The design is simple and also has a racing look. The raised shaft protects the ankles efficiently and the robust construction promises to take a beating. The waterproof upper material should keep you dry on wet days.

Thanks to the tried-and-tested BOA system, the shoe is easy to adjust to the instep shape. However, it is cut very wide and I had to tighten the closure dial as far as it would go in order to get enough grip with thin summer socks. On the other hand, I was able to ride in cool spring temperatures with thick socks without any pressure points or tightness. The tab on the heel as an entry aid is huge and, in my opinion, not necessary for putting them on.

The enduro shoe feels comfortable even after hours. Despite the waterproof membrane, your feet don't sweat too much even in temperatures above 25 degrees. This is also due to the mesh inserts, which allow the feet to let off some steam. Of course, how much you sweat under which conditions varies from person to person. But I've also worn waterproof bike shoes that barely breathed.

The sole is stiff and ensures good power transmission. There are certainly more suitable models for longer running passages, but the rubber compound has good grip even on wet or slippery surfaces. The upper material can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and still looks decent after many hours on the trail.

After about five months, the wire on one shoe had come loose from the guide. Unfortunately, I didn't notice this, so the wire got tangled up in the construction the next time I put it on. As a result, the coating on the wire came loose, making the Boa system a little sluggish. But it still works. Boa offers a do-it-yourself repair kit for such cases, which I ordered straight away. Replacing the lacing is child's play thanks to the detailed instructions.

Conclusion
I didn't ride any enduro races with the MX180, but it had to endure countless after-work laps, six day tours and a visit to a bike park. Personally, I prefer models that have a narrower cut and fit my foot shape better. Apart from that, the shoe is to my taste. It is robust, which is a basic requirement for me in alpine terrain, and it is waterproof, which I also really appreciate. I wouldn't wear bike shoes without ankle protection. As I like to push my riding to the limit and rattle around, this is a must for me. Last but not least, it's nice to be able to take your shoes off after eight hours of continuous use without the people around you turning up their noses.

RRP: CHF 199.00
www.lakecycling.com
www.theboasystem.com