SIDI is one of those brands that have written the history of cycling footwear. In recent years, the Veneto-based company has significantly updated its range, introducing new technologies, a completely redesigned fit, and more modern materials. The Aeron represents one of the most interesting new developments dedicated to the off-road world, a shoe designed for those who alternate between XC competitions, marathons, and high-intensity gravel rides.

The stated goal is to offer the stiffness needed to transmit every watt to the pedals without sacrificing comfort on long rides. An ambitious promise, especially in a segment where competition is increasingly fierce.

HOW IT'S MADE

The Aeron stands out from the first glance with its clean, modern design. The lines are essential, without aesthetic excess, but with a strong focus on functionality.

The upper uses a high-strength Ripstop fabric, designed to reduce weight and increase durability against abrasions, stones, and rubbing typical of gravel and XC use. The feel is that of a very thin yet consistent material, capable of wrapping the foot without creating pressure points.

One of the most interesting elements is the system Firmor, which integrates containment bands directly into the structure of the shoe. During closure, these work to distribute pressure evenly along the instep, avoiding the classic "lace" effect typical of some traditional systems.

Regulation is entrusted to the new rotors NUUN, compact and precise in operation. They allow for micro-adjustments even while pedaling, and release tension quickly when it's time to get off the bike.

The sole is the new one X2FC Full Carbon, characterised by a stiffness index of 11. A high value that places the Aeron in the racing range, whilst maintaining rubber inserts designed to ensure traction on foot sections.

The package is completed by the heel adjustment, a solution historically appreciated by SIDI users, which allows for further customization of foot support.

3 SIDI AERON COLORS

I tested the white colorway, perhaps the prettiest of the three (just my personal opinion). But a word of caution: this is a shoe designed for MTB and will only stay pristine white for a short time, unless you're careful about cleaning.

FIELD TEST

From the first pedal strokes, the Aeron philosophy is clear: it is a shoe built for pedaling hard.

The sole immediately conveys a feeling of solidity. When relaunching out of corners and sprinting uphill, energy loss is virtually imperceptible. Every acceleration is returned with great immediacy, a feature that racers will appreciate right away.

Despite its high level of rigidity, the shoe doesn't feel extreme or "dry." This is largely thanks to the new upper construction, which adapts to the foot's movements without causing discomfort, even on longer outings.

On fast gravel trails, stability is one of the best aspects. The foot always stays firmly in place inside the shoe, even when the terrain becomes rough or particularly fast, providing a pleasant feeling of control.

Compared to some previous generations, often considered rather narrow in the forefoot, the Aeron offers better distributed internal volume. The foot finds its position easily without sacrificing that feeling of precision that has always distinguished the Italian brand.

The Firmor system does an excellent job of distributing pressure, while the two dials allow for differentiated closure between the upper and lower parts of the foot. On long rides, this translates into fewer pressure points and improved circulation, especially when the foot tends to swell physiologically after several hours of pedaling.

However, it remains a shoe with a sporty character: those who prefer a very wide fit may need to carefully evaluate the size before purchasing.

The stiffness index of 11 translates into an extremely efficient platform when pushing the pedals. On uphill sections or during sprints, the feeling is one of immediate response, without any perceptible flex.

It's a feature that especially rewards those who practice XC, marathon or competitive gravel, disciplines in which every detail contributes to overall performance.

Those who come from shoes with less rigid soles will immediately notice greater precision in pedaling, especially when using pedals with a generous support surface.

WHEN YOU GET OFF THE BIKE

It's a performance-oriented shoe: the Aeron doesn't perform very well on walking sections. It wasn't designed for this use: the rubber inserts provide good grip on rocks, gravel, and compact terrain, but the back of the shoe tends to misalign the foot while walking, making it feel like the shoe is slipping off.

VENTILATION

The upper also does a good job of providing breathability. The most exposed areas promote air circulation, keeping the foot dry on hot days. In the summer months, ventilation is effective without compromising the overall support of the structure.

Even after many hours of use, the sensation of heat remains under control, thanks to materials that seem to find a good balance between protection and breathability.

The stitching is precise, the material pairings are meticulously crafted, and all the components feel solid. The rotors work with precision, while the sole inserts seem designed to withstand long-term wear, even with intense use. This shoe immediately conveys quality, both aesthetically and in terms of construction.

Particular signs

FIRMOR X The Firmor X system with adaptive insert, which personalises the fit and guarantees very effective support without sacrificing comfort.

+	Power transmission at the highest level Precise fit but more modern than in the past Firmor system very effective in containing the foot Excellent build quality
	The price reflects the exclusivity of the product The high stiffness may be challenging for those who ride exclusively at an amateur level Not suitable for long walking distances (Trail – All/mountain use) Those with particularly wide feet should try them on carefully before purchasing.

HOW MUCH DOES THE SIDI AERON COST?

Recommended retail price: €399,00.

THE VERDICT

A shoe for those looking for performance in full SIDI style

The SIDI Aeron is designed for those looking for a high-performance shoe, ideal for XC, marathon, and sporty gravel riding, without being as extreme as World Cup models. Those who prefer bikepacking, long hikes, or a more relaxed fit may prefer more comfort-oriented solutions.

With Aeron, SIDI renews its tradition with a new fit, the Firmor system, and a carbon sole, offering precision, support, and efficiency without sacrificing comfort on longer rides. Its racing vocation is its true strength: for those who practice modern XC or sporty gravel, it represents one of the reference products in the high-end market.

The adaptive insert on the instep and the Firmor X support, in synergy with the adjustable heel, ensure a stable, precise and personalized fit even in the most technical passages.

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