The hustle and bustle of Eurobike always brings forward some interesting prequels to get the industry excited. North wave is showing off the new X-Frame enclosure system for the Extreme RR road shoes, while the new Outcross mountain lineup gets an outer-sole created in collaboration with Michelin.
Additionally, the Rainskin jacket brings aero and waterproofing together using 4-way stretch fabric and… coffee?
Fresh from the cobbler is the Extreme RR shoe. It gets the new X-Frame enclosure system that uses a single SLW2 dial to secure a dyneema cable, which offers improved strength to weight ratio compared to steel. The systematically placed cable loops are said to reduce pressure points on top of the foot by pulling the top flap evenly across. The unidirectional carbon sole has a stiffness index of 15, and weight for the Extreme RR is set at 220g. Pricing is set at 370€
Featuring a sole designed with help Michelin is the Outcross mountain series. All three options come equipped with the Explorer out-sole that features a stiff mid-sole platform for efficient peddling, and specifically placed flex zone for comfortable hiking. With Michelin’s OC compound, it’s said to get traction on all terrain. Both the Outcross Plus (top) and Outcross (left) get a 3D mesh build, paired with an abrasion resistant layer and strategically placed impact absorbing material. The SLW2 ratchet system sets the Plus apart from the Outcross which gets three Velcro straps. Additionally, the Plus will be available in a women’s specific version. The Plus weighs in at 440 g and priced at 130€, while the Outcross weighs 440 g and is priced at 100€.
The Outcross Knit (right) claims to be the first ever knit shoe in the cycling industry. The tied laces can be kept tucked under an elastic strap, and impact-absorbing layers give all around protection. The Knit weights in at 435 g and tagged at 90€.
The Rainskin prides itself on being an “aero”, waterproof jacket. The construction gets a 10,000 mm waterproof layer, and four-way stretch fabric which allows for easy movement and protection from the elements. Thanks to the stretch, the jacket is able to fit snugly around people of different builds, claiming to keep the aero advantage. For added protection it gets P4Dry and S.Café technology on the inner layer, which is said to help wick sweat, reduce odor, and maintain internal condensation. Lastly, by using their insulating tape on the seams, a wall is built to keep water from penetrating. It comes in one dark grey color option, and is priced at 130€ with seam tape, 100€ without.
