Three prototypes and a win in odd shoes – Isaac del Toro has been experimenting for months as Sidi looks set to join the lace-up trend

Isaac del Toro has been spotted competing in a previously unreleased lace-up cycling shoe from Sidi over the past several months, signalling a potential new direction for the Italian brand. Although Sidi offers lace-up models, it currently does not market a professional-level lace-up road shoe, making del Toro’s use of these prototypes particularly noteworthy. His partnership with Sidi, announced in early 2023, appears to have involved close collaboration on this innovative product, which has evolved visibly through multiple iterations during races. Del Toro’s experimentation with various lacing systems has been evident in race photos dating back to late 2023, where he has been seen wearing shoes with different numbers of eyelets and toggles, ranging from black to white. Notably, at the Tirreno Adriatico earlier this year, he crossed the finish line wearing mismatched shoes—a Shot 3 model on one foot and the new lace-up prototype on the other—suggesting he may have been conducting a direct comparison under race conditions. This approach highlights the ongoing refinement process and the brand’s commitment to testing the shoe’s performance in real-world scenarios. The move towards lace-up shoes aligns with a broader trend among elite cyclists, as lace-ups are often considered more aerodynamic than dial-closure systems, which can protrude and disrupt airflow. High-profile riders such as Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel have popularised lace-up models, and Sidi’s entry into this niche could position them competitively within the pro peloton. Del Toro’s use of increasingly polished versions of the shoe, including a neater design with fewer eyelets and a lace cover, indicates that Sidi is nearing a production-ready model, potentially timed for a launch around the Tour de France. The passing of Sidi’s founder, Dino Signori, earlier this year adds a poignant backdrop to the brand’s ongoing innovation. While exclusive shoe deals tend to be reserved for cycling’s biggest stars, del Toro’s collaboration with Sidi underscores the importance of rider feedback in product development. As the Tour de France approaches, attention will be on whether these lace-up prototypes make their official debut, signalling a significant addition to Sidi’s product lineup and a new chapter in professional cycling footwear.