X-Alp Mesa Shoes

Defective Cleat Mounting System and No Customer Service Response

I was excited to try these Pearl Izumi mountain biking shoes, but unfortunately I haven't been able to use them at all. When I went to install my cleats, I discovered that the cleat mounting plate inside the shoe was not properly aligned with the cleat bolt holes. In addition, the sticky pad that is supposed to hold the cleat plate in position appears to be folded over, preventing the plate from staying in place and making cleat installation impossible. I understand that defects can happen, but what has been most disappointing is the lack of customer service. I have emailed Pearl Izumi twice over the course of several weeks and have not received a response. Because these shoes were a final sale item, returning them is not an option, leaving me with a product I cannot use. To be fair, I also mistakenly ordered the wrong size, which is my responsibility. However, the manufacturing issue with the cleat mounting system would have prevented me from riding in them regardless of the sizing issue. I have used Pearl Izumi products in the past and expected better quality control and customer support. I hope the company improves both, as this experience has been frustrating.

Great Budget Option

I purchased these shoes after my previous shoe finally disintegrated over the last 7 years. Took these shoes out for a century on the first ride and they were comfy right out of the box. I then also climbed a peak from a gravel ride and did not even feel the need for hiking boots on a bushwhack with travel over talus near the summit. I'd recommend them to anyone. I normally wear a 9. 5 street shoe and opted for the 43. 0 size.

First pair of X alp Mesa shoes

Good fit and comfortable