Spring is a time for longer and longer races and excursions. At this time of the year we had the opportunity to verify the effectiveness of the shoe that NorthWave has designed and built for enduro. A shoe born from the collaboration with some of the strongest enduro riders in the world, which uses many of the latest generation technological solutions. Like the X-fire sole made in collaboration with Michelin, which involves the creation of a diversified sole to improve release and engagement, without sacrificing grip on the toe and heel. There is also a md-cut protection useful to protect the heel. The closure is entrusted to a velcro and to the step by step release device for high precision micrometric comfort. The front is reinforced and the whole structure is heat-sealed to reduce pressure points as well.
THE SOLE
It is inspired by the technical characteristics of two highly successful tires from the Michelin range, the Wild Dig'R and Country Rock. Two different compounds are used, a softer one on the inside, for greater grip and a more resistant one on the outside, to protect against abrasions and bumps. The tessellation of the x-fire sole is particularly aggressive both in the front and on the heel, while the cleat area is smoother to allow easier engagement in all conditions. Finally, the NorthWave X-Crossbow construction amplifies the elasticity of the area along the heel, improving shock absorption.
THE CLOSURE
Thanks to the device slw 2 of which NorthWave owns, they have managed to create a highly effective micrometric, with the possibility of full or micrometric opening in order to further improve the tightening precision. In addition, the cable is of nautical derivation, so as to improve its efficiency over time. The protective shell also has the same function.
THE FIT
It is a well-built shoe, the insertion of the foot is not exactly easy, but once it is put on the feeling of comfort is maximum. The closures allow you to better adapt the closure to the shape of the foot, a shoe designed for a wide plant, in fact those who have a particularly narrow and thin foot should think about using an insole. Despite the massive shape it turns out to be quite light
IN ACTION
The comfort given by the x-crossbow technology is felt during the walk. Although the sole is relatively rigid, the flexion given by this technology allows for optimal comfort. The marked tessellation gives excellent grip both on rocks and in the ground, guaranteeing safety even in portage sections. Even on the descent, the stability of the heel offers good security. The malleolus protection is available in all conditions in which the foot approaches the wagon, the rigid structure and the possibility of adjusting it in a micrometric way also eliminates the lateral torsions that can occur when driving the bike in curves. While pedaling, the rigid structure allows you to transmit all the energy to the pedals.
PROJECTED IMPACT
A solid shoe, excellent both for those who participate in enduro and for those who prefer long rides in the mountains, where it is necessary to have a shoe that gives safety in the steepest sections or in the difficult passages that can be had during portage. Pedaling is comfortable and the thrust is transmitted very well in all phases of the same. Also used during very long rides or worn for whole days, no discomfort is felt. An excellent product that during cycling sessions proves to be a true mtb shoe, precise and able to push you to the fullest and in moments of relaxation resembles a light hiking boot. A complete product, with no apparent defects
