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The Swiss recently discontinued their top model with Boa fastening and raised ankle area. Instead, they sent the more affordable Sport model to our test. The Suplest Trail is available either in classic black or in the "Jamaica version" shown here, which brings a little more colour to the bike. Instead of a Boa dial, the Swiss have opted for classic lacing. This doesn't have to be a disadvantage, as we have already found in many tests. The laces can be stowed under a neoprene flap for the ride. For the sole rubber, Suplest relies on the "Bear Paw 5" compound from SUPtraction. The special stud design should ensure that the pins grip the profile securely. In the toe area, Suplest uses robust Cordura fabric and a reinforced toe cap.
Fit & handling
Slipping into the Suplest Trail almost feels like wearing slippers - the ankle area and tongue are softly padded. In practice, however, this could lead to the Trail Sport feeling a little spongy. An unusual feature is the slightly raised footbed on the outside, which we don't recognise from any other shoe. In general, the Suplest also fits true to size and is narrower rather than wider, with a high heel.
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The wide neoprene strap at the front of the lacing takes a little getting used to. However, the laces can be safely stowed away here while riding. However, it covers the front part of the lacing, making it difficult to adjust the Suplest perfectly to the foot.
Grip & stability on the pedal
The Suplest Trail also remains really comfortable on the pedals. Thanks to the slightly higher cut, the foot is comfortably enclosed. You feel well wrapped up, and we particularly liked the support at the heel. While the slightly raised outer area took a little getting used to when standing, the Suplest now offers a secure footing on the pedals. The sole is sufficiently stiff to prevent it from pushing through. The profile also interlocks well with the pins. Nevertheless, the rounded profile allows you to reposition your feet at any time. The grip is pleasantly high, although not maximum. Thanks to the high cut, the robust material and the solid toe cap, you feel well protected in any situation.
Running with the Suplest Trail Flat Pedal Sport
Pushing and running is also comfortable with the Trail Sport. The shoe rolls easily, does not bend uncomfortably in the toe area and offers sufficient traction in most situations thanks to its nubbly profiled sole.
I particularly like the rounded profile. It makes it easier to reposition the foot, as the pins find support everywhere, whereas with an angular profile you get stuck when making fine adjustments. - Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor
Suplest Trail Flat Pedal Sport - Info & Price
- Weight¹ (size 46): 876 g
- Sizes: 36-47 / no half sizes
- EquipmentLacing; lace pocket; toe and ankle protection; Cordura fabric
- Fitmedium to narrow; size-appropriate length; very good heel hold
- Price129 Euro >> available here
Evaluation & conclusion
With its ample padding, the Suplest is one of the most comfortable shoes in the test. The fit is also impressive: the Trail Flat fits like a second skin. What's more, the toes and ankles of the shoe are well protected and the nubby profile is one of the best at balancing grip and manoeuvrability - the pins find grip everywhere. The sole noticeably absorbs vibrations and is very comfortable, but is not one of the most stable. Overall, the Suplest Trail Flat Pedal Sport is a comfortable and grippy shoe for trail and touring use, but not the first choice for really hard shredding.
Stefan Frey
Editor
