Specialized's Defroster Road winter shoes have a nylon composite sole with fixed rubber walking bumpers and a three-bolt fixing. The uppers feature a neoprene collar above a seam-sealed waterproof internal bootie, with water-resistant microfibre and a rubberised cover used for the multiple overlapping layers. Our size 44 wides weighed in at 860g.
Entry is simple, with the ankle collar opening so wide that thereâs little need for the ankle loop. Once on, positioning the various layers takes a little time, but is intuitive. The basic footbed is comfortable, and the fit is very good, with sizes 39-49 and wide options available.
Though fairly slim, the ankle collar is quite rigid, and there will always be a gap somewhere as your ankle articulates when pedalling. Over tightening creates ripples elsewhere, and can cause discomfort against the shin. But the Boas are always accessible, retention is very good and the yellow sole is easily up to the job.
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The Velcro-secured forefoot cover slips over the Boa dial, and opens from the outside of the foot, away from wheel spray. It sheds water like a duckâs back and no water got in except at the ankle opening. Warmth is plentiful, with only a hint of ventilation, much of the uppers are reflective and thereâs a Scotchlite rear strip too.
This article was originally published in Cycling Plus magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
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