Northwave Aerlite SBS MTB | Cyclingnews

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Northwave's new Aerator MTB SBS shoes stay true to their name with superb ventilation — Northwave's new Aerator MTB SBS shoes stay true to their name with superb ventilation (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

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Generous venting in the forefoot isn't just there for show - you can actually feel air coming through, especially if it's cold outside — Generous venting in the forefoot isn't just there for show - you can actually feel air coming through, especially if it's cold outside (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

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A polyurethane cage wraps the rear of the foot for exceptional heel hold, even when walking — A polyurethane cage wraps the rear of the foot for exceptional heel hold, even when walking (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

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The main strap is adjustable in length, though we still had problems getting it short enough for our average-sized feet — The main strap is adjustable in length, though we still had problems getting it short enough for our average-sized feet (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

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The carbon-reinforced nylon sole is notably more flexible than true carbon plates but still reasonably stiff — The carbon-reinforced nylon sole is notably more flexible than true carbon plates but still reasonably stiff (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

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Construction quality is top-notch and the shoes have proven durable over months of abuse — Construction quality is top-notch and the shoes have proven durable over months of abuse (Image credit: James Huang/Cyclingnews.com)

The Northwave Aerlite SBS MTB is a faithful adaptation of its

As the name suggests, airflow is a key feature of the Aerlite SBS MTB,

Like many shoes these days, the Aerlite SBS MTB uses a semi-rigid

Moreover, Northwave manages to achieve this level of hold along with long-term

The heavily lugged outsole offers a secure and stable grip on a

Long-term durability has been top-notch, too, as neither the lugs nor

However, two major flaws mar the otherwise spotless performance. First, the shoes are rather heavy at 844g per pair (size 43.5) and finicky racer-types will undoubtedly

We can partially overlook the weight issue as these things have proven

Unfortunately, that means that many riders who might otherwise benefit

Otherwise, the Aerlite SBS MTB is a very good choice for an all-around

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