It’s that time of year when a lot of us start thinking about warmer weather and dry trails. It’s also the time of year when companies start introducing what’s next as 2022 rolls on. For RideConcepts, that means a new range of riding shoes highlighted by a few new clipless and flat models–including BOA options for men and women!
Tallac & Flume
The biggest news for RideConcepts in 2022 is the addition of the new Tallac and Flume. The Tallac is the men’s shoe and the Flume is the women’s both with options for flats or clipless and with or without BOA dials.
The Tallac Clip BOA or Flume Clip BOA both introduce the BOA fit system to RideConcepts and include single BOA dials with low friction textile TX4 laces. Notably, the shoes also introduce a new to RC fabric with Cordura mesh which creates a stitch-free, fully welded upper that is breathable, lightweight, and durable.
On the clipless side, their CLIP GRIP rubber outsole features a 42mm extended cleat pocket and a rugged hexagon with reverse hex toe and heel zones for hike-a-bike traction. An EVA midsole provides cushion, and D30 insoles take the sting out of harsh landings.
Essentially the same shoe is also offered as a non-BOA version with traditional laces instead of BOA. It also gets a wide velcro strap up top instead of the smaller velcro strap below on the BOA version.
Features:
- CLIP GRIP rubber outsole on the clip models with an extended cleat line (42mm) for maximum cleat placement options.
- Lightweight bonded upper featuring Cordura® mesh for durability and breathability
- TPU toe and heel protection with reinforced anti-abrasion film
- TPU mud guard to protect against dirt, debris and rubbing
- Hexagon outsole featuring reverse hex traction pattern on toe and heel for hike-able climbs and descents
- D3O® High Impact Zone Technology insole absorbs impact and reduces fatigue
- EVA midsole for extra cushion and support
- Heel pull tab for easy entry
Both the Tallac Clip and Flume Clip are offered in the two versions, though the Tallac Clip gets an additional color option. The BOA versions are priced at $210 while the non-BOA versions sell for $180.
Still want BOA but don’t want to clip in? RC has you covered there too with the new Tallac and Flume models.
The flats feature a similar outsole pattern but with smaller hexagons under the pedal surface.
While both the Tallac and Flume have a BOA model, the non-boa models lose the velcro straps since you aren’t pulling up on the pedal like you do when clipped in.
Features:
- MAX GRIP rubber outsole
- Lightweight bonded upper featuring Cordura® mesh for durability and breathability
- TPU toe and heel protection with reinforced anti-abrasion film
- TPU mud guard to protect against dirt, debris and rubbing
- Hexagon outsole featuring reverse hex traction pattern on toe and heel for hike-able climbs and descents
- D3O® High Impact Zone Technology insole absorbs impact and reduces fatigue
- EVA midsole for extra cushion and support
- Heel pull tab for easy entry
Pricing is et at $190 for BOA and $160 for the lace-ups.
Tallac Clip first impressions
Before launch, RideConcepts sent over a pair of the new Tallac Clip to check out. I was really hoping to try the Tallac Clip BOA, but supply chain issues have delayed the availability of the BOA models. I’m usually a 41.5 in most shoes, and these are no different. The fit is excellent and quite roomy in the toe. RC actually calls these a ‘low volume’ fit, but the toe box is nicely shaped for plenty of room upfront. Initially, there is a bit of heel slippage for me–it will be interesting to see if that improves as they break in or if that’s something the BOA version would address.
Like we’ve seen from other RC shoes, their D3O insoles are more than a gimmick. The impact absorption those small orange patches provide is quite remarkable. Riders who frequently experience rough landings will likely appreciate the insoles.
The shoes come with a warning sticker to use the protective shims for Crank Brothers, Time, and Look pedals which is fairly common. Thanks to the chunky tread, the cleat pocket is fairly long to accommodate different positions and make it easier to get in and out.
At 481g for a 41.5, they’re lighter than the 504g claimed.
Overall, it seems like these will be very popular for riders looking for a comfortable clipless shoe with laces and a supportive outsole. I need more time on them to make a full judgment on the stiffness, but they seem to strike a good balance between walkability and pedaling performance.
Other Updates
There’s more to the 2022 RC lineup including a new premium recycled microfiber upper for the Hellion Elite for better breathability and comfort. Along those lines, there is a Hellion Clip, a new signature colorway of the Vice for Caroline Buchanan, and more. Check out the link below to see the full line.
