Cycling shoes are often defined by their stiffness, weight, and outright performance, with carbon fibre soles held up as the gold standard. But for many riders, especially those venturing off-road, comfort and versatility can outweigh the need for ultimate rigidity. The Northwave Hammer Plus aims to strike a balance between comfort, durability, and on-bike performance while offering features tailored to gravel cycling, mountain biking, and everyday riding.
Priced at £121.49/$149.99/€134.99, the Hammer Plus is competitively positioned in the market. Featuring a Jaws Evo outsole, flexible construction, and a mix of a single SLW3 dial and Velcro strap closure, these shoes cater to riders seeking both on-bike performance and off-bike practicality. After testing these shoes extensively across gravel, mountain bike trails, and even commutes, I found them to be a versatile and impressive option for those seeking a reliable off-road cycling shoe.
Design and Aesthetics
The Northwave Hammer Plus has a simple yet purposeful design that blends function with understated style. The shoes use a combination of a single SLW3 dial closure—found on Northwave’s premium shoes—and a small Velcro strap. While the Velcro strap is functional, it feels somewhat redundant as the SLW3 dial handles the majority of the work. The dial itself is precise and intuitive: twist to tighten, lift the tab to release. It may take a bit of getting used to, but once you’ve mastered it, adjustments are quick and seamless.
The shoes come in four colour options: Black, Silver, White, and Green. While I tested the “White” version, it’s more of a light grey in person, which strikes a nice balance between visibility and practicality. Branding is minimal, with ‘Northwave’ printed subtly on the Velcro strap and a larger ‘NW’ logo on the heel. This clean aesthetic works well, particularly for riders who prefer understated designs.
A standout feature is the Jaws Evo outsole, which offers flexibility for walking without sacrificing pedalling efficiency. The chunky rubber tread and replaceable metal toe studs are great for grip on loose terrain or when walking your bike. A protective TPU layer around the lower section shields the shoes from scuffs and abrasion, adding to their durability. Meanwhile, the perforated upper material feels grippy yet soft, with a design focused on comfort and toughness.
The ankle and tongue have generous padding, ensuring there are no uncomfortable pressure points. However, riders looking for rock-solid heel retention might find the upper heel section too malleable for their tastes. The overall fit is comfortable and secure, with just enough volume to accommodate a variety of foot shapes.
Northwave Hammer Plus Performance
The Hammer Plus shoes stand out for their ability to blend comfort and performance. The flexible sole and pliable toe box make these shoes incredibly comfortable to walk in—ideal for off-bike moments, whether carrying your bike over obstacles, trekking through rocky terrain, or simply stopping for coffee during a social ride. The flexibility in the toe area feels more like a walking shoe than a rigid cycling shoe, making it a refreshing alternative to race-oriented options.
Despite their focus on comfort, the shoes deliver excellent on-bike performance. The sole is stiff enough to transfer power efficiently during hard efforts, whether sprinting up climbs or pushing through technical sections. During testing, I rode everything from gravel routes to cyclocross-style terrain and even used the shoes on longer commutes. At no point did I feel they lacked the necessary stiffness or control for performance riding.
For those prioritising comfort, the soft fabric lining near the closure dial adds to the cosy feel inside the shoe. This extra layer of comfort makes a noticeable difference during long rides, where pressure points can otherwise become an issue. The shoes strike a balance that feels natural and responsive without the overly rigid sensation of pure race shoes.
One area to consider is the metal toe studs, which can feel out of place when walking on smoother surfaces. While they offer excellent grip on muddy or loose terrain, I found removing them improved the overall comfort for more casual or mixed-use riding.
Durability and Maintenance
Durability is a strong point for the Northwave Hammer Plus. After several months of testing in varied conditions—including muddy UK trails, rocky terrain, and even a scrape with a barbed wire fence—the shoes have held up impressively. The perforated upper material shows no signs of tearing, and the rubber tread remains intact despite extensive wear.
The TPU reinforcements around the toe and heel have proven particularly effective in preventing scuffs and abrasions. These features are especially valuable for off-road riders who regularly encounter rough conditions.
Cleaning the shoes is surprisingly easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or bike wash spray is often enough to restore their appearance, even after a muddy ride. However, riders in wet climates should be prepared for more intensive cleaning during winter months when mud and grime inevitably build up.
Fit and Comfort
Northwave’s Hammer Plus shoes lean towards the wider side of the fit spectrum, which is good news for riders with broader feet. However, the tapered toe box could feel restrictive after long rides or in hot weather. While the overall fit is accommodating, a slightly rounder toe box would elevate the comfort further for riders with wider forefoot areas.
On the topic of ventilation, the shoes are adequate but not exceptional. While the perforated upper material provides some airflow, the shoes can feel warm on particularly hot days. For riders in warmer climates, this could be worth considering.
Northwave Hammer Plus Price vs. Value
At £121.49/$149.99/€134.99, the Northwave Hammer Plus represents excellent value for money. They offer a durable and versatile option for riders who need a shoe that performs well across disciplines. For gravel riders, commuters, and even mountain bikers, the shoes strike an impressive balance between comfort, durability, and performance.
When compared to carbon-soled alternatives, the Hammer Plus proves that nylon-soled shoes can still deliver outstanding performance without the premium price tag. While they may lack the outright stiffness of a pure race shoe, the added comfort and versatility make them a compelling choice for riders who prioritise all-day use over marginal performance gains.
Verdict
The Northwave Hammer Plus is a versatile and comfortable option for off-road riders, excelling in gravel, mountain bike, and general mixed-terrain use. They offer a refreshing balance of performance and practicality, providing enough stiffness for efficient pedalling while remaining flexible and comfortable for walking.
For riders seeking a reliable, well-made cycling shoe that doesn’t break the bank, the Hammer Plus is a fantastic choice. They’re tough enough to handle demanding conditions, easy to clean, and deliver a level of comfort that many race-oriented shoes simply can’t match. Whether you’re heading out for a casual gravel ride or lining up for a cyclocross race, these shoes are more than up to the task.
