by Garneau
When it comes to cycling comfort, there are a few key touchpoints across the rider-equipment-bike system that really make the difference. The butt, the hands, and the feet are the key contact areas where a cyclist's comfort must be prioritized. A great chamois is a must for newbies and accomplished riders. Comfortable, well-ventilated gloves help reduce vibration and provide grip. And, cycling shoes that are neither too big nor too small, that support your feet and that don't cause hot-spots complete the trifecta. On this front, we've got something exciting to share.
Garneau wins 2017 Eurobike Award for its new cycling shoe technology. This proprietary, patent-pending technology called the X-Comfort Zone, are available on five shoe models for the 2018 season. This marks the second consecutive Eurobike Award for Garneau.
The patented X-Comfort Zone technology allows the shoe to stretch to accommodate B-D+ foot widths. A ventilated elastomer-spandex insert is bonded to the outside of the shoe and can expand up to 5 mm. Achieving a dynamic, non-constricting fit allows the foot’s natural toe splay, improving power, reducing injuries and providing never-before-seen comfort.
It's about comfort
This technology allows cyclists to be more comfortable, less focused on pain or annoyance and ready to enjoy a better experience, which is the foundation of development at Garneau. Comfort (or discomfort) is going to be a key determinant of performance and enjoyment, regardless of the level of riding. Anything that detracts from feeling good on the bike is a problem.
Comfort, after 15 hours on the bike, takes on a whole new dimension. Having a bike shoe that adapts to your foot’s morphology, reconciling both performance and comfort, eliminates the pressure points on the outside of the foot. - Geoffroy D, Garneau test-rider
Patented technology
For road cyclists, the technology is available on the top-level, carbon-soled Course Air Lite II, a lightweight shoe already known for its reduced stack height, ventilated Ergo Air® sole, and increased arch support. It also features a new lacing system, the Boa® TX.
The Boa® TX lacing system, unlike other Boa®-equipped shoes, routes its cables internally, thereby reducing pressure points. Its hidden profile is more aerodynamic and is protected from dust and dirt for a clean performance. The X-Comfort Zone self-adjusting width technology can also be found on the men’s Platinum II and women’s Ruby II road cycling shoes, offering improved comfort and performance at a more affordable price point.