The already popular Fox Union flat pedal shoe also has a cheaper canvas version that is a little more casual-looking. The sole provides excellent on and off-bike grip whilst being stiff enough to be supportive and not too stiff to compromise walking comfort. The canvas material is a little harder to keep clean and doesn’t breathe too well but is tough and will take a beating on the trails. Its a well-priced, versatile and great-performing flat pedal shoe.
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Fox Union Canvas flat pedal shoe – Technical details
No prizes for guessing what the canvas version of the Union shoes is made of – the upper features a thick woven fabric available in six colour ways (black, grey, blue, green, white and brown). The upper also utilises a reinforced toe box which both protects the rider’s toes and improves the durability of the canvas.
There is a thick padded tongue to cushion the laces which features an elastic strip part way down to tuck your lace loops in.
The EVA midsole has been tuned to balance power transfer and comfort. Too stiff and the shoe would be uncomfortable to walk in; too flexible and efficiency is impacted. Fox claims to have found the “Goldilocks” blend of stiffness.
The outsole is the contact point to the pedals, the Ultratac rubber uses a hexagonal tread pattern to give the pedal pins a platform to hook into whilst allowing the ability to reposition the foot when required.
Available in sizes ranging from EU37 (UK 4) to EU47 (UK 12) there should be a size to suit most.
Fox Union Canvas flat pedal shoe – Performance
On-pedal grip is high on the requirements list for a flat pedal shoe. I’m happy to report the Ultractac sole delivers excellent grip, allowing the pedal pins to find a secure home without reducing the ability to adjust foot position when required. On mid-length descents, I’ve not had any issues with foot pain, suggesting the soles are stiff enough to keep the foot supported whilst remaining comfortable enough to push up to the trailhead, too. Off-bike grip whilst walking is good on most surfaces, but the tread does clog up in thick mud.
The canvas material has proven to be plenty tough enough to withstand strikes and scuffs whilst on the trail, I particularly like the extra protection around the toe box adds to the durability in high-wear areas. The canvas material is tougher to keep clean, it needs a bit of a scrub with some bike cleaner. The grey colourway pictured here didn’t stain, however, I expect the white option could become discoloured over time.
From a waterproof standpoint, the canvas material is splash-proof, resisting an infrequent puddle, but it is by no means waterproof.
Breathability isn’t great and I’ve found these shoes to run a little hot but not an issue.
From a looks standpoint, I like the casual appearance which looks great in the woods, on the pump track, in the pub, and around the shops.
Fox Union Canvas flat pedal shoe – Verdict
Retailing at £110, the Union Canvas is £20 cheaper than the usual Union shoe while retaining the key performing details.
Crankbrothers is always a solid option in the riding shoe market and the Stamp Boa shoe is no exception. They offer excellent grip and comfort, but at £200, they are expensive compared to the Union Canvas shoe.
The Northwave Tailwhip Eco Evo flat pedal shoe is another option coming in slightly cheaper at £100. This was reviewed as a well-priced, super grippy shoe with a great fit but perhaps lacked some arch support.
The casual looks of the canvas version of the Fox Union shoe make this a versatile option while retaining excellent construction. A great balance of stiffness makes the shoe supportive when descending and comfortable off the bike. The Ultratac sole gives plenty of grip on the pedals and, for most conditions, off the pedals. The canvas is harder to keep clean and is splash-proof at best – but, overall, it’s a well-performing flat pedal shoe.
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Product purpose:
Keep it casual with the Union Canvas Shoes. With their laid-back style and technical features, these tough canvas shoes deliver performance and comfort both on and off the bike. Their low profile, custom-tuned EVA midsole provides an improved grip and feel as you pedal, while the toe cap protects against rock strikes. In terms of combining on-bike power transfer with off-bike comfort, the internal stiffening plate optimizes both for a one-two punch of versatility. Like all shoes in the Union range, these shoes feature an Ultratac™ rubber sole with an engineered tread pattern designed to provide best-in-class grip and durability.
Build extra:
Ultratac™ outsole balances grip and durability
Custom hex shaped lugs engage with flat pedal
Reinforced toe for protection against rock strikes
Front lace-keeper system
Product construction
Product construction extra:
Product performance
Product performance extra:
Comfortable
Good for dry conditions but only splashproof at best
Product durability
Product durability extra:
Product comfort
Product comfort extra:
Flexible enough to be comfortable whilst walking
product value
Product value extra:
Overall performance:
Product likes:
Well reinforced upper
Comfortable on and off the bike
Product dislikes:
Some colour ways may stain
Off bike grip in sticky mud isn’t the best
Enjoy:
Buy:
Recommend:
Conclusion:
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