Test Fi'zi:k Vento Omna: The Italian manufacturer's cycling shoe is just as appealing in terms of appearance as it is in terms of fit and closure. Of course, you have to get used to the changed position of the holes for the pedal plates - but that doesn't have to be a disadvantage.
The Italian supplier's cycling shoes have always been characterized by a distinctive look. Smooth surfaces and as few seams as possible are typical for Fi'zi:k, and so even the cheaper models look pretty high-quality. There are no differences between the upper and middle class models when it comes to the closure system or weight, but there are differences in the materials used. Whether the manufacturer uses a carbon or a nylon sole is clearly reflected in the price - but is the surcharge of around 125 euros that separates the Tempo Decos Carbon and Vento Omna, for example, worth it?
BOA knob for locking and loosening
Visually, the two models are very similar, and both use a single “BOA Li2” knob that can be used to tighten or loosen the shoe. In the company's own stiffness index, the nylon sole scores 6 out of 10 points, which is not something you can really imagine. It remains to be seen whether the racing bike shoe is stiff enough for optimal power transfer - first of all, the fit and closure are put to the test.
Compared to an older model from Fi'zi:k, you'll notice that the toe box of the Vento Omna is slightly wider and higher. This is very pleasant for anyone who doesn't have narrow feet - in this shoe the toes are noticeably less constricted, which is particularly useful on longer journeys. What works well is the lacing - surprisingly good, especially since only a BOA closure is used. If you turn it, it gets tighter at the top of the foot. In order to get the shoe tight on the forefoot, you have to push the upper material towards the middle to relax the thin wire of the lacing system. Then quickly turn it a little further and the Vento Omna will sit evenly and firmly on your foot without any pressure.
Noticeable pressure with the Stadard insole
The insole, perforated at the front and equipped with light arch support, remains in place for now. Now quickly screw on your cleats in the usual position and get on the bike. The inexpensive Fi'zi:k is definitely comfortable, and the sole is stiff enough - at least as long as you stay seated. When you're riding out of the saddle, there's noticeable pressure right around where the two screws at the back of the pedal plate are located. And when you're stationary, you notice something else: when the crank is in a horizontal position, the tip of your foot hits the tire - that wasn't the case with the old shoes. By the way, this isn't dangerous because you practically never turn that far while driving.
The manufacturer's website provides an explanation: Fi'zi:k positions the holes for the pedal plate a little further back on new models. Anyone who has received instructions from the bike fitter to place the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe exactly above the pedal axis needs to think again - that is no longer possible with this shoe. Even if the cleats are pushed all the way forward, the big toe joint is a good centimeter behind the pedal axis.
New position of the cleats
And now? The first step is to replace the included insoles with special insoles like Solestar. These are significantly stiffer; This solves the problem of a noticeable zone of higher pressure on the foot. When it comes to the position of the pedal plate over the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big toe, it is worth questioning old habits. Many cyclists and triathletes mount the cleat far back on the sole of the shoe to relieve the strain on the calf muscles. The idea is that these muscle groups perform holding work rather than contributing to propulsion. Protecting them makes sense, especially in triathlons, because the calves have their hands full again when running.
Of course, that's just the short version, and if you switch from another shoe brand to the Fi'zi:k Vento Omna, you probably won't have to get used to it anyway - in the past, Fi'zi:k has placed the cleat holes further forward than them most other manufacturers. The only thing you should consider is whether changing the position of the cleats leads to a change in the seat height. If the foot moves forward in relation to the pedal, the leg is stretched a little more; The saddle could therefore be slightly lower.
Many colors and half sizes
This only has a minor connection with the Fi'zi:k Vento Omna - it is and remains a high-quality, inexpensive cycling shoe that remains comfortable even on hot days with its perforated upper and air inlets on the sole. As I said, the only thing recommended is the use of a stiffer insole. You can walk quite well in the shoes, especially since they have a rubberized heel. In white they are of course more suitable for fair-weather drivers; With a total of six color variants, Fi'zi:k also offers a lot of choice in this price range. The fact that the shoe is also available in half sizes is also a plus. At 270 grams in size 44 (with insole), the high-quality mid-range shoes are not heavy either. The only difference to the significantly more expensive models: The Vento Omna is not available in a “Wide” version for wider feet.