Northwave breaks into the flat shoes market, changing the game with an innovative flat-specific sole system made in collaboration with Michelin.

Northwave are introducing their first flat-specific sole system which will be released on two brand-new models for 2019: The Clan and Tribe shoes.

More Than a Sole: The First Flat-Specific Sole System

Keeping the rider’s feet anchored to the pedals with no clips is easier said than done. When developing a flat shoe, there are three boxes to tick: grip, traction and durability. The reality is, a single element sole will never do all three. To achieve this requires multiple elements that work together to provide total control whilst on pedals.

Two years of research and testing were needed to come up with the Gecko+ system that Northwave uses in the Clan and Tribe.  It’s the stickiest compound on the market and was co-developed by Northwave and Michelin Technical Soles. In addition to the unrivalled grip it has an integrated rubber arch support which ensures enhanced stability on the pedals and increased impact protection.

The real difference is inside the sole, where an adaptive TPU shank with calibrated stiffness ensures greater control, support, and stress response. The lengthwise openings along the medial zone and heel contain flexion and control torsion for perfect connectivity with the pedals. The horizontal wedge openings on the toe enable the flexion of the foot to be controlled on and off the bike.

Northwave Clan, Grip on Your Ride

Northwave’s Flat Specific Sole System makes its debut on the Clan, the best performing flat model launched by the Italian company. Thanks to its innovation, the Clan provides an unprecedented level of control when on the pedals, in spite of the lack of clips.

The Clan was built to perform, and to be enjoyed flat out. Northwave’s abrasion-resistant welded upper, with large breathable mesh inserts are perfect on even the hottest days and placed welded TPU reinforcements on the toe and heel provide excellent impact protection. The mesh tongue with customized padding combines protection and breathability, whilst the closure can be adjusted through non-stretch laces, easily stowed in the elasticated keeper whilst riding.

The Gravity FPS outsole, co-developed by Northwave and Michelin Technical Soles, is equipped with the exclusive Gecko+ compound for extreme stickiness and grip, keeping your foot planted even on wet and slippery surfaces while still ensuring good durability. The tread design - which was inspired by Michelin’s Jet XCR tire - succeeds in providing maximum grip on pedals too. With its precisely designed tread pattern the sole provides excellent control on different terrains, thanks to the strong sculptures on the tip – for progressive traction – and heel area – for braking and durability.