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Will the 45Nrth Ragnarök from the winter specialists from the far north actually survive the twilight of the gods? Doubtful. But at least cold winter days shouldn't be a problem with these waterproof and lightly lined winter boots. According to the manufacturer, their comfort range extends to -4 degrees Celsius.
For the fastening, 45Nrth uses a classic combination of a wide neoprene Velcro strap and a Boa twist fastener. It's great that the higher-quality LI2 wheel is used, which can be adjusted in both directions.
The sole has a relatively coarse profile and is even enriched with tiny glass splinters to generate more grip on slippery surfaces. If you want to ride the Ragnarök on flat pedals, you can order a corresponding locking plate for the cleat area from the service centre.
Handling & fit of the 45Nrth winter shoes
It's actually quite easy to get into the shoe as soon as the Boa fastener is open wide enough. Unfortunately, the Boa cables run rather stubbornly and hookily and are difficult to open. A small tab for your fingers to help you put them on would also make it easier to get them on.
The width can be finely adjusted using the Boa fastener. Two wide straps provide plenty of traction on the foot. The Velcro strap offers a sufficiently wide adjustment range.
The size and fit of the Ragnarök are normal. However, the shoe is cut rather flat and not too wide, especially in the instep and toe area. If you also want to wear thick socks in the shoe, you will need to go up a size.
Insulation and weather protection
Visually, the 45Nrth Ragnarök gives the impression that even a blizzard couldn't harm it. The robust upper material blocks water and dirt like a hockey player blocks a body check. What's more, the high shaft disappears well under long rain or winter trousers, helping to keep out the wet and cold.
However, after a long ride in heavy rain, some water did get inside the shoe. It seems that a seam on the tongue is the problem. Under high pressure, the water works its way inside. The Ragnarök is therefore not completely waterproof in the long term.
We were also not fully convinced by the cold protection. The temperature loss in the cooling chamber was significant. At temperatures below freezing, it can certainly get cold in the Ragnarök. In comparison, the 45Nrth winter shoes landed in one of the bottom places. Long rides at well below zero degrees? You have to have insensitive feet with these.
45Nrth winter shoes on the trail
Off-road, the 45Nrth scores above all with very good power transmission. The boot is very stiff - also thanks to the robust upper material. This means that you can dig through snow and ice with gusto. Even if you have to get off the pedals, you are on the safe side with the Ragnarök. The wide sole offers excellent stability and plenty of grip.
However, the downside of the solid construction is the comfort. When pedalling, the shoe hardly moves at all, the wide straps gag the instep and a pad under the arch of the foot presses unusually hard into the foot - you have to like that. The heel can also slip a little in the shoe when pushing. In contrast to the rest of the foot, it does not have optimum support.
45NRTH Ragnarök - Price and info
- Price 249,99 Euro >> available here
- Sizes 36 to 50; no half sizes
- Weight per pair 1293 grams (size 46)
- Equipment (20%) Boa Li2 fastener; Velcro strap; toe protection; reflective stripes
Conclusion & rating: 45Nrth Ragnarök winter shoes
The 45Nrth Ragnarök is massive, heavy and as robust as a Viking shield. The two straps of the Boa fastener put a lot of traction on your feet and the sole is very stiff, allowing you to pedal swiftly through the winter landscape. The wide profile provides grip and a secure stance on the pedals and off-road. However, the 45Nrth winter shoes aren't the ultimate in warmth, and water penetrates the seams in heavy rain. Thanks to the robust construction, the shoe hardly flexes when pedalling or running - it is therefore not a comfort miracle.
Stefan Frey
Editor
