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At the 2025 Sea Otter Classic, Velo’s coverage highlighted one of the most intriguing finds: the Q36.5 Unique Pro shoe, a prototype road shoe that offers a glimpse into the future of cycling footwear. Although not yet ready for retail, the Unique Pro shoe is expected to hit the market within the next 1-2 months, pending final adjustments. This shoe builds on the design of Q36.5’s existing Unique shoe, emphasizing stability and performance while retaining the brand’s signature sock-like construction, similar to its Doctor Climate Road Shoes.
One of the standout features of the Unique Pro shoe is its focus on locking the foot into place without sacrificing comfort. This is achieved through a no-tongue, fabric-lined interior, which not only enhances fit but also provides ventilation, making it a highly breathable option for riders. The design is part of a broader trend in cycling footwear aimed at improving power transfer and aerodynamics by minimizing foot movement within the shoe.
The Unique Pro shoe boasts an impressively low stack height of 4.4mm, achieved through a patent-pending carbon fiber layup developed by Q36.5 in Montebelluna, Italy. The outer sole is just 2mm thick, which the brand claims is the lowest stack height on the market. According to Q36.5, studies suggest that every millimeter reduction in stack height can result in a 1% increase in power output, thanks to improved rotation and aerodynamics. To further enhance stability and power transfer, the shoe incorporates a new “cupped heel wall” that helps secure the foot in place.
In keeping with modern trends, the Unique Pro shoe features a wider toe box and increased width across the metatarsal area, offering improved comfort for riders. This design choice aligns with the broader cycling industry’s shift toward wider, more anatomically shaped footwear. Additionally, the shoe will come with a higher-quality Solestar insole, enhancing overall fit and comfort.
The Unique Pro shoe also includes replaceable heel traction, a practical feature for maintaining durability over time. While the prototype showcased at Sea Otter Classic revealed some unfinished details, the overall design suggests a high-performance shoe tailored for professional cyclists and serious enthusiasts alike.
For those interested in Q36.5’s offerings, the brand’s website provides more information on its current products. Velo also plans to review the Unique Pro shoe once the finalized version becomes available in the U.S. Overall, the Q36.5 Unique Pro shoe represents an exciting evolution in cycling footwear, combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on stability, power transfer, and rider comfort.
