Shoes designed for long distance rides on the bike therefore little attention went into off-bike use. These shoes
usually have a smooth and rigid plastic or carbon sole, devoid of grips or lugs, while the uppers are usually vented
for breathability. See road cycling shoes
Mountain
These shoes have more aggressive, lugged outsoles to better aid the rider while off the bike. Tends to be crafted
from tougher and water resistant materials for rough and muddy trails. This section includes Enduro cycling shoes.
See mountain cycling shoes
Triathlon
Almost similar to road shoes but are designed to be easily removable, have soft lining for sockless comfort, and good
drainage. See Triathlon cycling shoes
Track
Also take after road shoes, but tend to be very simple in aesthetic and almost always equipped with traditional lace
closures. See track cycling shoes
Indoor
Often called spinning shoes and related to fitness, this type is considered to be a fusion of both road and mountain
shoes, as it has more rubber than a road shoe for walking around but sleeker than a mountain bike shoe. See indoor
cycling shoes
Cyclocross
This cycling activity houses various footwear designs. When the course is wet, shoes used resemble mountain bike
shoes, but if it is wet, flat pedals and sneakers are usually used. See Cyclocross cycling shoes
Casual
These shoes usually display a casually stylish design that includes footwear used for leisurely biking, commuting,
and touring. It houses skate-inspired bike sneakers, BMX footwear and bike sandals suitable for the urban jungle to
rocky terrains. See casual cycling shoes.
Winter
Cycling shoes with insulated and/or waterproof features and usually with over-the-ankle coverage. Engineered to
protect from the cold, wind or moisture during chilly seasons. See winter cycling shoes
Brand
Closure
Lace
Cycling footwear that uses shoelaces to secure feet in place. See lace-up cycling shoes
Velcro Strap
Also called hook and loop, this closure system fastens via straps. These shoes are relatively easy to put on and off.
See Velcro strap cycling shoes
BOA
This closure is a patented system that consists of three parts: micro-adjustable dial, ultra durable yet lightweight
laces, and low friction lace guides. It is designed to provide optimal fit and precision. See BOA-equipped
cycling shoes
Buckle
Shoes with a device that secures two loose ends. It is usually made from metal or plastic.
Rachet
Shoes that use a micro-adjusting plastic strap, usually located at the top of the shoe. See Ratchet cycling
shoes
Features
Waterproof
Crafted from waterproof materials, these shoes protect the wearer’s feet from getting wet and may be used in wet
conditions. Check waterproof cycling shoes
Water-resistant
These shoes' materials are able to hold off the penetration of water to some degree but not fully. See
water-resistant cycling shoes
Reflective
Shoes with reflective materials aim to enhance visibility in low-light areas for the wearer’s safety. Check
reflective cycling shoes
Breathable
Cycling shoes that allow air to permeate through the materials. These shoes usually employ perforated textiles or
there are ventilation holes throughout. See breathable cycling shoes
Replaceable Sole
Most often found on Road Cycling shoes' smooth outsoles. The sole guards provide traction and grip when off the bike.
Replaceable ones are deemed to be more practical. See shoes with Replaceable Sole Guards
Lace Tucks
Lace closures are the original lockdown system of cycling shoes. However, cyclists fear these laces getting caught in
their bikes while riding. This is where Lace Tucks come in handy. Some shoes employ different techniques such as
sleeves, pockets, and garter loops to keep laces safe and tucked away. See cycling shoes with Lace Tucks
SPD
In this context, SPD pertains to shoes with two-bolt cleats. This type of cleat system is mostly seen on mountain bike shoes. See SPD cycling shoes
Look Delta
Look Delta is broadly used for pedals and shoes with three-bolt cleat systems. This type of cleat design is usually applied to road cycling shoes. See *Look Delta cycling footwear*
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The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. This
is to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews.
This is to avoid that shoes with few reviews unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
The Corescore is a score from 0-100 that summarizes opinions from users and
experts. Below shows the distribution of scores for all cycling shoes.
This shoe has a 10% penalty on its user ratings because it has fewer than 50 ratings. It
also has a 10% penalty on its expert reviews because it has fewer than 5 reviews. This is
to avoid that shoes with few ratings unjustly receives high scores.
Northwave’s footwear is known for their eye-catching designs. From bold colors to textures and contrasting accents, NW’s cycling shoes are not for the meek. The brand’s mountain bike shoes are even flashier than their road shoes with the former’s aggressive lug outsoles and burlier silhouettes.
If you’ve come to learn more about Northwave MTB shoes, you’re in the right place. Just read on for all the scoop.
What makes a Northwave mountain cycling shoe
Best Northwave cycling shoes - April 2020
As with any cycling brand, Northwave also offers a unique set of features to set itself apart from the rest of the crowd. The company groups their mountain shoes into two sections: XC/Trail and All-mountain. Below is the detailed information about NW MTB shoes.
Upper features
Apart from bold designs, the majority of the brand’s MTB shoes employ a unibody construction using synthetic fiber with mesh inserts or perforation holes. This upper design prevents pressure points and enhances ventilation. Plenty of models also feature reinforcements on the toe, heel, or both to keep toes protected from rock strikes and impact.
Almost all models in the XC/Trail category have a low profile, while the majority of the mid to high-profiled mountain bike shoes are placed under the All-mountain department. Northwave also offers designs treated with water-repellent film to keep the feet dry as it starts to drizzle in the mountains.
Closure systems
Northwave MTB shoes provide a variety of fastening systems to cater to every rider’s preferences. The company uses three main methods for their shoes: straps, lace-up, and SLW2 dials. Several designs employ a combination of two of them at a time. Examples of shoes that apply a fusion of closures are Northwave Origin and Northwave Spider 2.
As the first two closures are self-explanatory, we can go ahead with their pros and cons. In Northwave’s MTB models, the Velcro straps are the most used out of all the fastening systems. Apart from being utilized by itself, they are also used in combination with either laces or SLW dials. They are preferred for their lightweight and easy adjusting design.
The lace-up system is loved for its tried-and-tested efficiency and lightweight fit. Moreover, a lot of cyclists applaud its indestructible design apt the rugged nature of mountain biking. On the flip side, several riders get turned off by the laces’ unadjustable design while on the bike.
Last but not least is the SLW2 dials. They are Northwave’s proprietary closure system. The brand basically made their own version of the BOA dials, but what sets it apart is its function. The dial could be tightened in increments while an added button serves a dual purpose: step-by-step loosening when pushed and instant full release when pulled.
Sole designs
Almost all MTB shoes’ soles look the same, but the differences are in the details. What sets Northwave’s mountain bike shoes from the rest is their exclusive stiffness meter. The company measures its shoes’ sole rigidity from 1 to 15.
Apart from the degree of stiffness, sole traction is brought by aggressive lugged outsole designs. Some feature the world-renowned Michelin rubber, while others employ regular rubbers. Moreover, several provide the option to attach toe spikes for added grip.
Fit and sizing
Northwave’s shoes are generally offered in EU measurements. According to their chart, sizes run from EU 34 to 50. Once converted, NW shoes are available from US men’s 3 to 15 or US women’s 5 to 16.
Although all models can be converted to women’s sizing, Northwave has released multiple women’s exclusive mountain bike shoes, such as the Northwave Elisir 2. These models are crafted on women-specific lasts that mimic the ladies’ narrower foot shape. Moreover, some existing footwear models have been reinterpreted to employ a women’s fit. Some examples are the Corsair Woman and Escape WMN Evo.
Northwave MTB shoe categories
With the abundance of mountain cycling activities, most brands have broken down their models into groups to provide their clients with a more organized and concise lineup. Below are Northwave’s mountain bike shoe sections:
XC/Trail
Due to the nature of Cyclocross races and trail biking, this category mostly houses clipless MTB shoes with walkable cleat designs. This specific type of sole design is employed to provide essential features such as excellent power transfer and comfortable off-bike experience.
NW MTB shoes that fall under this category are available in both regular and wide fit. Aesthetic-wise, these shoes display very technical looks.
All-mountain
Shoes that belong in this section are less technical in both design and features compared to the previous category. Their aesthetic resembles that of either skate shoes or hiking shoes. Northwave’s all-mountain footwear is also usually crafted with rubber midsoles with TPU shank for greater flexibility and enough rigidity.
However, protective features don’t falter as they come fully-equipped with excellent impact resistance.
Frequently asked questions
What is Northwave’s sizing in their mountain bike models?
The brand’s official sizes and conversions are discussed above. However, if we are to base the sizing on Northwave mountain cycling shoe reviews and feedback, most have claimed that they generally fit true to size.
But keep in mind that each model is constructed and designed differently. For a more detailed and accurate review of a specific model, just click on any shoe above or input the shoe name you’re looking for into our search bar.
Can I road bike in Northwave MTB shoes?
If you are going on a road cycling adventure on your own with the aim of leisure, then yes, you can. There are a lot of road cyclists who prefer using MTB shoes with MTB pedals on their road bikes due to the footwear’s recessed cleat design. This cleat type allows the cyclist to walk comfortably.
But if you will be participating in any competition, road-specific cycling shoes are recommended as they are equipped with appropriate features to aid in your optimum performance.
Can I do spinning classes using my Northwave mountain cycling shoes?
Spinning classes, in particular, uses 2-bolt pedals, so yes, you can wear any of NW’s MTB shoes. But since the term “spinning” also generally applies to indoor cycling, you have to ask your studio which type of pedals they have on their stationary bikes. Once you confirm, know that 2-bolt pedals pair with mountain cycling shoes and 3-bolt pedals are suitable with road cycling shoes.
How to take care of my NW MTB shoes?
Just like any pair of shoes, knowing how to properly care for your footwear could lengthen its life and provide its best service while you do your thing on the bike. Here are a couple of tips for your next cleaning session:
First, make a solution of a mix of water and dishwashing soap. Then get an old toothbrush that presumably has soft bristles and dip it in the solution. Brush the areas in the shoes that need cleaning.
Insert a newspaper before cleaning so it can absorb all liquid and moisture. Then renew that newspaper after washing and before storing to ensure all moisture will be absorbed.
Let your pair air dry somewhere where the sunlight doesn’t reach it to prevent discoloration. Also, never machine-wash your shoes if you want it to last longer.
Store your footwear in a cool, dry place that is also away from the UV rays.
What are the various Michelin sole technologies applied to Northwave mountain shoes?
Michelin is known worldwide for its excellently grippy rubbers. Their product has been applied to several types of footwear in which grip plays a significant role. From skate sneakers to cycling shoes, Michelin has lent their hand in producing different proprietary rubber sole models for various shoe companies.
For Northwave, Michelin has created at least five sole designs: Hyperlight XC, Explorer, X-Fire Michelin, Rock’r Michelin, and X-Crossbow Michelin. The Hyperlight XC sole is engineered to provide very low weight without compromising rigidity. The Explorer soles were developed via the two companies’ partnership. Its main features ate combining walkable traction with enough stiffness and a tread outsole that resembles Michelin tires.
The X-Fire is constructed with softer rubber on the inside part of the soles for enhanced grip and tougher and rougher rubber designs on the outer portions for abrasion-resistance. The Rock’r Michelin is designed after the popular Wild Rock’R 2 Tire. It is engineered to have varying stiffness and grip at the same time.
Lastly, X-Crossbow. This sole design is inspired by MTB tires. It is engineered for traction and self-cleaning abilities. Moreover, it features the X-Crossbow double crossbow midsole for shock absorption, while the footbed molds after the foot for enhanced comfort.