10 Best Lake Cycling Shoes – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Lake Shoes for Cycling – Guide & Comparison

 

In case you’ve been looking for the best Lake cycling shoes but have nearly stopped trying due to the sheer amount of models available, you’ve landed in the right spot. We’ve done quite some research into this reputable brand and tried to separate the good shoes from the really amazing ones by analyzing design, materials, price, durability, and other features. After going through countless models, our first pick is the Lake CX237 Cycling Shoe Men’s White/Black. These are an ideal choice for cyclo-cross but also road cycling, as they have a lightweight yet rigid design, thanks to the carbon fiber soles, an easy-to-adjust Boa closure system, but also comfy full-grain leather uppers. In the unfortunate case that these are no longer available right now, or you’re more into mountain biking, you might want to take into consideration the Lake Cycling Mens MX237 Mountain Bike Shoes, as they have a similar design but are suited for MTB.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Lake Cycling Shoes (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

Because finding the right Lake cycling shoes for your needs might be easier said than done, we’ve thought to do you a favor and compile a short list with the models that seem to offer the highest quality for the price. Check out our Lake cycling shoes reviews below and pick the model that fits your needs and budget for countless awesome rides.

 

 

1. Lake CX237 Cycling Shoe Men’s White/Black

 

If you’re looking for a lightweight pair of cycling shoes, then the CX237 from Lake are a good fit. These come with full-grain leather uppers which means they’re strong and durable yet still light. The leather heel lining is soft and it confers superior comfort while eliminating sore spots that could ruin your cycling day.

The sole is made of carbon fiber that makes the shoes rigid enough for optimum power transfer yet it’s ultra-light. The closure is the popular Boa system which ensures a tight fit and prevents your feet from sliding out of the shoes even when pedaling hard. The closure is also really easy to micro-adjust and you can do that even when you’re riding.

The stylish black and white design will make any wearer proud of these and they’ll surely turn some heads. The shoes are compatible with 3-bolt road cleats. These are a good pick for both road cycling but also cyclo-cross, just as the name suggests.

 

Pros

The design is rather classic, with black and white colors. The uppers are made of full-grain leather which is long-lasting and resistant to scratches and abrasion.

These shoes are ultra-light, thanks to the thin leather used for the uppers but more so due to the carbon fiber used for the soles.

The carbon soles may be lightweight but they’re strong and also stiff so you shouldn’t expect to lose much power from your feet to the pedals.

The leather heel lining is soft and made to provide the ultimate comfort when you’re riding, whether it’s a weekend trip or a competition.

 

Cons

While these aren’t very expensive, they’re not really cheap either, so some riders might find them to be quite the investment, especially for amateurs.

The Boa closures are easy to use and adjust but they tend to be more fragile than other systems, so you might need to replace at least one of these after a few months of use.

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2. Lake Cycling Mens MX237 Mountain Bike Shoes

 

This pair of shoes is just perfect for mountain biking. Despite their fragile look, they’re actually quite sturdy, thanks to the full-grain leather that was used in the making of the uppers. This material is not only tough, but also breathable, and there are also tiny perforations in it to ensure some airflow without letting in too much water in case you’re riding in nasty weather.

For even better breathability, some mesh has been added to the uppers. The closure system is the BOA which many riders are already familiar with. The double dials are easy to tighten and the best part is that you can adjust them a tiny bit or a lot with precision by simply turning the dial.

The midsole is soft and comfortable while the sole is made of carbon fiber and its low weight and increased rigidity make the shoes well suited for racing.

 

Pros

These have a tougher construction compared to road shoes and they’re a good choice for mountain biking. As expected, they’re compatible with 2-bolt cleats.

The uppers benefit from the rugged full-grain leather used which makes them quite durable but also breathable.

The soles are made of carbon fiber which gives them strength and rigidity while keeping the weight low, which is always a boon, regardless if you’re racing or riding on your own terms.

The BOA adjustment system is nice as you can obtain the proper fit but also make adjustments while riding.

The midsole is the brand’s Competition last which should offer adequate comfort for all your rides.

 

Cons

The top layer on the uppers seems to wear quite fast, especially if it rubs on the pedals or the chainstay and this might be quite an inconvenience for some.

The toe area also looks like it might wear out faster than some would expect.

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3. Lake CX402 Speedplay Cycling Shoe Men’s

 

In case you’re looking for high-performance shoes for road cycling and also have the money to buy them, then the CX402 are certainly a lovely choice. These might have a high price tag, but you get more than what you’re paying for. The uppers are made of kangaroo leather and the lining is also made of perforated kangaroo leather.

The uppers are not only strong, but also breathable, and they conform to the shape of your feet, no matter if they’re wide or narrow. The soles are made of custom-fit carbon fiber and they are lightweight but stiff so you can transfer all that power from your legs to the pedals and wheels more effectively.

The closure is the BOA system where you turn the dial to make micro-adjustments and obtain a snug fit. They’re compatible with Speedplay cleats which offer adjustability options in three separate planes and increased comfort.

 

Pros

These shoes are made of rough kangaroo leather so they’re bound to offer you a comfortable fit while also being quite strong and long-lasting.

The soles are made of custom-fit carbon fiber and here, ‘custom’ is the keyword. Not only is carbon ultra-lightweight and rigid, but it also tends to offer a different feel so you’ll be able to put more power into those pedals.

The BOA system is great for getting the right fit, and that’s also valid while you’re in the saddle, as you can turn the dials and make adjustments in a jiffy.

 

Cons

They’re only compatible with Speedplay cleats which, although a good thing in terms of adjustability and comfort, may bother some that would rather use the universal 3-bolt road cleats.

The price is also quite high so unless you’re into competitive racing or have money to spare, you’d probably want to look at some alternatives as well.

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4. Lake CX 241 Cycling Shoe Men’s

 

If comfort and high-performance are what you’re looking for, then you should definitely take these cycling shoes into consideration. The uppers are made of Helcor full-grain leather which isn’t just abrasion-resistant and long-lasting but also quite soft so the shoes will conform to the shape of your feet, whether they’re narrow or wide.

The lining is made of Nufoam that is soft and will provide adequate cushion for all your rides. The soles are the Lake Race type and they’re made of carbon fiber which keeps the weight really low while boosting strength but also stiffness, which is a must for efficient power transfer. You’ll be able to crank up the power and overcome your competitors – if you’re the racing type, that is.

The closure system is the dual IP1 Boa which allows you to make even micro-adjustments to obtain the right fit, and you can do so even while riding.

 

Pros

The uppers are made of Helcor full-grain leather which is nice since this material is strong and quite resistant to abrasion but also to the normal wear and tear they’re likely to be put through.

The soles are Lake Race, which are made of carbon fiber so you know you’ll get top-notch performance out of these.

These are compatible with the universal 3-bolt road cycling cleats which makes them a good choice for just about any such rider.

Thanks to the Boa closures, you can now make adjustments on the fly even when racing so you don’t lose precious seconds tightening the shoes.

 

Cons

These shoes are pretty expensive, so if you’re not a professional road racer, it might be a bit hard to justify spending that amount of money on a pair.

The IP1 Boa closures tend to break more than the ratchet type, although the good news is that you can replace them easily.

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5. Lake MXZ304 Mountain Bike Shoe Men’s

 

Are you a hard-core mountain biker and no amount of mud or snow will stop you from getting out to ride? Then this pair of shoes is just what you need. These have a rugged construction that will have you wondering whether they’re really cycling shoes and not army boots.

The uppers are made of Pittards WR100 leather that’s really strong, and the ankle and toe areas benefit from extra protection, thanks to the Helcor guards that are abrasion-resistant. You get Outlast inner liner for an extra cushion, while the 3M Thinsulate liner does its job of keeping your feet safe from frostbite.

The BOA dial closures are nice since they allow you to make quick adjustments even with thick gloves on, while the hook-and-loop strap further increases security and grip. The Thermosol composite insulated insole is there to increase protection from the cold while the sole is Vibram-made, so you know you get amazing traction in any scenario.

 

Pros

The uppers are made of Pittards WR100 leather with Helcor toe and ankle guards, so they offer amazing protection while still being long-lasting.

The Outlast inner liner and 3M Thinsulate liner ensure that your feet won’t get cold and you won’t risk getting frostbite (although it would be wise to wear two pairs of thick socks).

The Boa closures ensure easy adjustments while the hook-and-loop straps are there for extra snugness.

These come with Vibram soles with large treads which means you can trust these to offer traction and grip no matter where you are, regardless of how deep the snow is.

 

Cons

While these are awesome for really nasty riding conditions such as deep snow or mud, they’re quite bulky and heavy which makes them too specialized for other uses.

While the Boa dial closure is a nice addition in terms of convenience, it’s perhaps not the best option for boots made for rugged conditions.

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6. Lake Women’s CX 120W MTB Mountain Bike

 

These shoes are perfect for girls and women who are into mountain biking. They are simple yet effective, and they come at a price that’s really hard to beat, making it an inexpensive option for anyone enjoying riding in the great outdoors.

The uppers are made of sturdy materials, and there are quite a few large mesh panels included which means you get excellent ventilation even on hot summer days. Besides keeping your feet cool and dry, this will also increase comfort and eliminate those sore spots.

For closures, you get three hook-and-loop straps for each shoe so you can tighten them properly and make sure they fit well and that they won’t slip out of your feet when you least expect it. The soles don’t have large treads but they offer decent grip. These shoes are compatible with SPD-SL cleats but you can also mount 2-bolt mountain bike cleats.

 

Pros

These are an excellent choice for women mountain bikers as they have just the right proportions.

The shoes come with large mesh panels which allow airflow and ensure that your feet stay dry and comfy even when cranking up the power in hot weather.

You can get these for a really low price which is a real boon, seeing that the market is usually flooded with pretty expensive models.

The hook-and-loop straps ensure that you get a snug fit every time and that you have no problem with slipping shoes.

The shoes are compatible with SPD-SL cleats but you should be able to mount 2-bolt mountain bike cleats without a problem.

 

Cons

The aesthetics aren’t the strong point of these shoes and some women might find them to look a bit dull.

There is no ratchet system or BOA closure and the hook-and-loop straps might lose their grip in time.

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7.  Lake Cycling 2017 Men’s MX180 Mountain Cycling Shoes

 

Sleek and sturdy, these shoes from Lake are an ideal choice for mountain bikers that like to ride rough trails. Inspired by enduro and downhill models, these offer the ultimate upper protection in any conditions. They offer a secure fit that should allow you to crank up the power without the typical sore spots and other pains.

The uppers are water-resistant yet they feature a few mesh panels for some airflow which should allow some sweat to evaporate. These also have toe guards for extra protection. The BOA system is there to make sure that the shoes stay tightly in place without hindering you. You can adjust the closures easily even when you’re in the saddle.

Thanks to the glass-injected nylon sole, you get to benefit from improved performance, while the rubber soles come with the Hypergrip technology which will provide great traction on any terrain, especially since it features Ice Lock tread inserts.

 

Pros

These are quite solid and the high-ankle design is great for colder weather so mud, rain, and the cold air won’t get into your shoes and ruin your rides.

The uppers feature mesh fiber inserts that are there to allow air to flow through and keep your feet cool and dry.

The glass-injected nylon sole will offer the right cushion and, coupled with the rubber soles with Hypergrip technology, it offers the right support and rigidity to optimize power transfer from your feet to the pedals.

 

Cons

There’s just one BOA dial on each shoe and the rest of the closure is done via a hook-and-loop strap. That makes them not so ideal as in the long term, the hook-and-loop strap will lose adherence.

The uppers are a bit higher than other models intended for early spring/late autumn riding and that might hinder a few riders. They do keep water and mud away from your feet, though.

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8. Lake CX301 Xtra Wide Cycling Shoe

 

If you have wide feet and thus have a hard time finding cycling shoes that fit, then this model might just be what you’re looking for. The extra-wide design will ensure that these offer a comfortable and snug fit but not too tight, as you’re probably experiencing with other models.

The uppers are made of Clarino microfiber which is strong but lightweight. Most of the surface is perforated which means that you’ll benefit from proper ventilation and avoid those soaking-wet feet you usually get when riding in hot weather. The Boa 6 closure makes it easy to put on and take off the shoes but also allows for micro-adjustments.

These are advertised to weigh only 6.38 ounces for size 44, which is pretty impressive and might make these perhaps some of the lightest in their category. The Lake Race soles are made of 100 percent carbon fiber which explains why they’re so light. The shoes are compatible with 3-bolt road shoes.

 

Pros

The shoes are probably some of the lightest in their category which makes them an awesome choice for weight weenies who love to shave every ounce off their equipment.

The soles are made of 100% carbon fiber that makes these very strong and rigid for efficient power transfer while still keeping the weight low.

The Clarino microfiber the uppers are made from is abrasion-resistant and soft so you’re bound to enjoy comfortable rides anytime.

The countless perforations in the uppers help improve airflow and keep your feet dry.

Thanks to the Boa 6 closures, you can adjust these shoes to fit like a dream so you won’t have any problems with them slipping off or creating sore spots which could spoil your experience.

 

Cons

They’re definitely not the cheapest around, although the low weight and superior materials explain the high price.

These shoes don’t really look that sturdy, and only time will tell whether they’re long-lasting or not.

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9. Lake MX145 Cycling Shoe Men’s

 

The MX145 from Lake is one model that shouldn’t be overlooked by mountain bike riders in need of extra protection from the cold and rugged conditions. These high-ankle shoes resemble boots more but they’re actually quite light, so the appearance can be deceiving.

The upper is made of leather and waxed canvas but there’s also a waterproof membrane inserted to ensure no water will get inside your shoes even when the weather gets rough. The Hypergrip Enduro soles ensure proper grip in rugged terrain but also good traction on smoother surfaces, thanks to the anti-slip lug inserts.

The dual side-mounted BOA dials allow for lightspeed adjustments and they also ensure that the shoes stay on your feet no matter what. They also ensure proper comfort and eliminate unwanted pressure points. These are great for enduro but also rides in deep snow as your feet will never get cold (although you should still get very thick socks for the winter).

 

Pros

They’re not that expensive either for a pair of cold-weather shoes so they might be an appealing choice for many.

These have a boot-like design which makes them well-suited for riding your fat bike in deep snow while avoiding soaking wet feet and possible frostbite.

The Boa IP1 closures are easy to adjust and they allow for fine-tuning so you get the proper fit for the front but also the heel so you don’t have to overtighten one to adjust the other.

Thanks to the Hypergrip Enduro rubber soles, you’ll be able to put power to the pedals like a pro but also get good traction in all sorts of terrains, and that includes ice, due to the Ice Lock anti-slip lug inserts.

 

Cons

While these are quite good for cold and snowy weather, they’re not exactly meant for hard-core winter riding so you should look for a sturdier and heavier pair if you plan on riding in low temperatures the entire winter.

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10. Lake CX145 Cycling Shoe Men’s

 

The Lake CX145 are the road siblings of the MX145 and they’re just as well suited for riding in the unfriendly winter weather. The uppers are made of waxed canvas and leather for enhanced durability while the waterproof membrane ensures that wet snow or rain won’t be a problem and ruin your rides.

The sole is made of fiberglass-injected nylon for a good combination of strength, rigidity, and low weight. That allows them to hold up to the most aggressive pedaling while still remaining comfortable, especially since they’re not as stiff as carbon fiber soles.

The BOA 1 dials are effective at keeping the boots tight on your feet and you can make micro-adjustments to ensure the right level of snugness without affecting blood circulation. The best part is that you can fine-tune the fit while you’re riding. These are compatible with the universal 3-bolt road cleats so you won’t have a problem getting them ready to go.

 

Pros

These are a pretty good choice for riding early spring or late fall, as the high-ankle uppers offer more than adequate protection against the elements.

The combination of leather, waxed canvas, and waterproof membrane makes these good at keeping the cold and rain away from your feet so you can still enjoy your outings even when the weather isn’t excellent.

With the BOA 1 lacing system, you can adjust your shoes in a jiffy and ensure that both the front and the heel areas are snug and comfy without cutting off blood flow.

The soles are softer than carbon soles but stiff enough so you get extra comfort without compromising efficiency.

 

Cons

While not exactly expensive, these aren’t the cheapest road boots/shoes around, although they do provide adequate protection from the elements in colder seasons.

The BOA lacing system might not be the best for riding in freezing weather but then again, there aren’t many road cyclists riding in those conditions anyway.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

In case you’re trying to find some affordable Lake cycling shoes but the brand simply has too many attractive models for sale, our buying guide below should cover the basics so you’ll know what to look for when buying a pair.

Road vs mountain bike

The first logical choice is to pick between road shoes and mountain bike shoes. No, they’re not interchangeable. Road shoes accept 3-bolt cleats that are specially made for road cycling, while mountain bike shoes only accept 2-bolt cleats. The clipless (or SPD in the case of Shimano) pedals are also road- or MTB-specific, so pick the shoes that work for your type of bike and pedals.

 

Shoes or boots?

Now, if you’re riding mostly in warm weather, you should go for normal cycling shoes. There’s no need to go for chunky boots even if you’re riding in mud or rain, if you’re doing so from spring to fall.

However, if you love getting on your fat bike in winter or you usually ride in early spring and late fall and live in an especially cold climate up north, then getting some Lake winter cycling shoes that are the boot-type is what you need to do.

These come with a really solid construction and high-ankle design but also thick insulation to ensure that your feet stay warm and safe from frostbite. That still implies that you’ll need to wear two pairs of socks, preferably wool, synthetic, or mixed-material socks.

 

Uppers

Uppers tend to be made of natural leather or synthetic fibers nowadays. Many have several mesh panels inserted, which serve the purpose of allowing some airflow and cooling your feet in warm weather. Some may also include plenty of perforations on the surface for improved ventilation.

Except for boots, which are really sturdy and bulky, normal shoes are quite soft so they should feel quite comfortable on the feet. Regarding size, when talking about Lake cycling shoes wide models are just as common as normal ones. You just need to make sure you pay attention to the product descriptions, as you can find the wide version of a model most of the time.

This also applies to women’s Lake cycling shoes, and you should make sure to look for gender-specific shoes, unless you have narrower or wider feet than normal.

 

Soles

When it comes to high-end shoes, you’ll find soles made of carbon fiber. These are very stiff so they help with power transfer from your feet to the pedals effectively, and they are also very light, so you can imagine that the shoes will be very light as well. Despite the stiffness, they should also feel quite comfortable, although you would sacrifice some for enhanced performance.

If carbon fiber soles are great, they also add quite a lot to the final price so you should expect to pay quite a bit for a pair. More affordable models usually have rubber soles that might have nylon inserts or other materials. These should still be quite stiff but a bit more flexible, which translates into improved comfort, especially for mountain biking.

Closure systems

Most shoes from Lake either have Boa closures or hook-and-loop straps. Some have only one or two Boa dials on each shoe, while most others combine dials with hook-and-loop straps. Some cheaper models also have only hook-and-loop straps, which are decent, but the problem is that they usually lose their grip in time, especially if a lot of stuff gets stuck on them.

Boa closures are quite nice since they’re easy to adjust and you can fine-tune the fit so you feel great every time. You can also make adjustments while riding. The downside of these is that they might break sooner than ratchet straps, for example.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: Is Lake a reliable cycling shoes brand?

Lake is a brand with a history of over three decades. The brand was founded in Evanston, Illinois, in 1982. It quickly became a household name and both professional cyclists and amateurs quickly took a liking to its innovative shoes.

As time passed by, the brand realized that some diversity is needed, which is why it created winter cycling shoes and boots. These have the role of protecting the feet from the cold and preventing frostbite while allowing the cyclists to ride even when the weather isn’t ideal.

If you read one Lake cycling shoes review or two for models such as the MX 331, you’ll learn that the company was one of the first to design and produce cyclocross-specific shoes, which are highly appreciated nowadays. The company actually prides itself on the ability to launch creative and innovative models each year that serve the diverse community of cyclists worldwide.

Q: How do I pick the right Lake cycling shoes?

When picking clipless cycling shoes, you should get a model that suits your specific bike. Road shoes are different from those made for mountain bikes, in that the former work with 3-bolt road cleats while the latter with 2-bolt mountain bike cleats. Each type of cleat works with specific pedals, so only choose the right type for your bike.

You also need to think of whether you want lightweight shoes for mostly summer rides or you plan on riding your bike a lot in winter. You can find shoes that are good for most of the warm season, from mid-spring to mid-fall, ultra-light shoes for summer, but also cycling boots that, while bulky and heavy, offer great ankle support and come with thick insulation.

These are an ideal choice for riding in deep snow or frozen mud, especially on fat bikes or mountain bikes, but you can also find road cycling boots just as well and these make sure your feet stay dry and warm.

 

Q: How much do Lake cycling shoes cost?

Just as with other brands producing cycling shoes and other biking equipment, you’ll find that prices vary just as much as models. You can easily find a pair of cheap Lake cycling shoes that cost less than a hundred bucks, or you can go for a high-end model that’s fit for competitions. For the latter, you should be prepared to spend quite a bit of money.

However, even if you could easily pay two or three hundred dollars or even more for a pair, you can rest assured that you will get top-notch technology such as Boa closures and very stiff soles and premium-quality materials such as carbon fiber, full-grain leather, etc. Especially if we’re talking about carbon fiber soles, you get a very stable and lightweight platform to put more power to the pedals.

The cheaper models don’t necessarily skimp on quality either, as you can still find full-grain leather, quality rubber soles, nylon guards and inserts, Boa and hook-and-loop closures, and so on.