For most of us, winter just ended so it’s time to prepare for… winter? Thanks to the nature of product cycles, some companies are already a few seasons down the road, which is why Lake gave us a sneak peek at their latest winter boot – the mighty MXZ 400. The MXZ 303 was already one of the warmer boots on the market, but with hardcore adventurers riding fat bikes to new extremes, the demand is there for even warmer winter boots. With twice the insulation of the 303s, the 400s should leave your toes plenty warm…
The Lake winter family now includes the MX/CX 145, MXZ 303, and the monster MXZ 400.
Not only does the MXZ 400 add increased coverage with a taller cuff, it also bulks up on heat with 400g insulation and a double insulated insole. Equipped with new Boa dials, the boot also is the first to make use of the new Boa quick release mechanism that allows the loops to pop off the cuff for easy entry/exit. Outside you’ll find a full leather build with a Hellcore leather reinforced toe for durability. The boot also uses a Hypergrip sole which drastically increases grip on icy surfaces – a feature found on the 145s but absent on the 303s. MXZ 400s will be available this winter with first availability in September, pricing TBD.
Stepping back one season, Lake is ready for cyclocross season with the new MX237. Built with a dual Boa closure and Hellcore leather outer, the shoes with have a 4 cleat system on the toe instead of the two cleats shown here. The Hellcore leather seems to be a recurring theme with new products as we’re told it offers a unique feel and increased durability over standard full grain leather.
Moving down the line, the venerable 332 will receive a major update with both CX road and MX mountain versions. Now equipped with dual Boa L6 low profile single direction dials, the system also includes quick releases to easily replace the dials.
Now featuring a full Kangaroo leather upper with a moldable carbon heel cup, the shoes will also be part of their full custom program and will be offered in road or mountain versions starting at $389 in early 2017.
Down the pipeline, Lake is cooking up a new ultra light climbing shoe with the CX301. Aiming for the lightest shoe possible, their goals is sub 200g with a single L6 Boa dial. Look for these sometime in 2017,
On the subject of full custom, Lake is also offering the CX402 with the option of custom leathers and colors. Available now, consumers can make up their own shoe with a number of colors and options for slight upcharge over stock shoes, and their custom footwear will be delivered in 30-60 days.
Along those same lines, Lake is constantly experimenting with new colors and leathers like these brown Ecco leather MX237s and podium shoes, and the custom road shoes they made up for their Japanese market.
