Last November, Leatt introduced its new HydraDri 7.0 clip winter shoes. We had a pair sent to us and after waiting for the cold weather to arrive, we were finally satisfied: the freezing temperatures of the last few weeks created ideal conditions for conducting this test. Leatt describes these shoes as suitable for all seasons as their main purpose is to keep the foot dry. However, due to their construction, they are for all intents and purposes a product best used at temperatures below 8°C.
Details Leatt HydraDri 7.0 Clip
- HydraDri 10K/10K waterproof membrane.
- The Leatt SPD channel offers compatibility with all pedals.
- Studded slide with extended suspension travel for all types of driving.
- Cleat washers are included for compatibility with all pedals.
- Water and dirt repellent gaiter.
- RideGrip™ compound.
- Quick lacing system.
- Water- and dirt-repellent zipper.
- TPU reinforcement on toe, heel and circumference.
- Elastic closure over ankle for secure closure.
- EVA anti-compression midsole for added comfort.
- Anti-compression insole for maximum comfort.
- Breathable, quick-drying, antibacterial and anti-odor insole made of activated carbon material for comfort and hygiene.
- Sizes: US 6-13, UK 5.5-12.5, EU 38.5-48.5, CM 24-31
- Price: €219.99
Leatt HydraDri 7.0 clip on the trail
One of the key features of these shoes is the Hydradri membrane, which offers 10K/10K waterproof protection without being the classic neoprene shell that makes your foot sweat. When I see high winter shoes, I’m always skeptical because the area around the ankle is often made of neoprene, creating a warm but moist microclimate in the shoe. A type of heat created by the greenhouse effect of foot sweating. Unfortunately, that sweat freezes when you stop pedaling, typically downhill, the coldest part of any winter ride.
However, this is not the case with the Leatt HydraDri 7.0: I tried them with both cotton summer socks and my favorite cold weather socks, namely the Fox Defend Winter, which I mentioned This article. In no case was my foot soaked in my own sweat. Speaking of socks: Since the Fox socks are quite thick, it should be mentioned that I was able to wear the shoes by choosing the size I usually use, 42.5 EU. The fit is tight but stretchy so you can close it with a little force.
However, inserting the foot into the boot, which extends over the heel, is more problematic. Since it is soft, you have to pull the special tab to avoid annoying wrinkles, especially when wearing thick socks. The lace-up closure of the bootie itself is quick and, above all, there are no pressure points on the top of the foot, just as the zipper doesn’t even close. The tip is hidden in a special pocket.
The top of the shoe closes around the ankle using a snap fastener, which requires some effort to snap into place. As much as Leatt says this is to prevent water from entering the shoe, it is necessary to pair the shoes with waterproof pants (I have a pair of Leatt pants that I will show you in a moment) and the Above all, it is long enough to always cover the part of the shoe that surrounds the ankle, because water penetrates there from above anyway.
The Leatt HydraDri 7.0 Clips is also available in a flat shoe version, but it has to be said that the models tested with quick release have a very well-made sole. Firstly, because the sled to which the cleats are attached is very long and can be positioned far back, which I always do so that I don’t tire my calf when descending. Secondly, because the on/off process is very easy to do even with Crank Brothers pedals, which are known to have a lower cleat than Shimano. I installed a washer and from the first ride I never had a problem. Finally, the grip of the mixture is very good even in wet conditions.
What’s remarkable is that despite the fact that the Leatt HydraDri 7.0 clips have a hole for cleat attachment, no cold air or water penetrates from there thanks to a plastic insulating layer. After pushing my bike through the snow, I can confirm that these shoes are waterproof. As far as the cold is concerned, the big advantage of these Leatts, as mentioned at the beginning, lies in the breathable material from which they are made: it keeps the foot warm and, above all, dry, without making it sweat too much and without all the moisture inside The shoe remains inside. But be careful: they don’t work miracles. When the temperature hovers around zero degrees Celsius, after a few hours I notice that my feet are getting cold. On the other hand, it wasn’t just my feet that were cold. The only option is to have a heated insole this one from Decathlonif you want to go on long rides without worrying even in winter.
Heel and toes are reinforced to protect your feet from impacts from rocks and stones lifted by the wheels.
When pedaling, the stiffness of the sole and the flexibility of the instep are noticeable through the soft, edgeless inner shoe. Of all the winter high-top shoes I’ve tried, these are certainly the most comfortable, even when new, before they adapt to the shape of the foot.
