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In contrast to many other MTB winter shoes, which are usually purely functional and bulky, the Fizik Terra Artica GTX stands out from the crowd with its appearance alone. It looks rather slim. Apart from the higher shaft, the MTB shoe for cold days hardly differs from normal models. It also attracts attention with its upbeat colours. The combination of bright purple and elegant Bordeaux is called Grape. For those who prefer a simpler look, the GTX version of the Fizik Terra Artica is also available in black. Both versions cost 259 euros, which is in the upper range of Winter mountain bike shoes lies. The elaborate workmanship and high-quality materials justify this price.
The most important information about the Fizik Terra Artica GTX at a glance:
- Fully insulated and waterproof
- Double adjustment with Boa twist fastener and Velcro strap
- Stiff X5 sole for clipless pedals
- Weight: 432 grammes
- two colour variants (Grape and Black)
- also available in half sizes
- Price 259 Euro >> available here
The basis of the Fizik Terra Artica GTX is the Koala membrane, which is considered to be particularly insulating and absolutely waterproof. The latter in particular is extremely important for a winter shoe. Salted, damp roads and snow melting at daytime temperatures cause more water ingress during the cold season than at other times of the year. Once the water has penetrated, it gets nasty. Which is why many bikers combine their winter shoes with neoprene overshoes. Thanks to the Gore-Tex membrane, this is not necessary with the Fizik shoe. The shoe is completely sealed. Nevertheless, the material is said to be breathable.
The perfect fit of the shoe is important for carefree tours and dry feet - especially on the upper. With the Fizik Terra Artica GTX, the flexible cuff hugs the leg. This prevents mud and water from penetrating the shoe. However, it only becomes one hundred per cent waterproof when the trouser leg of wider-cut bike trousers overlaps the upper. Otherwise, the constant movement of the foot alone ensures that every now and then a gap opens up where moisture or dirt can penetrate. Nevertheless, thanks to the combination of a Boa twist fastener and an upper Velcro strap, adjustment is very easy. The Fizik model with Gore-Tex membrane is one of the most comfortable winter shoes.
The thick, fluffy fleece inner insulation can be described as a kind of heater. Even the freezing cold doesn't stand a chance against it. Excessively thick socks can therefore be dispensed with. Normal bike socks are sufficient for the Fizik Terra Artica.
The sole has been completely redesigned by Fizik. It consists of a rubber compound that is resistant enough to withstand off-road sections, but soft enough to provide sufficient grip on smooth rock. According to our first impressions, this compromise has worked well. Nevertheless, the shoe is of course not primarily designed for mountain bike expeditions, but for riding. Which is why the sole is extremely stiff. Perfect for scrubbing kilometres. The GTX are therefore suitable for classic MTB tours, but also for gravel biking.
Conclusion on the new Fizik MTB winter shoe
The Fizik Terra Artica GTX is a winter shoe for mountain bikers that has been thought through down to the smallest detail and stands out visually with its elegant look. The workmanship is excellent. Thanks to the ingenious Boa/Velcro combination, the shoe adapts perfectly to the foot. And the power transmission is superb thanks to the stiff sole. A shoe for touring riders who are drawn to the outdoors even in freezing temperatures. The price is high, but justified in view of the materials and workmanship.
