Northwave recently added a new model to its 2026 Core range of off-road shoes. With XC-styling, a two-dial closure system, and a carbon sole, the all-new Striker aims to be a versatile option for cross-country, marathon, and gravel riders. Fit-wise, Northwave adds more versatility, offering the Striker in both standard and Wide Fit versions. And when you consider its €210 price tag, it sounds to us like the Striker strikes a nice balance of performance, features, and affordability, too.
Northwave Striker Details
With the Striker, Northwave says it set out to create a shoe that balances performance and comfort. Their target audience is riders putting in long miles and seeking a shoe that is both responsive and versatile. To that end, it’s intended for cross-country, marathon, and gravel riding; three disciplines with extremely similar shoe performance demands.
For efficiency on the pedals, the Striker is built on top of Northwave’s Carbon XC 12 sole. There is exposed carbon in the cleat mount area, but the rest of the sole is overlaid with TPU in the instep, lugs/pontoons bordering the cleat, and lugs at the toe and heel.
The synthetic upper features perforations on both sides of the midfoot and above the toes, along with an open mesh tongue for ventilation and breathability. Thermo-bonded TPU reinforcements on the toe and heel provide a degree of foot protection and durability.
The Striker features a dual-zone closure system with dual X-Dial SLW3 dials. With two dials, riders can make independent adjustments to tension over the upper and mid/forefoot to optimize fit, comfort, and foot security. To further enhance foot security, Northwave also added a directional material in the heel pocket to prevent slippage and heel lift.
The standard version of the Striker has what Northwave refers to as its “Pro” fit. The Wide Fit version adds 5mm of width to the metatarsal area to provide a more comfortable fit for the wider-footed riders among us. Both the standard and wide versions of the Striker are intended to be unisex shoes, and they come in whole sizes 36 to 48, with half sizes between 39.5 and 45.5.
Specs and Features
- Carbon XC 12 sole
- Strategically placed TPU inserts on the outsole
- Integrated airflow channels for improved breathability and thermoregulation
- Thermo-welded TPU reinforcements on the upper
- Open mesh tongue for increased airflow and comfort
- Dual X-Dial SLW3 closure system
- Sizes: 36 – 48 (half sizes: 39.5 – 45.5)
- Weight: 364 g
- Standard version colours: sage, sand/green forest, light grey/black, black/light grey
Wide Fit colours: black/light grey - Price: €209.99
Availability
The Northwave Striker and Striker Wide are available now. Head to the brand’s website or your favorite Northwave retailer to learn more or pick up a pair.
