First Look: Sidi Genius 10

SHOES FROM THE BOOT PEOPLE

Beyond the exotic cars and motorcycles, fancy clothes and, of course, the delicious food and wine, Italy has always been equally famous as a country who knows how to turn out a well-crafted shoe. Here’s a look at the latest from Italian legacy cycling shoe brand Sidi.

SIDI GENIUS 10

The Sidi name is far-and-away the most well-known Italian shoe brand given that they’ve been in the business for 60 years. No doubt in addition to the multitude of race winners that have relied on their shoes during all those years, so, too, have hundreds of thousands of recreational cyclists who recognize the brand’s performance and
design legacy.

The Genius 10 is Sidi’s mid-price shoe, and no sooner did we first slip our feet in when we realized how much wider the toe box is versus previous Sidi models. Italian-made shoes have traditionally be known for their narrow toe boxes, which had not been the most befitting for the American foot. 

The Genius 10 is made up of a microfiber upper and composite carbon sole. The Sidi Soft Instep 4 closure consists of an adjustable, anatomically curved strap with a thermo-formed EVA pad.  It is secured by one of two Tecno dials. That strap/pad combo goes far in allowing for a personalized, comfortable fit. We like the firm-gripping heel cup and the replaceable heel pad. 

While the Tecno dials have an easy quick-release, trying to tighten the dials while riding is made difficult by the indistinguishable flip-up lever, which left us fingering them longer than we preferred. And with long-finger gloves, it’s even harder.

Like most shoes in the line, the 560-gram Genius 10 is available in over a dozen sizes. With their typical Italian flair Sidi offers five color options.

PUNCH LINES 

Visible fluorescent green

Roomy toe box

Tecno dials need better marking

STATS

Price: $299

Weight: 560 grams

Sizes: 36–48 (including half sizes)

www.sidi.com

www.ciclista-america.com

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