Lake TX224 triathlon shoe review: “It sounds fancy, it looks fancy, and it feels fancy”

The TX224 is the latest triathlon bike shoe from cycling footwear specialist Lake, and it’s one of the more unusual on the market, with numerous features that make it unique.

The multi-layered Clarino Microfibre upper features a ‘NuFoam’ shell for wicking, and the innermost layer is made of carbonised bamboo, that is supposed to draw moisture towards the surface.

Sandwiched between these layers is a 2mm closed cell perforated foam that is supposed to allow air to flow into the shoe, the whole thing working as a system to keep your feet cool and remove moisture. It sounds fancy, it looks fancy, and it feels fancy.

Shoe construction and fit

Another USP of the TX224 is the size and fit options. Sizes range from 39 to 52, including half sizes, and there are three widths: regular, narrow, and wide. I went for the regular fit, with Lake’s Competition last that has a tight heel and slightly wider ball girth than its Race last as featured on the narrow-fit shoe.

Lake’s unique ‘speed draw-string lace system’ is meant to be set up before you ride, with the strap doing the rest of the job of closing the shoe. You simply pull on the lace to tighten, and pull while grabbing the plastic buckle to loosen it.

It’s unusual but works a treat, and means you can really dial your fit without relying on the strap to provide most of the tension. This meant that when it came to taking it off in a T2 mock-up, the strap was a little easier to release from the Velcro. There’s also a huge, sturdy heel loop to help with speedy transitions.

Features and ride feel

Whenever I put the TX224 on, it’s immediately noticeable how comfortable that upper material is against the foot. I think it might be one of the most comfortable bike shoes I’ve ever worn, and I’d be happy riding sockless for hours. It’s highly breathable, wicks away moisture with ease, and is almost the perfect mix of materials for a tri bike shoe.

You’re getting a full carbon fibre sole on the narrow and regular fit options (it’s carbon composite for a slightly softer ride on the wide fit version), which provides a super stiff platform for great pedalling efficiency. There are ports to drain water, plus heel and toe bumpers to offer some protection off the bike.

£225 ($289.99) isn’t cheap for a pair of tri bike shoes, but it’s less than you’ll pay for top-end shoes from numerous other brands nowadays. The TX224 is definitely a premium shoe with superior features, I think that makes it better value than several of its competitors.

The bottom line

Overall, there’s a lot to like. The different fit options mean that it’s not limited to those with a particular foot shape, the upper is super breathable, and the full carbon sole is up there with the best. The strap and lace system takes a little bit of getting used to, but allows for plenty of micro-adjustment.

Lake TX224 specs

Price	$289.99/£225
Sizing	EU39-52 unisex (regular, narrow, wide)
Sole	Carbon
Features	Speed draw-string lace system and strap, multilayer upper with carbonised bamboo, heel and toe bumpers, large heel loop
Colours	White/black