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Vaude Moab series completely revised
It wasn't so long ago that Vaude presented its first flat pedal shoes. But the entire Maob range is already being revised for the coming season. The main points of criticism from the developers were the overly hard sole and its profile, as well as the somewhat old-fashioned look.
The new models have a much fresher look and, above all, a completely revised outsole. This no longer comes from Vibram, but was developed in collaboration with SUP Traction and should be significantly softer. A hexagon profile is designed to increase grip on the pedals. The tread is deeper in the forefoot and rearfoot than in the pedal area. As a result, the new models should still provide decent traction even in carrying passages. According to Vaude, the new sole should be an optimal compromise between soft and yet durable.
Four models come with the new sole
The AM Moab Mid STX is made from high-quality leather and equipped with a Sympatex membrane. It is designed to be the perfect all-round model for the whole year. The upper has been pulled over the ankles to offer plenty of protection. The foot is securely fastened in the shoe via a lacing system and a Velcro strap. A reinforced toe cap is used on the toes. Price: 190 Euro
The AM Moab Tech should be a particularly exciting model for enduro bikers. Its asymmetrical shaft construction protects the inner ankles, but still offers plenty of freedom of movement on the pedals. The Boa system is used as the closure. This can be finely adjusted, even while riding. Because the Boa fastener is particularly susceptible to damage if it gets dirty, Vaude has provided a practical Velcro cover that also looks good. Price: 170 Euro
The AM Moab is a classic lace-up shoe for flat pedalling. It is made from high-quality leather that can be stretched. It is particularly robust and has perforations in the toe area for better ventilation. Price: 150 Euro
With the AM Moab Syn Vaude finally launched a more affordable entry-level version with a synthetic upper. The shoe is available in a men's and women's version and with classic lacing for 120 euros.
Ion Rascal Select and Raid Select
Ion has two new models on the stand. The clipless pedal shoe Rascal Select gets a stiffer sole for better power transmission. The aramid-reinforced upper material is designed to protect the feet from punctures. The ankle area is cut extra high and ends with a neoprene cuff. This not only protects the ankles, but also prevents stones from finding their way into the shoe. The crossover Velcro strap is already familiar from its predecessor. However, to ensure that the shoe also fits riders with a high instep, the Velcro can be hooked into two positions. The Rascal Select has already proven itself in the World Cup. Rachel and Gee Atherton have been riding the shoe for several races and are probably quite fond of the boots.
The Ion Raid Select is a classic flat pedal shoe. The developers have given it a more cushioning sole. This should provide more grip on the pedals. In addition, an Ortholite insole on the inside provides comfort for the feet. The outside of the shoe is adorned with a really stylish and, above all, robust mix of pigskin and cowhide. However, the high-quality material comes at a price: the Ion Raid Select will set you back 180 euros.
Northwave will also have flat pedal shoes next season.
The top model is the new Northwave Clan. The sole was developed in close collaboration with Michelin and has a three-layer construction. The first, inner layer is a classic elastomer sole, which is primarily intended to provide good cushioning. Underneath, Northwave has integrated a stiffening TPU insert in the pedal area. This is intended to stabilise the foot on the pedal and relieve pressure during longer descents. Contact with the pedals is provided by the outsole made from an extremely grippy rubber compound from Michelin. The welded upper material is equipped with mesh cut-outs in the front area to improve ventilation. The Northwave Clan is a classic lace-up shoe that will be available in three colours. The price: 139 euros.
Slightly cheaper, namely 99 euros, is the Northwave Tribe. It comes without the elaborate sole construction and with a somewhat simpler knitted upper material. You also have to do without the mesh inserts for ventilation. Instead, you have a choice of five colours.
Northwave Ghost Pro: top race shoe reissued
In the race sector, Northwave is changing very little for the coming season. Only the top model Ghost Pro has been revised and is now closed using two dials instead of one. This should fix the foot even better and, above all, more evenly in the shoe. Of course, this adds a few grams of weight, but given that the Ghost Pro weighs just 320 grams, this is probably negligible. The price for the ultra-stiff carbon racing shoe is a whopping 379 euros.
Five Ten Kestrel Boa Pro
A lot has also happened at Five Ten. Now that the Americans have further expanded their collaboration with Adidas, the Kestrel Boa is back on the market in a Pro version. Compared to its predecessor, the fit is said to have been greatly improved. The Boa fastener has been repositioned, the lacing now runs further upwards and should close the shoe more evenly. An Ortholite sole inside the shoe ensures comfort.
Five Ten, Troy Lee and Design
In addition to the new Kestrel, the Americans are launching two stylish versions in collaboration with Troy Lee. The two models Kestrel Boa Pro and Impact are each available in an exclusive design.
Luck Galaxy - Racer with custom option
How cool is that? The Spanish manufacturer Luck offers a custom option for its top Galaxy shoe. This means that you can customise the upper material of the carbon trekking shoe to your liking. In team colours, with the national flag on it or perhaps with a photo of your own pet? There are virtually no limits to your creative freedom. Only a few colour combinations seem a little difficult to implement. But the manufacturer will be happy to advise you. The Galaxy is equipped with a stiff carbon sole. This makes the shoe not only unique but also fast. Two Boa wheels hold the feet in the shoe. Although the Galaxy is not weightless, at 290 grams per shoe it is pleasantly light. The manufacturer has already designed four models as inspiration, the rest you have to take into your own hands.
More information is also available on the Luck page
Stefan Frey
Editor
