At first glance, the Fizik R3B’s single Boa crisscross-style cable—which only covers the top quarter of the foot—looks destined to create hot spots or a loose, sloshy fit. That’s hardly the case. The cable hugs a flexible Microtex upper that cocoons your foot in a snug, comfortable fit. Small, laser-cut vents perforate the upper, and when mated to the simple closure design, the shoe takes on a classic, throwback style.
Don’t be fooled by the classic design—this shoe is designed for racing, not the museum. The R3B’s unidirectional carbon outsole provided zero flex when we stomped on the pedals. Boa’s IP1 dial provided easy adjustability on the fly.
A point of caution: The R3B’s toe box is slightly narrow, so riders with D- or E-width feet should look elsewhere.