Northwave Carbon MTB Shoes
Northwave Mtb shoes in my experience are built to last. The Aerator model I have been using for nearly 2 years are still going strong although they have now been superseded by the Razer as the ‘top-of-the-wazza’ model.
When going to carbon soled shoes the first thing you notice is the stiffness which in turn generates direct power transfer, the next thing you notice is the pain your feet start to feel after a few hours in the saddle. This is normal when going to a carbon sole from a plastic sole. Your feet adapt within a few rides so don’t be put off.
The leather upper is well ventilated with plenty of meshing to keep your feet cool. Double stitching over heavy wear areas help to keep the shoes intact. Mine only started to come apart after dragging the toe over a rock quite badly. However the tear hasn’t worsened a year on.
The SBS ratchet plus 2 strap retention system works well to keep your foot firmly in place to provide a solid platform from which to work around. The looser the foot the more likely-hood of knee issues. As far as the ratchet system goes, you can get replacement buckles through Orbea Australia but we haven’t had any significant issues with them.
Northwave are a notoriously wide shoe so they don’t generally suit people with a narrower foot. Anything wide though and they are perfect.
The price points now have come right down with the Razer having an rrp of $230.
