Fizik

The Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 Gravel Shoe is a solid choice for gravel riders looking for comfort, style, and functionality on mixed terrain. The standout feature of this shoe is its Powerstrap design, which uses a unique hook-and-loop system to secure the foot snugly without pressure points. This makes it easy to adjust on the fly and keeps your foot in place even on rough trails.

The X4 outsole offers the right balance between stiffness and flex, making it comfortable for both riding and the occasional hike-a-bike. While it's not as rigid as a dedicated road shoe, it performs well on gravel, offering good power transfer and decent grip when walking. The shoe also has a stylish, streamlined look and durable materials that handle mud and dirt well.

One downside is that the shoe may not be ideal for riders with wide feet, as the fit is fairly narrow. Overall, the Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 is a well-designed, comfortable gravel shoe that�s both functional and great-looking, ideal for cyclists who prioritize versatility and style in their gravel gear.

DKlein, of Everything's Been Done, recommended this. I ordered one, and it arrived days before the vineyard (and desert) ride based in Palisade,CO. I signed up for their 58 mile ride. Temperatures ranged from 55 to 86: the saddle runs and looks cool. I've tried several saddles before, with the most recent Brook's Carved C17. This Fizik saddle is comfortable: I thought of it only when repositioning myself, confident its hexagons would hold me until I changed again. They're grippy in a good way I would say. This saddle is very light, and did its part when I had to rest the bike on it and bars to repair a punctured front tire. BTD's $233 price was a good investment.

I'm very happy with this saddle. One of my first rides after installing it was a century ride. No more pain up front! I still have a little soreness at the sit bones but only on those long rides. The difference between many previous saddles and this one is huge. One feature that helps in my general comfort level is the grippy surface. No more gripping to stay in place - something I didn't realize I'd been doing. It's a great saddle and makes a big difference overall.

I will admit, I was skeptical with the whole 3D printed saddles. A marketing ploy to grab big $'s from us gullible riders looking for anything to supposedly improve riding comfort. The first couple of short rides (<25mi.) I was pretty impressed. But what about longer rides? My first 3+ hour ride with 4K+ ft. of hills I will say this saddle is wicked good. In the past I would get some saddle fatigue past a couple of hours, not so with this unit. Data point of one, but off to a good start. The variable density of cushioning is really the key IMO. Soft or firm where you want it. I can't comment on durability or how it holds up if you crash. I ride gravel and most of my trails are sketchy/chunky so falls do happen on rare occasions. I think the construction could be prone to ripping/separating/pulling away from the shell, but time will tell. If you can find it priced <$200 on sale its a no brainer if you're in the market for a new saddle. If you have multiple steeds in the barn you'll soon want this saddle on all of them, you've been warned.