We've always associated Mavic with speed on the tarmac, but the Crossmax SL Ultimate Men's Shoe applies the yellow and black philosophy of low weight and high efficiency to the world of knobby tire footwear. The Crossmax SL Ultimate earns its Super Light designation by shaving a claimed 30g of weight per shoe compared to the closest competitor in Mavic's XC/cyclocross line. The weight loss is achieved through a combination of reducing the number of lugs and adding Mavic's Ergo Dial lacing system, and those changes bring the shoe down to a claimed weight that would be comfortable in the middle of the brand's road shoe line. Low weight doesn't mean low functionality or durability, though -- and that's to be expected. After all, Mavic earned its reputation for a circumspect approach to R&D and adopting new technologies because it refuses to compromise on either quality, so we're happy to trust our ambitions and well-being to any product bearing the brand's imprimatur. This blend of reliability, efficiency, and low-weight starts with the Energy Grip Terra Carbon SL Outsole. Thought it ranks near the top of Mavic's stiffness index, it isn't as stiff as Mavic's top-tier road shoe. And that's a good thing for 'cross run-ups and the general abuse of the trail. Other than the different sole and lugs, the Crossmax SL Ultimate features a lot of the same elements as the road-specific Cosmic Ultimate. These include Mavic's Energy Frame Carbon weave and Energy Lock Carbon heel counter, both of which maximize power transfer by eliminating fit slop when you're mashing through trail slop or peanut butter sand pits. A pair of Ergo Fit 3D+ Ortholite inserts help maintain comfort under foot while supporting your arches, and the Ergo Bonded upper and Ergo 3D tongue combine forces to wrap your feet in a non-abrasive, gently compressive fit.

• Closure: wire buckle
• Footbed: Ergo Fit 3D+ Ortholite
• Sole: Energy Grip Terra Carbon SL
• Cleat Compatibility: 2-bolt mountain
• Claimed Weight: [size 8.5] 340 g

Closure: wire buckleMavic