It has already been a cold start to ole' man winter here in Colorado. Needless to say, the only thing positive about this fact was the chance for us to try out the Lake CX140 Boots. After years of riding with every bootie, shoe/toe warmer we could get our hands on, it was nice to omit that step from our winter-morning getting dressed routine.
Introduced last January to the Lake Winter Shoe line along-side the higher priced CXZ302 ($269.99), the CX140 takes a different approach to keeping your feet warm. Having ridden in sub 30 degree conditions as well as wet, miserably cold conditions, I was generally pleased with their performance, with a few caveats.
Unlike its higher priced, fully lined sibling (CXZ302), the CX140 is really a waterproof "shell" made of eVent™ waterproof, breathable material with an adjustable neoprene collar. It's important to note that because it is a shell, the boot contains no thermal characteristics and relies on your winter socks to keep you warm.
The Good
In our experience, the boot really shines in wet weather. We found the boot great for days where the thermometer was above 40 combined with drizzle or conditions where the road had a slight skim of water (that eventually ends-up on your shoes). In one case where literally everything was wet (you know the day..), the eVent material kept our feet dry without a trace of moisture while the neoprene ankle collar kept things sealed from the top-down.
We also like the side mounted push/pull BOA lacing system that allow for easy on-bike adjustments.
The Snob In Us
We had a bit higher expectations of the boot providing a bit more insulation and warmth than it actually delivered. However to their defense, Lake bills the boot as a shell for wet-winter riding and leaves the heavy-lifting of insulation to its sibling, the CXZ302. We also found the BOA lacing strap near the top of the upper-arch not appropriately aligned and therefore would "dig-into" the neoprene lining and eventually became a bit uncomfortable during really long rides.
Our Recommendation
The Lake CX140 is a fantastic boot for wet winter riding conditions where the thermometer is above 45 degrees. Lacking proper insulation, the boot relies entirely on your thermal socks for warmth. If you are looking for a boot to provide warmth as well as water resistance, check out the Lake CXZ302 with 3M Thinsulate™ toebox lining and a Thermosol composite insulating insole.
Where To Buy
LakeCycling.com for $189.99
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