SIDI SRS Sole Replacement System

Product: SIDI came up with a great idea to give their patrons an excellent shoe with softer, gripier lugs that can be replaced - hence the SRS Sole Replacement System. With a philips head screw driver and a fresh SRS package, one can keep the like-a-glove feel of their shoe, and add a fresh set of treads to the sole.

I used the SRS on the SIDI Spider test shoes Crank Collective reviewed in the Spring of 2011. The shoes were so comfortable I kept wearing them and by November had worn the lugs down so much that the cleats were clacking on the ground before any rubber would hit terra firma. It was time. The challenging hike-a-bike sections in Sedona were becoming extra-challenging without proper purchase from the shoe’s tread.

MSRP: $50-$60
Colors: Yellow and Grey
Pitch: The SIDI Sole Replacement System® features replaceable tread blocks that greatly extend the life of the shoe, since the most wear-heavy part of the shoe is now replaceable. This also allows use of an aggressive, softer durometer tread compound for increased traction while running or pushing.

Tech: In 1999 SIDI revolutionized mountain bike shoe design with the Sole Replacement System (SRS), allowing mountain bikers to replace their most wear-heavy part of their shoe - the sole.

Since the tread is replaceable, SIDI can use an aggressive, softer durometer in the tread for increased traction in slippery situations.

The SRS sole features a more generously sized polyurathane anti-slip insert beneath the instep, which helps during less-than-perfect cyclocross remounts, making it ideal for cyclocross racers.
Plus: Life extension for a pair of shoes that are still in excellent condition. This is the core of the value in the SRS system. Having a softer durometer rubber is awesome while it lasts - allowing for super-grippy climbing when you are hauling your bike. Easy to install. The only problem I had was because I wore the tread down so much that I grinded the screws down so they barely had enough material for the screwdriver to grab on to.
Minus: The SRS wears quickly because of the softer durometer rubber on the treads.
Gut Feeling: I believe SIDI riding shoes are so good that they are worth the investment, by adding the SRS technology the life of the shoe is pushed well beyond any shoe that does not have the option. SRS technology is a clear tip of the hat to passionate riders - keep using your uppers, SIDI will keep providing replacement treads and you can keep your feet happy.
Web: http://www.sidiamerica.com/sidi/mountainplayer/products_mountai n.html