Enhancements spotted in the MAAP x QUOC M3 Review: Consistent performance boosted slightly, nonetheless, a significant problem surfaces.
Introducing the MAAP x QUOC M3: A Collaborative Road Cycling Shoe
The MAAP x QUOC M3 is a new addition to the M3 range of road cycling shoes, a product of a collaboration between the Australian brand MAAP and British shoe manufacturer Quoc. This shoe offers a unique blend of performance, ventilation, and branding, setting it apart from the standard QUOC M3 Pro.
The MAAP x QUOC M3 shares many performance features with the M3 Pro, including a unidirectional carbon sole, a dual micro-adjustment dial system for precise fit, a sculpted heel cup, and vibration-dampening insoles. However, it stands out with its finely ribbed, laminated mesh TPU upper, which features distinctive triangular airflow perforations for enhanced breathability. This design is a departure from the smaller perforations found in the standard M3 Pro, optimised for aerodynamics while maintaining ventilation.
The upper of the shoe is finely ribbed to improve aerodynamics, and the MAAP edition features the Australian brand's logo etched into it. The shoe also boasts ventilation across the toe, tongue, and sides, with an additional vent on the toe of the outsole. The wraparound tongue structure is similar to that of the Shimano S-Phyre RC903 range, enhancing overall system stiffness.
The carbon outsole provides a connected feeling to the pedals when pushing down, and the toe guard extends nicely forwards, protecting the carbon sole when putting a toe down at the light or junction. The heel guard is replaceable, providing good traction when walking in the café.
The MAAP x QUOC M3 is available in two colourways, white and pinkish Musk, and comes in sizes 38 to 47, with no half sizes. Weighing 263g per shoe, it has a claimed weight of 242g per shoe, but may weigh slightly more on the scales.
While the MAAP x QUOC M3 offers a unique ventilation system and special branding, it does have a somewhat limited size range with no half sizes available. In warmer weather rides over 3 hours long, there may be a bit of pressure across the outside of the right foot around the little toe.
QUOC uses its own dials for micro adjustments and a twist to release mechanism. Cleats are fitted via a 3-bolt system with fore and aft adjustment, and lateral and vertical lines for cleat placement guidance. The dials are great for clamping down with micro-adjustability, but lack the option to loosen at smaller increments.
Priced at £320/$430, the MAAP x QUOC M3 offers reasonable value for a road cycling shoe with these performance features and unique design elements. Whether you're a serious road cyclist or a fan of the MAAP brand, these shoes are worth considering for your next ride.
Gravel cycling enthusiasts might appreciate the unique ventilation system and branding of the MAAP x QUOC M3, as it's also suitable for long rides, even in warmer weather. Despite the limited size range and lack of half sizes, these gadgets, combining sports technology with Australian design, offer reasonable value and could be a perfect addition to one's cycling gear collection.
