If you take mountain biking seriously, then strap into Northwave's Aerlite S.B.S. MTB Shoe. The carbon sole on this men's shoe transfers every watt of power to your pedals, a Step by Step ratcheting mechanism precisely and comfortably holds your foot at the instep, and natural rubber soles provide tenacious traction when other mountain bike shoes scramble.
These are real MTB shoes in my opinion. The soles rubber bottom is what sets it above other shoes, as pusing bike along the trail happens to us all and you almos forget you have bike shoes on. I can walk a few miles in these without major issues and no noticeable wear. These are also very comfy, keep feet cool. In summer ill wear a thin sock and pull straps fully for a snug fit, in colder weather theres ample room for a thicker sock. The design is well thought out everything appears useful. The air vents are really amazing, willkeep shoe from stinking up and dry faster. There expensive but if youcan find a deal grab em. These are carbon sole, truly amazing feel when pedaling. Stocking up with a great deal is a no brainer.
Bike Setup: Specialized carbon stumpjumper FSR S works
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Submitted by
Lax-n-MTB
a Weekend Warrior
from Frederick, MD
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2010
Strengths: comfortable, good ventilation, stiff, easy adjustment
Weaknesses: thin insole
Bottom Line:
I found these shoes to be pretty impressive. My foot is a little on the wider side and the Northwaves are very comfortable. The sole is fairly grippy on rocks and roots and so far the shoe itself has held up nicely to my abuse. The only weakness was the thin insole that I replaced with a pair of green Superfeet.
Strengths: comfortable, great energy transfer, great grip
Weaknesses: none
Bottom Line:
By far the best shoe I have owned. Order one size smaller than the Sidi's and Shimano shoes because it is fairly hi volume. Great on the bike and great grip while walking on rocks. The heal sits nice in the heal cup, not too high like the Sidi's, and no clicking noises like Shimano can have. Not cheap, but cheaper than the Sidi's. Worth every dime.
Similar Products Used: Sidi dominators, Shimano, Adidas Adistar
Bike Setup: Titus eleven 29er
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Submitted by
chcmuzza
a Weekend Warrior
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2009
Strengths: Light, stiff, great ventilation, great grip from rubber lugs, once adjusted they feel really good on the feet.
Weaknesses: Ventilation on cold days, volume might be too great for some feet, some heel slippage when walking, insole could be more cushioned
Bottom Line:
I bought these as an upgrade to some no-name shoes. I was originally looking for the Lizzard versions however these were offered at a good price.
I have taken a bit of time to get used to the extra stiffness but really appreciate the better peddling platform this offers. They are light and offer great ventilation, I am looking forward to summer to test the airflow characteristics.
The shoe volume is huge. I have a high instep and still have the various straps as tight as they can go to get them secure. I believe this contributes the heel slip experienced when off the bike. On the bike I don't have any heel slip at all.
Personally I would appreciate a more cushioned insole and will look to swap out the standard version - the volume is there to do it.
Bottom line, if you have a high volume or wide foot these are a fantastic - just try before you buy.
