The American mountain bike shoe specialist Ride Concepts presents the new Hellion collection with three models for demanding trail, enduro and downhill bikers. According to the manufacturer, the shoes are designed to combine performance, protection and pedalling efficiency. The Hellion range includes a basic model with classic lacing and two versions with a BOA closure system for a precisely adjustable fit.
Hellion - The basic model for aggressive trail biking
The entry-level Hellion model is aimed at trail and all-mountain riders who are looking for a breathable yet robust shoe for long tours and demanding terrain. The asymmetric upper made from Cordura fabric is designed to combine breathability and durability. Ride Concepts has paid particular attention to protecting the inner ankle, which is particularly exposed on rough descents. The basic Hellion model has classic lacing and the EVA midsole is designed to ensure comfort and efficient power transmission.
Hellion BOA - Precise fit for technical trails
With the Hellion BOA, Ride Concepts is targeting riders who are looking for maximum adaptability and breathability for long, technical tours in demanding terrain. The BOA Fit System with Li2 twist lock and TX4 lacing system enables precise and even adjustment of the fit. The so-called PerformFit Wrap is designed to enclose the foot and thus improve power transmission when pedalling and efficiency on climbs. As with the basic model, a breathable and abrasion-resistant upper made from Cordura fabric is also used here.
Hellion Elite BOA - Maximum protection for gravity use
The top model Hellion Elite BOA is aimed at enduro racers and gravity riders who need maximum protection, stiffness and precision in the toughest terrain. A combination of Cordura fabric and moulded KPU plastic is designed to offer maximum durability and protection. Additional reinforcements can be found on the asymmetric shaft, the heel and the toe box. The BOA Fit System with PerformFit Wrap is also used here to ensure a precise fit so that the foot does not slip even at high speed and on hard landings.
Common technologies for all models
All three Hellion models share some basic technologies. For example, the shoes have a hexagonal outsole with an inverted profile on the toe and heel for better grip when pushing and carrying the bike. A fully closed tongue is designed to prevent the ingress of dirt and debris. D3O insoles are also used to absorb shocks and reduce fatigue. An antibacterial inner lining is designed to prevent stinky feet.
Clip and flat pedal versions available
Ride Concepts offers all Hellion models in versions for clipless pedals as well as for flat pedals. The clip versions had a 40 millimetre long cleat box with markings for precise positioning of the cleats. The flat pedal versions used a MAX GRIP rubber compound for maximum grip on the pedals.
Availability and prices
The new Hellion models are now available in stores. The recommended retail prices are €180 for the basic Hellion model, €210 for the Hellion BOA and €235 for the Hellion Elite BOA.
Hellion
- Material: Cordura mesh upper
- Closure: Traditional lacing
- Sole: CLIP GRIP (clipless pedal) / MAX GRIP (flat pedal)
- Cleatbox (clipless pedal version): 40 mm
- Midsole: EVA
- Insole: D3O
- Lining: Antibacterial mesh
- RRP: 180 Euro
Hellion BOA
- Material: Cordura mesh upper
- Closure: BOA Fit System with Li2 twist lock and TX4 lacing system
- Sole: CLIP GRIP (clipless pedal) / MAX GRIP (flat pedal)
- Cleatbox (clipless pedal version): 40 mm
- Midsole: EVA
- Insole: D3O
- Lining: Antibacterial
- RRP: 210 Euro
Hellion Elite BOA
- Material: Cordura mesh and moulded KPU upper material
- Closure: BOA Fit System with PerformFit Wrap
- Sole: CLIP GRIP (clipless pedal) / MAX GRIP (flat pedal)
- Cleatbox (clipless pedal version): 40 mm
- Midsole: EVA
- Insole: D3O
- Additional protection: KPU reinforcements on the toe box, heel and over the BOA fastener
- Lining: Antibacterial mesh
- RRP: 235 Euro
Josh Welz
Editor-in-Chief
