Exclusive winter road cycling shoes: New top model from Northwave in the TOUR test

The heavy onset of winter in southern Germany led to chaotic conditions on the roads, but also provided the perfect opportunity to put Northwave's new "flagship" to the test. In temperatures of around -5 degrees Celsius and partly snow-covered roads, the Flagship R GTX had to prove itself - and left a positive first impression.

Northwave Flagship R GTX: Very good weather protection

The core competence of the winter road bike shoe is its high thermal performance. We exposed the Northwave to cold, snow and wet conditions for almost two hours, after which our feet were still warm and dry. A special Gore-Tex membrane with integrated fleece is responsible for this; according to the manufacturer, the shoes are suitable for use in temperatures down to -15 degrees Celsius. The high neoprene shaft, which extends over the ankle, provides excellent splash protection. Our test rider also appreciated the high breathability; with relatively thin road bike socks, his feet didn't get sweaty.

Thanks to the carbon sole, which has the same stiffness index as the professional model Veloce Extreme the power transmission is much more direct compared to versions with a treaded sole. In addition, the usual pedal system can remain on the road bike. However, the treadless Flagship R GTX offers little grip on snow and mud. The construction also shows no advantages on the scales: At 906 grams (size 44), the pair weighs almost as much as the lightest Winter shoes with treaded soles. Compared to sporty summer shoes with carbon soles, Northwave shoes weigh almost twice as much.

Flagship R GTX: The most important facts

• Weight: 906 grams (size 44 | weighed weight)
• Price: 429.99 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
• Sizes/half sizes: 36 to 48 | 39.5 to 45.5
• Colour: Black
• Equipment: Gore-Tex membrane, carbon sole, Northwave SLW 3 twist fastener
• Country of production: Cambodia

Getting them on and off is a little difficult due to the high shaft. The Flagship R GTX can be adjusted very well thanks to the two twist fasteners. Theoretically, the width of the winter shoes could also be adjusted while riding, but this requires practice even without gloves. Overall, the Northwave are slightly larger. The toe box is spacious, allowing you to wear thicker socks depending on how warm you feel or the outside temperature.

The biggest drawback of the Northwave, which has hardly any significant weaknesses apart from the low grip, is the extremely high price of 429.99 euros. Professionals and ambitious winter cyclists will certainly appreciate the advantages of the Flagship R GTX, but amateur athletes will ask themselves whether a cheaper model would be more suitable for occasional rides in the cold season. For those who want to invest less: Winter shoes with rubberised tread sole are up to 200 euros cheaper.