The Northwave Razer 2 MTB shoes are designed to strike a balance between performance, comfort, and durability. Built with a stiff carbon-reinforced sole and a supportive synthetic upper, they aim to serve cross-country and trail riders who demand efficient power transfer without sacrificing day-to-day usability.
Performance & Fit
On the trail, the Razer 2 feels firm and efficient. The carbon XC10 sole offers excellent stiffness, ensuring that pedal power translates directly into forward motion. Riders who value responsiveness will appreciate the rigid platform.
Fit-wise, the shoes are accommodating without being sloppy. The SLW3 dial closure system paired with a Velcro strap provides precise adjustment across the midfoot and forefoot. The dial is quick to operate, allowing for both micro-tightening and full release, which is especially handy mid-ride.
Comfort & Ventilation
Breathability is another strength. The upper integrates mesh panels that allow for decent airflow, keeping feet cooler on longer rides. That said, airflow isn’t quite as exceptional as top-tier lightweight XC shoes, but for the price point, it performs admirably.
Weight Considerations
On paper, the shoes come in at around 360–380 g per shoe for size 42–45. However, in real-world use, many riders note that the Razer 2 feels heavier once exposed to rain or wet trail conditions. The synthetic upper and padding absorb some water, and when fully soaked, each shoe can feel closer to ~500 g. For riders frequently facing wet or muddy trails, this added weight is noticeable compared to drier rides.
Durability
The Razer 2 is solidly built. Reinforced TPU overlays resist scuffing from rocks and crank rub, while aggressive sole lugs provide reliable traction when dismounting. It’s a shoe designed to take abuse, which will appeal to trail riders who don’t want overly delicate race-only footwear.
Pros
Great stiffness from carbon XC10 sole, excellent for power transfer
Good breathability with well-placed mesh panels
Fine lace system (SLW3 dial + Velcro) offers quick and precise adjustment
Comfortable fit, suitable even for wider feet
Durable construction with reinforced overlays and grippy outsole
Stable heel hold
Cons
Feels noticeably heavier when wet (closer to 500 g per shoe)
Not the lightest option even when dry (~370 g vs lighter XC race shoes at ~300 g)
Dial system, while effective, can feel less refined than premium BOA systems
Ventilation adequate, but not class-leading
Final Verdict
The Northwave Razer 2 MTB Cycling Shoes deliver a dependable, stiff, and durable platform for trail and XC riders. While they aren’t the absolute lightest, and they pick up extra weight in wet conditions, they compensate with comfort, breathability, and a reliable closure system. For riders prioritizing stiffness, durability, and everyday usability over ultralight minimalism, the Razer 2 represents strong value in its category.
