Summit conquerors often have a footwear problem on extensive bike+hike tours: do you take extra shoes with you in your rucksack for the summit ascent or do you clatter towards the summit cross in bike shoes? The Italians from Northwave are launching a suitable shoe for precisely such tours this autumn: the Explorer GTX. The all-mountain trekking shoe resembles a trail running shoe and is equipped with a Gore-Tex membrane to protect the wearer from wet feet.
Relaxed marching over trails with cleats
The Gore-Tex membrane and mesh inserts also ensure that you don't sweat in the shoe. The shoe is closed using a quick lacing system, as known from Salomon or triathlon running shoes. In addition, an elasticated strap holds the heel firmly in the shoe so that nothing slips and you don't get blisters on your heel. However, the highlight of the Explorer GTX is definitely its sole: the "X-Crossbow" sole is very similar to a Vibram version, is super profiled for loose surfaces and offers plenty of grip when running. The special construction supports the heel and cushions the foot on hard surfaces. A cleat can be mounted recessed into the front of the sole.
The Northwave Explorer GTX will be available in two colours from autumn 2014. The price is 159 euros.
More info: http://www.northwave.com
