Test Fizik cycling shoes: Whether gravel or MTB - the main thing: colourful!

This article was first published on 6.8.2024 - We have now completed our test results.

The new Fizik Terra Atlas Black Mamba cycling shoes

The all-terrain all-rounder Fizik Terra Atlas shines - one might almost say - in new splendour, but at least in a new bright colour scheme. The cycling shoes were developed by Fizik in collaboration with the athletes of the Black Mamba U-23 Development Squad and are intended to celebrate these dynamic young athletes.

The newly designed Fizik classic Terra Atlas has not only become more colourful, but should also offer more comfort for long distances and a more generous fit thanks to new materials. According to the manufacturer, the Atlas should also be better ventilated without compromising on protection, thanks to its TPU coating that reinforces the toe cap. With a BOA-L6 fastener, the fit can be easily adjusted, even while riding.

MTB or gravel - or both?

The sole with two neon-coloured studs is probably also new. The X5 outsole has been redesigned for better grip and traction. The thick lugs and a rubber coating that covers the entire surface, including the midfoot, should give the Fizik Terra Atlas grip and security - even when steep, rough trails force you to push the bike.

The question is not whether gravel OR mountain bike. The purpose of these bike shoes is simply to tackle long, demanding off-road trails regardless of the bike - for this reason, the hidden nylon footplate ensures medium stiffness (index 5) and thus efficient power transmission, while the low-cut upper materials are designed to allow friction-free movement of the ankle with every pedal stroke. The Fizik Terra Atlas Black Mamba is built for 2-hole cleats, i.e. for SPD, Crankbrothers or similar pedals.

Update: And this is how the Fizik Terra Atlas rides

We tested the Fizik Terra Atlas and wanted to find out whether they are better MTB or gravel shoes. Instead, it quickly became apparent that the fit was the limiting factor. While Fizik MTB shoes fit me very well, the new Terra Atlas in the Black Mamba version seem to be cut very long. There was more than a fat finger's worth of space in the toe box at the front; the width, on the other hand, was good for my shoe size.

This also means that the Fizik shoes are not incredibly stiff. When I wear them, I get the impression that I'm wearing very comfortable shoes. If the BOA fastener is not tightened super tightly, the heel hold in the shoes is not great - even if there is a rubber zone on the heel. So the first conclusion is: These MTB shoes are for people with narrow, long feet, who may be able to buy the Fizik in a size smaller than usual. The manufacturer promised a "more generous fit" when introducing the new Terra Atlas.

If you want to perform hard on the bike - both on XC and gravel - these cycling shoes are therefore not quite the right choice. "Comfort for long distances" was Fizik's sales argument, which means: cosy. So I can fully confirm that. The promise that the new pedals are well ventilated was just as correct. Perforations all around and in the tongue really do provide a breath of fresh air - with the coming autumn, the use of these shoes with cold-sensitive feet (mine) is probably a thing of the past. So: good for the summer!

What is also a plus point in bad weather: the surface of the Fizik Terra Atlas does not allow dust and mud to stick to it. Anything that sticks can simply be wiped off. The neon-coloured bike shoes shine wonderfully through the undergrowth even in dirty weather, which attracts a few glances. The sole has good grip, the rubber compound cuts a fine figure even on damp ground and you don't slip over slippery stones or roots. However, the very short studs are probably more of a colour gimmick, as two thick rubber studs in their place would certainly have the same effect on grip when walking.

Facts & figures about the Fizik Terra Atlas Black Mamba bike shoe

• L6 BOAFit System
• X5 nylon outsole - with rubber tread
• Stiffness index: 5
• Weight: 355 g/shoe + insole (20 g)
• Sizes: 36-48 (37 to 47 also in half sizes)
• Price (RRP): 169 euros
• TERRA Off-Road Series: Designed and engineered to perform off-road, from singletrack to gravel roads and everything in between

The new Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon Team Amani cycling shoes

The Vento Ferox Carbon from Fizik is just as well-known as the Terra Atlas. And this cycling shoe is also new on the table in a limited Team Amani colour variant. This model of the racing shoe also glows and shines in colours and patterns inspired by the wildlife of Kenya, the country from which Team Amani hails.

The Fizik Vento Ferox has a dual closure systemin which the instep and forefoot can be adjusted separately. This enables an even more form-fitting fit. The eye-catching powerstrap on the instep also provides support for the foot at high cadence and in the pulling phase, especially when riding off-road. The latest Li2 BOA Fit System on the forefoot can be adjusted both tighter and wider using the dial, ensuring even pressure distribution.

With the Vento Ferox Carbon, too, Fizik has not only reached into the colour palette, but has also redesigned the X1 outsole. With a high stiffness-to-weight ratio, a carbon plate transmits the power: stiffness index 10! The outsole is now also equipped with large lugs and a rubber coating that covers the entire surface and provides improved grip for off-the-bike moments.

The weight of the Fizik Vento Ferox continues to be kept low thanks to the upper construction, a polyurethane-coated material combined with a translucent and comfortable mesh. This not only saves weight, but is also breathable and yet tear-resistant. Fizik does not want to commit itself to a specific area of use for this shoe either, only to its compatibility with cleats: it is designed for 2-hole cleats.

Facts and figures on the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon Team Amani

• Durable woven mesh over a PU-coated upper
• Li2 BOA Fit System with bidirectional adjustment option
• X1 carbon sole - with continuous rubber tread
• Stiffness index: 10
• Weight: 297 g/shoe + insole (20 g)
• Sizes: 36-48 (37 to 47 also in half sizes)
• Price (RRP): 299 euros
• VENTO: Performance racing series, developed in collaboration with professional cyclists
• Off-Road Series: Developed and designed for off-road use, from singletrack to gravel roads and everything in between