Bontrager releases new top-level XXX road shoe

Trek's sub-brand Bontrager has officially announced the new version of its XXX road shoe that we first spotted on the feet of Trek-Segafredo team riders at the Tour de France.  

"The new XXX shoes take all the greatness of the previous versions and have been rebuilt with new materials and design based on feedback from the Trek-Segafredo and Trek Factory Racing team riders for a more refined fit and long-lasting construction," says Bontrager.

"Like its predecessor, the new Triple X keeps the hard-working dual Boa closure system—but it's improved with a medial to lateral foot wrap construction, neoprene flex zones around the tongue, and a superior Form TX lace-routing pattern that reduces pressure on the top of the foot," says Bontrager.

The XXX is built around the same inForm Pro last as previously, designed for both men and women, but the new version uses a tongue that wraps from the inner foot to outer foot. The closure system moves towards the outer while neoprene pads at the top of the tongue are designed to reduce pressure against the tendons that run along the top of your foot.

Another obvious change from the previous version of the Bontrager XXX is the ditching of the Velcro strap. Instead, Bontrager takes the Boa-controlled lacing further down towards the toe. Each shoe still uses two Boa IP1 dials for micro-adjustment in both directions.

Bontrager says that changes to the design take pressure off the top of your foot and create a more secure fit.

We've seen more and more shoes lately where one side wraps entirely over the top of the foot and the closure is offset, examples being the Northwave Extreme Pro, the Specialized S-Works 7, and the Shimano S-Phyre RC9. 

The XXX's upper is made from a TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material. Rather than using mesh panels as previously, ventilation comes via perforations in the TPU with a particular concentration over the toe box.

The heel cup is now external and you get a non-slip lining inside intended to help prevent heel lift. 

The shoe features an OCLV (Optimum Compaction Low Void) carbon sole that’s designed to be both lightweight and stiff – which are features that brands nearly always promise. Bontrager rates the XXX sole at 14 out of 14 on its own stiffness index. The sole takes three-bolt road cleats such as Shimano SPD-SL and Look Kéo.

The Bontrager XXX road shoe is available in sizes EU 37-47 in black, white and white/navy options for £299.99.

Go to Trek's website for more info.