Stiffness & Power transfer
With a full-length carbon midsole, the X-Project 2.0 is plenty stiff for most riders and racers, particularly Cyclocross, marathon, enduro and technical XC. Only the most aggressive racers will notice any flex. But the plate is tapered in the toe area to allow more flexibility under the toes for more natural walking when necessary, with no effect on pedaling efficiency.

Fit & Comfort
The shoe is extremely comfortable, on or off the bike, with mesh gel in the tongue, seamless toe box, and soft supple heel cup. The anatomical Velcro straps follow the foot’s contours well, so the front can be cranked without pinching. But there’s simply too much volume in the instep to get a snug fit—I have relatively high-volume instep, and the last “click” was still not quite tight enough. Narrow feet will have an especially tough time securing the upper sufficiently. But interchangeable arch inserts, in a substantial insole make up for some of this, especially with the high arch installed.

Closure System   
Two lower, Velcro straps offer solid security with easy use. The toe strap can easily be “set-and-forget.” But the upper buckle is a bit large overall, and a lower profile would mean less potential for hitting rocks. And while cranking down is easy with the ratchet buckle, there’s unfortunately no micro-release, so if you over-tighten, you’ll have to release it manually then tighten again: a big negative for this level shoe. The buckle offers two positions, but the strap is not adjustable. 

*Editor’s note: Pearl Izumi has said the S15 model’s closure will switch to dual, bi-directional Boa dials.

Construction & Durability
Definitely built to last, the 2.0 offers seamless toe construction, and very few seams overall, plus a hard toe reinforcement and tough, almost rubbery synthetic outer. The outsole rubber tips (co-molded to bullet-proof TPU) show no signs of wear and remained bonded securely. Some more aggressive riders may lament the lack of side reinforcements, but this would add considerable weight.

Off-Bike Performance
With the flexible toe and slightly padded heel, this is undoubtedly the best combination of off-bike traction/comfort and pedaling efficiency/lightweight I’ve ever seen. You can literally run across rocks and roots—even when wet—with confidence and agility. Cross riders will especially love the flexible toe on dismounts and steep hike-a-bike sections. And all-day riders will really appreciate the padding in the heel—especially when walking into the pub at the end of the ride.