Northwave Razer Off-Road Cycling Shoes – Quick Review
Price: $186.99
Sizes: 36 to 48 EU (men’s); 36 to 43 EU (women’s)
Fit: True to size
Colors: Black, Light Grey Forest Green, and Dark Grey Sage (men’s/women’s)
Upper Material: Airnet with wide mesh and laser air holes
Sole Material: Carbon XC 10
Stiffness Rating: 10 out of 15
Weight: 420g for one shoe (size 45 EU)
Cleat Compatibility: Two-bolt
Spikes: Removable/replaceable toe
Closures: Northwave’s proprietary single X-Dial SLW3 rotor system and Velcro strap
Replaceable Heel Pad and Toe Spikes: Yes
Availability: Online and retail
How Obtained: Company sample
RBR Advertiser: No
Don’t Stop Pedaling When the Pavement Ends
Bike adventures don’t need to stop when the pavement ends. In fact, I believe the real fun begins on the road less traveled. The new Northwave Razer off-road shoe is versatile enough to take you from paved roads to gravel and even local trails. And don’t worry about scrapes — the welded TPU toe cap and heel guards protect the shoe from whatever the conditions throw at you.
The dual-layer TPU uppers, combined with a single X-Dial SLW3 rotor and Velcro strap, secure the foot. A “cat tongue” silicone lining keeps your heel in place with every pedal stroke or step.
The X-Dial SLW3 is Northwave’s proprietary closure system. It’s slightly different from a BOA; however, it still offers micro adjustments and a quick tension release. Twisting the dial tightens the cable laces, and the side button allows you to release them in steps. Pulling up on the lever releases the cables completely.
The carbon XC 10 sole’s 10 out of 15 rating offers good power transfer on the bike and flexibility for walking off the bike. Removable and replaceable toe spikes provide extra traction when conditions call for hike-a-bike. The two-bolt compatibility of the Razer, combined with fore-and-aft cleat installation, ensures perfect cleat placement.
The Razer is available in men’s and women’s versions, offering a wide range of sizes. The women’s version only goes up to 43 EU, so I had to test a men’s 45 EU. The shoe ran a bit wide for my narrow foot, which caused gaps on the sides.
For men, the Razer is available in three colors: black, light grey, forest green, and dark grey sage. The women’s version is available in one color, dark grey, with purple accents on the dial and tongue.
Bottom Line
The affordable price point of Northwave’s Razer off-road cycling shoe is $186.99. While the company lists the Razer as a Spring/Summer shoe because of its breathability, you can extend the wear season by adding a shoe cover.
Sheri Rosenbaum regularly contributes articles and reviews products for RBR. She’s an avid recreational roadie who lives in the Chicago area and a major advocate for women’s cycling, serving on the board of directors and volunteering with the Dare2tri Paratriathlon Club. Click to read Sheri’s full bio or visit her web site sunflowersandpedals.com.
