Fizik M6B MTB Shoes
Fizik’s XC MTB Shoes are good example of how products intended for XC racing have evolved in the last few years. At one time, when we thought of MTB race shoes, we envisioned bright colored foot shaped slippers that would fit in at a circus, great for the race course but not so great if you had to get off your bike and actually walk anywhere.
The MTB M6B Uomo shoe design carries the pedigree of the Fizik Racing heritage but is far more versatile than one might expect, surpassing our expectations.
The reflective elements are so subtle in daylight, we weren’t even aware of them until noticing how sunlight reflected off the shoes.
Features & Specs
- Materials: Reinforced Microtex
Nylon Mesh / Reflective PU - Outsole: Rubber Outsole / Carbon Reinforced Midsole
- Closure system: Boa L5 Bridge/ Welded Microtex Straps
- Insole: fi’zi:k cycling insole
- Weight: 385 g (size 42,5)
- Sizes: 40-47 and 48
- Reflective material for visibility at night
I removed a small amount of cleat tread to improve the interface with Shimano XT trail pedals.
Our favorite element of the MTB M6B is the use of the rubber outsole. Paired with a carbon reinforced midsole, power transfer to the pedals made me want to stand up and sprint constantly. More importantly, it felt like I was pushing through the entire shoe as opposed to all the force running through the ball of my foot, creating hot spots.
I typically run my cleats as far back as possible to minimize this issue. Many all mountain slash enduro style shoes feature a more rearward cleat mounting position; the M6B doesn’t offer as much leeway. Thanks to the design of the shank, I never felt like I needed to modify the shoe to mount it further back. I never once had issues with numbness, making it a total non-issue.
On the bike, it’s been the most comfortable and best pedaling shoe I’ve used to date.
The rubber outsole makes the M6B quite comfortable off the bike, and doing away with the nylon lugs previously found on light weight racing shoes makes it very walkable. Unlike shoes with a nylon outsole, running up and down stairs feels normal instead of the previous balancing act; it also means you’re less likely to fall down during those off the bike excursions when mountain biking. It still is very raceable, with threaded inserts for cleats if desired for muddy conditions, making it a very cyclocross friendly (AKA Portland friendly) shoe.
The Boa Closure System
This is my first time with a cycling shoe utilizing the Boa system. They’re not exactly new to me, as I’ve been running snowboard boots with Boa closures for several seasons now. That said, implementation on the M6B shoes is well executed, with the closure fitting evenly around my feet and distributed evenly. I thought I liked them on the boots, but I love them on cycling shoes.
The Boa dial offers quick adjustment and expedites getting the shoe on and off. Just pull the dial and slide them on. (or off) Adjusting fit is easy — even while pedaling — with a small turn of the dial.
Riding in the Fizik M6B shoes
On the Bike
Occasionally a product comes along that exceeds our expectations, and the Fizik M6B Uomo shoes were a pleasant surprise. Not only does it present better in person than it does in many of the photos, but the all black color option goes with everything.
Fizik is known as a racing brand, and when they come to mind, I tend to think road cycling first. That racing pedigree certainly is apparent with the M6B, but what I didn’t realize is how comfortable and useful these shoes would be in everyday use.
Playing at the local bike park
I’ve avoided high performance shoes due to less than positive experiences in the past. Light weight stiff soles and power transfer has always effected blood circulation in my feet, creating hot spots and issues with foot numbness. The M6B has changed my position here; not only are they extremely stiff and responsive, but the road vibration and bumps are transferred throughout the entire shoe, as opposed to going directly into one area. (usually the cause of tingling and numbness issues I’ve experienced with other shoes)
An extremely versatile shoe, initially I wasn’t even aware of the reflective elements, which came as another surprise. If you often find yourself riding at night or twilight hours, you’ll appreciate the additional visibility. I have been using the shoe for commuting logging 10-15 miles daily, and find it to be another great feature on a solid offering. Whether you’re lining up at the gate, commuting or trail riding, the Fizik M6B shoes are comfortable and bring the game.
The Fizik MTB M6B lists for $150. Check it out at Fizik.com
