Was also tempted by the Performance close-out and pulled the trigger on the A3s last week. Picked them up tonight, molded them, rode 30 minutes on the trainer, and molded them again. Other than the need to make a little room for my second toes, the fit is outstanding and the stiffness is noticeable in a positive way, kind of like a very good ski boot. Time will tell, but on my wide foot, this is looking pretty positive.