Test: Cube is probably one of the best-known brands in the German-speaking area and has many fans in the broad masses. But Cube not only offers bikes, but now a wide range of bike-related equipment. We were able to test some of the parts. Among other things, the Cube MTB C:62 SLT shoe.
The C:62 SLT shoe is classified in the Blackline at Cube. This describes the high-end clothing items. The tested C:62 SLT takes on more of the XC/Race part, with the Cube MTB Peak Pro being oriented towards the trail. The key data of the shoe were also designed for the area of use. Cube describes the shoe as "Stiff, stiffer, fastest".
The use of carbon in the sole ensures high rigidity and excellent power transmission when accelerating. However, since you have to push yourself from time to time, the shoe is equipped with TPU cleats. Remarkable key data that definitely underline the high-end claim; Unfortunately, the price does the same: 269 euros are due for the top race shoe.
But: light and stiff is not everything. Above all, the shoe must remain comfortable on longer tours and races. Cube bundles the know-how in the Natural Fit concept. The products are optimized for optimum comfort and function, taking ergonomic and medical aspects into account. The lasts and insoles are ergonomically adapted to the area of use. The shoe is closed with two twist locks each, which enclose the foot evenly and should not create any local pressure points on the foot.
Safety has also been thought of: the heel and toe caps are reinforced and there is a reflective strip on the heel for more visibility when the light is low. A nice touch.
The Cube C:62 SLT in a practical test
Where did we test the shoe? Earlier in the season, the C:62 SLT shoe was part of our big gravel tests used on the gravel bike. Here he was able to distinguish himself above all by the lightness and rigidity. The assembly of the pedal plates proved to be pleasantly simple and the fit was also convincing. The sizing is true to the general standard and the shoe is therefore normal.
The rotary clasp is easy to close and the ratcheting is fine, making it easy to find the right setting. With a quick turn to the left, the twist locks open and you can easily slip out of the shoe again. Even in the colder temperatures, the shoe wasn't too drafty and you only needed the overshoes when it got really cold.
After the gravel is before the trails. With increasing temperatures, the C:62 SLT also had to prove itself on a mountain bike. Personally, due to my XC past, I like to ride light and stiff shoes and was curious to see how the Cube shoe would fare on this terrain. It was no surprise that the race shoe scored well here thanks to its low weight and high rigidity. We were all the more astonished when we went to the stony peaks in the Bavarian Forest. Here, the last few meters almost always have to be covered on foot. Many XC shoes then lack the necessary walking comfort and grip. The result is aching feet and less sure-footedness. This is exactly where the C:62 SLT scores: the rubberized TPU sole prevented slipping on the slippery rocks and got me safely up the last few meters.
Another disadvantage of many particularly stiff MTB shoes is comfort during fast, bumpy descents. The reduced cushioning often leads to tiring soles of the feet, which is not only uncomfortable, but sometimes also leads to a forced break. Although the C:62 SLT does not offer the comfort of a dedicated trail or even gravity shoe, the cushioning was still convincing and struck a good balance between stiffness and comfort for me.
Another plus point is the shoe's exterior: due to the complete absence of mesh inserts, the feet are very well protected even in the thicket of the forest. In my experience, airy mesh inserts magically attract branches, which can sometimes be quite painful. What is surprising is the very good foot climate, even in warm temperatures. The reinforced toe area also offers good protection in the event of contact with stones and rocks.
The closed shape makes the shoe very easy to care for. It's going to get dirtier. When washing your bike, simply hose it down, wipe it over and let it dry. Despite the closed shape, the shoe remains breathable and does not get warm even in warmer temperatures.
