BLOOMINGTON, MN (BRAIN) — 45NRTH, a Minnesota company that offers winter bike tires, is introducing a $325 winter cycling boot that is SPD compatible, has Thinsulate and fleece insulation and a high-tech insulation material around the cleat.
The Wölvhammer boot uses insoles made of Aerogel, which the company says is the same material NASA uses to insulate space suits. The insole is intended to prevent the metal SPD cleat and hardware from creating a cold spot under the foot. The material doesn't compress, so it retains its insulation value when its being stepped on.
The outer boot is made from 1000-denier Cordura, a Sympatex waterproof breathable membrane, and an "Action Leather" mudguard from the toe to the heel. The inner boot is insulated with 200g Thinsulate and lined with a combination of synthetic "monster fur" and fleece. A cinch-lock closure system and a sealed YKK zipper secures the boot against the elements.
The boot comes in full sizes only, 38–50 (no size 49). The Wölvhammer is expected to deliver to dealers Dec. 1.
More information: 45NRTH.com.
