Test Northwave Veloce Extreme shoes

The Northwave Veloce Extreme shoes have come to position themselves at the top of the range route of the brand and thus represent the extension of the Extreme Pro 3 model. These have been seen on the feet of Filippo Ganna in the past, the latter having also participated in the development of the Veloce Extreme. Beyond the specifications dictated by the Italian champion for the world top level, Northwave indicates that its spearhead is also intended for a wide range of enthusiasts… provided they pay the price.

Text: Olivier Dulaurent – ​​Photos: 3bikes.fr, Northwave

In terms of comfort and especially performance, Northwave claims that the shape of its Powershape HT outsole provides both better arch support and power transfer, with an announced improvement of 4% in maximum power. This is notably based on a more efficient energy transfer thanks to a reduction in parasitic movements coming from the heel.

The shoes also feature updated closure mechanisms (SLW3 adjustment dials) and technology Anatomic Reticular Support, a polyurethane exoskeleton that wraps around the foot, claiming a 9% overall increase in foot stability, slight weight savings and improved efficiency through power transfer.

On the scale 3bikes.fr, The Veloce Extreme thus stops at 346 g measured (per shoe, in size 46), which places them in a rather high weight category, although this criterion was probably not a primary objective of the brand.

It should be noted that aesthetically, this is a very successful model which generally attracts only praise from the cyclists encountered during the course route. Likewise, the The finishes are impeccable and the overall appearance is very high quality.f, two points that are also to be put in front of the asking price (399€). However, because of the white color tested here, you will have to be careful with use to keep the shoes more or less intact. But there is also the same model in black, probably less classy but easier to maintain.

The main difference between the Extreme Pro 3 and the Veloce Extreme is the carbon sole, which is shaped upwards on the arch side. This sees the carbon outsole extend from its base to the inside of the heel in an asymmetrical design. Northwave says this allows the heel freedom of movement and adaptability in terms of outward rotation, while reducing inward movement by 1mm, which the brand says: improves power transfer and stability.

A particularly rigid outsole
The carbon sole is made of 100% unidirectional carbon, achieving a score of 15 out of 15 on the scale de rigidity (internal to Northwave). The tair vents have been modified, now with two at the toe and two vertical vents along the arch. As with most of the brand's shoes, the shoes are still Speedplay compatible (which allows you to get rid of the 3-hole – 4-hole adapter height) and use replaceable heel pads. However, in the context of the test with Speedplay pedals and in order to keep a constant saddle height while switching to other shoes alternately, the adapter was kept.

Two insoles
The internal adjustment can be adapted using the two insoles provided, with a “regular” or “slim” fit. Both insoles feature ventilation holes, arch supports and metatarsal pads, the “slim” fit uses 5mm of padding, while the “regular” insert has a thickness of 3 mm, which allows more space for the foot depending on its shape. Here, and still for reasons of personal preference and foot shape, an insole from the manufacturer Superfeet was used, which is even thicker than the "slim" version by 5 mm and has a more pronounced arch. This is not a defect that has been observed, but rather a personal characteristic linked to the shape of the foot.

Another key change is the design of the tongue. Rather than a separate structure, The Veloce Extreme tongue is incorporated into the inner side of the shoe, sliding under the outer side once tightened. Northwave claims this allows for even tightening and no pressure points.

While still using a dual closure system, the top dial controls a smaller surface area of ​​the shoe and the "laces" use a different, smoother material. The SLW3 tightening dials work by using the dial itself for closure as well as a "lever" to allow either micro-adjustment opening or full release.

On route
Compared to what is generally done at this level of the range, The Veloce Extreme are among the most comfortable and as such they are rather well "padded", which contrasts with many competing models which are mainly focused on weight savings. This "superior cushioning", in addition to the pleasant sensation it provides even on long outings, helps to hug the foot.

Furthermore, in combination with suitable insoles, the whole results in excellent comfort, better than many "minimalist" models.

When the cyclist demands maximum performance from his equipment, The stability of the shoe – especially during the push phase – is perfect. It is too difficult to say what feature touted by Northwave allows such a transfer, however the efficiency is definitely there. As for the shoe-pedal torque rise phase, It is important to choose your inner sole carefully to ensure the best possible support for the foot.. As mentioned above, personally it was with an even more pronounced inner sole than the "slim" (thicker) version that the performance was the best.

The shoes thus seem to strike a good balance between comfort and performance, allowing sprints to be performed with minimal perceived flexion, while remaining comfortable during less intense sessions.

It should also be noted that, although it has been reduced in size compared to older models, the overall volume of the shoe remains rather in the high average even if, contrary to the sometimes tenacious reputation of the Italian brand, the Veloce Extreme are not exclusively intended for wide feet.

The closing mechanism is efficient, with the tab sliding smoothly under the outer panel without excessive pressure points while at maximum tightening, folds may appear but do not compromise comfort even when the outing is significantly longer (up to 6 hours). The dials allow for precise and easily adjustable settings, but The micro-adjustment release lever proved slightly less convenient to use than on shoes equipped with the Boa Li2, both while rolling and once the exit is completed to release them completely: in both cases, the surface to be used to use the lever is smaller than the complete wheel.

In terms of size choice, the Veloce Extremes are 'true to size', meaning that in this case size 46s were used as with most models.

According to his preferences, a downside may be related to the overall weight : if this parameter does not seem to penalize on short and/or maximum efforts, on long climbs its impact appears. It must be said that this is a rotating element (in the same way as the wheels for example), which has a direct effect on the overall efficiency. At 90 rpm on average, an additional 50 g per shoe can be felt over time. But once again, Northwave's choice was to prioritize immediate performance and general comfort.

The Veloce Extreme seem to strike a good balance between comfort and performance, allowing you to sprint with minimal perceived flex, while remaining comfortable during less intense sessions.

When it comes to concluding, it appears that the Northwave Veloce Extreme are an excellent pair of shoes route efficient, offering comfort, efficiency and styleThe new high heel design offers effective internal support, a feature that is extended by the possibility of choosing its internal sole.

The only points that may bother some users concern the adjustment wheels, a weight that may disturb fans of and, too and, as you might expect, the high price tag. Indeed, although they are marketed as shoes for all cyclists on route, their price places them at the top of the range, even if the competition at this level of services does not do much better.

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