Test Lake CX21C Wide cycling shoes

Choosing the right cycling shoes is as crucial as selecting a saddle or frame. An ideal pair must combine comfort, stiffness, and support, while ensuring optimal power transfer. To meet these requirements, we put the Lake CX21C Wide to the test, a shoe with classic styling combined with modern performance. After numerous tests on route and home trainer, we deliver to you our full verdict.

By Jeff Tatard – Photos: ©3bikes.fr

A surprising first impression: the unexpected width

Right out of the box, The first thing that strikes you is the visual impression of the shoe seen from above. For those accustomed to slimmer, sleeker designs, the Lake CX21C Wide may seem surprisingly wide.

However, this initial appearance hides an advantagetagand functional. Indeed, This additional width allows for better distribution of pressure across the entire foot. Even before cleat adjustments come into play, this feature suggests increased comfort and stability, essential elements for long rides.

The appearance may seem surprising at first glance, but upon closer inspection, this width turns out to be a major asset in preventing pressure points and promote optimal blood circulation. In short, this bold design is well thought out, even if aesthetically it requires some adaptation time for purists of the clean look.

Design and fit: between tradition and modernity

The Lake CX21C Wide stands out for its understated and elegant design. Their all-white upper, made from Clarino microfiber, pays homage to traditional cycling shoes while adding a contemporary touch. Rather than relying on sophisticated adjustment systems like BOA or Velcro straps, This model focuses on the simplicity of the laces.

This choice is not insignificant. Laces provide a more natural and gradual adjustment of pressure on the foot, allowing you to customize the fit without falling into the rigidity of overly mechanical tightening. The one-piece upper envelops the foot like a custom mold, guaranteeing an excellent compromise between support and flexibility.

In addition, the grippy heel lining prevents unwanted slippage, which is particularly useful during intensive pedaling phases or dynamic restarts.

An ultra-rigid carbon sole for optimal power transfer

The real secret of the Lake CX21C Wide lies in its 100% Competition carbon sole. From the first pedal strokes, this sole displays impressive rigidity, allowing it to transmit every watt produced with formidable efficiency. For intense efforts, where every fraction of power counts, this characteristic proves to be an advantage.tagand essential.

During our outings, whether on long straight lines or uphill, the carbon sole helped optimize pedaling by maximizing power transfer. Stability and impeccable contact with the pedal thus guarantee a regular cadence and performance without loss of energy..

In summary, this sole is the heart of the Lake CX21C Wide's performance, combining responsiveness, rigidity and adjustability, essential qualities for demanding cyclists.

Custom-made shim adjustment: the essential step

Before even picking up the shoe, we wanted to make sure that our cleat configuration was perfect. In fact, Proper positioning is essential to optimize power transfer and ensure long-term comfort. For this, we called on our local bicycle expert, Dany, whose rigor and know-how translate into a montagprecise and tailor-made.

Dany meticulously records our measurements and dimensions, and adjusts the cleats with near-surgical precision. This personalized adjustment not only optimizes power transmission with each pedal stroke, but also prevents discomfort due to poor foot positioning.

In just a few minutes, he transformed the Lake CX21C Wide into true performance allies, demonstrating thata quick visit to a professional can make all the difference.

Long-distance comfort: the key to sustained performance

Beyond its raw performance, the Lake CX21C Wide won us over above all with its comfort. Designed for long rides, It is aimed at cyclists who spend hours in the saddle at a sustained paceIts “Competition” shape has been designed to provide optimal support while leaving enough space for the foot.

The wider toe box allows the foot to spread naturally, thus avoiding excessive compression that can occur on narrower models.

During prolonged outings, alternating between recovery and maintenance phases, no unpleasant pressure points were reported. The laces, by offering almost infinite customization of the tightening, also contribute to this unparalleled comfortThe minimalist construction and thin sole also provide lightness that reduces fatigue over long distances.

In short, the Lake CX21C Wide manages to combine performance and comfort harmoniously, transforming every pedal stroke into a pleasant and efficient experience.

The advantagestagis the lace system

In a market dominated by rapid adjustment systems, the return to laces can be surprising. However, our experience has allowed us to see that this choice presents real advantages.tages. Manually tightening the laces provides even pressure distribution across the entire foot, eliminating localized pressure points. This helps maintain optimal comfort even during prolonged exercise.

The major drawback is the lack of in-process adjustment. route : it is impossible to slightly loosen the tightening without stoppingHowever, if the initial tightening is carried out correctly, this constraint becomes an asset, guaranteeing constant support for the foot and foolproof stability.

In other words, laces, if properly adjusted from the start, offer simple and effective comfort, without compromising on performance.

A width revealing a thoughtful design

As mentioned earlier, the width of the shoe, visible upon unpacking, may surprise those used to narrower models. However, this feature turns out to be an advantagetagand when it is appreciated at its true value. A wider shoe provides better pressure distribution and increased stability, essential items for long outings.

In addition, this atypical design promotes better blood circulation and reduces the risk of discomfort, or even a sensation of “burning feet” which can – and it has happened to all of us at least once – force you to give up.

This is a bold choice that illustrates the Lake CX21C Wide's desire to combine functionality and comfort. While this design may not be immediately appealing to those who prefer a minimalist, clean look, it demonstrates that sometimes, what appears at first glance to be original can hide much deeper qualities.

An ideal choice for picky cyclists

After many tests on route and on home trainers, the Lake CX21C Wide has established itself as a benchmark shoe for demanding cyclists. Its timeless design, exceptional comfort and optimal power transmission make it an ally of choice for those seeking excellence..

Whether you're a long-distance enthusiast or a competitor looking to maximize every watt, this shoe brilliantly combines aesthetics, functionality, and efficiency. Far from flashy innovations, The Lake CX21C Wide focuses on quality and performance, making every pedal stroke an optimized and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

The Lake CX21C Wide proves to be an exceptional cycling shoe for enthusiasts and competitors looking for the perfect balance between performance and comfort.The design, while classic and visually wider than some may be used to, hides functionality designed to provide stability and comfort over long distances.

We really enjoyed testThe Lake CX21C Wide, and the least we can say is that it won us over. Versatile, robust and designed to optimize every pedal stroke, It succeeds in combining classic elegance, advanced technology and tailor-made comfort.

=> Buy the Lake CX21C Wide for €246,99

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