Using Northwave’s Speed Lace Winch 2 (SLW2) closure system – the Italian brand’s own take on the micro-adjustable dial – the Extreme RR aims to ensure low weight and sole stiffness doesn’t come at the cost of comfort.

How does it achieve that? The X-Frame is the key. The material is only 0.5mm thick and contains ribbed reinforcements along the length of the shoe, which in turn act as guides for the closure cable. The end product is a system which is said to offer uniform tightening and a fit designed to be free of pressure points.

The cable itself is constructed from Dyneema – a lightweight material, more tensile than steel but just as strong – and the X-Frame setup means only one SLW2 dial is required, compared to two on the existing Extreme Tech shoe.

As the name suggests, the Extreme Tech wasn’t exactly light on the tech front – again with the aim of enhancing comfort and reducing pressure points – but Northwave reckon they’ve taken it up another notch for 2017. The Extreme RR is 46g lighter, offers a lovely wrapped, snug fit and even drops £5 from the asking price.

Once again, the super-stiff carbon sole (Northwave give it a 15/15 rating in that regard… on their own scale) is compatible with the Northwave Speedplay adaptor if you’re a stickler for the lollipop pedals, and the whole package – thanks to its minimal construction – tips the scales at just 220g per shoe.

The sole is thin too, meaning maximum power transfer, while an integrated heel cup and a choice of two insoles complete the package – yours for £295.

Like Shimano’s S-Phyre RC9 shoes, also featured in the RCUK 100, it’s a big price to pay but we’re looking at the latest in shoe tech.

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