Spinning Stripes: adidas Re-Enter the Road Cycling Shoe Market
When news hit that were making cycling shoes again, the pedal-powered members of the Sneaker Freaker team got very excited (at least one of them, anyway). Following a long absence from two wheels, after a storied history of dominating the world’s biggest races in decades past, the Three Stripes’ simply named The Road Cycling Shoe marks a return to the sport.
Cycling shoes demand unique design considerations because of their specific use. The uppers need to be sleek and lightweight, so The Road Cycling Shoe uses Primeweave (aka woven textile made from recycled materials known as Primegreen) in place of Primeknit for improved abrasion resistance. There is not a seam to be seen, and all reinforcement panels at the heel counter and toe are welded on. As are the oversized Three Stripes on the lateral side, which have also been imbued with reflective material for low-light visibility.
On the tech side of things, the sole is made from a mix of nylon and glass composite that won’t flex under the force of most budding cyclists, while the traditional lace closure is a familiar sight for newcomers to the sport, and retrogrouch riders. As such, its relatively modest 130 GBP pricepoint and simple design has The Road Cycling Shoe targeted at pretty much anyone who doesn’t race bicycles for a living.
The Road Cycling Shoes release on adidas UK on December 1 in all-white and classic black with white stripes. There will also be a full set of cycling-specific apparel available, including Lycra bib shorts and aerodynamic cut jerseys.