Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 shoes review

The Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 takes the design direction of the R1 pro-level shoe and refines it further into a lightweight option that maxes on comfort and fit while retaining stiffness through the sole.

The upper, made from a thin, highly pliable-lightweight Microtex Fabric, is shaped to control the volume of the shoe. The centre of the upper is dominated by a broad 60mm-wide section of material that tapers and wraps over the forefoot, controlled with a Boa IP1 micro-adjusting dial.

This wrap of material pulls in the whole forefoot – while the uppers’ opening pulls in evenly creating a supportive fit around your foot. A second Boa IP1 dial controls the lower part of the forefoot with a zig-zag pattern to its lacing.

It creates a superb fit that feels almost sock like. When Fizik has dialled down this design in its more modestly priced shoes the upper hasn’t been quite as supple and the shoes feel a little stiff. Here, though, the Vento Infinito is an absolute triumph.

I’ve ridden this shoe on colder days and had great protection from the elements. When it’s warmer the perforated upper does a fine job in regulating temperature. It’s probably not the shoe I’d choose for scorching summer rides but for all but the worst winter trips the Vento is perfect.

Fizik has hit the mark when it comes to weight too, with my test pair of 45s tipping the scales at an impressive 283.3g each.

On the underside it’s Fizik’s latest R2 carbon outsole, which has a neatly integrated bumper protection on the toe and a substantial heel bumper too.

On Fizik’s scale these are rated 10 out of 10 for stiffness, and with the carbon base having a defined spine running from cleat plate through to the heel centre they certainly feel as stiff as I’d need.

Cleverly, it comes without the often unforgiving nature of pro-level race shoes. Laterally my foot was allowed to flex just enough to avoid any cramping and at the same time the spine of the shoe felt very stiff.

In all, Fizik has nailed what makes a great road shoe with the Vento Infinito. The downside is that this nigh-on perfect performance comes at a high price.