Stitching holding upper portion of boots to sole broke on both boots making them unusable I have had these boots for about 2 years and use them about once a week - only in the winter time. I feel this is a defect in material used.
Bottom Line:
For an expensive pair of bike boots these are very short lived. I emailed manufacturer about getting refund or replacement boots, but got no response. I definitely would not buy these again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus, Ohio Date Reviewed: February 9, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Vultures Knob
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
AEBike.com
Strengths:
Comfortable. Warm. Lacing. Well made.
Weaknesses:
None known.
Similar Products Used:
Standard shoes with AmFib booties over them.
Bike Setup:
Turner Stinger.
Bottom Line:
I think these are incredible! I was tired of ruining another pair of AmFib booties and buying more to help keep my feet warm, so I bought these instead. I went one size larger than normal per other recommendations.
Last night I rode in 12 degree temp for 1 1/2 hour on icy single track. I wore one thick 50% wool sock over a thin technical sock and used a Grabber Mycoal full foot insole. Cold was not a problem at all. My feet were very warm the whole ride! Now, if only I could have said that about my finger tips on my left hand.
I really like these shoes. They are incredibly well made. BTW - this review is for the 2007 version MXZ301.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Salina, KS Date Reviewed: September 18, 2006
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$75.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
They are warmer than anything else i have found in clipless shoes.
Weaknesses:
They aren't much warmer than regular mountain bike shoes with warm socks.
They designed this shoe as a cycling shoe that tries to act as a winter boot. They should have done it the other way around. Shoe is simply too narrow, for serious cold conditions.
Any experienced winter rider will tell you that space inside the shoes is the key to lasting warmth. Regardless of how big you buy them, they are too tight on the sides.
I bought two sizes, too large and still they are constricting. AND I HAVE NARROW FEET.
Bottom Line:
I only paid $75 on ebay for these. If i paid retail i would be really pissed. These shoes only gain me about 10 degrees F beyond my high top MTB shoes with warm socks.
Anything below 20 F, and for more than an hour, and your feet will start to get cold. Too bad, cuz they had the right idea here, they simply just got it wrong.
Find a warm winter boot and put a freaking cleat on it. Don't design a cycling cut shoe and try to add enough insulation, etc. to make it warm. It didn't work!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor, MI Date Reviewed: March 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
the commute to work
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
LickBike
Strengths:
Warmer than regular MTB shoes and fairly water resistant.
Weaknesses:
Difficult/time consuming to put on, laces stick to the velcro...Need a bit of prep before using to completely seal out the water.
Similar Products Used:
Regular hiking boots, various MTB shoes with booties/etc
Bike Setup:
Various MTB's
Bottom Line:
These work pretty well - but I had to do a little work on them right out of the box. First of all, if you are riding in any kind of deep snow or wet conditions, you need to seal the cleat area with silicone or something similar - I didn't at first, and my socks got drenched on a particularly snowy ride into work when I had to do a lot of walking (snow too deep to ride through). I have the 2005 models, and I really wished I had the 2006s, because of the switch to the boa lacing system. The 2005 model laces always get attached to the various velcro surfaces - and it can take some time to get them put on and fastened up. As for warmth - they are ok. Make sure you have some wiggle room for your toes. I wore mine with two pairs of socks at first and my feet always got cold - recently I've switched to a single layer sock and it's better. I ordered size 43, I usually would wear a 41-ish size shoe.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
milwaukeehaze
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin Date Reviewed: December 5, 2005
Favorite Trail:
All of them
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$175.00
Purchased At:
Airbomb.com
Strengths:
This review is actually for the Lake MXZ301 which is the next generation of their Winter MTB shoe. These shoes seem to be very high quality and they are warm and very comfortable. I especially like the quick and easy "BOA lacing system" plus the full coverage with velcro attachments. They even included NikWax in the box to put a water resistant treatment on the leather outer. They are a cool, clean-looking shoe (actually boot) since they don't have the velcro straps like they used to have.
Weaknesses:
None yet other than since they are made of leather, they stretch a bit and need the lacing tightened while riding. I assume this will eventually not be an issue once they are fully broken in.
Similar Products Used:
Pearl Izumi Typhoon Booties
Bike Setup:
'04 Giant NRS Composite 2
Bottom Line:
So far after using these for a month, they seem to work great for getting out in the cold for some Winter riding. I like the new look and lacing of these. The coldest ride to date has been around 20 degrees Farenheit, about 1 1/2 hours long, and my toes were only a bit chilled, but not enough to keep me from riding. I wore a light thin wicking sock with a Smartwool sock over that. Next time I may try a thicker wool sock on the outside since I had the room. On that note, I wear a 9 1/2 - 10 shoe normally, so I ordered a 45 EU, which equates to a size 11. Plenty of room, but not too much.
I read some reviews that stated these aren't warm enough, but I disagree. If you plan on riding in temps in the single digits or lower, there is not going to be any product that will keep those toes warm for very long. However, thanks to modern technology, I would suggest the Grabber Mycoal Foot Warmers. Check them out here: http://www.warmers.com/ItemDetails.aspx?itemid=FW10&pkey=Products%7cWarmers%7cFoot+Warmers+(10+pairs)&pval=0%7c1%7cFW10&pIds=Showcase%7cCategoryID%7citemid However, they are quite warm, so you may not need double socks, but hot/sweaty feet sure beats the alternative.
Anyway, I would definitely recommend the Lake MXZ301 shoes as they are well made, comfortable and warm. Don't let old man Winter keep you from riding!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bill Brown
a Weekend Warrior
from Sioux City,Ia USA Date Reviewed: November 17, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Street
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$130.00
Purchased At:
lickbike
Strengths:
well construted AND LOOK TRICK
Weaknesses:
narrow toe ,, time consuming to put on
Similar Products Used:
regular shoes w/neoprene booties
Bike Setup:
I ride mtb in winter, get the work out but reduces windchill
Bottom Line:
After several winters of using booties and handwarmers between the shoe and the booties (over the toes) I decided ,to drop the money and get a winter shoe. The maiden voyage was last night it was 13 degrees. I ordered 1 1/2 sizes larger than normal to accomidate extra socks, the shoe was still to narrow. A little over 10 miles into the ride I had to stop at a quikmart to thaw out, MY TOES WERE FROZEN!!!. Tonight when I ride I will try a different sock configuration, but I am extremely dissapointed, they are no warmer than the shoe and bootie combo, plus if you use hand warmers you feel no cold even in below zero temps.With regular shoes, remove the sole liner in the bottom so you can add an extra layer of socks
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
JH
a Cross Country Rider
from cape cod, ma Date Reviewed: April 12, 2005
It gets cold here. my feet were my limiting factor. i got tired of numb toes and trying all the different cheapo solutions. I finally sucked it up and went and dropped the cash at the bike shop for these. should have done it from the start. I wear them commuting and everything. my feet never ever get cold anymore and they ride almost like my sidi dominators.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kj
a
from Brevard,NC Date Reviewed: February 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
any pisgah forest
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
e-bay
Strengths:
well made, warm, water proof(to a point)
Weaknesses:
hardly any after two years+ there is one small area where the sole is coming away from upper (a little glue will fix it) not for above 45 degrees (not a weekness just a marker)
Similar Products Used:
booties
Bike Setup:
doesn't matter, a Turner if you are curious
Bottom Line:
purchased in Sept of 02 and was lucky to find on e-bay at $89+shipping. Two of my riding buds were informed and they jumped on the bad wagon also so this is a review really from the three of us. BUY THESE SHOES! You won't be disappointed I wear Sidi size 43 road and went with the Lake 44 and wear one Smartwool and sometimes a road sock with it the fit is good you don't want it too tight or you feet will have no room to "breath". The Lake has adjustments up the A** so you can even go with two Smartwools if you so desire my buddy took out the laces but I like the extra support. Stream crossings are a no brainer as long as you don't submerge past the neoprene. We have ridden in all conditions 20 degrees with wind chill at 0 was about max for me, feet were cold but not numb. We have very wet mucky conditions in western NC, so I condition the shoes twice a season and also apply a coating of Nikwax the shoes look practically new after treatment. They get a lot of use three rides a week in winter. They have been the absolute best cold weather clothing item I have ever purchased and I've been riding over thirty years. I've just decided to buy the road version CXZ300 and will report on it in the future.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gregg
a Racer
from MPLS, MN, USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2005
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$148.00
Purchased At:
licktons
Strengths:
Construction, heel strap, insulation
Weaknesses:
width, not for wide feet
Similar Products Used:
5 winters of regular bike shoe with neoprene bootie
Bike Setup:
XC racer, Time ATAC pedals
Bottom Line:
INFO ABOUT FIT: I have 9.5 D width feet. I use 43.5 Sidi Dominators (reg width) summer & winter+woolsock+bootie. I ordered a 44 and a 45 Lake MXZ300 from Licktons. The 44 was too narrow across the ball off my foot (it hurt). The 44 length was perfect. I kept the 45, returned the 44. It was perfect width. My foot is 1/2+ inch too short for the 45. The rear heal strap tightens the foot fwd into the toe box to help the length issue. I use one merino wool sock. I do not use the string lacing, just the velcro straps. Bottom line, I had to use a 1-1/2 larger shoe size with a big compromise in lentgh to get the width to fit correctly. I ride winter in MN off road thru trails just for exersize, so comfort (warm) feet are a priority over fit and efficiency. I tried on a pair on Sidi wtr shoes (44) but they seemed too light and racy for my needs. I was concerned about a lack of warmth from the Sidi's.
INFO ON PERFORMANCE: I've ridden for 1 month on these Lake wtr shoes in 15-40F. I consider the warmth to be similar to my summer shoes with neoprene booties. There fine for me. This a.m.'s 16 mile commute was 15F with below 0F windchill. My left toes got chilled, but warmed up during the hike-a-bike section. No issues. I have not used them in wet conditions yet. Booties pack with show and make clipping in very difficult. Winter specific shoes do not have this problem, and that's why a bought these Lake's.
I write this article because the previous commenters were very helpful in my purchase decision. I hope to help someone else in return.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Roy Gardiner
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Any technical single track!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
MEC
Strengths:
Well made and warm.
Weaknesses:
A little tight in the toe box area.
Similar Products Used:
Neoprene socks and booties with regular riding shoes.
Bike Setup:
HH100X,
Bottom Line:
After almost three months of use the Lake MXZ 300's have been great, both, warm and comfortable. However, as others have mentioned they are a bit tight (narrow and shallow) in the toe box area. I even bought them a size (43) larger than my Specialized Comp's (42) and still found them a bit tight in the toe box. This was relatively easy to fix though.
To increase the toe box area, I put the insoles from both shoes into one shoe and stretched the toe box with my wife’s wooden shoe stretcher. This increased both the width and height of the toe box. I left the stretcher in the shoe over night then repeated with the other shoe. They now have plenty of room in the toe box. Any shoe repair place could do this also and it shouldn’t be too costly.
I tried stretching them with only one insole and it did increase the width, however, I found that they were still a bit tight over-top the toes.
I never use more than one pair of Wigwam wool socks. Below -5 degrees C, I add chemical toe warmers and have ridden in -27 degrees C for 2.5 hours with no problems. My feet and toes were warm the whole ride.
I know that others have recommended getting them still one size larger and using two pairs of socks. I tried a pair of 44’s and I found that the shoe didn’t fit as well and it was still tight over-top my toes. From my many years experience in the mountains and extreme cold I have found that the key to warm feet and toes is maintaining circulation and keeping the feet dry. In most instances, the benefits of two pairs of socks are mitigated by the tighter lacing required to keep the feet from moving around inside the shoe, hence restricting circulation. Therefore, thin socks and properly fit footwear are warmer. For example, I go barefoot in my ski boots, in all temperatures, and never have cold feet. The boots are fit properly and the buckles over the arch are simply closed to keep the snow out, not to restrict the foot’s movement. I should also mention that my feet are very susceptible to the cold after numerous bouts of frostbite (experienced prior to employing the above).
All and all, a great winter shoe for the $.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dr.T
a Weekend Warrior
from Boston MA Date Reviewed: December 19, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$189.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Good construction of upper, good in snow, water resistant, nice down to 20s, durable.
Weaknesses:
For the money I would like something warmer. I bought the shoe a couple sizes up, I use good quality socks, and I often install chemical warmers, and my feet still get cold on windy days below 20 degrees. Not much warmer than another $50 pair of shoes that I wear with thick socks and neoprene booties. Hard to get into, tight toe box relative to the rest of shoe.
Similar Products Used:
the aforementioned Trek shoes with booties. Of course the problem with neoprene booties on trail rides is that they get beat up pretty quickly.
Bottom Line:
I'd like a reliable set-up for temperatures down to 0. If we can send men to the moon we should be able to design shoes to meet this basic requirement. Lake hasn't, and they have the gall to charge $200 for a shoe with real weaknesses. I'm still looking for a good winter shoe.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff
a
from Omaha, NE. 68138 Date Reviewed: November 29, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Rugged and warm. Cost was very reasonable for what you get. What you get is the ability to ride in almost any weather condition, for several years I'm sure.
Weaknesses:
None I can see.
Similar Products Used:
Several typses of normal mtb shoes, oversized so I can get two pairs of wool socks in 'em. Never did work great.
Bottom Line:
I wish I would have bought these years ago. Killer shoes. Your feet feel like they're surrounded by warm little pillows. comfy, and warm. Buy these, and you won't have an excuse not to ride in the cold anymore. I tried lots of different combinations of socks, shoes, etc. These shoes solved all my cold feet problems. Buy them one full size larger than you normally wear, and you should be good. Width is normal, not to narrow as some have suggested. Not to wide, just normal, period.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Rockville Date Reviewed: October 26, 2004
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$180.00
Purchased At:
Licktons
Strengths:
Really warm, unlike any other cycling shoe. When its icy cold and you still want to ride, you will love these toasters. Comfortable (riding and walking), stiff enough, quality construction, thoughtful design, waterproof.
Weaknesses:
Heavy - but if it weren't for these gems, I wouldn't be riding in the cold. You'd find me sitting by the fire in my slippers (light alright, but not getting me off my a$$ to ride).
Similar Products Used:
Carnacs, Nikes
Bike Setup:
Easton ultralight hardtail, XT, Fox F80RLT fork (sweet), frogs.
Bottom Line:
You want a warm, dry, comfortable winter shoe, buy these. They are in a class of their own. Expensive, but fine quality, and it appears I will get many years of service out of them. Lickton's had a good deal on these when I ordered, so value rating is good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pablo
a Weekend Warrior
from Sandpoint, ID, USA Date Reviewed: October 17, 2004
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$179.00
Purchased At:
Alpine Designs
Strengths:
Water resistant, insulated, high top, spd compatible
Weaknesses:
Too narrow!
Similar Products Used:
Can't find any
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Unicoi, XTR everywhere, WTB Velociraptor front and rear
Bottom Line:
The shoes are a great idea. I bought a pair for my wife, she loves 'em. They are too narrow in the toe box for me. Lake's reputation, by hearsay, was that they were a shoe for people with wide feet (like me). They are narrower than Carnac and Sidi. Sidi's Mega sizing works good on me in the warmer weather, but they don't make the cold weather shoe in the Mega style. If they did I would buy it. I can't understand why no shoe manufacturer is not making a Goretex, inuslated, Outlast, wide toe box (EE or EEEE) shoe for people who ride in the winter. There are thousands of us out here. Help!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
David Stackhouse
a Cross Country Rider
from Sanford, Maine, USA Date Reviewed: March 25, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Mt Agamenticus
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$146.00
Purchased At:
Crum Cycles, Springvale, Maine
Strengths:
Fully insulated sole does not conduct cold cleat through the sole. Sole is concave so clip-in is mindless and automatic. Side lugs are good for gouging your way up slippery slopes when wheel spin stops you. Fairly water resistant.
Weaknesses:
Shoe is large in the heel, small and narrow in the toe. Buy at least one full size too large to allow for warm socks. Arch strap pulls foot down into shoe, but not back into the heel socket. Straps could be designed better to pull foot back into shoe and prevent heel lift. Shoe laces were worthless crap but they're only laces and cheap to replace with better ones.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano M220 with lots of duct tape, neoprene overboots and wool socks.
Bike Setup:
Winter setup is Rocky Mtn instinct with Nokian studded tires and crank brothers pedals.
Bottom Line:
A must have for winter riding. Shoes have held up great and show little wear after full winter riding and now mud season. Since I didn't buy large enough, I use a thin neoprene stormsock. My feet get a bit numb but I am generally comfortable at 10 degrees F and up. I have ridden several days a week in Maine all this winter. Water will seep into this shoe if you actually immerse (all our water has been frozen all winter) but the stormsocks are waterproof so the combination is effective to keep from freezing toes. The combination of crank brothers pedals and Lake winter shoe is excellant and no conditions create any clip-in difficulties! If these fit my feet better they would be a definite 5 chilis. Poor ergonomics make them only a 4.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steven Johnson
a Cross Country Rider
from Port Angleles, WA Date Reviewed: February 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Gold Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
Licktons
Strengths:
Well built, good looking, adjustable heel cup strap, relatively warm. Good pedal fit on Times.
Weaknesses:
Slow on... slow off. Not water tight. Threads on spikes too short.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano SHFR80 ($35.00 closeout)
Bike Setup:
Nice Tracer: Psylo Race Air, Romic, Martas, 317s to Hadleys, XO rear, XTR front,
Bottom Line:
Very well constructed shoe except for one of the spike inserts was too deep in the sole to use supplied spike. Comes with two sets of spikes and cute wrench. Takes along time to get in and out. I usually have to re-tighten the laces once during a ride. Buy them at least a half size big to accommodate extra socks cuz if you think these shoes alone are gonna keep your dogs warm you are wrong. They are not waterproof! My favorite set up is a good liner sock (polypro or better) inside Sealskins high tops waterproof socks. I live where it is very wet most of the time. In dry snow wool socks would be fine. It's dope to look down at warm toesees in the snow while my buddy’s feet are turning blue and he is whining. There is still room for improvement but for now these are as good as it gets. Yeah, I'd buy them again.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dale
a
from Mbg,Pa. Date Reviewed: January 18, 2004
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$160.00
Purchased At:
Black Creek Bike Shop
Strengths:
Workmanship, secure fit, stylish, good traction cool looks
Weaknesses:
not made for WIDE feet
Similar Products Used:
neoprene booties,socks,toe warmers,batt. socks
Bike Setup:
'98 spec. rockhopper(great winter bike!!!!)
Bottom Line:
I only had 2 rides w/these, I should have got the next size up. I called Lake for suggestion on sizing, they said it's personal preference. My 1st ride was w/ bike socks, my toes got cool but warmer than booties. My 2nd ride was w/neoprene socks,toes got more numb(from cramp fit)than cold. I purchased a size 43(9), there is plenty of toe clearence(length) but w/ anything other than reg. bike socks the width is very narrow.Lake should make an extra width version for people w/ wider feet.Until they do,if you are considering these boots order the next size up.I think these boots are very well made(quality material).I will only give 4 chillies(overall rating) because of width sizing, 5 chillies(value)$ for quality product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Maine Date Reviewed: January 11, 2004
Favorite Trail:
In Winter? Anything accessable
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$157.00
Purchased At:
Lickton's via Phone
Strengths:
Warmth! Apparently made of quality materials. Well thought out design.
Weaknesses:
none, except maybe availability if you wait too long to purchase 'em.
Similar Products Used:
L.L. Bean Cresta hiking boots on platforms?
Bike Setup:
5 Spot with 2" wide SnoCat winter rims and Nokia 296 studded tires. Everything else just window dressing in winter riding.
Bottom Line:
First ride with these shoes. Check the date of this post and picture "Maine Winter". It has been 0 F and lower for a week here. I usually will ride if it is in the 20 deg F range, I wear hiking boots and use platforms. At that temp (20) my toes freeze in the boots but other extremities are comfy.
Today I just couldn't wait to try these out. Temp at 11:00 when I left was 5 deg F and when I got back in the truck at 12:45 the thermometer read 8 deg. No wind and sunny. Bottom line, my feet were NOT cold. My knees ached, my fingers were cold enough to have to stop and ball them up in my Salomon ski gloves to warm the fingers and thumbs, and I had a snot icicle hanging off my 'stache below my bottom lip. My toes are always cold when cycling in cool temps, even in the fall with Cannondale shoes. Today I had NO discomfort AT ALL. These things work! I only wore a pair of "Turtle Fur" socks designed for skiing. I think wool might work even better.
I tried to find a pair of these shoes everywhere in December. But waiting too long to purchase them was not too smart. I finally called Lickton's in Chicago and they had a pair my size. One week later I had 'em. Great service and only $157!
If you ride in cold weather, these are the best shoes you can buy.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
WomBAT
a
from Moscow, ID Date Reviewed: December 2, 2003
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Built bomber, excellent design, great material choices (eg, Thinsulate)
Weaknesses:
Sizing. I wear a 49 Sidi Dominator. These were too short AND too narrow (so much for slamming Ital shoes). You really do need to order large, yet I am not convinced that the last is wide enough, esp. since a rider may want to use a somewhat thicker sock. NOT good. Also, Lake needs to offer a 14--why should Italians be the only ones offer sizes for those of with Shaq feet?
Similar Products Used:
Sidi Storm
Bottom Line:
I am stuck w/ the Storm because it fits. Note, even the Storm (which I use and which is NOT on par insulation wise) in a 49 is cut on a larger last than the Dominator 49. I can run a couple insoles in the Storm (addresses somewhat the lack of lower insulation) and wear a thick wool sock. Lake has a great shoe here, but it remains too narrow (straps can take up excess width--but there's no way to add width) and needs to address folks w/ 13.5-14 sizing.
Great deal IF you can fit them right. Disappointing if not.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
rob black
a Cross Country Rider
from NY , NY Date Reviewed: October 25, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$79.00
Purchased At:
Cambria
Strengths:
The best winter shoe available.
Weaknesses:
Like an ice skate on ice- absolutely no traction. Neoprene falls apart too easily.
Similar Products Used:
none bike specific; duck boots, pac boots, lotsa socks with big flat pedals. Serious winter setups, I wanna keep my toes.
Bike Setup:
Dean Colonel HT dream tricked, I won't bore you with the details.
Bottom Line:
I bought a pair of these for my wife. That's how much I like them. They are THE top of the line winter shoes. However, they have *serious* problems. They are pretty good down to 10F (for me). My feet are wide enough that the shoes are a bit on the snug side. I probably can't get the full insulating effect. However, I would still give them very high marks for warmth. I put serious miles in these shoes during the freezing, snowy winter of 2003 here in the Northeast USA.
The neoprene started fraying at about 1k. Okay, I guess most people won't use these shoes much anyway.
The most dangerous problem is the rubber sole. It is extremely hard and provides no traction on any ice surface. Pardon me, but sooner or later, if you're on a mountain bike, riding in the winter on ice and snow, you will stop somewhere and put your foot down. And you will want that foot to stop you from snapping your freaking neck. These shoes will not provide this basic service.
These shoes were from year model 2002 or earlier (mine were purchased 11/02). Hopefully, Lake has corrected this serious flaw in their newer models.
1 chili value rating. Such an expensive shoe should not have such a serious flaw.
Overall, it does insulate and is the best winter shoe out there. If you can get it for a good price and never plan on stopping your bike in snow or ice, add one chili.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
thebuzzardman bird
a Weekend Warrior
from NewYork,NY, USofA Date Reviewed: October 22, 2003
Favorite Trail:
SprainRidge
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
I forgot - Online
Strengths:
Worth the money, especially if you get them on sale, which you should be able to online,especially in the summer. Warm, comfortable, nearly instant break in. Regular socks and their still good at just above\below freezing. Wool socks bring their effectiveness into the teens. Lots of straps, ties etc to really seal up the foot. Worked well with Eggbeaters and TimeAtacs. I used them in the East Blizzard of 03 several times and it was all good. As waterproof as anything not rubber,especially with the stuff they give you to put on. Good traction
Weaknesses:
A little time consuming to get into and out of, a little snug to get the foot into, but then again, that keeps out the snow. A little heavy - but so is everything else to bike in Winter. Hey - Good training. Laces are thin, which is good, but get shredded by the Velco. Only possible design flaw is it's a little tough to cinch down the laces as tight as I'd like - but than againt the straps more than pick up the slack. I'm trying to point out any little potential flaw.
Similar Products Used:
Pearl Izumi Typhoon Booties - suck ass; mud collectors, harder to put on then Lakes, don't work well, toe comes up at the slightest dismount - STAY AWAY Garneau booties - 1/2 the price of the Typhoons;not bad - actually work well but starting to come apart after 2 seasons. Make you guilty for getting off the bike - Not the Lakes!
Bike Setup:
02 Team Scalpel then 03 Heckler 5th Element Coil,Bonz Cranks,3.1 UST w/King Hubs,Thompson Seatpost\Stem; Inbred Geak Seat, Hayes Hydrolics with Hope Gothic Rotors
Bottom Line:
If you ride in the winter at all buy these. Get them on sale for 125-150. Heck - they're worth the full price. One of the products that does what it says and does it well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Weekend Warrior
from Madison, NJ Date Reviewed: July 3, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Allamuchy
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$159.00
Strengths:
Great shoe, well designed
Weaknesses:
A little hard to get into, but I'm nitpicking...
Similar Products Used:
Nothing like it
Bottom Line:
I can't believe I waited this long to buy these. I've tried various booties, neoprene, hiking boots with pedals, etc, in order to keep my feet warm, and nothing worked. These are exactly what you need to ride in the cold. Buy them 1 to 1.5 sizes big.
It has been a very wet spring here in the northeast, and I have also been using these shoes in the warmer temperatures for their waterproofing capabilities. I can say that while they are hot, they are also tolerable in 60-70 degree tempratures when it is wet out.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bobgano
a Cross Country Rider
from Somewhere, Central PA Date Reviewed: April 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Rocks. Big rocks.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Lickton's
Strengths:
A lot of thought went into their design-help from Ititarod. Very well made, high quality construction. Still reasonable weight. Lots of flaps and neoprene and closure devices to keep water and snow out. Unbelievably warm, sometimes too warm unless below freezing. These are the only shoes to ever keep my toes warm.
Weaknesses:
Neoprene encourages sweaty feet but this is small price to pay. Sweat dries. Frostbit toes fall off. Laces are cumbersome to tie with all the flaps on top. A pull-lace like on snowboard boots would work better. NOt really waterproof but leather can be treated. Ice doesn't get in thru the shoe anyways.
Similar Products Used:
Regular MTB shoes with plastic bags and full neoprene covers worn with liner and wool socks-my feet still froze. I tried on Gaerne Polars (seemed OK but less insulated and no good for MTB riding-more for road, also too waterproof and feet will sweat more), Northwave Grizzlies(light duty, too low, would be OK for cool weather wet riding), Sidi Freezes(pretty, but not much different from Geniuses, NO insulation, too delicate, would be ripped to shreds quickly, feet would freeze terribly I am sure).
Bike Setup:
I have 3. 1 steel hardtail, 1 steel softtail, 1 aluminum FS. Shimano LX and XT.
Bottom Line:
The hands down heaviest duty, warmest, well-fitting, most thoughtfully made, best priced winter shoes out there. Of course you can wear them MTB or road. Call Lickton's-great service and advice. Order 1 size big. Buy this if you want to preserve your feet and ride without fear of the cold, even below freezing. Riding is a lot more fun when you are comfortable.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
david nunez
a Cross Country Rider
from bloomfield new jersey Date Reviewed: March 1, 2003
Favorite Trail:
ringwood new jersey
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$159.00
Purchased At:
licktons
Strengths:
built like a fortress, no cold, no water will get in these babies, i think if you have these shoes on you can mountain bike up in the north pole! remember the blizzard of 2003 in the east coast, i went riding couple of days later in 23 degree weather and went hiking in knee hi snow carrying my bike to see how good these shoes are, no cold or wet feet at all, just make sure you wear wool socks to wick away the sweat, first time i wore them with cotton socks no good, wool very good, wet feet=cold feet-dry feet=happy feet, great strap system for a perfect fit, nice bottoms too not to hard, i would use these to even shovel snow outside my house they are so comfortable...i totally recomend...
Weaknesses:
a little bit overbuilt, a little heavy, and little hard to get into and get out of, you have to really unstrap all 3 straps and move the flap to expose the laces and then loosen the laces so you can get your foot in through the neoprene inner liner, these is a little hard to do especially when you have thick wool socks on, maybe thats not a weakness, i mean this is an extreme conditions shoe, lake was not playing when they design this shoe, other than i would have to say this shoe does not have any weakness...
Similar Products Used:
sidi storm 1 crap, feet were cold all the time and i did not even touch snow just wind made my feet cold but they were stiff and light...
Bike Setup:
cannondale jekyll sweet....
Bottom Line:
if you want leave the stationary bike alone to go riding in any type of winter weather then get the lake mxz 300, they are the best winter riding shoes bar none, they will keep your feet warm and dry, protect your feet from the water, snow, muck and mud and even the wind can't penetrate these things, they are a little spendy but you get what you pay for, the best, i was hesitant because of price, licktons had a sale for 159.00 i dodn't regret getting them at all, worth every single cent...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Billy Bob
a Weekend Warrior
from Upstate NY Date Reviewed: January 2, 2003
Favorite Trail:
The Glen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
E Bay
Strengths:
Warm, Comfortable, Water Resistant, Comes with 3 sizes of studs and gel. Works great with TIME ATAC pedals.
Weaknesses:
None yet, and I have worked these puppys hard.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bike Setup:
FS MTB
Bottom Line:
I have used these in 5 inches of snow, and to cross a stream (after I fell off), in 3-4 inches of water. I have used them in muddy and icy conditions. I still have not come home with wet socks or even cold feet. These are very comfortable and have been hard-wearing so far.... (no sign of wear after about 30 rides). They have a bootie within a boot and grip great when the studs are installed properly. (A friend lost his studs because he didnt use the provided gel during installation). I wear these with TIME ATAC pedals and have had none of the release problems that seem to be common with other brands. (I had to use a dremmel tool to trim my shimano shoes to help release from Time ATAC's). List price is $200, but you can get them on EBAY for $100+ and I saw an ad on this site for $159. Worth the $$.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
NorthShoreBurlington
a Weekend Warrior
from Burlington, Ontario, Canada Date Reviewed: December 13, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$149.00
Purchased At:
Lickton's
Strengths:
I have been using this shoe for just over 3 months and have been very impressed with the quality of construction and warmth. Does a good job of keep water and wind out, is much easier to deal with than neoprene booties.
Weaknesses:
Better heel cup would be an assest
Similar Products Used:
None
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer, Hayes, XTR powertrain.
Bottom Line:
An excellent shoe that has restored my interest in winter riding. Much less hassel that neoprene booties and have ridden them well below freezing and have still had very happy feet. The people at Lickton's in Chicago where very good to deal with.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael 2me
a Weekend Warrior
from Waverly NY USA Date Reviewed: November 11, 2002
Favorite Trail:
The Glen
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$100.00
Purchased At:
E Bay
Strengths:
Quality, Comfort, Color
Weaknesses:
Sized one size small. Always wore a 45 until I bought these. Had to return the first pair for a 46.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano SHSO36 (size 45)
Bike Setup:
GT i-Drive, Stock with Avid disks.
Bottom Line:
Nice shoes, fit like a glove if you order one size up. Very warm for thse 5am rides in the snow. Works great with Time Atac clipless. My Shimano's were impossible to clip free when it mattered most, until I had them trimmed. -1 chilli for size and -1 chilli for price. Not worth list of $200 but definately worth $100. I hope the exterior will take a beating, they look kind of soft. I will post again on durability in 6 months time. These are the best winter shoe available now!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Bristol, CT USA Date Reviewed: April 30, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$180.00
Strengths:
Fit, Keeps feet dry, warm. Great rubber sole for traction.
Weaknesses:
No color, dang. Pricey, worse than Nike sneakers ( which I NEVER buy , for last 8 years)
Similar Products Used:
Nothing like these.
Bike Setup:
yes
Bottom Line:
These shoes are fantastic for cold weather riding. I wish there was a non-insulated version for the upcoming Summer. They offer good protection above the ankle, and a solid toe-box for rock smacking. Stream crossings are not a problem. I feet haven't gotten wet all winter, and always stayed warm. If you can find them on sale, get them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
SGT. ROCK
a Racer
from Edmonton, AB Date Reviewed: February 23, 2002
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$65.00
Purchased At:
Revolution Cycle
Strengths:
Materials quality, construction, design, fit
Weaknesses:
None yet
Similar Products Used:
Sidi Storm, stupid neoprene booties
Bike Setup:
Have six - which one?
Bottom Line:
Looks like the only beef against these dogs is the price - and that's what has prevented me from buying this type of shoe in the past. Well, I just bought them for the paltry sum of $105 Cdn (that's $65 US)! Can you believe it? Actually, I had my choice between this shoe and the Sidi Storm for the same price. No comparison - the Lake is the superior winter shoe, having better materials, better weather sealing, insulation, a grippier sole and a more secure fit. Only possible downside could be durability, but looking at the shoe's obvious quality, I can't see that becoming an issue.
Look forward to using these babies on the trails soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike S
a Cross Country Rider
from Fairfax, Virginia Date Reviewed: October 31, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Paramount Cycle, Anchorage AK
Strengths:
Warm but breathable, comfortable, stiff, good support, water and snow proof as far as I can tell.
Weaknesses:
the price
Similar Products Used:
summer riding shoes
Bike Setup:
2001 Fisher Paragon with TIME composite pedals
Bottom Line:
I bought these 3 weeks ago when the snow started falling in Anchorage AK. For the price I expected perfection, and I have been more than impressed. In the last few weeks I've ridin in all kinds of weather with these, from a wet snow and rain mix, to one foot of fresh powder and a temperature range of 10-30 F. My feet were never too hot,and never cold. With these boots I wear my summertime riding socks because that's all I've needed. The insulating booty has the perfect mix of breathability and warmth. My feet never sweat, even if they're warm on a hard ride. Also, I'm not sure why the reviewer below had problems using TIME cleats, my TIMEs work fine with these. I'm giving these 5 flammers because they're awsome shoes. Sure they're not cheap, but neither are ski boots or any other winter wear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Bob
a Cross Country Rider
from Lagrange, IL usa Date Reviewed: March 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Spokes
Strengths:
Very warm, stiff sole, laces with 3 straps lets you get a good fit.
Weaknesses:
Price.
Bike Setup:
Klein Mantra
Bottom Line:
First off let me just say that my feet are always cold. I didn't want to spend the money on these, but if you want to ride all year you need more than neoprene booties. They were well worth the money. If you are looking for a cold weather shoe , this is it. If the temp. drops real low, I'll wear booties over them, but it's not the shoes fault.Excellent fit, great quality, warm,stiff sole,not bad to walk in, and worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
West
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: February 14, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$169.00
Purchased At:
Lickton's bike
Strengths:
Really warm, seems to be made well, comfortable and it does its job well. I will follow up after I have more rides wearing them
Weaknesses:
Try finding a place that sells them!
Similar Products Used:
Neoprene booties (can you believe they call them "booties"?)
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer.
Bottom Line:
First, I am not sure which is better, the boots or the place where I bought them. I looked all over the place for these boots and found them on the internet at Lickton's (1-800-323-4083 Lickton's@mcs.net). CALL THEM! THE CUSTOMER SERVICE IS GREAT! This company should be the model for every other mail order company. Back to the boots, I ride in the snow and mud of the northeast. The other "booties" that just cover the shoes simply do not work. Your feet get wet and cold. Not so with these boots which cover your entire foot and have an SPD location built in. Translation, no cold feet and no wet feet! On my first ride the temperature fell to 15 degrees after a brief thaw. The conditions were wet, mud past the ankle and heavy snow that froze up very quickly. I had to do more walking than usual yet despite the fact that the boots were totally covered in frozen mud and snow and after steping in deep wet mud, my feet were NEVER cold! Amazing! So, I learned three things: (1) I wasted my money on useless neoprene "booties" that do not work; (2) I found a GREAT STORE TO BUY THINGS ON-LINE and (3) I should have just bought these boots in the 1st place. 5 Chilis all around!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
GREG
a Cross Country Rider
from NEW YORK Date Reviewed: December 12, 2000
Favorite Trail:
allofem
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$150.00
Purchased At:
bikeman
Strengths:
solid,thoughtful construction. comes with two length spikes. nice looking as far as dorky winter shoes go.
Weaknesses:
none that i can tell. cleat recess may be too small for time cleats.
Similar Products Used:
sidi's in-store
Bike Setup:
titus racer-x
Bottom Line:
if your looking for a good winter riding shoe... look no further. they are better suited for winter riding than the sidi storms(which i looked at). three straps plus laced closure with insulating flap!!! bigger toe box for thick socks... insole is super comfy and insulated. leather and logos are nice. fleece and neoprene lined, unlike the sidi's. when i bought them... bikeman.com was selling for 149$$$.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shane Nelson
a Cross Country Rider
from Springfield, Mo Date Reviewed: June 17, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Berryman
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
For cold and wet weather riding it does not get any better than these shoes. I have worn them when it was zero outside and my feet felt great.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Northwave
Bike Setup:
Zaskar with XT and XTR
Bottom Line:
If you want winter shoes buy these!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chef
a Cross Country Rider
from New York City Date Reviewed: February 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Sourlands
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Fit, performance.
Weaknesses:
Cost, difficult to use Time cleats.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
RM Element T.O. with Time ATACs...
Bottom Line:
I have very wide feet, and initially had trouble using them due to the shimano last. However, a pair of shoe trees did wonders, and they are now quite comfortable. The shoes came with two sets of spikes (one short, one long) and a packet of Nikwax (for waterproofing/treating).
On the trails, they work very well indeed. The treated Pittards leather sheds water and mud equally well, and the shoes are well-insulated - especially the cleat section. The heel strap is a bonus, and the lace/strap selection works surprisingly well. The neoprene ankle sleeve keeps your ankle warm below your riding tights, and does not inhibit movement at all.
They are a bit pricey ($180 US), but are less than the SIDI Storms, and IMHO, are worth the price. You can get them on line for less, so look around. Either way, great bang for the buck.
So far, I can find nothing wrong with them. If that changes, I'll update.
Chef
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
monkeyboy
a weekend warrior
from iowa Date Reviewed: October 28, 1998
Bottom Line:
Just purchased the MXZ300 shoes from lake. Weather is still mild so I will comment on my initial impression. For the money I expected an excellent shoe. So far so good...the shoe came with three sets of cleats, cleat wrench and a package of NIKWAX (waterproofing). My main concern is warmth, waterproof and comfort. The construction seems bulletproof and I don't see were water will penetrate. The combination of neoprene and other materials should result in a warm shoe. Shoe strings and straps work well in providing a perfect fit. I will post a review on future observations after prolonged field test.
Overall Rating:
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