Sidi Arx Air Riding Shoes Review: Summer Comfort and Protection

Summer-Specific Design and Comfort

• ☀️ The Sidi Arx Air shoes are designed as a summer-specific casual riding shoe, ideal for commuting or casual rides.
• 💨 They feature a ton of mesh for excellent airflow, making them unsuitable for colder months but perfect for warm weather.
• 👟 The textile chassis, instead of leather, helps keep the price down and contributes to breathability.

Sizing and Fit Considerations

• 📏 Sidi Arx Air shoes come in European sizes from 40 to 50, with no half sizes available for US sizing.
• 🤔 For those between US sizes (e.g., 10.5), it's recommended to go up a size (e.g., to a 45/11) and use thicker socks for a comfortable all-day fit, especially given the airflow.
• 🦶 The shoes are described as slightly wide around the toe box and sides but not excessively so, fitting neither too wide nor too narrow.

Construction and Protective Features

• 🛡️ The shoes utilize a ripstop material at the toe box and canvas reinforcements on the sides and heel.
• 💨 A large panel of 3D mesh on both the lateral and medial sides ensures significant air circulation.
• 🧠 D3O impact absorption is integrated at the malleolus (ankle bones) for enhanced protection.
• ⚠️ A minor drawback noted is the lack of a shifter guard on the toe box, which could be felt with aggressive shifting.

Sole and Shank Technology

• 🌐 The shoes feature a Vibram rubber sole with a grip pattern designed for various riding conditions, offering good traction on different surfaces.
• ⚙️ A TPU shank with reliefs (Forex reinforcement) provides torsional rigidity and allows for toe box pivoting, rated around a 5 out of 10 stiffness.
• 🚶 This stiffness is beneficial as it's expected to soften slightly over time, maintaining good foot support without over-flexing.

Value and Additional Features

• 💰 Priced at $180, the Sidi Arx Air shoes are positioned as an entry-level option in Sidi's casual riding shoe line, offering good value for their features.
• 💡 A waterproof version is available for $20 more, incorporating leather and waterproofing for different riding seasons.
• 🧵 Laces are secured with an elastic band on the inside of the tongue to keep them away from motorcycle controls.
• 🌟 Reflective elements are incorporated on the heel and sides for increased visibility.