45NRTH brings back its very successful Winter cycling boot, the Wölvhammer for 2016 with many improvements over the previous years' models. The new design will make this boot easier to get on and off by doing away with the outer zipper/velcro for a gusseted tongue lace-up drawstring design. For fatbikers and commuters it still maintains its 0°-25° F comfort rating making it a comfortable choice for Winter riding.
The outside of the boot now has a full grain leather and Ballistic Nylon Cordura shell for warmth and durability giving it the look and styling of a traditional mountaineering boot.
45NRTH added a protective rubber toe cap to help keep moisture out and to give some impact and abrasion resistance. Though the new Wölvhammer is shorter than the previous model, it still comes to the mid-calf to help keep snow out and warmth in. A slightly wider toe box and outsole allows for a better fit which means warmer toes.
The toe hook remains for use with gaiters in deeper snow.
Gone now is the restrictive D-ring on the Power Strap at the top of the boot. This will make putting them on easier and allow adjustments to be made while wearing gloves.
The single layer boot construction of the new model still maintains its waterproof membrane and allows for feet to breathe.
Inside the boot is 200g Primaloft ECO Gold insulation with a fleece lining to wick away moisture keeping feet dry and warm. The NASA approved Aerogel insulation of the footbed from previous models remains to eliminate cold transfer from cleats. The drawstring lace now has a velcro tab at the top that can be attached underneath the Power Strap so excess lacing can be neatly tucked away.
Maintaining the deep lug pattern Vibram sole of previous models, the new Wölvhammer will come in an SPD compatible model only. But it comes with a cleat plug giving it the versatility to be used with flat pedals or 2-bolt style clipless pedals.
For night riding, the reflective area on the heel is larger and very bright to get you seen on commutes or while riding in a group.
I will be writing a more in-depth review of the 2016 Wölvhammer boot with details on its performance in a variety of cold and snow conditions after more testing to come this Winter.
45NRTH Wölvhammer boots are now available in Mens extra wide 38–50 (no size 49), full sizes only at Penn Cycle and other fine bike shops for $325.
Disclosure: 45NRTH provided the review samples for this article, but offered no other form of compensation for this review.
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