Verdict from 2 experts and 7 user reviews

6 reasons to buy

  • Incredibly light: The majority of wearers rave about the Lake CX301's feather-like weight.
  • Comfort: This road bike shoe pleases most of its users via its impeccable comfort.
  • Rigidity: Many cyclists commend the model's stiff soles as they provide accurate power transfer.
  • Excellent airflow: Plenty of bikers praise the CX301's breathable construction.
  • Replaceable heel bumper: Several reviewers appreciate this pair's serviceable heel pads as it helps lengthen the shoe's lifespan.
  • Stylish: Some consumers adore the model's design and find it appealing.

3 reasons not to buy

  • Closure can be improved: A handful of users claim that the shoe's singular BOA dial requires more fine-tuning to get the most ideal.
  • Flexible upper: A few wearers find the model's upper material to be too thin and flimsy.
  • Pricey: A couple of buyers think the pair is quite costly.

Bottom line

The Lake CX301 is designed to be a high-performance road cycling shoe. It is most revered for its extreme lightness, and excellent carbon soles that provide power transfer yet does not cause numbness or hotspots.

That said, the shoe is not without flaws as design and material misfires have been reported. Overall, it is a competitive shoe that is lightweight, but the owner is expected to ride with upper flex/give.

Tip: see the best cycling shoes.

Expert reviews:

User reviews:

Lake CX301: A road bike shoe ideal for weight weenies and during the summer

Engineered to keep the weight as low as possible, Lake's CX301 is highlighted with a full-carbon sole and supple Clarino microfiber upper, which are both as light as bike shoe materials can get. 

Apart from being light, the 100% carbon fiber soles yield excellent power transfer and durability while the microfiber upper promotes adequate airflow and dons a sleek style.

Who is it for? The shoe's construction is recommended to the following cyclists:

  • Sprinters
  • Road racers
  • Seasoned road cyclists who love beating their previous best
  • Weight weenie 
  • Time trialist

How CX301 compares

This shoe: 84
All shoes average: 81
60 95
This shoe: $330
All shoes average: $247
$85 $550
This shoe: 13.4oz
All shoes average: 9.8oz
5.4oz 16.9oz
Ready to buy? Available from $281
Not sure yet? Overview of all 250 cycling shoes