Sidi’s Dragon II Carbon SRS shoes are possibly the best we’ve ever used. They’re a winner for the racers and serious thrashers, although more casual users may want more flexible and casual shoes, like the Dominator 5s.
These are Sidi’s top flight shoes in terms of both performance and cost. Given Sidi’s status as one of the top makers of cycling and motorbike shoes, you’d expect them to be good.
They don’t disappoint. With soft, pliable and tough Lorica synthetic leather uppers, the Dragons hug your foot and fit like a second skin thanks to the tough Velcro strap, Techno 2 dial system and ratchet buckle.
New on this version of the Dragons is an improved heel retention system. This cradles your ankle and Achilles – much like the concept behind the Giro Roc-Loc helmet retention system – which means that the fit is impeccable.
The sole is now carbon-reinforced, unlike previous plastic soles. It’s ultra stiff and should stay that way for years.
Completing the sole is the Sidi SRS – Sole Replacement System – which lets you replace the tread units and fit toe studs as you see fit. The mega-stiff sole does limit walking, but it’s fine for scrambling up the odd bank.
Our only other niggle is that the replaceable tread blocks are isn’t totally secure – ours rattled loose a few times before we resorted to thread- locker to keep them tight.