The CX’s upper is primarily ‘K-Lite’ Kangaroo leather – supple, soft and tough. The carbon fibre heel cup extends forward to meet the arch, and it’s this part of the upper that is mouldable. Heat it in an oven for four minutes, let the shoes cool enough to wear and they’ll shape around your heel. Detailing includes tough, well-vented mesh and Scotchlite reflectives.
The CXs use a Boa closure, which offers plenty of fine adjustment. The aperture for the tongue is wide, giving the lacing plenty of width. So as you rotate the Boa closure it pulls in to fit over a broader area, reducing pinch points and increasing comfort even when you tension the lacing.
The heel and tongue are lined with soft, padded ‘Outlast’ material. The eSoles footbed has different arch pieces that provide a level of custom fit, while those custom-fit heels hold your feet perfectly.
The 100 percent carbon fibre sole is highly sculpted, with maximum support around the heel and through the arch. Its curve may feel different if you’re used to a flatter sole, but it holds your foot in a more attacking position – like being up on your toes. It’s both immediately comfortable and feels powerful through the pedal stroke. The sculpted three-dimensional shape is also very, very rigid, making these truly exceptional shoes.