Lake CX330c

Price Paid:  $200.00 at Beyond Bikes

Favorite Ride:
Anywhere in the Santa Monica Mtns

Bike Setup:
'07 Orange/copper Orbea Orca. Force group, Look KeO carbon pedals.

Summary:
I saw these Lake shoes advertised in "Road" magazine. I was intrigued by the lack of Velcro straps and the clean styling of the shoes. The retail price of close to $300 scared me but I found them on-line for $190 plus shipping.

The construction of the shoe is first rate with stiff carbon soles and lots of mesh for ventilation. I wear a size 44 and the fit is outstanding. They have a wider toe box than my old Shimano shoes and feel more like running shoes than cycling shoes on my feet.

I love the styling and they were the only high end shoes I could find that offered subtle colors (no red or yellow or rainbows etc). My bike is copperish orange and red clashes badly.

The best feature of these shoes by far is the "Boa" tensioning system. It basically looks like fishing line laced into the shoes instead of string type laces. A knurled knob on the back of the shoe tightens the shoe with nice indented clicks as snug as you want. To get out, simply pull the knob out similar to a winder on a watch and the laces lose tension. It couldn't be easier and it allows for adjustments "on the fly". I've reached down and tightened my shoes while riding. Try that with Velcro straps! Also, the Boa system seems to "shrink wrap" the whole shoe around my foot instead of just tightening across the top of my foot with my old shoes.

Strengths:
Boa system is simple and works perfectly. Makes Velcro straps and buckles obsolete.

Color choices great for those who don't want shoes that scream "I'm a wanna be racer!"

A viable alternative to Sidi's

Great styling and high quality construction.

Stiff for pedaling but very comfortable on my feet.

Weaknesses:
Not all advertised colors/sizes were available.

Similar Products Used:
Shimano Carbon