
C'dale M700; Judy SL | | Bottom Line: | I do own the shoe that is pictured above, and it is a great shoe! Have raced it one season, and it held up great! I've even used it with my road bike for a while and it worked fine (though I've just enslaved myself to housework for a pair of Carnac Legends)! The traction is great, the tow box is wider than most, and it dries out quickly. The heel cup support is OUTSTANDING, but the top strap could use a bit more strength.
Love em! 5 flaming chilis for these chilis!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Suzanne
a Downhiller
from Boston, Ma
Date Reviewed: May 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Slick Rock, Moab-UT | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Comfort, Durability,
ease of use with M636 | | Weaknesses: |
None that I have noted. | | Similar Products Used: |
none | | Bike Setup: |
Porsche S Bike, Vortex Shock, Magura & Sach components. | | Bottom Line: | I was very surprised by the comfort level these shoes offered. They are my first pair of clip-in shoes and I had no trouble get my foot in and out of the pedal. I had heard many horror stories about learning to get used to being attached to the pedal, but I did fine. I also tried them out on some fairly hairy downhills and lived to tell. I think part of the success was do to the M636 pedals which I also give 5 flaming chilis. Overall I think it's a great shoe (by the way, I bought the womans version which looks much cooler then the image on the top of this page), I highly recommend them. They're also very reasonably priced, I got mine for about $109. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mitch Small
a Weekend Warrior
from Jersey City
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Round Valley, NJ | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Very Stiff, Durable, and comfortable | | Weaknesses: |
None | | Similar Products Used: |
Nike | | Bottom Line: | All around an excellent bike shoe for aggressive off road riding! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BOB
a Cross-Country Rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Cool looking
Stiff
Heel Cup | | Weaknesses: |
Cant get them super tight | | Similar Products Used: |
Answer Accelorators. | | Bike Setup: |
Between Bikes
Mostly using freinds Specilised Comp | | Bottom Line: | Very nice shoe. It fits strange due the fact that it is desinged for biking not hiking. Increadble traction. Is worm enough for winter riding but a little hot in the summer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kathy
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: February 28, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the women's Chili's last fall, and have been enjoying them all winter. With the laces, I can snug them up on my AA feet. I noticed just a little bit of slip in the heel (I have AAAA heels) but I have done several hikes in them (now where did that trail go?) and have not had any discomfort. The soles are quite stiff for good power transfer. They seem to dry out reasonably quickly thanks to the synthetic fabrics. No problems with the sole interfering with either SPD or Time cleats. I could do without the thick plastic logos on the heel and lace cover, but I'm not wearing them to a dance! They run a bit narrow, and I needed a 41 instead of my usual 40, so I recommend you try before you buy, especially if you have wider feet. Overall, these are a very nice shoe and not ridiculously priced at $109. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JP
a cross-country rider
from Pretoria, South Africa
Date Reviewed: November 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Great shoe!! Diadora has really got themself a good product here. The soles are stiff and they clip in easy it is a snug fit aswell. The Chili Forest are damn cool and much better than the pictured one! You cant go wrong with this shoe! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
carlos
a cross-country rider
from texas
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had these for about 6 months now and I have to say they are a great pair of shoes. Snugg fit all around because of the laces AND straps. The heel is a bit too roomy for me but it might just be the size. I've wiped out a number of times in these and they have held up....even in knee high mud! In addition to the great fit and and durability is the fact that they have a very stiff sole....pair these up with Shimano's 747's and you can't go wrong. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Elon XC
a cross-country rider
from Elon College, NC
Date Reviewed: September 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
First of all, these shoes are just plain ugly. I don't know what the folks who designed these were thinking, but the NEON YELLOW!!! HELLO? Anyhow, other than the color I really have no complaints, they clip in easy, the wide cleats make for easy climing in those walk-yer-bike sections. After a few hours, the balls of my feet ache, but that could be from only being able to ride a few times a week. Overall, a great shoe, but the lacing system could hold your foot more securely. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
colin tucker
a cross-country rider
from England
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
ok, so you wouldn't wear them down the pub... but for function, fit
and performance I can't fault these excellent shoes. The studs work
well, and they're pretty comfortable to walk in, though not for a long period of time. They're fairly waterproof, they breath very well and the new design looks better than the pictured one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Frank
a cross-country rider
from Springfield, VA
Date Reviewed: July 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
They hook up well, the cleats work, and they fit snugly on my feet.
I have size 9EE feet - and they 44's fit swell. This is the shoe the
bike shop recommended for my style of riding and foot width and it they
couldn't have set me up mcuh better. I am very pleased with my Chilis
and so here's five smokin' chilis both for the shoes and Rusty at Bikes USA
in Bailey's Crossroads for setting me up int them... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vince
a cross-country rider
from Fairfax, VA
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, after about 6 months of trying to decide what shoe to get, I thought the price to quality/comfort/performance of these shoes was the way to go. After 2 rides with them, I'm a bit skeptical now. Admittedly, my first ride with them included a hill climb that was a lot more hike-a-bike through rock piles. That's where the problem came in. My feet couldn't fit in the 42's and the 43's where a tad loose. I got the 43's anyway. I have some heel slip, but climbing through boulder fields, this is amplified to the point where my feet where almost coming out altogether. This is mostly because the upper velcro lash is not long enough and it kept slipping loose on the rocks. In addition to the looseness, the balls of my feet starting to hurt big time after a few hours. They felt a little better on the next days ride, but I'm not able to make them tight enough for my taste. Should've saved up for the Sidi Dominator II's. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bradley Bray
a cross-country rider
from Boston, MA
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The quality of the shoes is impressive though I must caution those with compartively wide feet. I have had a good deal of trouble with the shoes and my toes going to sleep. They have stretched out a bit, but at this time (1.5 mos of use) I am not a pumped as I had hoped to be. The plastic exterior heel cup is a great feature. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gavin
a cross-country rider
from Suffolk, UK
Date Reviewed: April 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Good solid shoes basically. Nothing fancy about them but they are strong as anything and will probably last me the rest of my life. They are easy to clean and those toe studs really do work. Velcro still works after months of mud, crud water and everything. (The black/orange colourway is better than the pictured one) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jp
a cross-country rider
from menomonie, wi
Date Reviewed: April 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
got them about 5 months ago, and still love them.They have gotten soaked in rain and covered in mud, and they are still holding up. The toe cleats work amazingly well when running up hills and the lace/strap combo is great for a nice snug fit. All of my runner friends who are obsessed with shoes think they are cool as hell too!they need to loose the neon, however. Reminds me of snowboarding in the early 90's.. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a weekend warrior
from Mt. Airy NC
Date Reviewed: March 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I love em!!! They're great, they have a great solid footbed and have a very snug fit so your foot doesn't rub inside the shoe. They work great with SPDs I think they are the best shoe made. The only thing that is not good is that they take a while to lace up to go ride but for the quality and comfort it is worth every bit worth the effort. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom Pearson
a cross-country rider
from Statesboro, Ga
Date Reviewed: February 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Diadora has an excellent shoe in the Chili. They clip in pretty solid, and are a good, snug fit. You get the quality of ome of the more expensive models at a great price. Good, strong heel and toeand an excellent closure design, you get the best of both worlds; laces and straps. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler Patching
a
from cross-country rider
Date Reviewed: December 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These are great shoes. I have been using them for about 8 months now. They are in fact a high quality mtn bike shoe. I ride in muddy conditions on the north shore of Oahu. The cleats seem to keep me hooked up while walking. and the boxed heel holds my foot in position. My feet have never lost circulation due to the stiff sole and good closure design of the shoe. These shoes simply do their job, and they do it well.
No complaints. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sherman
a weekend warrior
from British Columbia, Canada
Date Reviewed: December 13, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had these shoes for about 6 months. They are pretty nice. The soles are really stiff and the whole design is nice. My tounge ripped off in one of the shoes but I can still use it. The only dowside to these are that they are kinda narrow and they do look a little lame with the flourecent coloroing. I guess some of it is there for safety when you ride at night. All and all it is a pretty nice shoe and it has lasted me for 6 months. Also the grip blocks seem a little high on the heels so it is easy to hurt yourself when you move your ankle the wrong way. | | Overall Rating: |
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