45NRTH Ragnarok BOA Boot Review
Paul Gallaher
The 45NRTH Ragnarok BOA Boot is their latest “transition season” boot is built to provide a secure ride during what would be considered “shoulder season” where I live in the high mountains of Colorado. 45NRTH rates this boot as a late-spring/early fall boot, depending upon your latitude and altitude. The boot is recommended for cycling in temperatures above 25ºF (4ºC).
45NRTH Ragnarok BOA Boot – Great Cold Weather Cycling Boots
In this 45NRTH boot model, they’ve moved to a partnership with BOA Fit System (as they have with all of their boot models now). Next, I’ll explore the features and feel of these new cycling boots.
Design:
These cycling boots are comparably lightweight, stiff-soled, offer moderate warmth, and the fit is easy to adjust, even while riding. The boots feature the top of the line technology for the discerning shoulder season cyclist:
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A BOA Fit System with the new Li2 dial allows for customizable fit across the boot. You can snug the entire boot with the dial. The Li2 Dial for Cycling, Golf, and Trail Running | BOA. These dials are micro adjustable in both directions, even while on the bike.
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A firm last that positions the foot inside the boot for maximum energy transfer to the pedal and drive train.
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A waterproof breathable membrane.
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A neoprene ankle cuff that functions as a “mini-gaiter” should you step into snow. It also helps keep rocks, dirt and debris out of the boot.
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Real rubber soles with traction lugs and embedded “microglass” to improve grip on slick, icy surfaces.
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Two bolt clipless pedal compatibility with the option for free cleat plates for flat pedals.
Performance:
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“Rideability”: The combination of the firm sole and the BOA fit system wrapping around and over the arch of the foot ensures good power transfer during the pedaling cycle. The BOA Fit System Li2 dials allow you to customize the fit/snugness to optimize your fit while on the go. Since these are the new Li2 dials, it’s easy to reach down while riding and loosen or tighten the fit of your boot.
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Ventilation: these boots have a breathable waterproof membrane that helps keep feet dry from both outside moisture and natural sweat.
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Fit: The fit on these boots is very customizable. With the BOA fit system the boots “snug” on very well. The neoprene ankle strap provides an extra bit of ankle support. The pair I am wearing and reviewing are true to size for me.
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These boots feel very stable and natural while on the bike. While they are probably not warm enough for the “dead of winter” where I live and ride in the high mountains of Colorado, they certainly can help extend your riding season, well after the first snowfall if you can find trails to ride.
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Boot options: 45NRTH makes these boots in two colors; Black and Grey. I have the black version and they look great with some yellow trim and a reflective strip on the back for nighttime visibility. They are available in sizes ranging from EU 36 to 48 and 50.
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One note of caution: the cleat holes on these boots are designed to fit most major cleat system pedals however certain pedals/cleats will need a shim or Boot shield provided by the pedal manufacturer. This includes Crank Brothers, Time or Look 2-bolt pedals.
Paul Gallaher
Paul grew up in Minnesota where he learned to love the outdoors, riding his bike, fishing and canoeing in the summers and skiing in the winters on Minnesota’s 300 foot-tall “mountains”.
After finishing college, he was commissioned as an officer in the USAF eventually becoming a special operations and reconnaissance instructor navigator flying and serving around the world for twenty-two years.
Living and traveling around the world has given Paul opportunities to explore outdoor passions. He is an advanced scuba diver, a pilot, a sailor and has skied in the United States, Canada, France, Italy, Austria and Switzerland.
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