Sidi developed the MTB-Gravel Shoe as a cost effective off-pavement performer. The Italian company borrowed from their Dominator mountain design, and added features, materials, and technologies that add versatility to the shoe. There are many familiar Sidi technologies here, starting with their carbon reinforced MTB sole plate, which offers stiffness for pedaling efficiency, some lateral flex that can reduce foot strain while out of the saddle or walking. The tread is molded system, with a mildly firm, textured application that offers good grip balanced with long term durability. Under the arch zone, a non-skid plate keeps you steady on variably rocky, loose surfaces. The sole does have the threaded inserts for toe spikes or studs should you need more purchase. The sole also carries the reinforced cleat mounting plate, in the dual rows of SPD-standard threaded inserts, which slides for and aft for further cleat location positioning.

The upper is the zone of the MTB-Gravel Shoe that carries the new tech and materials. Sidi opted for their Politex synthetic material, which incorporates PVC and high-density felt into a durable material with perforations and mesh panels for breathability. This material is highly resistant to abrasion, and can also mitigate minor impacts from rocks shed from under the front wheel. It sheds water and won't rot, making it an ideal option for a gravel or trail use when the conditions are less than dry. The toe zone has an abrasion resistant rubber material covering over from the sole edge, again protecting an area prone to abuse off pavement. The heel has the MTB version of Sidi's famed heel cup. This reinforced cup stabilizes and supports the heel, while acting as an anchor point in combination with the upper closure to eliminate heel slip. The anatomically shaped plastic cup also provides increased power transfer while providing additional foot protection in the event of a crash, or nasty portage. Adding to the protection, on the external facing cuff opening, Sid has placed Shock Absorber Protection, consisting of a polyurethane shock absorbing plate, which combined with some extra padding to spare your ankle from a side impact, such as in a fall, or when slowly navigating a narrow technical trail with rocky debris on on either side.

Wire cable closure systems are all the rage but no company has been doing this longer than Sidi, and they have evolved their Tecno over the decades as upper materials changed and more attention has been paid to anatomic pressure points for the application of the wire anchors. The TECNO-3 PUSH system dials in fit along the entire length of the shoe with one wire and dial set-up, adapting the upper to the shape of the foot for a customized fit. Sidi's famously reliable and replaceable closures are improved by an all new proprietary Sidi Wire material that is completely non-binding for intuitive and effortless on-the-fly adjustments. The Push dial concept is brilliant and only served to exemplify the proven system and Sidi's commitment to iteration and adaptation.

The rest of the details are simple but appreciated. Recognizing the need for easier on-and-off action, a loop is set at the end of the tongue. The stitching is clean and and laid in double or triple rows where more reinforcement is necessary. The standard Sidi insole is lightweight, yet is made to offer comfort and vibration mitigation. The perforations help ease moisture off the bottom of the foot. As far as shape and sizing, the MTB-Gravel Shoe is standard Sidi, which tends to fit best on feet with lower volume, a mid-arch and true D width in the forefoot. The length is true to size but the toe box can feel a bit compressed by the overall shape. If you are on the cusp of sizes, we generally recommend you go up. Those who have owned Sidi shoes before and are happy with the fit can be true advocates for the shoes, but as with all cycling shoes, if they don't fit you, they won't be comfortable on or off the bike. This model is made in 38-48 full sizes, with half sizes from 38.5-46.5 European. Sidi's full size detail chart does list centimeter lengths for foot measurements, which is the best way to compare the expected length of the interior of shoe when crossing brands as the Euro sizing is far from universal. That won't guarantee fit, but should put you close in length.