Mavic’s web page for these Deemax Elite flat-pedal shoes states that the “spider sole design allows you to easily move your foot on the pedal while riding and keep close control of your bike”. I'm not sure the first part of this statement is a positive, but unfortunately, it’s true.
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Although the Contagrip rubber sole feels soft enough to the touch, the tightly-spaced tread across the central portion doesn’t allow pedal pins to dig in.
On downhill runs, I was constantly distracted by my feet skating around. This is a shame, because the fit and foot support these shoes offer is very good.
The OrthoLite insoles are comfortable and well contoured, while the stiff heel cup holds your foot in place without the need for excessive padding. That said, the fit is narrower than on many flat-pedal shoes and, while I appreciated the snugness, wider-footed riders may not.
The styling is nice and subtle, with a synthetic upper that’s easy to wipe clean (they’re available in blue too). I'm not a fan of the large mesh panel on the toe and tongue, though — my feet got wet after the first puddle splash.
At 711g (UK9) the Deemax Elites are pretty light, which would make for easy pedalling if you weren’t having to reposition your feet after every pedal stroke.
Mavic Deemax Elite flat-pedal shoes specifications
- Upper: OrthoLite
- Sole: Contagrip rubber
- Closure: Lace Weight: 711g (UK9)
- Price: £109 / US$120 / AU$250
