Anyone who trains outdoors in the winter knows the struggle: numb toes, soggy socks and the harsh truth that even high-tech overshoes sometimes can’t live up to the challenge. Fizik claim to have the solution with the Tempo R5 Artica GTX, designed precisely for those grim days.
Based on the popular Tempo R5, this winter version has been purpose-built for cold and wet conditions. Instead of ventilation openings, they feature a GORE-TEX membrane, a cosy fleece lining and water-repellent ankle cuffs with Velcro closures to keep the spray and road grime out. Fizik promise nothing less than warm, dry feet whatever the weather, all at a claimed weight of 638 g in size 42 and a price point of € 259. But can the Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX winter shoes really deliver when the mercury drops to -10 °C, in relentless rain and on muddy backroads? We found out in our test.
On Test: How Do the Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX Winter Shoes Perform?
At first glance, the Tempo R5 Artica GTX look almost too stylish to face the mud and road grime. But don’t worry, the snow-white outer doesn’t just make a bold winter fashion statement, it’s surprisingly easy to look after, too. Dirt usually beads off the surface, and whatever remains wipes off with ease.
True to Fizik’s usual design, the fit is on the narrow side. If you’ve got wider feet or prefer wearing thick merino socks, it’s worth going up a size, as you would with most winter kit. That way the shoes feel snug but not restrictive.
The closure system combines a Velcro strap with a single Boa dial at the ankle. However, it only engages in one direction and doesn’t allow for micro-adjustments, resulting in a more relaxed fit that we found somewhat lacking during finish-line sprints. Even so, the shoes are impressively stiff – ideal for efficient power transfer without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
The Fizik Tempo Artica GTX winter shoes feel most comfortable in temperatures ranging from just below freezing up to around 10 °C. We tested them in everything from a biting -9 °C to a mild +14 °C, and here’s the verdict: once the mercury climbs above 10 °C things get sweaty fast, while the cosy warmth fades after about an hour at lower sub-zero temps.
On the plus side, we didn’t experience any ventilation issues, which is impressive given the fully sealed design. The breathability is sufficient to keep you from overheating when riding at a steady pace. However, if you’re particularly sensitive to cold or planning longer rides in freezing conditions, you might want to add an extra layer of insulation such as overshoes.
The good news? These shoes are real gamechangers during the transitional months. No need for overshoes, no soggy socks after a downpour. The GORE-TEX membrane works flawlessly – our feet stayed reliably dry throughout, even in slush, sleet and on wet roads.
Who Are the Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX Winter Shoes For?
The Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX are made for riders who like to keep riding through the winter – whether that’s for training, commuting or fast weekend spins. They’re aimed mainly at cyclists with narrow to average-width feet who don’t want to compromise on proper road shoes even when it’s wet and the temperatures are hovering around freezing.
For extreme sub-zero conditions, long rides in the bitter cold or for riders with particularly sensitive feet, these shoes aren’t the ideal choice – even the best GORE-TEX setup has its limits. And if you’ve got wide feet, you’ll likely struggle with the fit and should go at least one size up.
Conclusion: Would We Buy the Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX Winter Shoes?
Yes, we would! At € 259, the Fizik Tempo R5 Artica GTX are dependable winter shoes in the upper mid-range price bracket – perfect for riders who keep training outdoors in the rain, cold and mud without wanting to sacrifice on performance. Thanks to the GORE-TEX membrane, cosy fleece lining and high ankle cuffs, your feet stay warm and dry down to just below freezing – no overshoes needed. If you’d rather clock up miles outside than sweat it out on the indoor trainer, the Artica GTX winter shoes are a brilliant choice.
Tops
- efficient power transfer
- excellent weather protection thanks to GORE-TEX membrane
- fuss-free upper
Flops
- basic Boa dial offers limited adjustability
- very narrow fit – not ideal for wide feet
Find out more on fizik.com.
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Words & Photos: Jan Fock
