For those of you who can’t wait for the snow to fly, new product announcements from 45NRTH mean we’re getting close. The Wölvhammer has been in their line up for a while now, but this is by far its biggest overhaul. 45NRTH wanted to make a boot that was warmer, more comfortable, but also lighter. That required a complete redesign with a boot in boot construction and a new boot from the sole up.
The utilization of a boot in boot construction isn’t new for 45NRTH, but it is new for the Wölvhammer. Not only is the design warmer with a 200g Primaloft insulated liner boot, but you can remove the liner on multi-day expeditions for faster drying.
Additional warmth is provided by a 2mm Aerogel insulation blanket over the sole to keep out the elements.
The outsole has been redesigned with more siping on the tread blocks and there is a removable cleat plate to allow you to ride with flats if preferred. The outsole continues with their real rubber compound with microglass lugs for grip on slippery surfaces.
For pedaling efficiency and walking comfort combined, the midsole uses a 3/4 length fiberglass injected nylon shank that is layered inside EVA foam. This three piece construction makes for better walking and a lighter shoe overall – with 45NRTH claiming this is their lightest Wölvhammer yet.
The upper uses a coated microfiber with ballistic nylon underlays, Techtuff Toe, and a waterproof and breathable membrane. There’s also a Boa M3 dial which should make the boots easier than ever to put on and take off.
Rated from 0° (-18° C) to 25° F (-3° C), the Wölvhammer is offered in Men’s wide 36 – 50 (no size 49), in full sizes only and will sell for $325. Available now.
45NRTH Wølfgar
Not to be left out, the 45NRTH Wølfgar also gains an update – but not quite as comprehensive as the Wölvhammer. In this case, the Wølfgar also moves to a Boa dial system and retains the double boot construction with a removable 4mm wool felt liner.
Where the Wölvhammer uses a single zone Boa with one dial, the Wølfgar uses a dual zone Boa with two dials. The Wølfgar is a bulkier boot with a 400g Primaloft shell, so it’s not surprising that it needs another dial to cinch things down.
Underneath, the carbon midsole and Vibram rubber outsole are there to prevent conductive heat loss and the outsole is also studdable for icy adventures. Further insulation is provided by Aerogel under the foot and over the toe giving the Wølfgar about twice the amount of overall insulation.
Available now in Men’s wide 38 – 50 (no size 49), in full sizes only, the Wølfgar is priced at $475.
