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Submitted by
Scott
a
from San Anselmo, CA
Date Reviewed: April 14, 2008 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$175.00 | | Strengths: | Comfortable fit, stiff, one hand tightening, seem very durable. | | Weaknesses: | Sole too hard/slippery, inside bottom cushion too thin. | | Similar Products Used: | Various Shimano shoes. | | Bottom Line: | I heard the hype about them from buddies, so opened the wallet to see if it was true. The fit, stiffness and tightening system is indeed better than the various Shimano shoes I've owned. They seem durable so far, but haven't used them long enough to credibly opine on that yet...but will give them benefit of doubt in my value rating.
The problem: The sole is way too hard to do any hike-a-bike walking over slippery or rocky terrain. Many technical trails I ride have the occasional sections where you have to get over a steep rock face or other impassable natural barrier, and these shoes are downright sketchy in those somewhat slippery terrain situations compared to my old Shimananos. I see no reason why they couldn't use slightly softer (but still durable) rubber on the bottom vs. the hard plastic they use. This plastic belong more on roadie shoes.
Also, the inside padding underneath foot is very thin, which makes them uncomfortable to when walking in over uneven terrain. I'll try to find a thicker pad to solve that.
Biking shoes are clearly meant for riding in, not walking--but in all mountain-type riding there are inevitably some situations when you need to walk a little, and need walk with some traction. These shoes fail miserably there.
However, I'm still (barely) giving them 4 chilis...since I fortunately ride a lot more than I walk, and I wouldn't trade them for any other shoes I've owned...due to the all important "fits like a glove" factor. These are probably great for pure XC riders/racers, but AM riders should at least consider the weaknesses before biting. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
marshall S
a Weekend Warrior
from SLC, UT, USA
Date Reviewed: September 21, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Park City Area Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$140.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Comfort, durability, breathability | | Weaknesses: | Debri will stick around rachet and you can't open until you clear out the stick, weeds, etc. | | Similar Products Used: | Many - but these are the best | | Bike Setup: | Giant VT and Bianchi Giro | | Bottom Line: | Great shoes, I got a deal on these and I had heard so much about them that I had to buy them. I love these shoes, I use them for both road and mtn and they work great. Mine are the Dom ventilator, which really works, especially here where the summers get very hot.
I've also ridden them on very wet, muddy days and was concerned how they would clean up and dry out, but with a little TLC, they are fine. Looking forward to many more years with these shoes.
Other than the rachet occassionally getting debri stuck in them, I've got no complaints. In fact, I highly recommend them. Don't spend your money on another "made in... shoes, save up and go for the best. | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Urban
a Cross Country Rider
from Bozeman Montana USA
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Garnet/History Rock/fire creek | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | cycle path bikes (East Hampton) | | Strengths: | They last forever (9seasons),fit like glove,and you CAN hike a bike in them. | | Weaknesses: | No real weakness, but if i had to come up with one i'd say they aren't the best hiking shoe, but i won't trade for em for anything! | | Similar Products Used: | Lake shoes | | Bike Setup: | Hardtail, XTR, fox talus RLC, SPD | | Bottom Line: | The best shoes on the market period, i my view | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Birmingham, AL
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | The dirt one | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$220.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Comfort, durability, performance. | | Weaknesses: | Kind of pricey but you get what you pay for. The ratchet on the newer model is a little troublesome but not a big problem. | | Similar Products Used: | Time, Answer, Shimano | | Bike Setup: | Soma hardtail, Marzocchi Fork, Sram X9, XTR crank, Avid BB7 brakes, WTB hubs w/Sun rims, Time-Race Face-Dean-Selle Italia-WTB bits & pieces. It's blue, it rides great and I like it. | | Bottom Line: | The Dominator is a great product. My first pair, Dom 2's, were purchased in 1997-98 can't remember. Bomber shoe, no complaint at all, ratchet mech worked like a charm throughout their life. After 7 years the toebox started to delam and the crowning blow cam from a rock finally opening them up. My current pair, Dom 5's, are going strong after 2 years or so. The ratchet is a little troublesome but I've never been stuck in them. You just have to hold you tongue right, come on, you're a mountain biker, don't be a sissy. As for sole durability, mine have held up famously. I ride 6 hours a week minimum and they seem pretty durable to me. My first pair went through the 24 hrs of Canaan 2 (or 3?) times. I've pushed up trails at Pisgah NC and stood at more rocky "spots" than my pickled mind can remember. The soles are tough. They are slippery as hell on wet rocks & roots but they aren't trail shoes, they're race shoes but they're so durable I'll forgive them that. I suspect those with big durability complaints need to ride more & walk less. Stay away from the high end Sidi SRS models unless you want to fork out $40+ bucks a month as those thing wear like they're made of play-do. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Marlow
a Cross Country Rider
from Seattle
Date Reviewed: June 19, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$130.00 | | Purchased At: | SuperGo | | Strengths: | fit adjustments | | Weaknesses: | buckle fastening system, narrow and slick tread | | Bottom Line: | If you plan to race and never get off your bike, these shoes might be great. Try getting off your bike for any hike-a-bike sections and you'll immediately regret your purchase.
I bought these shoes because they tightened around my low-volume feet. However, the tread is so narrow that walking any distance is a course in Try Not To Roll Your Ankles. Plus, even with toe spikes, the tread does not adhere to any surface whatsoever; they even tend to deflect off my Shimano SPDs when jumping on the bike.
Mine are being eBayed. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lance Risi
a Cross Country Rider
from Parker, Colorado, USA
Date Reviewed: March 13, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Buff Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Purchased At: | Don't Remember, local Bike shop in NJ. | | Strengths: | Great fit! Easy to adjust while riding. Nothing appears to be worn out yet. | | Weaknesses: | Buckle gets stuck a lot when trying to open it, especially after a muddy ride. Price. Even when I was in Italy, I could not find a decent deal on the shoes. Also, would like to see some other colors other than black. Ok...so I shouldn't have said that. | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano, Specialized. | | Bike Setup: | Trek Fuel 100 03 | | Bottom Line: | Can't wait to buy my next pair. Up until I got my new bike it was m favorite piece of MTB equipment. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane WA USA
Date Reviewed: November 20, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | that one over there | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | performance? | | Strengths: | Comfort, durability, quality. A very comfortable, stiff cycling shoe. Very easy to adjust fit while riding. Quick drying and very breathable. Kinda obnoxious looking. | | Weaknesses: | Kinda obnoxious looking. Not a stand alone winter shoe. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike, Shimano. | | Bike Setup: | S-Works M5 Hardtail. Duke XC Race. XTR/Easton/Panaracer/Look. Serious XC. | | Bottom Line: | I have not had any issues with breaking buckles, buckles coming loose etc. I also see that people are having a tough time walking in them. I lube the buckles twice a year. Condition the leather about twice a year. I rinse them off after nasty rides and beat the hell out of them while riding. They have made it through winters in NE WA and PDX OR, summers in Central WA, Moab UT and Seattle WA. Have had to replace no parts on the shoes, even after my puppy chewed on them, poor ratchet strap. Have taken them to the local shoe repair to have the tears sewn up to prevent them from growing. Velcro still closes, buckles still hold tight and soles still climbing. Remember that these shoes are not hikers, keep that in mind until you learn to ride over the stuff. I have walked quite a ways in these and still have tread, the cleat doesn't hit the ground when walking. So beat em up, treat em right and they will last a lifetime. Please note that I am only now thinking of getting new shoes, Sidi Dragons, only because I am getting made fun of in my old timer shoes.
I'm glad that I ponied up the dough after only going through 2 other brands befor finding these. Both of my previous shoes didn't last me 1 full season. Nike suffered a broken shank, and the Shimanos lost their soles.
Not for huckers, DH or anyone that spends more time pushing their bike than riding it. If you want great energy transfer from foot to pedal, buy something similar to my old, loyal, comfortable SIDI DOMINATORs.
Pictures available for product condition. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Phillip
a Cross Country Rider
from North Carolina
Date Reviewed: February 3, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | jensonusa.com | | Strengths: | they are comfy and look cool. chicks always ask questions about em when i wear them | | Weaknesses: | dont come with toe spikes these are essential. the velcro sucks mine doesnt function after a little over a year of riding them. granted i ride alot but for a 220$ pair of shoes the velcro shoulda lasted alot longer than it has | | Similar Products Used: | nike | | Bike Setup: | S-Works its light | | Bottom Line: | pretty stupid they havent lasted as long. I would get another pair maybe the actions with the non velcro but i am pretty pissed about them fawking up the way they did. and i think they should come with toe spikes. uh.... they fit good | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim
a Racer
from Arlington, VA
Date Reviewed: December 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | any fast singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Great fit, sneaker-like comfort, stiff sole. | | Weaknesses: | The buckle. It sometimes slips when I try to get it super tight, but not a big deal. After muddy rides the buckle gets seriously stuck, can't release it. But the fix is simple -- just push down on the strap while pushing down on the buckle, works every time. I've heard rumors about the sole wearing out fast, but I will ride almost anything so it's not a problem for me. Buy the SRS (replaceable sole) version if you do a lot of walking. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized mtb shoes, Diadora road shoes | | Bike Setup: | I use these for cross-country mtb racing, commuting, and road racing (w/ eggbeater pedals on each bike) | | Bottom Line: | These shoes are da bomb! Even with the minor buckle problems this shoe is worth every penny. I use it on all of my bikes, my road shoes are now collecting dust, these are so much better. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from Charleston, WV
Date Reviewed: November 25, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | almost every dirt trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$140.00 | | Purchased At: | Nashbar | | Strengths: | sweet fit, extremely comfortable, good looks | | Weaknesses: | cost, durability (premature tread wear & faulty ratcheting buckle) | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano mid level shoes, Nike casual/ rec. rider shoes | | Bike Setup: | '03 Marin Mt Vision, SID fork, mostly XT bike, eggbeaters, maxxis tires | | Bottom Line: | These are the Sidi Dominator 4s ( which do not have the SRS ) I bought these since I heard the fit was superb, and I got a good deal. Well, fit is superb, but the shoe falls short in many respects. Tread has worn down very fast (for only 6 months)and gives poor traction on wet surfaces and WET roots, which is all we had this racing season in WV. Buckles don't seem to be ratcheting that well, feels as if it will break if I tighten it too much.
I do a fair amount of technical climbs,hike a bike climbs, and descents that I need to unclip here and there, but don't consider it to be excessive for the average rider. After 6 months the soles show considerable wear. I walked/hiked through much more rocky, tough terrain last 1.5 years with much less expensive Shimanos and had little wear, so I know the terrain shouldn't be beating up the bottoms like they have. Poor material.
Ok, I see why SIDI now has the Sole Replacement System ( I heard $40 for new sole lugs ) but shoot, should you really have to replace it every year? Seems to make more sense to take your chances with buying mid line mtb shoes every season for roughly $80 if you shop around. Most will last longer than that!!
Bottom line: If you have lots of $$, never unclip while riding rocky hills, don't need good traction while walking or jogging through sloppy east coast mtb trails (what you can't ride of course) you should buy these shoes because they fit great and are very comfortable.
I'm on the lookout for another pair of mtb shoes, since I know these will have little tread by next season. I will be happy just using these with my road bike since that eliminates some of the problems. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dirk
a Cross Country Rider
from Mishawaka, IN, US
Date Reviewed: October 13, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | JensonUSA.com | | Strengths: | Looks, namebrand, fits like a glove, stiffness, easy entry - unbeatable, durability, small (not clumsy), protects feet | | Weaknesses: | Very slippery on wet rocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Cheap Scott | | Bike Setup: | Ellsworth Truth - decked to the max | | Bottom Line: | This is for the Dom 4.
Buy this shoe if you have the money. No regrets. Sidi from now on. BTW, my buckle is in perfet working order after many hours of abuse. I ride in very rocky trails and have hit the buckle hard countless times. No problems.
Sidi makes bada$$ motocross boots also. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chuck Caffarella
a Cross Country Rider
from Sudbury, MA
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Misery | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | 123bikes.com | | Strengths: | Fit great, no pressure points, supportive. | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Other Sidi shoes including road cycling and motorcycling Race Vertebrae's (excellent high speed crash protection). | | Bike Setup: | 2004 Intense Spider - red, Progressive 5th Element Air, Fox F100X, full '03/'04 XTR with hydro and discs, Chris King Nothreadset (rasta), Thomson Elite stem and seatpost, Easton MonkeyLite bars with ODI Ruffian grips and lock jaws, WTB Laser V Ti saddle, M959 pedals, XTR M965 Wheelset, Continental Vertical Pro 2.3 UST tubeless front tire, Continental Explorer Pro 2.1 UST tubeless rear tire, Ringle skewers, Cateye Cordless 7. | | Bottom Line: | Superb fit. The classy italian shoes are a touch wider in the toe box than my Sidi road shoes. Black color doesn't show dirt. Microlock buckle allows on-the-fly adjustment. Velcro toe and arch straps provide good support. Soft yet durable, non-marring sole allows you to walk on hardwood floors without damaging them. Sidi offers replacement parts. Retail price is a bit high, but Sidi really does make the best quality shoes. I've still got a pair of road cycling shoes from 10 years ago and they still look great. And, nothing has ever gone wrong with them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
sf-rider
a Cross Country Rider
from SF
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Tamarancho | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$190.00 | | Purchased At: | Local shop | | Strengths: | They are the most comfortable shoe I've worn. They feel like sneakers -- i drive my car wearing them. | | Weaknesses: | I've been having the worst trouble releasing the buckle after riding (now you know why i drive with them). I ride hard, but I can't believe the buckle is already getting stuck.
The worst part is that I just read their warrany card and it says clearly that, "There is no warranty on SIDI mechanical closure systems. | | Similar Products Used: | Northwave & Nike | | Bike Setup: | Ano Blur w/ XTR Pedal | | Bottom Line: | Its been just over 3 weeks and they are falling apart. Only give it a shot if you catch them on sale or if SIDI decides to back their buckles. I might try the Shimano's -- their buckle looks more sturdy & durable. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Seth Burke
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, OH, USA
Date Reviewed: July 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Damn if I Know (Sedona, AZ) | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$175.00 | | Purchased At: | Downieville Outfitters | | Strengths: | Feel light, not much heel slop | | Weaknesses: | For 190 retail, these shoes have the thinnest, non support giving insoles imaginable. Not to mention the ratchet system that SUCKS!! I've had these Dominator 4's for less than a year and have already broken both buckles, the sole is gone, and the front is falling apart. I ride hard, but c'mon. My first and only other shoes were a 70$ pair of Answer Speeders that lasted nearly 4 years, and didn't have half of the problems of these. I tried to get a hold of Sidi through their US distributor (Valtec Sports) unsuccessfully, although they sent me two catalogs for my two emails. C'mon guys this is one of the most expensive shoes on the market and you're not gonna back it up.....how lame!!! Skip the Sidi's now known as Sucki's and buy a cheaper, REAL pair of shoes. These are meant for roadies!!! | | Similar Products Used: | Answer Speeder's | | Bike Setup: | Trek hardtail w/ 100mm Bomber, and full XT. Trail bike deluxe. | | Bottom Line: | These things SUCK. I don't call them Sucki's for nothing. I broke the buckles in less than 6 months, and have been duct taping them since. They don't back up their products!! 190$ doesn't mean squat except for you're a sucker!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ted
a Weekend Warrior
from Los Altos, CA
Date Reviewed: June 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Any | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Comfortable and easily adjustable. | | Weaknesses: | Not good for walking on wet rocks. | | Similar Products Used: | AXO Terra | | Bike Setup: | Spec FSRxc | | Bottom Line: | I am amazed at how comfortable these shoes are. I even had some problems with them and still would not give them up.
The short story: When I tried them on at the LBS one of the buckles fell off. The store guy locktited them in and I was off. A week later one of the buckles broke off at the screw. I did not want to give up the shoes so I called Veltec Sports (Sidi distributor in US) and they quickly agreed to send new buckles. They said the old plastic is melted by Locktite! I waited a week to get the buckles and used duct tape to keep the shoes on. The other buckle also broke off at the screw. The new buckles came with slightly longer screws and are supposed to be Locktite tolerant. No problems so far. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shappy
a Cross Country Rider
from Collingwood, Ontario, Can
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | very durable, and form fitting, with good cleat adjustment | | Weaknesses: | I like everything about this shoes, but the sole is too hard, especially when riding in colder weather. When trying to walk, or run, over rocks, in tech sections, it can get very slick. ---They need more grip. Also, after a year the leather is dried out and not as flexible as it was, but with some leather treatment it should be okay. | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano shoes | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Instinct | | Bottom Line: | These fit like a glove with great adjustments. Extremely durable and they look great. If only the sole was made with a softer rubber they would have more grip on the rocks. Even if the sole did not last as long, I would be willing to sacrifice. These shoes are also very expensive. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Anonymous Gerbil
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston
Date Reviewed: January 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$145.00 | | Purchased At: | JensonUSA.com | | Strengths: | They fit my feet; no garish neon colors like red, yellow or orange. Thank the biking gods that a high-quality MTB shoe manufacturer still makes shoes in basic black. Stiff - for pedaling power transfer. | | Weaknesses: | Price ? Then again, you get what you pay for. Kinda hard to walk in - but I guess thats the whole point - to encourage you to ride through trail obstacles rather then weasel out and walk over them. | | Similar Products Used: | Demoed shoes from lots of different makers before settling on these. | | Bottom Line: | Demoed Pearl Izumi, Nike, Canondale, Specialized, Carnacs, Shimano, Diadora, DMT, and couple of others I cannot remember. But I just kept coming back to the Sidis. All the others simply just did not feel right on my feet. With the Sidis, often times forget that they are even on and sometimes make the mstake of driving my car in them! The ratchet mechanism is great for microadjustments. The soles are very stiff.
Also, I am running eggbeater pedals and I have not had to shave or trim the soles in order for them to work properly.
Highly recommend that you at least demo these shoes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Versun Jetericks
a Cross Country Rider
from Nevada
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | any mountain bike trail | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | durability | | Weaknesses: | price and they stretch to much | | Similar Products Used: | shimano shoes | | Bottom Line: | Yes, these shoes fit well and are incredibly durable however, they stretch way to much in the hot dry weather. Lorica is way better than leather when it comes to streching but, it's not perfect. I'll usually ride for ten minutes then have to tighten the ratchet a couple of clicks to get the fit I want. On long rides I'll have the shoes four or five clicks tighter at the end of the ride than I had at the begining. It's nice to have the ratchet system because it's easier to tighten while ridding than velcro. When they invent a shoe textile that doesn't stretch I'll buy that but, until then, I'll have to settle for a Sidi. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from San Mateo, CA
Date Reviewed: November 30, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Skeggs | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Summit Bikes, Burlingame | | Strengths: | Fit, stiffness and ease of putting on. | | Weaknesses: | The Ratchet buckle!@!!!@!@!@! | | Similar Products Used: | Replaced my old shimanos.... no problem with those shoes in the three years I had them until the sole fell off last week.... | | Bike Setup: | Kona Bear delux. | | Bottom Line: | I really like the fit and feel of these shoes... HOWEVER.. I have a huge complaint... The ratchet system needs to be more solid. After my first ride, wich was just around the neighborhood, I removed my shoes and put them in the back of my car. The next day I went to go for a real ride, only to find that the ratchet on my left shoe was gone because the screw fell out. Luckily I found it where I removed my shoes.. I reinstalled the ratchet on BOTH shoes with locktite. Well, I rode one more time and then today I went to go out and when I tightened the ratchet it just snapped in two where the screw goes into the boot. I ended up riding with duck tape holding the top strap on. I have emailed sidi and requested to have a new set of ratchets sent to me at no charge since I just bought these things less then one week ago.. I will follow up this post after I see what the SIDI customer support is like. I have to axe some chillis off because of this huge inconvienece.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from UK
Date Reviewed: October 22, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$90.00 | | Purchased At: | flying ball | | Strengths: | Excellent, comfortable and stiff. Mine were the original multihued jobs and I loved 'em, raced, general riding touring perfect | | Weaknesses: | Rachet system strap broke of when fastening...... mind you they were 11(eleven) years old | | Similar Products Used: | Gaerne | | Bike Setup: | Spec Enduro Comp and Spec Stumpjumper | | Bottom Line: | The best. Gaernes were a good price but Velcro stay tight. Buy 'em, they'll last for years. (get black then you can clean with ordinary shoe polish, they look really smart!) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Keefe
a
from Dover, NJ
Date Reviewed: September 17, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ringwood | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Purchased At: | speedgoat | | Strengths: | Fits perfect, Mega size. Plenty of toe room. | | Weaknesses: | Rachet system may be a bit bulky, Wacks a lot of rocks. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike super narrows | | Bike Setup: | XC | | Bottom Line: | Excellent shoe, Feels perfect for my foot. Soft leather stuff on top and stiff stuff on bottom make for a perfect shoe. I had speedgoat sent a couple of pairs for fit and returned narrower pairs. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Priarie
Date Reviewed: September 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Ceder Hill, Horeshoe Trail | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$125.00 | | Purchased At: | bitz4bikes.com on ebay | | Strengths: | Nice stiff sole and the leather is very comfortable. The ratchet system will keep your foot in the shoe. | | Weaknesses: | None so far. | | Similar Products Used: | None. New to clipless. | | Bike Setup: | GT Zaskar Team | | Bottom Line: | I am very happy with these shoes. This is my first pair of biking shoes and I believe I got it right the first time. I decided on these shoes because I could not find anyone else who made size 51(16) and also a mega(EEE). Since I havent said yet, my shoes ar the Dominator 4 Mega. I also got these shoes from bitz4bikes on ebay for $125.00 regular price!! Shipping is $20.00 from the UK and they will be there in less than a week. Most large mail orders are $189.00 right? Just thought I would put that in there for those of you who want to save about $50...including shipping! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fritzman
a Downhiller
from Ottawa, Ontario, Canad
Date Reviewed: August 12, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$230.00 | | Purchased At: | MEC (Cdn funds) | | Strengths: | Reviewing the all-black Mega 4. Very nice fit (for me, it was easily the best), stiff, light weight, simple appearance and good looks. | | Weaknesses: | Ratchet system has seized (once lubed it's worked great), unscrewed itself, then finally broke. Price. | | Similar Products Used: | Cheap shoes | | Bike Setup: | SantaCruz Suplerlight, Crossmax UST, Raceface, SRAM. | | Bottom Line: | For such expensive shoes, they could be a little more reliable. Initially I didn't want the ratchet system, and would have favoured the Sidi Bullet with 3 velcro straps instead. But after trying the Mega 4, I found the ratchet system provided a much more snug fit, and was easy to quickly adjust (once you figured it out). Also, it seems like the material on the shoe is thicker and stiffer than the Bullet, making for a better performing cleat. Unfortunately, the ratchet system has failed more than once. First, after a good dusty ride, it wouldn't let go (it needed some lube). Then it just fell off at the end of a ride (the OEM screws are way too short and had unscrewed itself). Do yourself a favour and loc-tite the screws. However, don't tighten the screw too much as it seems to break the ratchet's bracket which was my 3rd incident. Sidi replacement ratchet seems much beefier and simpler to operate, but it is much cheaper looking and noiser to engage. Will I give these shoes up or regret my purchase? Never, they're way too comfy yet stiff. Just a matter of making sure the ratch is lubed and secured properly. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Flyer
a Cross Country Rider
from Chicago
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Fits like a glove, replaceable components, lightweight, not terribly flashy (mine are SIDI Dominator 4's, which are black). | | Weaknesses: | I haven't seen any yet. | | Similar Products Used: | Northwave MTB Team | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Giant NRS AIR w/Time Carbon ATAC's. 2002 Giant xtc se2 with major upgrades to drive train and wheels. | | Bottom Line: | I was using Northwave Teams, which were okay, but they started to get a little old, and you can't replace the plate in the sole of the shoe. I tried the Sidi's and what a difference. Much stiffer sole, lighter weight, nearly anything on the shoe can be replaced if it breaks. Much lighter in weight and MUCH MORE comfortable! Definately worth the money in my mind if you are serious about going clipless and biking. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Flombe
a Cross Country Rider
from Minneapolis, MN USA!!
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Rock Lake Cable, WI | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | Erik's Bike Shop in SLP | | Strengths: | Yes, they fit like a glove! Easy on, easy off. Great soccer cleat looks! Not flashy. Great power transfer. | | Weaknesses: | Not the greatest for walking around the house, but they are cycling shoes, right! | | Similar Products Used: | Gaerne | | Bike Setup: | Fisher Mt. Tam Hardtail, seat, handlebars, wheels, all the other stuff, dialed in | | Bottom Line: | I am a 170 LB. x-cntry rider with super flat (no arch) size 10 feet.
MTBReview got me interested in these shoes. A high rating after 140+ reviews was a good sign to me! Based on the fantastic fit and knowledgeable staff at the shop, I purchased size 44.5 Dominator 4 Loricas. I have used them for less than a week - first impression only.
A huge improvement over my old and worn Gaernes (worked great when first purchased). My feet finally feel like an extension of my drivetrain. No slop, solid feel on the upstroke. Great adjustability. The buckles allow you to crank down or back off one click at a time while riding. Construction seems very solid and high quality.
Price was right and I expect them to last at least 3 years. Parts are replaceable.
Highly recommended. If they fit your feet, buy them!!!
By the way, I hooked these up with new Crank Bros. Eggbeater pedals (hey, it was my birthday). So simple, so good. A great setup! Also highly recommended. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron Hudacky
a
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: July 13, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Full Cycle Speedway | | Strengths: | (Sidi Dominator 2 mesh) ventilation, overall comfort, looks, customer service | | Weaknesses: | had buckle trouble but Sidi has made a sincere attempt to remedy the problem... see below. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Trek 6500, stock except for Time ATAC pedals and Selle San Marco Era saddle | | Bottom Line: | I posted an earlier review stating my discontent with Sidi's customer service and the performance of the plastic buckles on my shoes. I had written them three times and somehow communications broke down... I never heard back from them. However, within a day of posting my original review at this site, I was contacted by Sidi customer service with an apology and notification of what they would do to fix the problem. I ended up receiving replacement buckles and straps and some other extra parts. Now my shoes work perfect again. The new buckles look like the originals, but they had coding on their backs that was non-existent on the original buckles so maybe there were a few small modifications. The new parts have been working well; time will prove how they will hold up. I was impressed by Sidi's concern and their willingness to help get my shoes back up to par once they realized I was having trouble. My opinion of Sidi customer service has gone from zilch at my last post to outstanding. These shoes do cost a lot, but they are comfortable, look good and come with excellent customer service. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Anderson
a Cross Country Rider
from Aurora Co USA
Date Reviewed: July 12, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Deer Creek | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$169.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | fits like a glove | | Weaknesses: | Buckle gets stuck often, ankle support is week | | Similar Products Used: | Nike Nguba | | Bike Setup: | GT hardtail, Time Pedals | | Bottom Line: | Not worth the amout of money, my $40 Nikes are betterfor the money. Looking forward to trying the Pearl Izumi Vapers. Road Bike version are awesome. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Saby
a Cross Country Rider
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: July 9, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Strengths: | Comfort, reputation, replacement part, the only alternative for wide foot! | | Weaknesses: | No ventilation on denominator 4 Mega | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano 110 | | Bike Setup: | Rocky Mountain, XTR Full, Race face Next, Syncros (post stem & headset) | | Bottom Line: | I just bought those shoes... When I tried them at the store, I almost dismissed them because they were way too confortable for a racing shoe... The guy told me how good they were but then again his job was to sell me those shoes. I can honnestly say that for someone with large feet, these are the best buy. I was going to buy shimano high end model ($300 CDN) but the ratchet strap was too short... Plus they could not have any replacement part for them... What I liked about those SIDI shoes was that you can almost replace every part on them quite easily! This alone should offset the price of those shoes (replacement part are quite cheap). Think about it, SIDI only made shoes, that's what they do and they are made in italy, not in a sweat shop somewhere in a third world country by people who have no idea what they are producing. Bite the bullet and buy these awsome shoes... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JC
a Cross Country Rider
from VT
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$189.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Lightweight
Fit
Ease of use
Performance | | Weaknesses: | none that I am aware | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Pro | | Bottom Line: | For my foot and type of riding, these shoes are awesome. I was using Spec. Pro and had many quality issues. I like the Spec. because the fit was so good; snug but not blood restricting (like a well fitting ski boot). I though it was a combo of the laces and straps. Not the case.
At first, the Sidi felt a bit sloppy. But after a couple of ride and once the shoe "molded" to my foot, it fits like an extremely comfortable glove. And they're very stiff and with no laces, they are easier to put on and off. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Middletown, CT
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | everywhere in CT | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$200.00 | | Purchased At: | Performance | | Strengths: | good quality leather | | Weaknesses: | sole is not stiff enough - squishes like a sneaker over time....also ratchet isn't good - breaks...just bought some Shimano m221 - for less money, its a way better shoe.....I can't believe the power transfer with the carbon sole - its like night and day.....and the ratched is effortless.....overall, better quality than SIDI and less money. | | Bottom Line: | Buy Shimano with carbon sole - its cheaper and better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
mel macgregor
a Cross Country Rider
from kapolei
Date Reviewed: June 5, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | makakill | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Purchased At: | n/a | | Strengths: | the perfect fit,strong velcro,micro ajustment strap,lasted over 6 years and still going strong. | | Weaknesses: | colors stick out like soar thumb.very expensive! | | Similar Products Used: | shimano,nike,avocet | | Bike Setup: | manitou hardtail,duke race fork,xtr drive train | | Bottom Line: | these are the best shoes out there.if you want shoes to last more than couple seasons this is it.look no further sidi dominator are the ones. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron Hudacky
a Cross Country Rider
from Tucson AZ
Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Full Cycle Speedway | | Strengths: | appearance, fit, ventilation | | Weaknesses: | plastic buckles, Sidi customer service via email | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | 2002 Trek 6500 with Time Alium ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | (Dominator 2 mesh) These shoes are comfortable, look good, breathe well and cost quite a bit. I have been happy with the overall performance they provide, but for $180 they should be better. After going for three rides and owning these shoes for less than a week, the flange at the end of the buckle lever began to round off, making them hard to put on or take off. I went back to my retailer and told them of the situation; they said it was normal. I asked if there was a remedy for it (aka a metal buckle) and they said metal buckles only came on the more expensive models. $180 should be able to get enough durability to last more than three rides, so I attempted to contact Sidi via email on three separate occasions over several months and got no response, ever. However, they did manage to get my contact info so they were able to send me their promotional garbage. After 6 months my buckles are cracked, stripped and I fasten my shoes more with the velcro straps instead of the buckle. Some people will wonder why I didn't call them; if a customer service feature is available through email, I shouldn't have to call them. I will be buying steel buckles that Sidi provides on their "good" shoes, but that will push the amount I invested over $200. I would recommend these shoes if your store will throw in a set of steel buckles, but forget them otherwise. They are not a value in any way, but overall they are really good shoes hampered by a crappy fastener and customer service. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Russell
a Weekend Warrior
from Pelham
Date Reviewed: May 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Oak Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Bob's Bikes | | Strengths: | Stiff, durable, Light, Fit like a glove. | | Weaknesses: | A bit pricey but worth every penny! | | Similar Products Used: | Nike Carins, some othe Nike cheapo | | Bike Setup: | 02' Specialized Stumpjumper, XTR drive, brakes, shifter,Thomson stem & seatpost, CT2 carbon bars, Selle Itallia Ti. Flite saddle, Hutchinson Pythons. | | Bottom Line: | These shoes are unbeliveable, I have had Sidi Motocross boots for years and the quality of the MTB shoes are just as good. The fit is awsome and, they so far have been very durable. I must admit they also look very cool. I would highly recomend buying a pair, you WILL NOT be dissapointed! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
QuasiRider
a Weekend Warrior
from PG, CA
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Mt. Galbraith | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$150.00 | | Strengths: | Durable! They show no signs of wear or tear. Comfortable. Fit well and the buckle system is really adjustable. | | Weaknesses: | I have the old style buckle in which the pins that hold the buckle togehter can slide out. This has been fixed though and I could upgrade to the new style if I ever feel the need. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike, Shimano | | Bike Setup: | Titus Quasimoto,XT, King Rear, Hayes, Marz... | | Bottom Line: | Great shoes! I have had these for over two years now and they really do seem like new. The shimano shoes I had pulled apart in under 10 months, but these have been great. Would I buy them again? YES, that is, if I ever need to! They seem ready to last another 2-5 years.
They may be a little more $ than other shoes, but the cost makes little difference with how long they last and how comfortable they are. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike O
a Cross Country Rider
from Pasadena, CA
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cheeseboro Canyon to Gaspipe | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$60.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Fit, durability, stiffness, quality construction, great looks...did I mention they fit like a glove? | | Weaknesses: | None. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike Cairns, Specialized Comp, | | Bike Setup: | Moots YBB w/XTR. | | Bottom Line: | I'm 240lbs & love these shoes. I ride the Mega Genius 3 on the Road, however I don't need to put a Peterson footbed in these as they are super comfortable out of the gate. These absolutely rock when paired with ATACs: no sideway slipping & you feel like you are glued to your pedals. The sole is a bit plasticy & can slip on wet rocks: I threw on the spikes just to help them wear. There is a reason that the Pros wear these: they are the best. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a Racer
from Seattle, WA USA
Date Reviewed: January 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | One closest to my house | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$180.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Shop | | Strengths: | Durability - For me, these shoes have worn like iron. | | Weaknesses: | Buckle Pin - I've never lost one, but come close a couple of times. I believe this has been solved with new model | | Similar Products Used: | None, since you can't really "try" shoes. They fit my feet and didn't hurt, so I bought them. | | Bike Setup: | Too many to mention | | Bottom Line: | I have really liked these shoes. You get what you pay for. If you had a bad experience, I'm sorry and shocked. I ride and race where it is wet, muddy and generally crappy 6-8 months a year. For 3+ years I wore these shoes on all my bikes, including 5 years Seattle 'Cross racing.
So after 5 years, the lugs are starting to wear down, the velco for the straps is starting to loose it's grip, and the lorica has gone from black to a dull grey. I've replaced my cleats 3 times in these shoes. Soles still on, no holes anywhere.
I purchased a set of the Sidi Actions because these have been such great shoes. I'm surprised to hear the negative comments, since I can expect nothing more of a show. 200 bucks and 5 years of HARD use? Good by me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from NYC
Date Reviewed: October 15, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$175.00 | | Purchased At: | don't remember | | Strengths: | all around dope shoes, i've had them for almost 4 years and it's time to get another pair, but 4yrs ain't bad, that's cross country as well as 2yrs everyday use as a messenger in nyc, winters and all. Fit is superb, probably my most comfortable pair of bike shoes ever.
| | Weaknesses: | price, but then again you get what you pay for, and I'm not complaining. | | Similar Products Used: | shimano,specialized, carnac, etc. | | Bike Setup: | hardtail mtb, road bike, track bike | | Bottom Line: | The absolute bomb, the carnacs are nice and beefy , but the fit is weird, so I never really used them. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alicia P
a Racer
from Brooklyn, NY USA
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Stewart State Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$170.00 | | Purchased At: | Caster's in Rhode Island | | Strengths: | Very stiff, good fit, nice-looking, makes you feel bad ass | | Weaknesses: | For a person like me who has very high arches these shoes are not comfortable for a lot of walking or for long steep climbs. The ball of my foot will start to hurt after a while, but I can take it. I'd recommend inserts because the padding is very thin. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Comps | | Bike Setup: | Trek Fuel 90,WSD, Time ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | I like these shoes a lot because they're very stiff with a very tight fit. I like the ratchet system a lot too. Using them with Time Pedals is a winning combination. I guarantee you will get twice as much power from your pedal stroke when you have a nice stiff shoe like these with the large platform of the Time pedals. I would never go back to spds. Splurge on yourself with these sexy shoes! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tw
a Weekend Warrior
from olympia
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$170.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS in UTAH | | Strengths: | Incredibly durable, comfortable, no laces, dry fast after exposure to the elements. | | Weaknesses: | absolutely nothing! | | Similar Products Used: | nike (You're not buying quality here, you're buying the name. Maybe they have changed now?) | | Bike Setup: | mutt bike, XT, raceface, Z-2, etc... | | Bottom Line: | I posted a review 3/99. Had these shoes for over 2 1/2 years now and haven't had a problem, just a little chaffed from rocks, stumps.... The bottom line is.....If you buy cheap, you get cheap. This is actually the best investment I've made for riding that's not bolted to my bike. Definately well worth the money. I recommend these shoes to anybody who wants a quality product that lasts. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TIM Chase
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$165.00 | | Strengths: | THE fit after many rides, its now like a glove for my feet | | Weaknesses: | My heel slips a little ( it might be my foot shape, very narrow heels) | | Similar Products Used: | vitoria, awnser, ive ridden alot of shoes | | Bike Setup: | hardtail, fast fun etc. | | Bottom Line: | these shoes are the one product that i can accually rely on I ride hard and destroy many accessorys my shoes have held up through thick and thin, the buckel pin almost fell out once but never agin. I beat the daylights out of my parts and btm. line these are the best shoes ever made, with a far better buckell system than the ones sidi sells for 75.00 more 5 stars, if you want the best buy sidi dominators, one last note the break in period is well worth it. kinda like the campy record grupo after 500 miles they start to get better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TIM Chase
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$165.00 | | Strengths: | THE fit after many rides, its now like a glove for my feet | | Weaknesses: | My heel slips a little ( it might be my foot shape, very narrow heels) | | Similar Products Used: | vitoria, awnser, ive ridden alot of shoes | | Bike Setup: | hardtail, fast fun etc. | | Bottom Line: | these shoes are the one product that i can accually rely on I ride hard and destroy many accessorys my shoes have held up through thick and thin, the buckel pin almost fell out once but never agin. I beat the daylights out of my parts and btm. line these are the best shoes ever made, with a far better buckell system than the ones sidi sells for 75.00 more 5 stars, if you want the best buy sidi dominators, one last note the break in period is well worth it. kinda like the campy record grupo after 500 miles they start to get better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TIM Chase
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$165.00 | | Strengths: | THE fit after many rides, its now like a glove for my feet | | Weaknesses: | My heel slips a little ( it might be my foot shape, very narrow heels) | | Similar Products Used: | vitoria, awnser, ive ridden alot of shoes | | Bike Setup: | hardtail, fast fun etc. | | Bottom Line: | these shoes are the one product that i can accually rely on I ride hard and destroy many accessorys my shoes have held up through thick and thin, the buckel pin almost fell out once but never agin. I beat the daylights out of my parts and btm. line these are the best shoes ever made, with a far better buckell system than the ones sidi sells for 75.00 more 5 stars, if you want the best buy sidi dominators, one last note the break in period is well worth it. kinda like the campy record grupo after 500 miles they start to get better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TIM Chase
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$165.00 | | Strengths: | THE fit after many rides, its now like a glove for my feet | | Weaknesses: | My heel slips a little ( it might be my foot shape, very narrow heels) | | Similar Products Used: | vitoria, awnser, ive ridden alot of shoes | | Bike Setup: | hardtail, fast fun etc. | | Bottom Line: | these shoes are the one product that i can accually rely on I ride hard and destroy many accessorys my shoes have held up through thick and thin, the buckel pin almost fell out once but never agin. I beat the daylights out of my parts and btm. line these are the best shoes ever made, with a far better buckell system than the ones sidi sells for 75.00 more 5 stars, if you want the best buy sidi dominators, one last note the break in period is well worth it. kinda like the campy record grupo after 500 miles they start to get better | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Erik
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego
Date Reviewed: July 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | John Bull Trail | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$160.00 | | Purchased At: | local bike shop | | Strengths: | Excellent durability, fit and off-bike traction. Great buckle closure. | | Weaknesses: | Hard footbed | | Similar Products Used: | Answer, Nike | | Bike Setup: | Hardtail | | Bottom Line: | I have had the Dominator Mesh for over SIX YEARS, and have ridden the hell out of them for 4 of them: hot, dry, cold wet, hike-a-bike, long spins. These are great shoes, and I will replace them with the newer Dominators!
The soles are good, although I did have to Dremel them to make room for the Speedplay Frog cleats, the buckle closure is fantastic and the stiffness of the footbed is excellent. The only issue I had was that the footbed is pretty hard, too, and I had a hot spot until I replaced the liner with something a little cushy.
After six years, the pleather around the toe box is starting to split and the buckles are pretty notchy. One of the pins came out of the buckle once, but I put it back in and tacked the end with Krazy Glue--done. I'm going to ride these things until they break, then go buy the new ones. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ray
a Cross Country Rider
from Worcester, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2001 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$100.00 | | Purchased At: | Store that was closing | | Strengths: | Nice look, stiff sole. | | Weaknesses: | Fell apart after 1 1/2 seasons | | Similar Products Used: | Vittoria and Carnacs | | Bike Setup: | Gary Fisher Sugar 3 | | Bottom Line: | Was a nice shoe and I got it 1/2 price since the store
was going out of buisness (there were 3 of these left
when I bought them). But after 1 1/2 seasons the sole on
my left shoe completely fell off. 2 weeks later the right
sole completely fell off. I tried to save the soles by
adding shoe goo, duct tape, etc... but it was no use the
soles were gone. For the price (even at 1/2 off) it should
have lasted longer than a 1 1/2 seasons. So in the end it was a pretty shoe that didn't last and certainly was not worth even 1/2 of the original price which was close to $200. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Bays
a
from Bonneau
Date Reviewed: December 20, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Tsali, Thompson Loop | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$175.00 | | Purchased At: | Price Point | | Strengths: | Durability, comfort, performance | | Weaknesses: | price | | Similar Products Used: | Nike, Shimano | | Bike Setup: | Time pedals | | Bottom Line: | You pay a bunch for these but you can pace a bunch more. They work very well tith Time ATACs. They have lasted as long as any other shoe without a hint of anything but new quality looks and performance. If they only last another 6 months they will have been worth every penny, but I'll bet they last longer than that. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JOE NEMTUSAK
a
from NEWBURY PARK,CA.USA
Date Reviewed: November 6, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | GUADALASCO,BACKBONE | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$159.00 | | Purchased At: | NEWBURY PARK BIKE SHOP | | Strengths: | STIFF,LIGHT,WELL MADE | | Weaknesses: | BUCKLE PIN CAME LOOSE A COUPLE OF TIME BUT NOT IN LAST YEAR | | Similar Products Used: | ANSWER PRODUCTS,SHIMANO(MEDIUM ORICED) | | Bike Setup: | GT STS,XTR SHIFTING,RACE FACE SEATPOST,CRANKS,BB.DAVES SPEED DREAM WHEELS.MARZOCHI B1 BOMBER,SHIMANO XTR V BRAKES.SELLE TITANIUM FLITE SEAT | | Bottom Line: | EXELLENT SHOE,STILL IN GOOD CONDITION AFTER21/2 YRS SERVICE(APROX.60 MILES A WEEK).GREAT VALUE,EXELLENT ITALIAN LEATHER CRAFTSMANSHIP.ANSWER PRODUCTS SHOES FELL APART IN 9 MOS.SHIMANO SHOES WERE OK BUT HEAVY AND POOR FIT.ID RECOMMEND THE SIDI ANYDAY AND AM ALREADY PLANNING ON BUYING THE SAME MODEL AGAIN.IF IT WORKS DONT FIX IT.*MOST RIDING WAS DRY MAYBE 2 MOS WET CONDITIONS. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roti Chanai
a Cross Country Rider
from San Francisco
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Good look, comfortable, light and durable | | Weaknesses: | No significant weakness | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano | | Bike Setup: | Litespeed Pisgah | | Bottom Line: | I total disagree with the post from Newport, RI. This is a great pair of biking shoes. I am 190lbs and have 'abused' my bike and equipment (including shoes) like no one else and yet this shoes hold up well.
The value rating would have been 4 chilis but I gave 5 just to off set other poor rating given to the shoes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott O
a Weekend Warrior
from Newport, RI
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Looks | | Weaknesses: | buckle
sole | | Similar Products Used: | Specialied mtn comp | | Bike Setup: | Airborne Ti w/ all kinds of stufff | | Bottom Line: | Best lookin' shoe out there? Definately. Best shoe out there? No way. (By the way- I had to proofread this post 10x to remove all of the profanity) Now unless I'm the only 200 pounder out there, there's something wrong with all of these positive reviews on this shoe. I had these *$&^ shoes for 2 months and now they're on their way back to Shidi cause they fell apart. Both soles were completely falling off of the shoe. Also, those buckles BITE! Technical riding beats the living piss out of them. I hammered them so bad that it'd take me 5 minutes to un-jam them and get them off my feet. Oh, and then pins on the buckles?- they blow! These shoes are overpriced pieces of Italian garbage. I just rode a pair of Shimano M220's and could not believe how much stiffer they were than the Shidi's. We'll see how these stand up. Anyway, if you're a 110 pound chick who like to ride around the block, I highly recommend these fancy little kicks.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
biknben
a
from Robbinsville, NJ
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Italian fit and design. Stiff as a 2x4. Soles last forever. Plastic heel adds durability. | | Weaknesses: | Buckles require maintenance. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized, Shimano | | Bike Setup: | GT I-Drive, Full XTR, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I've been wearin the same pair of shoes for 4 years. That's 4 years of year-round riding and racing. These shoes won't die. Italians know leather and boots!!! I've even bought the roadie version for my road bike.
Shoes are extremely durable, stiff, supportive, and lightweight.
I'm on my third set of buckles but I'm not complaining. Costs only $20 for new buckles. That's a lot cheaper than new shoes every year.
I'm surprised to see people complaining about the price. It's comparable to other high end shoes. I would pay twice as much. These shoes have outlasted two sets of pedals, five sets of cleats, even three bikes.
Thumbs down to the guys who rant about the pins! Do you guys curse every time you have to lube your chain or put air in your tires too. Add it to your pre-ride checklist and get over it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
dan
a Cross Country Rider
from austin
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | emma long | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Strengths: | Looks great, great fit for my feet. Excellent for riding due to rigidness | | Weaknesses: | PIN, PIN, PIN come out. Only after a month or two or usage. Could never solve the problem. slipery when wet and on slick rocks. not made for hiking the bike | | Similar Products Used: | Shimano, and specialize shoes. | | Bike Setup: | Klein rascal, xt and lx, judy sl, king front hub and headset, mavic rims | | Bottom Line: | They are worth it if you can put up with the pin coming out all the time. sometimes i would stop in a middle of a ride to push it back. the problem never really bothered me that much. i though it was just me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
BF
a Weekend Warrior
from Chattanooga
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2000 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | Nice fit. Looks good. | | Weaknesses: | Pin works out of buckle. Mine started early on and without a great deal of abuse. At the price, this is unacceptable. | | Bottom Line: | Good shoe but I would not pay this kind of money again for a shoe with a built in defect. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a Weekend Warrior
from Syracuse,NY
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | any technical singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Strengths: | Nice and light, secure fit, they aren't colored like something Fagoo the Butt Pirate would wear.... | | Weaknesses: | Pin in the Microlock buckle works loose. | | Similar Products Used: | Nike | | Bike Setup: | Cannondale SV2000 Freeride, Hope discs & hubs, Mavic, XTR... | | Bottom Line: | Overall these are excellent shoes....except for that pin that works loose from the buckles. Mine started working loose the second time I used them. OK, the info that came with the shoes says that you need to lube the buckle to help keep the pin from working loose...I do that...all the time, and the stupid pin still works loose from both shoes. It doesn't fall out, mind you, just works its' way to one side of the buckle and makes it difficult to loosen or tighten the buckle. It's really annoying when you're trying to take the shoes off after riding and they're covered in mud, you have to clean the mud off and then use something hard to push the pin back in before you can fully release the buckle. The good stuff? Well they are very light, stiff, and comfortable. When the velcro straps are tightened and the buckle is tightened they help transfer power to the pedals in a surprisingly efficient manner. The soles are well lugged so that you have great traction off the bike, even without the optional toe cleats. For the price, though, the buckle problem is unacceptable. SHoes that cost this much shouldn't have ANY problems with their design or durability. Sidis info states that you can "retrofit" your shoes with the new Microlock 2 buckle which supposedly doesn't have this pin problem, come on! I have to spend more money to fix their poor design??!! I'm disappointed enough with this to knock them down from an other wise solid 5 to a 3. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Craig
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle WA
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | my own | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | beautiful shoe, i love the fastening system, very secure
| | Weaknesses: | maybe too secure | | Similar Products Used: | none (but i do wear shoes) | | Bike Setup: | old road bike, nevermind | | Bottom Line: | well, if i wear the shoes as tight as i want them to be, my toes have a tendency to go numb. i didn't know about the MEGA style when i bought my dominator2s, but i wonder if that would make the difference or do i just want to wear my shoes too tight? otherwise, i love to shoe. i forget to take them off (unless my toes are getting numb).
and why chilis? flaming chilis at that? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David
a Racer
from Burbank, Ca
Date Reviewed: December 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Horse trails in Woodland Hills | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Comfortable and durable. | | Weaknesses: |
A bit pricey. | | Similar Products Used: |
Nike, Answer, Shimano | | Bike Setup: |
Voodoo Bokor, Marzocchi Z2-Xfly, Race Face, XTR, Esp 9.0sl, Tioga, etc., ... | | Bottom Line: | This is in reference to Christos review below:Hey dude,Your analogy is not unlike saying that your MTB should never have to be checked, maintained or worked on. Totally idiotic. I suppose your house maintains itself as well.I just retired a pair of Dominators after 3 1/2 years of total abuse - all without much of a hitch. Yes, I occasionally had to tighten a screw and would keep any eye on the pin, but what do you want? We're mountain bikers and racers. Our stuff gets smashed, crashed and abused beyond belief. I suppose you're now riding some cheap-ass Korean knock-off. I destroyed 3 pairs of Answers and 2 pairs of Nikes in less than 2 years (total cost - over $400). My SIDIs cost $150 and lasted over 3 years. Hmmmmmm, which do you think is a better deal? I learned the hard way, but at least I learned. Anyway, you're a moron. I went out a bought another pair of Dominators. Get a brain, dork-chop! Learn to maintain your gear.Bottom Line: Great shoes that last and last. A bit pricey, so I'll knock-off one chili. But, you get what you pay for. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Herb
a Cross-Country Rider
from Chicago, Illinois
Date Reviewed: December 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
the one where you ain't! | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
comfortable as fine Italian slippers | | Weaknesses: |
$$$$, velcro strap wears after awhile, MEGA wasn't yet available when I bought mine | | Bottom Line: | When I tried on several pairs of shoes, I knew these were for me as soon as I slipped them on. Would give 5 chilies, but high price detracts one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DJ
a Racer
from Atlanta
Date Reviewed: October 5, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Rich Mtn | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Stiff, holds up well, can attach spikes | | Weaknesses: |
Leather really stretches when it gets wet. Pin comes out of buckle sometimes. | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano m210 | | Bike Setup: |
unicoi w/ xtr | | Bottom Line: | The shoe performs great except for the occasional pin problem(pin coming out of buckle). Be sure the shoe fits very snug before buying, because they do stretch a lot. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christo
a Cross-Country Rider
from Somerville Mass
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Virgin River RIm Trail- Utah | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Stiff sole
Snug | | Weaknesses: |
overpriced
buckling system
quality of uppers | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized
NorthWave | | Bike Setup: |
Litespeed Obed with SID
Litespeed Ulitmate road | | Bottom Line: | This shoes are way over-rated... I think that people are in denial because they spent alot of $$ and it has the name. After about six months the uppers are separating, have torn in a few places and the buckle has fallen off!! Everybody says- you have to keep your eye on the pins they might fall out... What kind on of nonsense is that folks? it's like saying It's a great car but sometimes the wheels have a tendency to fall off!...Wake up! These shoes, particularly the buckles are over-engineered... I have a pair of older SIDIs for my road bike- two wide straps and not pin-slippin', buckle-snappin', stickin' BS to deal with... two peperoncini's for the SIDIs... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Oatway
a Racer
from Newcastle upon Tyne
Date Reviewed: September 9, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Good hard sole to ride on
Durability
ethical!?: As far as I'm concerned: they aren't made in some sweatshop out of leather from a badly reared animal | | Weaknesses: |
Slippy sole
Migratory insole
Easily clogged fastening
They can be a source of pain if carrying on hard surfaces | | Bike Setup: |
alu frame with front shocks | | Bottom Line: | A great shoe to ride in for all weathers, but not too comfy on rocky carries | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Roro
a Weekend Warrior
from SF, CA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
New strap system rocks | | Weaknesses: |
none so far | | Similar Products Used: |
Nike
Look
Axo | | Bike Setup: |
Ellsworth Sub 22
XT
Kore
Serpas | | Bottom Line: | Although they cost $227, they are the best shoe on the market. Good thing I got them as b-day gift. Gotta love my Sheryl....both her and my shoes get 5 melted slugs... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave (Daddy O ) Michael
a Cross-Country Rider
from Abingdon, MD
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Patapsco | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
This shoe fits like a glove and kisses my 636 like they were made for each other.
The best and I mean best ATB shoe on the market. Quality craftmanship. Those Italians can do some artistic stitching. | | Weaknesses: |
None so far. I use them every day or so. | | Similar Products Used: |
Carnac Legends | | Bike Setup: |
trek Y SL 200. Rock Shox front and back! | | Bottom Line: | I bought a pair of dominator 3s from a local store. They were on sale for $150.00. I went out during a tornado watch to get them at that price.I got drenched but that was the worst of it. I really didn't care to much for the silver, but the deal was sweet. The next day I went to a store that was going out of business. I went in 5 minutes after they opened and went right over to the shoes (masochistic) They had one pair of dominator 2's in black for $70.00 dollars. I bought them on the spot, took the other pair back and had money left over. I was ment to have these shoes. I t was destiny not like my first marriage but real love. Bottom Line is, I love these shoes. They do everything they are
supposed to without an arguement . Should have been introduced to you earlier. I'll stay married to these! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jimbeau
a Cross-Country Rider
from Covain, Ca
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Squaw Valley | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Comfort; fit; stiff; easy to adjust; durable; easy to clean (no leather to dry/crack); great sole; comfortable walkers. | | Weaknesses: |
Buckle -- needs to be maintained; pin can slip out. Cost | | Similar Products Used: |
Nike; Specialized | | Bike Setup: |
'99 Mantra Comp | | Bottom Line: | After many miles, the only signs of wear are cosmetic (the expected scrapes/cuts/etc.) and the padding around the heel cup (my bad -- cleat placement had my foot too far inboard and shoe kept snagging chain stay). I've had no problems with sole separation. The pins in the buckles have worked their way loose on several occasions, but fotunately, I've yet to have one come out completely. If you ever have to hike-a-bike, you'll be glad these are on your feet -- comfy with great grip. Even after being covered with mud for several days -- too lazy to clean um -- they cleaned with ease. Unlike leather, there is very little change in fit after drying or when wet....they don't stretch like leather. These are GREAT shoes! Well worth their high price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross-Country Rider
from Charlottesville, VA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
not telling........ | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Stiff sole, micro-lock, comfy | | Weaknesses: |
Separating heel cup, creacked sole, pins in ratchet. | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano, Nike | | Bike Setup: |
Specialized M2 | | Bottom Line: | I've had these shoes for about 2 1/2 years and in the last 6 months they've started falling to pieces. First the heel cup began separating from the sole. Next the stitching on the heel cup ripped causing the heel cup to get stuck on the chainstay from time to time. Finally (today) I noticed that the sole was cracking at the cleat. These have held up better than any other shoe I've used (mostly crap) but given the price I expected another year or so. The ratchet pin thing was annoying but never a problem. All that said, they still fit and work quite nicely. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Cross-Country Rider
from Toronto, Ontario
Date Reviewed: July 28, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
three Stage, Collingwood | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Great fit and comfort with very stiff sole. | | Weaknesses: |
No distributer support if you have a problem. Buyer Beware | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano | | Bike Setup: |
GT Zaskar with a Z-2 Atom Bomb | | Bottom Line: | It's a great shoe but I will never buy a Sidi again due to a small problem. I had a tear in the stiching on one of the toe straps. The shoe was bought in the spring and has very low miles. Took it to the shop where they let it sit arround for two weeks doing nothing. I got pissed and took the shoe to the distributer myself. They did nothing but tell me to take it to a shoe repair shop. Great service! The good news is it's only going to cost me $5.00 to repair. They lost a customer for life over five bucks. Dumb! I'm just glad that it's a simple problem and nothing more serious. I hope the US distributer provides better service and as for Canada buy Sidi product distributed by Veltec Canada Inc. at your own risk because they will do nothing for you in the event of a problem. In the future I'll never knowingly purchase product distributed by Veltec Canada Inc. again. They do Sidi a great disservice. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vaughn Smith
a Weekend Warrior
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: July 27, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
SouthFork, Miltonfreewater, OR | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
All Day comfortable, wide toebox for my 3EEE feet, black, simple | | Weaknesses: |
Insole easily chewed up. Ratchet pins can be dislodged with little effort. | | Similar Products Used: |
Gaerne Olympus, Carnac Dune, Answer 98 | | Bike Setup: |
747 pedals | | Bottom Line: | This is a review of the Dominator 2 MEGA. I wish my fat feet had these things three years ago. As it is I have developed a neuroma between the 3rd and 4th toes because of incorrectly sized biking shoes. My options were either surgery or get correct shoe sizes. These are as comfortable as my running shoes. Indeed, I have probably hiked more with the Dominator 2 than with any other shoes in my closet. I'd complain at this point about the fairly hard sole sometime slippery sole, but I know if it wasn't so, I'd have ground them into dust by now. The neuroma rarely bothers me now. Only after 30 plus miles, which unfortunately is rare. These black soles are apparently predrilled for cleats, I just haven't cut away the sole from that toe area yet. I'm debating adding cleats to supplement all my recent bonebrained hiking/biking trips. Two complaints are 1) The thin little removable insole may as well not be there. With my heat and sweat output it curls up into a pretzel. I've tried handwashing them and letting them dry outside of the shoe to no avail. Considering the rather steep price, they should be a little more sturdy. I am planning on getting some custom footbeds this summer. 2) If not watched, the pins in the ratchet clip can back out. Sidi provides a warning about this and they are right. I haven't lost any pins yet, but I have had to get the leatherman out to shove it back in place. Apparently, the Dominator 3 is free of this problem, but then they dont' have a MEGA size. Anyway, bottom line: Excellent shoes, I doubt I will ever wear a different shoe. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cat Daver
a Cross-Country Rider
from Richmond,VA
Date Reviewed: July 24, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Still Exploring | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Feel very comfortable,stylish, and light weight | | Weaknesses: |
I'll agree with another reviewer, the pins on the buckle want to try and slip out sometimes, but I keep an eye out for it.They are kind of expensive. | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano MO55 (Metatarsalon) | | Bike Setup: |
Specialized S-Works FSR XC
2 Road Bikes | | Bottom Line: | These are a little expensive but I caught them on sale. These are very nice looking shoes and they are so comfortable, fit my feet perfectly. They are very light weight and stiff and I use these only for road biking. I tend to like to explore alot on feet when I bike beautiful country roads, I like to bike fast,but come on, when one sees beautiful sites to explore, who can resist the break from training to explore and regular road bike shoes aren't really the ideal for that, so I go with these babies.I use my Shimano's for biking the trails. T he italian make great shoes and lots of other products. I definitely recommend these. I say Magnifico and wear con piacere these Dominator scarpe. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
FlaCycler
a Cross-Country Rider
from SW Florida
Date Reviewed: July 23, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
any | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Great fit
Stiff | | Weaknesses: |
None so far | | Similar Products Used: |
Converse chuck taylor's w/ toe clips | | Bike Setup: |
Trek 930 | | Bottom Line: | Awesome shoes. Made the switch to clipless pedals and got these shoes and Shimano747's. Could not believe the diference in my riding. Shoes are comfortable, easy to get in and out of, and they work great with the 747's. They are expensive but they're worth it!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Seattle, WA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
Stiff Sole
Durable
Fit | | Weaknesses: |
Cost
Not a great of the bike shoe. | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized
Lake
Cannondale | | Bike Setup: |
Klein Manta Race | | Bottom Line: | I love this shoe. I've tried other and this is the only shoe for me. The only time I've had any problems with it are when I have to do a lot of 'hike a bike' or running in cyclocross. The sole is too stiff for walking which is a trade off I'm willing to take. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Arvie
a Cross-Country Rider
from Somerville MA
Date Reviewed: June 9, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Fit
Buckle closure is snug | | Weaknesses: |
Need to check pin on buckle- it can slide out | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized | | Bike Setup: |
99 Litespeed Obed
99 RS Sid XC | | Bottom Line: | Bob from NY says the sole is dangerous... if he is using the roadie version- duh! Road shoes ain't exactly made for walkin' Nancy...
A sweet fitting shoe with the only flaw being the pin that sometimes slips... just keep an eye on it like you would any other bike part and you'll be fine.. them Eyetalians know their feets! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Grabowski
a Cross-Country Rider
from Queens, NY
Date Reviewed: June 7, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Very comfortable
Convenient to use
Well made | | Weaknesses: |
DANGEROUS sole | | Similar Products Used: |
Nike Inyo | | Bike Setup: |
Cannondale F-600 with
Shimano 323 pedals | | Bottom Line: | I'd really love to give these shoes the highest rating. They are extremely comfortable, very well made, and convenient to use. But why did Sidi put such a slick sole on them? On certain trails, I like to unclip and use the platform side of my Shimano 323's for a bit. But the Sidi's sole slides right off. Worse, I find it difficult to push off with these because the sole doesn't grip at all, and that's on blacktop and concrete. I'd hate to try walking in these on tile. That's the problem. SPD's are supposed to be excellent on AND off the bike. These are great when clipped in, but that sole is just too darn dangerous! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce
a Weekend Warrior
from Dallas Tx
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Bar H Ranch | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Very comfy | | Weaknesses: |
Noe so far | | Similar Products Used: |
N/A | | Bike Setup: |
Trerk 7000 | | Bottom Line: | These shoes rock
I tried on many different types and styles before settling on the Doms
There were the most comfortable I tried
The fit is fantastic, adjusment is so easy it is not funny
I give these shoes 5 flamers | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wm2slc
a Cross-Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, UT
Date Reviewed: April 12, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Wasatch Crest, UT Cottonwood Canyon, NV | | Duration Product Used: |
3 months | | Strengths: |
Comfort while very stiff sole | | Weaknesses: |
Mesh only come in BRIGHT yellow | | Similar Products Used: |
Shimano
Northwave | | Bike Setup: |
K2 bikes | | Bottom Line: | I tried these shoes on about 1 & 1/2 yrs ago and love the fit. I have a odd foot so when I find a shoe that feels good I buy it. The only problem with this shoe was the mesh shoe only comes in a bright yellow. So I waited for the 99 model to come out hoping for a shoe a little less neon. Oh well still yellow so I bought them. I love these shoes great comfort stiff sole and no pressure points. A little adjustment to fit the 636 pedals on my downhill bike but they work great with 747s.
I've only raced a couple of times with these shoes so I'll rereview after the summer. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yung Lee
a Weekend Warrior
from Arcata ca
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
lake Mendocino | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
I had dominator 2 for about a year, never had a problem with fit and comfort. I bought a pair of Nike Cairn and it was narrow and poor fit. In comparison, Sidi tops all other cycling shoes. | | Weaknesses: |
Material scratch easily and can use toe bumps. | | Similar Products Used: |
Diadora, Time and Specialized. | | Bike Setup: |
98' GT backwoods with manitou FS fork. | | Bottom Line: | Great shoes with excellent fit. Looks dominating! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a Weekend Warrior
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Bottom Line: | I have only been on these shoes a few times but they fit great and are incredibly light and look so nice. I have the Dominator 2's and picked them up for $130 from Speedgoat. The micolock is hands down the nicest system I have seen yet. I tried Carnacs, Axos, Nikes, and Specialized and these were the best. Good stiffness, all together great shoe, can't wait to race with them. Will have to review again in a another few months. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bay Area, CA
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
1 Year | | Strengths: |
SIDI's KICK BUTT!! I own a pair of Dominator 3's and totally love them!! They fit super well and are quite comfortable for a pair of performance bike shoes. I crashed hard on mine the second time I used them and thrashed them pretty good. I sent them back to Sidi, and they fixed them up perfectly and even replaced the buckles at NO CHARGE!! Even though I told them it was my fault!! The best part is that they had them back to me in 2 days!!! These guys know their stuff and I will never buy any other brand of shoe. | | Weaknesses: |
Oh yeah....right!! They dont have a weakness! | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized, Answer and Shimano | | Bottom Line: | If you own another brand of shoe......you own the second best shoe at best! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
solerider
a cross-country rider
from Hawaii
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Well I finally broke down a bought a pair of 99 Sidi Dominators and as soon as I
tried them on I knew that the fit was the best. The new sole appears more solid
and the cleat retention more conventional. Check out the great folks at Speed-
goat for a great price. I've used Shimanos, Nike, and Answers believe me no comparison in fact I wish I could get a pair of dress shoes that fit this well.
I should worn these with my tux when I got married. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
TW
a cross-country rider
from ut
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
picked up a pair of dominator 2's from my LBS. Rode on them for about a week and they are great! Light, comfy, and about an inch shorter than my old Nikes. I'm rough on shoes so I'll post another review in a few months. for now, 5 chilis for the Sidi dominator 2's! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc the man
a racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
The SIDI's rule. I have had them for two summers now racing hard on them and just using them for all around use. I picked them up for 60$$$ from my coach. The best deal I could have ever expected for a pair of shoes. The fit is great and the are semi well ventelated. Couple of problems though. The cleat retention thingy on the bottom of the inside of the shoe stripped out super easy and unles I cut though the cardboard on the sole which looks like a near imposible experience I have to slide the cleat retainer back and the float is just no longer right. I have never had problems witht eh buckle falling apart. One other thing is lack of protection on the toe box. I have heard of people using the same glue that you could put on the tip of your hockey skates on the front of yoru shoes, I only give em four due to the cleat retainer | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brock
a racer
from Canada
Date Reviewed: March 1, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Been on the first Dominator for 5 years now. they've been abandoned twice as I flirted with other shoes (nikes, Airwalks) and I've come back to them and they've proven to be more than worthy. Oh BTW the Nike's were the top of the line Cairns (POS). I'm now on a brand new pair of Eagles and couldn't be happier. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a racer
from Berkeley, CA
Date Reviewed: February 24, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
SIDI's rule! That's all that really needs to be said. I have Dominator II's for Mtn and 'cross, and Genius for the road. Super stiff and super comfortable. I like my race shoes to be tight, so I got these about 1.5 sizes smaller than my commute shoes (Shimano). They're tight, but with no hot-spots. Even after 45 miles on dirt in 95 degrees. Even after wet, muddy run-ups with hurdles at Surf City 'cross. Even after 90 miles of pavement with 10,000 vertical feet. They are so worth the money. I also found out that my favorite shop in the East Bay, Encina Bikes in Walnut Creek and Clayton, is now a Sidi dealer. Soooooo, a third pair is in the immediate future. (Mtn bike has SPD's, my new 'cross bike will have Time's, gotta have new shoes). Try em and then buy em. They're great.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Piers Newland
a cross-country rider
from Wakefield, West Yorks, England
Date Reviewed: February 19, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I was well pleased with my pair of Sidi Techno shoes. They are like Dominators but have a wee twisty thingie at the front instead of the velcro). I used them more or less every day for 3 1/2 years before they finally parted from their soles at the heel. I used them for road commuting and thrice weekly off roading. Do check the ski binding mechanism frequently - the pins tend to move about 0.5mm every ride- and replace the mono-filament in the twisty thingie regularly (just like shoe laces except 70lb fishing line is less easy to get). The soles are stiff and not designed to tolerate a lot of wasking, I think this is why some people have found that they broke for them. They are also built on an Italian last which explains their narrowness. Sidi do now produce wider models though. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a cross-country rider
from Melbourne, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 18, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
Got these shoes in the US about two years ago and I just love 'em. They look cool, and the ratchet strap is quick and easy to use, and can be easily adjusted on the fly. I, too, have found the pins on the gadget can slip out, but I've managed to spot it before I lose one. Maybe Loctite on the ends only might keep 'em there? Anyway, top shoe. 5 smokin' snags on the barbie for these babes! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Seth
a cross-country rider
from RSM, CA
Date Reviewed: February 10, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
This is more of a review for SIDI USA as it is a review of this particular shoe.
I mtn bike and road bike and my roadie shoes are the SIDI Genius 3. Last week I noticed that I had lost two of the screws that hold the LOOK cleats on my shoes. So I called up SIDI USA at 800.991.0070, explained my problem, and four days later I had an envelope with six replacement screws in them. No charge. No hassle. Just great customer service. My next mtn bike shoes will be SIDI as I am completely satisfied with my roadie SIDI shoes, and SIDI's no-nonsense-what-can-we-do-to-help-you customer service.
Cinco habenero en fuego. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Amy Schneider
a weekend warrior
from Forest Hills, NY USA
Date Reviewed: January 3, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I purchased a pair of Sidi Mountain Shoes about two years ago. They are very
comfortable and I do alot of road riding (from 3000 to 5000 miles per year). Except for the front part which is alittle worn, the shoes look brand new. I plan on
purchasing another pair this year. The only recommendation would be (2) to have more styles for women in the upper range and (2) to have a rubber part for the front of the shoe to protect the leather. Otherwise the shoes are great and worth the price. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Caleb
a racer
from NM
Date Reviewed: December 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The best shoes money can buy. I have destroyed two pairs of specialized shoes and they didnt even compare in the respects of durability and comfort. they
are the best hands down. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MrCold
a cross-country rider
from Virginia
Date Reviewed: December 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I bought some Dominator II's early in 98 on sale for $104 I think. For the amount of $$ you pay for these, they should at least throw in studs and not make it an optional item. Jesus.
They felt good on my feet and the leather held up real good. Also, the plastic buckle/cincher was working pretty good, but the metal pin that holds the buckle on kept sliding out. Had to check it before every ride.
These shoes finally died, when both shoes plastic soles started seperating from the leather uppers on the heels. I wasn't even harsh on them.
Sent them back under warranty and am waiting to find out what is going to happen. They better replace them.They deserve 2 piles of crap rating. I'm not even concerned about customer service at this point. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Doug
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: November 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My wife and I both ride with these shoes and they are great! We also ride the road version and think they are amazing as well. I have VERY narrow feet as well as problems with tingling toes when I ride. With these shoes, all problems go away. They are easy to adjust on the fly as your feet swell and after nearly a year of riding in them, they still look great. My wife who doesn't have the narrow feet or tingling issue also swears by them. We did add SuperFeet innersoles so that could effect SOME of what we are experiencing, but we wouldn't want to switch shoes for anything. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew Clarke
a cross-country rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: October 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I tried on a pair of 45 Dominator IIs and they were too small. I tried the 46s and they were too large so I ordered a pair of 45.5 Dominator IIIs which turned out to be too large. My vote goes for the Dominator IIs over IIIs. They seem to fit better and the orange buckle thingies on the IIIs break. One of them was broken before I even put the shoes on. The other stopped working properly after about 5 rides. So now I have a Dominator II buckle on one side which works great 100% of the time and a half broken Dominator III buckle on the other which, well, is half broken.Also, the neat clicky plastic velcro replacement thingies on the IIIs are too loose. I only know two of us with these shoes but both of us have to tighten them up all the way before they work. These shoes are a great idea but as 1998 was (I believe) the first year they were made I say stick with the tried and true Dominator IIs.4 stars for Sidi Dominators (I still think my Shimano m210s were just as comfortable, maybe more so) and minus one for the poor design of the IIIs. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert Otanez
a cross-country rider
from Corona Del Mar Ca.
Date Reviewed: October 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Had shoes less than 6 months, fell apart.Good fit.Soles came apart on both shoes twice and cracked sole from inside foot to spd cleat. I paid good $$$$ for these shoe and they took a dump fast. Fellow riders have had same problems. these shoes do not hold up to the name SIDI. 2 chilies
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
geoff
a cross-country rider
from cincinnati,ohio
Date Reviewed: October 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
two words: the best if you ride alot and race occasionally as i do, these shoes are worth the mula. i've owned diadora chili's, answer accelerators and alpine stars. they don't deserve to be mentioned in the same sentence. if your serious about buying new shoes and money is not an issue (just stop drinking for a month) buy these puppies | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim Kettering
a cross-country rider
from Washington, DC
Date Reviewed: October 2, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Bought those shoes last summer to replace the tired Specialized El Gato shoes I had before. I had planned to buy Yuhas, but my boss at the bike shop said, forget those nikes, theres only Sidi. then he handed me a box with Dominator IIs and told me to buy 'em. I was a bit relucant, afte all they were almost $50 more than the Yuhas, but turns out they're just fabulous. They need a little breaking in (and believe it when the other reviews say to buy them a little small, because they do expand a bit). But once they're broken in, they fit like a dream, and the power transfer is fabulous with that super stiff sole. Also, keep the buckle lubed with some teflon spray, it really helps keep it working smoothly, and it gunks up fast. So invest in a can of teflon spray. After blowing $170 on the shoes, you can pay another $5. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a cross-country rider
from Akron, Ohio
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I thought that if I spent some Real money on shoes they would be quality.....wrong! After 2 wet rides the sole splitfrom the upper andthe 2nd level of the sole has begun to tear away as well....the pin in the fine tune adj. poped out in the middle of a ride too..... What the hell!?!? I will give props for comfort though....nutil they fell apart. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott
a racer
from Stillwater
Date Reviewed: September 11, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This all has probably been said before but I will repeat it anyway. These are really good shoes. I got mine on sale from Colorado Cyclist over the summer (it was below dealer cost). Well I got the wrong size but was able to trade them in for the right size at a lbs. I have a problem with the straps hitting my cranks which might effect the polish on my cranks which I don't like. So I cured this by just crossing my straps. I don't like the insoles because there isn't much padding there. I could say personal preferance there so five flaming pieces of...what is that dog ****? j/k | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a cross-country rider
from Washington
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After 3 years of slogging around the woods of the Pacific Northwest, these shoes refuse to die. Ride after ride, I remove vegetation from the buckles, hose them off , let them dry and do it again tommorrow. They fit wide feet exceptionaly well. I put a Sorbothane padded liner in my size 48s and there is still plenty of strap to adjust the fit for maximum comfort. I got them based on how well my Sidi Genius 2 road shoes fit, but these are even better! $$$ is the only reason NOT to choose this shoe over all others. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Edwin
a cross-country rider
from Tx
Date Reviewed: August 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Recently purchased a pair of Sidi Dominator IIIs. I have been riding a pair of Shimanos up to now. Craftsmenship on the shoe is top notch. The shoe fits pretty well but have only one complaint. The two straps up front are too long and when the shoe is worn pretty snug the straps are almost at the limit. overall the shoe gives me a better fit than the Shimanos. The straps hold much better than the velcro which after a while tends to loosen up on extended rides. The shoes seem to be worth the $185 I paid for them. Whatever you do, do not order the shoes from Cambria. It took Cambria three tries before they sent me the correct shoe. First they sent me a pair of Dominator IIs in box with a Dominator III sticker on the box. Then they sent me a pair of Technofires in a Dominator III box. After they sent me the correct shoe, Cambria had some miscommunication between the salesmen and they sent me another pair of Dominator IIIs. However, this was the Technofires in a Dominator III box that I had just sent back to them. So five stars for the shoes but nothing for Cambria. Mailorder from somewhere besides Cambria. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a racer
from AZ
Date Reviewed: August 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sweet shoes. Light weight, well ventilated, and durable. Sounds like some of Sidi's propaganda but it's true. Oakley shoes suc
Why do I have to write 50 words? These shoes are cool ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! ! ! ! ! ! !! ! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
SuperFly
a weekend warrior
from KY
Date Reviewed: August 14, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I Love these shoes!!! I got them on sale this spring replacing a well used, 4+ years, pair of Pooh-bahs. I did not realize what I was missing. No complaints yet with over 400 mile + and going strong. They are adjustable on the fly even in KY rock and root covered singly track. My feet, which were used to being hot, have been given welcome relief from the heat the old Nike's and hiking boots before that produced when riding. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
california dreamin
a cross-country rider
from sf
Date Reviewed: July 21, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have been riding on dominator III for one week now. the fit is almost perfect
(i got the same size with my shimano's). leather uppers seems to be durably soft. the microlock with metal lever provides easy, secure fit. 2 rigid strap closures in front gives you a more precise fit. the heel has this hard plastic which makes these shoes last. the bottoms are stiff, i wish there's more padding. overall, these shoes rule.also they match my ball burnished rocket. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
anxious
a cross-country rider
from NY
Date Reviewed: July 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
SOme one please review the dominator 3!!!! im interested in it but i havent seen anything!!! some one gimme their opinion on the plastic straps vs velcro and the techno fires' spool versus the velcro versus the plastic straps! and MTBR staff, put the new products into the main site, its almost impossible to find anything in that mess. REMEMBER FOLKS, GIMME A DOMINATOR 3 review!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kc
a racer
from Ca
Date Reviewed: July 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
As with many of the other dominator owners out there I was very pleased with the fit and feel of a fine italian shoe. After owning four pairs of these shoes let me suggest some advice to present and future owners.
-Keep your shoes clean
-lube your buckle mechanisms
-shoe-goo your stiches (especially around the toe and heel)
-purchase a size smaller than usuall( material tends to stretch out after use)
-be wary of soles separating from the uppers
-Become friends with your local sidi dealer so that any neccesary warranties are taken care of in a fair manner.
-don't use the cleat bolts that are supplied with the shoes because they use a allen key taht is small which is more likely to strip. Shimano bolts work better( bitting my lower lip)
-use a razor to remove sole if it is interfering with your pedal machanisms.
-and most of all ride the sh#t out of them and you will be a happy camper!!
regardless of the maintainence these shoes are far supperior to any taiwan chingchong shoe out there. | | Overall Rating: |
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