Pearl Izumi X-Alp Seek IV MTB Shoes

Spokez70

Has anyone used the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Seek IV or any similar 'versatile use' MTB Shoes?



http://www.performancebike.com/bikes/Product_10054_10551_1097346_-1_400098__400098

I was planning on getting more of a traditional style MTB shoe but after trying some on yesterday and reading the reviews of the Time Z-Strong clipless pedals I ordered- which have a large platform- I am reconsidering. I ordered pedals with a platform because a lot of what I ride is technical and I may want to approach some of the obstacles unclipped- and the pedal reviews say this works best with a shoe that has a mid-sole tread (in lieu of tread just on the toe/sole and heel) so you can move your foot a bit forward on the pedal, avoid clipping in, and still have a shoe tread to hit the platform. I know they will be a little less efficient to peddle but it's not like I ride competitively- I'm just out there to get some exercise and have some fun at the same time.

Here are the pedals I ordered:



http://www.artscyclery.com/descpage-TMZSTRONG.html

Any advise would be greatly appreciated- LBS has everything 20% off tomorrow so I'm trying to make a decision here.

CDGolden

I do not own that specific MTB shoe, but I have owned just about every model year of the Seek RUN shoe, and have loved them. I currently own a pair of the X-Alp and am very happy it with them. I think PI idea of a cross style shoe is nice, you get a fairly stiff sole for power transfer and yet some flexibility off the bike. But I am probably biased as they used to sign my checks years ago.

The first pair I owned.



The pair I currently own.

Spokez70

Thanks. I went to the LBS today and found them on the clearance table and actually in my size- so 20% off plus an additional 20% off I picked them up for under $60. The seem really comfortable I'm looking forward to trying them out.