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Submitted by
Bigchef
a Weekend Warrior
from Palmerton, PA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 1, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Internet | | Strengths: | This review is for the Performamce Trophy shoe.
Great fit, light weight, stiff | | Weaknesses: | Not really a true Mountain bike shoe. Actully a road bike shoe that can be used for mautain biking. Slippery on hard surfaces and not easy to walk in. | | Similar Products Used: | Many | | Bike Setup: | Hard tail, Aluminum frame, LX components, not looking new anymore | | Bottom Line: | I tried these shoes becuase I wanted something I could wear in Mountain and Road bike, SPD clips.
I was suprised that the real difference in these shoes and road shoes is the special clip. The clip actually has wings that stick out with hard plastic grippers. After trying them I realized how much I like the light weight and stiff sole. Just be reminded that these are actually meant for road bikes. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jason
a
from modesto, ca
Date Reviewed: April 8, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$80.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Bottom Line: | "TROPHY" MOUNTAIN SHOE: over 3 years and they're still going strong. i might get another year out of them (getting to the end of the road). i love the 3 straps without laces (overkill). they have a stiff sole and i have no problem hiking in them if necessary (come with toe spikes). $80+ is a sweet price for over 3 years of regular abuse. i'll replace them with another similar performance model. buy with confidence! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
canadian,eh
a Weekend Warrior
from VA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | the dirt kind | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$45.00 | | Purchased At: | performance | | Strengths: | price-they are frequently cheaper than their official price of $60
fit-not exactly custom-fit quality, but still not bad. they stay on real well, and velcro don't loosen not, neither
comfortable- i rarely wear socks with these
looks-they look like normal shoes, although i have nothing against silver "leather" (where can i find a cow of that color, i want one)
traction- great for those rugged hike-a-bike sections | | Weaknesses: | like i said, they aren't custom italian fit, but they are still pretty solid | | Similar Products Used: | first clipless shoes | | Bike Setup: | 2000 fisher paragon, bontrager RE-1's | | Bottom Line: | a VERY solid shoe for the price. with the outsole and looks, i can wear these off the bike w/o looking like a moron. if you blew your budget on your bike like i did, you cant't beat these. and although durability seems good, if anything DOES go wrong, then they have a 100% warranty on then. talk about fancy pants. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Milwaukee, WI
Date Reviewed: May 15, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Muir Trails at Kettle Moraine | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Italian made, fit well, price | | Weaknesses: | Color scheme | | Similar Products Used: | Just plain ol' Tennis Shoes | | Bike Setup: | GT Ricochet, XT drivetrain, Manitou fork, Spox rear, Crosslink front. | | Bottom Line: | I just got the Trophy model atb shoe. They're really nice for the price. I was a little sketchy about shelling out 130+ for clipless shoes just to "see if I like clipless" and I do! The shoe is sturdy, comfortable and probably just as good as the higher priced models. You can't go wrong with this shoe if you're just learning to use clipless pedals. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Puzman
a Cross Country Rider
from Wallingford, CT
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | ?? | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Fit well
Microbuckle adjustability
Stiffness
Incredible value
Performance 100% guarantee
| | Weaknesses: | goofy looks
slightly tight cleat clearance
sole is somewhat slick | | Similar Products Used: | Nike PooBah
Performance Kwake (Krap) | | Bike Setup: | Klein Mantra, Bomber | | Bottom Line: | These shoes are a great value at $99 from Performance. They are light-years beyond Performance's earlier efforts at shoes (the Kwakes, which are Krap). Stiff, comfy, and way, way cheaper than anything else out there at this quality level. These are made in Italy, and it shows. The cleat clearance seems slightly tight for my SPDs, but i've had no problems whatsoever getting in or out. The soles are one-piece molded of a hard plastic, which should mean durable, but it also means they feel pretty slick walking around the house while I'm getting my gear together. Also, I could do without the disco space-punk look (what happened to basic black?) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Baltimore
Date Reviewed: March 29, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | light, stiff, 3 strap adjustability, nice and wide in the front, Italian made craftsmanship | | Weaknesses: | Silver color | | Similar Products Used: | 1994 Shimano shoes(finally fell apart), Specialized El Gato Comp(returned) | | Bike Setup: | 2000 Raven 1000sl | | Bottom Line: | TRophy MTB shoe-
Just got them and they fit real well. They run large and have space in front for my wide feet. Didn't want to fork out $180 for the SIDI's and got them on sale for $69 at performance. Not a huge fan of the color scheme, but so far a nice pair of shoes. I have high arches and the 3 straps offer a better fit than the buckle. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Racer
from Texas
Date Reviewed: March 14, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Flat Creek | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Light | | Weaknesses: | We'll see about the buckle. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized ultimate | | Bike Setup: | 8900, sx-ti, raceface,xtr | | Bottom Line: | Performance Royal
I reallly liked my Ultimates bt i needed another pair so I did my shopping and came up with these. The only thing I'm not sure of is the buckle Im afraid of the durability. But damn are they light last night I kept looking down to see if they were still on | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Trail Boy
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond, VA
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Sherando Lake | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Close out price of $99.99. | | Weaknesses: | Hard to get a good cleat position. | | Similar Products Used: | Other Shimano shoes that I have milked along. | | Bike Setup: | Marin Pine Mountain from 1996. | | Bottom Line: | I bought these shoes from Performance for the price. I spoke to a salesman from a LBS and he told me that Shimano had corrected the problem of the soles coming off. Being that I had had two other Shimano shoes that had the soles fall off I thought he was correct. Also, the soles looked different and seemed to be well constructed. I made the purchase through Performance because the LBS did not have my size. I had a hard time getting a good cleat position and did not wear them very much. In fact I never wore them off-road. I was planning on doing a test ride very soon. However, I went to a race and notice another racer had them on and I asked him about his pair. He quickly pointed to the soles and they were RIPPING OFF! He said that was after one day of use. That made up my mind - back they went. Good thing Performance has a %100 return policy. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Drew Hutton
a Weekend Warrior
from Cumming, GA USA
Date Reviewed: February 17, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Anywhere in North GA | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Light weight
Inexpensive
Great fit
Good ventilation | | Weaknesses: | None yet | | Similar Products Used: | Tennis Shoes? | | Bike Setup: | Breezer Storm, XT/LX mix, Marzocchi Atom Bombs | | Bottom Line: | Bought the Trophy/MC-7 combo from Performance, and they both have been fabulous. The shoes are very light weight, and they fit very well on someone who has unusually wide, yet small feet. They are very comfortable, and stay very cool, although it's not quite summer yet, and I'm sure that will change some! Overall, a great shoe at a great price for anyone! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TK
a Weekend Warrior
from Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Date Reviewed: September 8, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Bottom Line: | Recently bought the Trophy model. Have ridden on it about 10 times and the verdict is in: its a GREAT shoe!! Super well made (Italy), very comfortable, fits snug but no pressure points. Velcro straps are perfect for micro adjusting. Also they are quite light too, plus they look sharp as well. 5 chilis for these pups....... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MiGuEl
a Cross-Country Rider
from Farmington, MI
Date Reviewed: August 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Potowatomi | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Comfortable, durable, decent tread, open tread area for use with most pedals, neopreme gives a snug feel. | | Weaknesses: |
Heel is too loose, straps have stretched in time. | | Bike Setup: |
Full suspension Jamis Dakar with a Z2 Bam | | Bottom Line: | The kwake is an inexpensive shoe for someone who wants functionality, comfort and low cost. I have had the shoe for 3 seasons and I have got my moneys worth and then some. The kwake is not a flashy high tech mtb shoe but has served it's purpose after 3 seasons of abuse and many miles and is still in rather good shape. However, my biking has become more serious so I would like to purchase a more serious shoe, the kwake lacks a stiffer sole and secure locking heel, traits of a race type shoe. Great shoe for someone on a budget, getting started on clippless pedals or for the occassional cross country rider who doesn't want to spend an arm and leg. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KIMO
a Cross-Country Rider
from CERRITOS, CA
Date Reviewed: July 3, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
LIGHTWEIGHT, GREAT FIT, WIDE TOE AREA, HUGS HEEL REAL GOOD, GREAT LOOKING SHOE ESPECIALLY IN SILVER. | | Weaknesses: |
BOTTOM LUGS SEEMS SOFT RUBBER OR PLASTIC, WILL WEAR FAST. WENT THROUGH 2 PAIRS. FIRST ONE, IT SEEMS THE LORICA WAS COMING OFF THE SOLE, SECOND PAIR, STRIPPED THE PLATE WHERE YOU SCREW IN BOLT FOR CLEAT. THEY USE AN ALUMINUM PLATE VS. A STEEL PLATE USED IN SHIMANO SHOES. BE CAREFUL WHEN TIGHTENING BOLTS. THIRD PAIR SO FAR IS HOLDING UP GREAT! | | Similar Products Used: |
SPECIALIZED ROCKHOPPER, SHIMANO M080. | | Bike Setup: |
TIME ATAC CARBON ON SCHWINN HOMEGROWN FS, TIME ATAC PLASTIC ON GT AVALANCHE. | | Bottom Line: | THIS IS A POST REVIEW OF THE PERFORMANCE ROYALE SHOE. EVEN THOUGH OF THE WEAKNESSES, I THINK THIS IS A GREAT SHOE. IT FITS MY FEET REAL NICE, NO HOT SPOTS & EASY TO WALK, ALSO VERY LIGHT. I JUST HOPE THAT THIS PAIR LASTS. SURE FRUSTRATING WHEN 2 PAIRS DIDN'T HOLD UP. JUST KEEP YOUR PERFORMANCE RECEIPT HANDY IN CASE OF ANY PROBLEMS. PERFORMANCE WAS KIND TO REPLACE THE OTHER 2, & EXCHANGE FOR A NEW PAIR OF THE SAME SHOE. THAT TO ME IS GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Green Giant
a Cross-Country Rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: June 26, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
fit | | Weaknesses: |
primo's stretched way out | | Similar Products Used: |
many | | Bike Setup: |
time atac pedals | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up and new review all in one. I had the cheap 55 dollar primo shoes from performance. These are made in china and imitate the same cut and style as the trophy's and royales. Unfortunately they streched WAY to much. I have wide feet and was happy they fit in the first place. But after 5-6 rides the primo's were too big. However performance exchanged them even without a reciept. This time I got the trophy's and couldn't be happier. The trophy's and royales are made by gaerne. Really nice so far. wide up front, narrow and deep heel pocket. Price wise very reasonable. I'd still like all three, but for perfomance oriented riders (no pun intended) get the trophy's or royales. VERY impressive. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
KIMO
a Cross-Country Rider
from CERRITOS, CA
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
ANY SO. CAL. TRAILS | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
GREAT LOOKING SHOE, VELCRO ON BOTTOM, MICRO LOCK ON TOP, GREAT LOOKING GRAY/SILVER COLOR W/ BLACK DOUBLE MESH, RED AGGRESSIVE TREAD PATTERN, SEEMS WELL VENTILATED, LIGHT, ROOMY IN TOE, SNUG IN HEEL. | | Weaknesses: |
CHEESY SPIKES, LOOKS LIKE ALUMINUM DRACUALA TEETH, DON'T LOOK LIKE THEY'LL LAST BUT A FEW RIDES. WILL THE MICRO ADJUST BUCKLE BE DURABLE, MAYBE AFTER A GOOD SMACK W/ SOME TRAIL STUFF???? BUT FOR DURABILITY OF THE ROYALE SHOE & BUCKLE, TIME WILL TELL..... | | Similar Products Used: |
SPECIALIZED ROCKHOPPER, SHIMANO MO80 | | Bike Setup: |
TIME ATAC CARBON PEDAL ON SCHWINN HOMEGROWN XT FS, TIME ATAC POLYMIDE (PLASTIC) ON GT AVALANCHE XT HT. | | Bottom Line: | JUST BOUGHT THE PERFORMANCE ROYALE ATB SHOE. WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW, PERFORMANCE HAS COME UP W/ A REAL NICE SHOE THAT'S ON PAR W/ SIDI OR ANY OTHER PRIMO ITALIAN SHOE. THE FIT IS PERFECT, IT HAS A WIDER TOE BOX, SNUG FIT IN THE HEEL. THE ROYALE SHOE IS MADE BY GAERNE, SO IT MUST BE TOP QUALITY. LOOK AT PERFORMANCE'S LATEST ELITE CATALOG, YOU'LL SEE A GAERNE ATB SHOE THAT IS VERY SIMILAR TO THE ROYALE'S, BUT W/ A DIFFERENT TREAD PATTERN. CONSTRUCTION ARE SIMILAR BUT THE GAERNE MODEL IS $50 OR SO $ MORE. THE ROYALE'S GO FOR $120. WAIT TILL THEY GO ON SALE. I SUGGEST THAT IF YOU USE FRONT SPIKES (INLCUDED), GET A SET FROM SPECIALIZED OR SOME OTHER BRAND THAT LOOK LIKE THAT THEY'LL LAST, THE SPIKES THAT COME W/ THE SHOE LOOKS WEAK. THE FIT IS GREAT, NO SLOP THAT I NOTICE. A REALLY COOL LOOKING SHOE. WILL GIVE POST REVIEW AFTER A FEW RIDES. FLY LOW & AVOID THE RADAR MY MTN BIKE BROTHERS.... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Green Giant
a Cross-Country Rider
from Illinois
Date Reviewed: May 30, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
south kettles | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
fit my feet, unlike most | | Weaknesses: |
wish they a better retaining system, like the axo's | | Similar Products Used: |
All sorts of shoes from 200 bucks on down to these at 55 | | Bike Setup: |
time atac pedals | | Bottom Line: | Just got the primos for 55 bucks on sale. Tried all the new performance shoes, my understanding is the top two (trophy and royale) are made by gaerne, and looking at gaerne's and these they look real similar and fit similar also. Tried all three on, all fit pretty well, the royales were a bit tight. For 55 bucks, these the primo's are darn nice. Wide up front which is rare, but even more rare is they are narrow in the heel and really grab. For any of you with duck feet (narrow heels, wide up front, and relatively flat) I urge you to try the new performance shoes. They are made well, and fit great. Long term durability I can't attest too, but all models can be had for under 100 on sale. I wish they had the axo velcro system, but truly not at bad shoe or line up, even for performance brand. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross-Country Rider
from Phila, PA
Date Reviewed: April 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Wissahickon | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Good quality, price, FIT, half-sizes. | | Weaknesses: |
Plastic logo on heel | | Similar Products Used: |
Sidi, Nike, Shimano. (All returned) | | Bike Setup: |
C-Dale XC, Trek DH | | Bottom Line: | Great shoe (Trophy ATB model). Quality seems as good as other high-end shoes. Very hard to find shoes that fit me. These come in whole & half Euro sizes. I like them so much, I am getting a pair for my road bike!!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darrell McMillan
a Racer
from Round Mountain, NV
Date Reviewed: March 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Flume Trail, Tahoe | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Good value for the price. Excellent durability. Good traction off the bike. | | Weaknesses: |
Could fit snugger in the heel. | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 7000, Rock Shox Quadra 5 and Judy SL. | | Bottom Line: | These shoes are an excellent value for the money. I would recommend them to any beginner or recreational rider. If your into racing, look for a shoe that fits a little snugger in the heel and has a stiffer sole. The new Italian made performance shoes look to be pretty awesome but will cost you more. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ron
a weekend warrior
from Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: September 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Quake IIs as my first MTB shoe, and for the money they're very good. A slightly more recessed SPD mount would be good, but I havn't experienced any walking problems with them. I've had them now for about 4 months paired with Frog pedals and they're still great. At the $40 sale price you really can't go wrong with these. Minus 1 chili for only the puke green color availability. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nate
a downhiller
from Petoskey, MI
Date Reviewed: July 18, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
These shoes were bad, even for how cheap they were. The pathetic excuse for a heel strap cracked after a few months and they are as sloppy as anything on your foot. A person with wide bulky feet may have better luck with them, for me, I could not ever get them snug enough even after I shortened and re-sewed the straps. If you are just getting clipless, have a small budget, fat feet, know how to sew, and don't mind a little slop, these are for you. A OK first shoe. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Mitton
a weekend warrior
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: July 10, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Decent shoes at an excellent price. I'm using Kwake II's and Performance Campus pedals (SPD+bear trap). Whole set came in at $90. The wide velcro straps distribute force well---makes spinning the cranks easy---and the wide tongue keeps mud out. Two problems: the SPD cleat isn't well protected (surrounding tread should be deeper) and the green color is terrible---dry dirt brown would me much better. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BRIAN
a weekend warrior
from Tennessee
Date Reviewed: June 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a pair of Kwakes as my first mtb shoes. They are ok for the money but I have a terrible time clipping into my pedals quickly with them. They are a fairly comfortable shoe and I have not experienced any of the cracking problems mentioned by other reviews. I don't use them much any more except for folling around on slow park rides with friends. I don't know anything about the redesigned Kwakes.I | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
g. shaw
a cross-country rider
from cambridge, ma
Date Reviewed: April 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I originally had an older model Performance shoe that I got as a gift. They held up nicely for about two years and then self destructed. Performance replaced them with this model, no questions asked, which was very cool. I used them for about a year of pretty hard riding, and the sole of one finally cracked in half. I figure I got my money's worth. The sole is not very stiff (although better than sneakers) and they are not all that comfortable. I replaced them with Carnacs. I would say the Performance shoes definitely do not compare, but to be fair, the Carnacs are 4x more expensive. So, the Performance shoes are great as your first pair of bike shoes, if you are on a budget, and/or if you are an occasional and recreational rider. Otherwise, I'd recommend ponying up the dough for better quality shoes. Three chillies for value, minus one for cracked sole and lack of comfort, but plus one for good customer service. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Grand Pooh Bear
a cross-country rider
from R.I. USA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I rode with these for two years and was not wholly impressed with them. They began to fall apart rather quickly. Also, the sole was not as stiff as other shoes I've looked at. However, I was not using clipless pedals with these shoes. Instead I was riding Odyssey Black Widow DH pedals with toe clips. So to be fair, I think the clips and I know the cages on the pedals accelerated the destruction of these shoes. But, they were rideadble for two years despite their condition. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shanemiester
a weekend warrior
from Lakewood, Co
Date Reviewed: March 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The sole on my MSG' cracked. At first I thought it was Because I weigh 235#, but after reading these reviews I think differently. Also the straps broke after half a season. For 40 beans what did I expect. They might be good for a more casual rider, I place lots of torque on the shoes and the didn't hold up at all. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a racer
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: January 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
These shoes cracked at the forefoot part of the sole within 8 months. Not very supportive, but they were comfortable. If you cant affort anything better...get them. But they might not last much past 1 year, if that. Good for entry level. The fabric is difficult to clean. Performance does have good customer service. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
henry
a weekend warrior
from Delaware
Date Reviewed: January 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The worst thing about the Kwakes is the heal support... there is none.
The best thing is that Performance took them back and gave me full credit after several abusive rides. The heal strap was torn, (poor design) they were muddy and scratched. Two chilies for the shoes... Four for Performance customer service. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bike2
a cross-country rider
from CA
Date Reviewed: November 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Good value when on sale for $40. KWAKE. For entry level and average recreational riders, this shoe works well.For all of those STUPID wanna be RACERS why do they even bother with a $40 shoe. Are you such a cheap skate on a $2k-3k bike that you don't spend money on a sponsored brand name. You get what you pay for.kFor all of you that are not racers and want a reasonable price this shoe should be fine. My first road shoe was a time. My first MTB was performance. I now ride Sidi and Time MTB. This is because I want ultra stiff and like to look like a pro to match my $2k bike.Don't overlook this shoe for its value. If you are a racer go get a sponsor or spend some real money you penny pinchers. As they say dont squeeze the nickel until the buffalo hollars. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenneth Mayer
a cross-country rider
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Update on MSG shoe: Still riding them since Jan '97 and having no unexpected problems as other owners. No cracks, yet, and the sole is still holding up but it is shredding from the volcanic rock I have to wade through at times. I think the only issue is that the leather/mesh boot is loosening up as all shoes do and I'm having to tighten the shoe strings and velcro closure tighter as time goes on. I'm pleased at $49 and I see that they dropped to $39 this past issue from Performance. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevan Yalowitz
a weekend warrior
from Issaquah, WA
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These work great for my riding hold up well. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DBRxc
a cross-country rider
from Idaho
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I own a set of kwake shoes and a set of Answer Accelerators (paid $120 for the Accelerators) and I can't tell the difference between the two when they are on my feet and I'm riding. I've owened the kwakes for two years and have had no problems or breakage of any kind. I know I'm sticking my neck out here, but I dont believe anyone else can tell the difference between these shoes either. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a
from Marin, CA
Date Reviewed: June 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought the Kwake model 18 months ago. I weigh 135 & ride offroad about 6 hours a week, and haven't seen the cracking problems others have. I'd like the shoes to fit more snugly, but for the money I'm satisfied with the construction.The sole rubber pattern works badly with Time ATACs, though. Fine for Ritcheys and Onza HO. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
justin becker
a racer
from cincinnati OH
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
they suck the collar gets all torn up and the soles cracked all the way across, their pedals suck to the engagement parts keep breaking | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Spaceman
a cross-country rider
from barbados
Date Reviewed: June 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I got a pair of the MSG downhillers. They are not that great for walking, but what the hell, they are made for riding. I don't think that they are that bad, I have had no problems so far will keep you posted. Four flaming dead horses | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Skarzynski
a cross-country rider
from Lakewood, CO
Date Reviewed: May 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Buy these shoes only if you live near a Performance Bike Shop (3 locations in Denver area) and plan on only doing recreational rides. I worked for Performance for about 9 months and I have mixed feelings about the shoes. Many customers loved the comfort of the shoes but I have seen far too many come back with cracked soles. The cracked sole is not a problem if you have a retail store near you - just bring them back and exchange them (the employees are used to this, trust me). However, if you mail order them, beware. Also, don't expect them to be a hard core race shoe. Save some more money and buy a pair of Answer shoes (stay away from Nike) or Sidis (yes, you can buy a pair without the Genius buckle for less than $150). | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael
a weekend warrior
from Hartford, CT
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've been using these shoes for six months and have mixed feelings about them. The PROS are that they're inexpensive and relatively snug on my feet. Definitely a good choice for a first time clipless person. The soles seem so-so but they do the job with good transferrence of energy. The CONS would be the dorky colors, the straps that are too long, the removable sole is difficult and the neoprene collar gets in the way of replacing the cleat washer....I can't say that they're excellent....but they're not as bad as a lot of people here say...... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Loren
a
from downhiller
Date Reviewed: March 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a pair of MSG downhill shoes and they cracked in two places in the sole around the cleat. They are no better than the Nike bike shoes that crack also. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Not Unhappy With
a downhiller
from Peformance Bike Store
Date Reviewed: March 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have the performance MSG Downhill Shoe.
The cut is well designed, I don't understand these compaints, if you have a wide foot think about gettin these. I previously had specialized team shoes which suck. The cleat absolutly does not stay in place. the sole cracks and they don't keep any water out. I tried Sidi shoes but they are WAY to narrow for me. The Performance Boot has lasted me litteraly a year of riding nearly every day, read 5-6 days a week. They arn't vary comfortable for walking but they feel nice on the bike + they protect you ankle and stablize your foot. They do not suck as much as these other people say but if they fit you and you can afford them get Sidi other wise try these or Shimano shoes (nice also) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James DArienzo
a cross-country rider
from Hazlet, NJ
Date Reviewed: March 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought these shoes because they were cheap. They came with my first
pair of clipless pedals as a package. The sole on my one shoe is cracked.
The straps are way too long to get a firm fit. Also when walking it feels
like my foot is going to fall out. I plan on ditching these sh*t steppers
as soon as I muster up the money. For a first pair they do the job. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a weekend warrior
from Mountain View, CA
Date Reviewed: March 4, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Junk!!! Mush! Poorly constructed. Get the point.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jong-won Choi
a weekend warrior
from Seoul, Korea
Date Reviewed: March 2, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought a pair of M.S.G Downhiller for winter riding. After 14 hours the sole was started crack. I applaied *a lot* of glues. Then after 30 hours it was broken. Don't buy it to use in winter. I through out about $60 in air!!! (Well, the last time I used it, I just bunny hopped and my left leg flyed high /w a shimano cleat Uh...in the air AHrrrrrr!!!!)
From their catalogue - Aggressive SPD compatible sole.. ... for who needs a shoe built to last through more than one season - Yes it was an aggressive crash!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kenneth Mayer
a cross-country rider
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: February 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I am not aware of the above model although I've ridden in the MSG downhiller Performance shoe and it is holding up quite well. Bought them on a closeout, if that tells you anything, but work for my riding conditions on the floors of the Sonoran Desert. We will have to see how long they last since I've only had them for 3 months. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Pinkham
a racer
from Marshfield, MA
Date Reviewed: January 23, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
These things F**KING SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!....... I had these shoes for two monthes and one day while portaging my bike up a way to steep uphill for a race the SOLE CRACKED by the cleat. At first I thought I stepped on a stick because I heard a crack. Then I could feel flex. To my amazement the shoe was cracked.
P.S. The straps are too long and dont make the shoe tight enough. These shoes dont even deserve this review, let alone a flaming chile.
P.S. You are a Darn IDIOT if you even think about looking at the page these are on. THEY SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan Lewis
a racer
from Sullivan,IL
Date Reviewed: January 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, there pretty decent if your on a buget and desperate,but
compared to specialized or sidi they are to flexy,and fall
apart to fast, but hey you've gotta start somewhere. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
NF1
a cross-country rider
from mothers Womb
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Damn good pair of shoes and cheap too, they get good tracton (though I've only got sneakers to compair them too) and fit verry snugly with the neopren collar and velcro straps, they really hurt to walk in tough. 5 stars for value | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nigel Pickard
a weekend warrior
from Westwood MA
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Well, you get what you paid for -but in my case I think these shoes were a good deal -with a few caveats.It's true to say I haven't used these shoes for off-road very often, but I have put 1,800 miles on them this year, and with the exception of a stretchy strap breaking (which, incidentally, I didn't even notice until I saw it) these shoes have lasted well and have had no problems with the stitching or soles. I think after looking at the prior reviews, I must have a good pair. I bought these primarily because they were cheap and I was unsure if I was going to like going clipless -I would recommend them to people who don't want to spend twice as much on a shoe and then find out they don't like clipless and have a very expensive ugly pair of hard soled shoes.I used them mostly for commuting and touring, and this might be the reason they have stood up so well, but when I do go off road with them, I've been heavy handed on them........ Even though I bunny hop, they still keep together as good as the day I bought them. I've also found them to be very comfortable after an initial couple of weeks wearing them in, and its worth noting I have a wide foot. I really didn't like the soles for removing the grip to attach the cleats; it's a real pain and I ended up having to glue some part of the grip back on.My verdict? Great inexpensive shoes for the commute, touring or just for trying clipless. I agree with the last reviewer though; these things are pig ugly -but then again which cycling shoes aren't? Don't try to pick up Cindy Crawford wearing these -anyway, four chillis from me (for the shoes that is, not Cindy Crawford). Bear in mind, I didn't use these shoes all the time for off road. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a
from arkansas
Date Reviewed: November 9, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
I was too cheep to buy good shoes and I ended up with these. Within a short time, the stiching started coming apart. My chain ring ripped a strap off.
You can't tighten them up worth shit, and the only way they fit is if I wear
two pairs of socks. I think we can all agree that they are butt-ugly too.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keith
a racer
from Worcester, MA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Although the Kwakes are inexpensive, I would definitely not recommend these shoes for serious riding. They lack long term durability and adequate power transfer due to the soft sole (great for walking, but not for biking). I didn't even have these shoes 9 months before the soles cracked completely across near the cleats. Additionally, the soles flexed easily when I pulled on the upstroke or cranked downward. Buy a pair of Duegis or Sidis that'll last you much longer and will save you $$$ in the long run. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
E.J.
a cross-country rider
from Pennsylvania
Date Reviewed: August 27, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
model: downhill
I've been riding with these shoes for about 6 months, and they are a bargain. Don't be put off by the downhill label, these are good everyday shoes. I find the extra support of a high-top shoe helpful, and like the fact that these shoes are 100% leather. They still look brand new (although a bit dirty). The leather construction means that they conform to your foot better than nylon shoes, and should also be alot warmer in cold weather. They are very good at keeping water out as well. I have seen the price on these fluctuate from $59.99-$79.99. A couple words of caution - the sizing on these shoes does not seem consistant. I tried on 3 pairs of 9 1/2's and all were different! 2 were too small, and the other was just right. Since they are leather, they will stretch a bit after wearing (but not alot). Also, the slots for the cleats are cut very far forward on the sole. I have the cleats jammed as far back as can go - this could be a problem for some people. I would recommend !
going to a Performance store if there is one near you to try them on - ordering by mail could be a hassle with returns. In summary, a good value in an all leather, high-top shoe - but with room for some improvement. If you can get a good fit and the sale price, I recommend them. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik Su
a weekend warrior
from Ithaca, NY
Date Reviewed: June 24, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
These are a not too bad. I first bought these because I thought they were a good
deal, and they are, sort of. No doubt the price is good. However, they never did
fit me that well, the forefoot was too wide. Of course, I do have narrow feet,
so wider footed people may not have the same problem. The velcro straps are nice,
they allow you to adjust while on the bike without taking the feet of the pedals.
However, the main problems are that they are not stiff enough, and the sole is
not aggressive enough. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lee
a weekend warrior
from California, USA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
Performance Kwake shoes.
Good: Comfort (for my feet; bought at a Performance store, not mail order,
so I tried them out before buying). Comfort for your feet may vary.
Low price.
Bad: Poor durability. After a little more than a year, sole treads are
falling off and upper material is stretched.
Other: When used with Wellgo 96F clipless pedals (which have a small
platform), the sole (with a large, flat cleat pocket) does not
grip the pedal well if you miss the engagement. Answer Accelerator
shoes grip these pedals much better. However, the large, flat
cleat pocket may simplify installation of large cleats. | | Overall Rating: |
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