Pearl Izumi Barrier GTX Boot

Still firmly in the throes of winter as we are, lightweight shoes and ankle socks are a good few months off yet. For those who suffer with the annual discomfort of frozen feet, a pair of dedicated all-weather winter cycling shoes can make a huge difference.

Conceived as a mountain bike boot (only SPD style pedal compatible), but versatile enough for road use with the right pedals, the Pearl Izumi Barrier GTX Boot is similar in purpose to the Lake MXZ302, but fundamentally different in its approach and technology.

The relatively lightweight Barrier (452g for a size 39.5 including cleat) features a Gore-Tex membrane for full waterproofing and uses 200g 3M Thinsulate insulation to keep your tootsies warm. The boot is well-built and rugged, with good reflectivity for after dark and low light riding. The sole is stiff enough for good power transfer, but the hard moulded plastic, even with its improved traction tips is not the grippiest and slips a little on wet and smooth surfaces, so not as confidence inspiring as a Vibram sole in icy conditions. The open tread does shed mud well though, so it’s good for off-road use. The Barriers also come with optional studs, two each for the fronts of the shoe, and a stud spanner.

In wear, the Barrier keeps feet pleasantly warm, even in very cold conditions, while the Gore-Tex breathes sufficiently to keep the worst of any foot moisture from hanging around to cause discomfort. They’re not as breathable as the non-Gore-Tex Lake MXZ302s, but you’re trading that breathability for an inherently waterproof, low maintenance upper.

The Barrier is fairly low on the ankle as boots go, but with a snug neoprene collar, meaning little rain will get in down the top anyway, although socks could soak up excess wet stuff at this point if protruding above the cuff. The Velcro fastening of this collar was one of the minor niggles I had with the design of the Barrier. The design of the collar means that pretty much every time you pull the boot on, the Velcro affixes itself firmly to your socks. Not the end of the world but mildly irritating and potentially expensive if you favour merino socks.

The integral insulated inner bootie fastens with easy pull lacing, which is quick and effective, while the snug zip up front that covers the laces means everything is kept tidy and watertight.

As with other winter shoes/boots, cleat adjustment is somewhat limited by the volume of the boots, but isn’t unduly tricky in this case.

The Barrier GTX’s come in a unisex fit which suited my average feet just fine, in sizes 38-47 (including half sizes). Sizing is on the small side, and the 39.5 was just a touch small for my size 38.5-39 feet with warm but not over-thick socks. I’d have been better off with a size 40 I think.

Verdict

Capable and warm winter riding footwear that will keep out the worst the weather can throw at you, but at a price.

Grippier Vibram soles would have been preferred, and less vicious Velcro.