Getting top-shelf awesomeness without paying for it is generally a pipe dream, but the Louis Garneau LS-100 Men’s Shoes are flesh-and-blood–well, synthetic-and-mesh–proof that it can be done. No one would complain, really, if the LS-100 cost an extra hundred dollars, but the fact that it doesn’t, and still supplies a killer blend of power, stiffness, comfort, ventilation, and durability, is edging into “miracle” territory. It all starts with the outsole, a strong, rigid, and lightweight offering that, obviously, is made of pure carbon fiber, right? Not so much. Garneau actually built it from a carbon-reinforced nylon composite it calls Ergo Air II, which makes it slightly less stiff but much more comfortable than a fully carbon sole, so you’ll be able to put power down without killing your feet. Inside the shoe, an Ergo Air footbed provides lightweight and long-lasting support, and the synthetic leather uppers are outfitted with mesh panels to increase ventilation and moisture management, so your feet aren’t swimming in sweat after 30 minutes on the road. Synthetic won’t warp the way real leather does, so the LS-100 won’t lose its shape, either. The HRS-90 heel counter prevents slippage on the upstroke, the Boa L4 ratchet closure lets you dial in a snug but pinch-free fit, and the single hook-and-loop toe strap adjusts the volume of the forefoot, so you can pretty much “set it and forget it” once you have the fit nailed.
Louis Garneau LS-100 Men’s Shoes White, 44.0
