Northwave started making mountain bike shoes in 1993. The brand’s style often leaned more towards a functional look not unlike the Shimano “space clog” of years past. Thankfully, that style seems to be dying out and shoes that scream “I’m a mountain biker” are becoming increasingly rare. Here comes the Northwave Overland Plus, which we think is a pretty standard looking shoe but still offers some great customization features.
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Northwave Overland Plus – Details
The Overland Plus is Northwave’s trail/all-mountain shoe, aimed at those looking for comfortable, lightweight shoes for long days on the bike. It features a Vibram sole with the brand’s ‘Fort Augustus’ tread pattern for plenty of traction and an EVA midsole to reduce weight and improve vibration absorption. Upper arch fixation is via a large Velcro strap, and mid-instep fastening to lace-up is via Northwave’s own SLW3 dial.
- Size range | EU 40-47
- Storage method | Velcro fastener at the top, SLW3 twist fastener at the bottom
- Sole construction | Vibram Fort Augustus
- Color options | Black, Blue
- Price | 259,99 €
- Confirmed weight | 515g per shoe, size 44
Wondering what a SLW3 rotor wheel is? Well, it’s the brand’s own version of the classic BOA system, which uses a ratchet wheel to increase or decrease the tension of the cable, although the system works a little differently. Adding tension works the same way: turn the wheel and the cable is reeled in, but to release the shoes, the smaller lever on top is used.
A single push releases the tension with a click, which is great for on-bike adjustments. Pulling the lever up quickly releases all the tension, making the shoe easy to remove.
Flows – First impressions
The Overland boots were comfortable right away, there were no immediate pressure points or discomfort and the fit was easy to adjust.
The Overland Plus is not labeled as a wide shoe, but in the size 44 tested it seemed wider than some of the shoes we’ve worn, like the Fox Union BOAs and Specialized 2FO Roost. For those with wide feet, this eliminates the long break-in period of the shoe before it feels comfortable; however, those with narrower feet may find it a little too wide. Nick usually wears a size 45 in most shoes, but the Overland Plus runs a little longer for a given size, with size 44 being the perfect fit for his fins.
Northwave’s own SLW3 dial is an excellent take on the traditional BOA system, with a nice tactile feel between each click and plenty of adjustability. The one-click tension release is a great addition that makes roll adjustments a breeze. The single SLW3 dial and large velcro strap allow for plenty of adjustability, and while we’d prefer two dials, it’s really not a problem.
After a few incidents where we’ve karate-kicked rocks and trees, we always look for adequate reinforcement in the toe area. The Overland Plus gets a green tick in this regard, and the rubber molding is nice and sturdy and helps to cushion the impact. The rest of the shoe is padded throughout, but stays minimalist to avoid being too bulky and looking like skate shoes from 2005.
The overall construction of the shoes seems very durable and we have not experienced any premature wear or loose stitching. It should be noted that replacement parts for the SWL3 dial are less commonly available than for the BOA system. Northwave does offer replacement parts, but you may not be able to find them in an emergency.
Priced at $90 AUD less than the Fox Union BOAs and offering comparable adjustability and stiffness, these shoes are worth a look for anyone looking for a lightweight trail/all-mountain shoe. The wider fit makes them particularly attractive to people with wide feet, though it’s important to check sizing carefully to avoid extended fit issues.