Eurobike innovations from NorthwaveEnduro and Extreme XC

Stefan Frey

 · 26.08.2015

Eurobike innovations from Northwave: Enduro and Extreme XCPhoto: Hersteller
Eurobike innovations from Northwave: Enduro and Extreme XC
There are several brand new shoe models at the Northwave Eurobike stand. Two models stand out in particular. The lightweight Racer Extreme XC and the new Enduro.

Northwave Enduro Mid

The young Enduro discipline demands enormous versatility from its riders. The developers at Northwave had the same aspiration when they set out to develop the perfect shoe for enduro riders. They received support from none other than Cedric Gracia. After all, the former downhiller and enduro rider must know what is important.

  Plenty of protection, excellent grip and good power transmission - the new Northwave Enduro Mid is said to be a true all-rounder.Photo: Hersteller Plenty of protection, excellent grip and good power transmission - the new Northwave Enduro Mid is said to be a true all-rounder.


Two versions available

This resulted in two versions of the new Enduro: the "Enduro Mid", which was pulled up further at the ankle for more protection, especially on the inside, and the "Enduro", which is constructed like a classic low shoe. While the Enduro Mid is fastened using the SLW2 dial developed by Northwave and a Velcro strap, the Enduro uses a classic speed lacing system.

  Cedric Gracia has been hard at work developing the Northwave Enduro Mid and is of course getting his own signature model.Photo: Hersteller Cedric Gracia has been hard at work developing the Northwave Enduro Mid and is of course getting his own signature model.


Grippy sole rubber from Michelin

Both models have the sole construction in common. Reinforcements on the top of the toe box protect against injuries. The sole is a special feature. It was developed together with Michelin and is designed to be particularly grippy. The tread is only found in the front and rear areas. The centre section is built like a flat pedal shoe and can be ridden with or without a click system. Special cushioning at the rear of the shoe is designed to minimise foot fatigue, even on longer pushing sections.

  The Northwave Enduro is also available as a classic low shoe. The sole construction remains the same.Photo: Hersteller The Northwave Enduro is also available as a classic low shoe. The sole construction remains the same.

Northwave Extreme XC

The Extreme series from Northwave is one of the lightest racing shoes on the market. With the Extreme XC, the Italians are launching yet another extremely lightweight model that has been designed exclusively for racing. The lightweight and highly ventilated upper is designed to fit perfectly around the foot thanks to the special Biomap technology. Two SLW2 twist fasteners and Velcro at the front of the toe area ensure an optimum fit.

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  Extremely light and really only designed for racing - the new Northwave Extreme XC.Photo: Hersteller Extremely light and really only designed for racing - the new Northwave Extreme XC.


Minimalist sole for racers

The sole is made from a special mix of materials, which on the one hand should provide super stiffness values, but on the other hand offers sufficient flex so that the foot does not tire during the race. The carbon sole has been covered with a special rubber coating to protect it from scratches. On the minimalist rubber tread, which also comes from tyre manufacturer Michelin, you should really only cover the shortest distances.

  For a special look, the Northwave Extreme XC is also available in winter camouflage. Northwave also has matching clothing in its range.Photo: Hersteller For a special look, the Northwave Extreme XC is also available in winter camouflage. Northwave also has matching clothing in its range.

Stefan Frey is from Lower Bavaria and loves the mossy, loamy trails of the Bavarian Forest as much as the rugged rock of the Dolomites. For technical descents, he is prepared to tackle almost any ascent - under his own steam. As an accessories specialist, he is the first port of call for questions about equipment and add-on parts, while as head of copywriting he sweeps the language crumbs from the pages of the BIKE print editions.

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