Nike Kato 4 £59.99
All-rubber outsole / Three reinforced leather straps / Reflective heel loop / Sizes 39-47 / Weight: 889g / Contact: Trek UK 01908 282626
Nike’s Kato is the most casually-styled of the Velcro-strapped ‘race’ shoes. With very little venting mesh, it’s the most suited of its type to inclement-condition riding.
In terms of fit, the toebox is particularly flat. It may be wide enough, but the lack of height could be an issue for large-toed folk. With a loose instep, support is minimal and the low position of the top strap isn’t the best for preventing heel lift. The short overall length also means that riders with wide feet will have minimal Velcro overlap, which can loosen over the course of a ride. It’s a quick fix, but it’s tedious all the same.
In its favour, the sole is resistant to twisting and is among the stiffest, with the soft rubber compound making hike-a-bike sections comfortable.
MBR RATING: 6/10