Pearl Izumi syncroFuel XC Review
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Running in the Pearl Izumi’s syncroFuel XC this winter, in preparation for the spring shoe review, was a real treat. The syncroFuel XC is a women’s specific trail shoe that is perfect for training runs and race day performance. The syncroFuel XC, which is new this year, weighs a mere 9.6 ounces (for size 8 ) and felt comfortable on our feet from the get go. Our testers liked the close-fit of the upper that truly wrapped their foot and the nicely shaped heel counter which kept their foot in place even while descending on the trail. We felt that the syncroFuel XC was also quite flexible for a trail shoe, which helps when running on technical trails and while running uphill. The shoe also has some lightweight cushioning in the forefoot and heel thanks to SKYDEX technology.
A stability frame runs along the inner 1/2th of the shoe (running from heel to the arch), and provides mild pronation control. Many of our testers generally wear neutral shoes and reported that the shoes were comfortable and not overly corrective or intrusive. Pearl Izumi, like many other companies in the running industry, has taken visibility and safety of runner’s into product development. Pearl Izumi has incorporated 360 degree reflectivity into the syncroFuel XC which helps you to be seen when crossing a road in between trails. Overall, the syncroFuel XC is a lightweight trail trainer that can be used on or off the trail with comfort. For more information on the syncroFuel XC and other Pi gear, please visit www.pearlIzumi.com.
