Northwave Tribute 2 review

Who should buy the Northwave Tribute 2

The Northwave Tribute 2 is a triathlon cycling shoe best recommended for:

• triathletes, road bike enthusiasts, as well as mountain bikers
• both road bike and MTB pedal systems that use cleats with 2 and 3-bolt standards

Provides easy transitions

The Northwave Tribute is a triathlon cycling shoe that features essential components needed exclusively for the sport. It is lightweight and provides easy transitions and excellent drainage and airflow.

Please note that this particular model employs composite soles, while a full-carbon version is also available. If you like this shoe, but need more rigidity in the soles, check out the Northwave Tribute 2 Carbon shoe.

Tribute 2 offers sufficient stiffness for power transfer 

The NRG Air Carbon reinforced sole of the Tribute 2 triathlon shoe comes with a full-carbon insert. This provides an ideal degree of stiffness on the outsole for better efficiency and comfort.

More importantly, it translates to aiding the power transfer through the pedals as you power the two wheels for longer distances.

Annoying midfoot strap rubbing

However, one reviewer finds the additional flap design in the midfoot strap annoying, as it "catches on the crank arm."

If you don’t mind hearing the clicking noise as the extra strap rubs against the crank, this cycling cleat delivers a solid performance.

Allows excellent airflow 

The outsole for the Tribute 2 features 5 vents that allow excellent airflow around the foot. This makes it ideal for training and competing in hotter triathlons of the season. It has microfiber and vent holes in the outsole for breathability and drainage.

A reviewer applauds the shoe for keeping his "sweaty feet" dry and comfortable while training indoors for hours without air conditioning.

Offers arch support and comfort

When it comes to supporting, the anatomical arch support of the shoe is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material that perfectly contours, allowing an adaptive shaping on the bow arch.

This specific design makes it ideal for all cyclists of all types of foot, while also adding comfort for all-day cycling.

2 and 3-bolt cleat compatible 

This Northwave shoe is 2 and 3-bolt cleat compatible. But a 2-Bolt cleat inner-plate is not provided.

The shoe also comes with a Speedplay adapter compatible with the shortest distance between pedal and foot. This means that an optional adapter can be installed.

Other triathlon cycling shoes you may want to check

Mavic Cosmic Elite. This shoe would best suit seasoned triathletes who want to exceed their previous race performance.

It is equipped with a combination of a modern dial and dual strap closure. However, if you require top-notch breathability in your footgear, the Tribute 2 might do a better job in this department.

Bont Riot TR+. This model features almost the same elements as the Tribute 2 - from dual straps, heel pull-tab, and an uber breathable construct.

However, if you are keen on a supportive yet comfortable fit and better power transfer, the Bont Riot TR+ might be for you.