FIZIK Gravita Tensor Flat Shoe

When setting out to develop a race-ready gravity MTB shoe, the feedback we received from top professional athletes was pretty clear: both downhill and enduro racers alike desire a protective and durable shoe to enhance bike control through the pedals.

Let’s start with the outsole. Together with your hands on the handlebar, feet are a crucial point of contact when it comes to bike control. The Gravita outsole provides the type of shoe-to-pedal interface you need for fast and aggressive gravity riding, combining the stickiest Vibram XS Trek Evo rubber compound with a specific zonal lug pattern. A low-profile tapered tread pattern positioned at the mid-foot allows for an immediate connection and optimal mechanical interface with the pedal pins, while under the heel and toes, a deeper, sharper tread provides better ground traction when hiking back up the hill.

Both downhill and enduro racing stand out for their short, intense and powerful pedal strokes, whether sprinting out of the start gate or approaching the finish line. Providing proper foot tension and fit is essential to effectively transfer every useful watt of power generated. To avoid wasting watts, we leveraged our decades of design experience and knowledge in creating properly fitting cycling shoes. For the Tensor, we developed an ergonomic lace-up pattern that cradles the foot and spreads tension evenly throughout the pedal stroke. A Powerstrap over the instep secures the fit, stabilizing the plantar arch and locking the heel in place while also keeping laces in check.