NORTHWAVE CELSIUS R ARCTIC GTX

£209.99 Boots designed for grotty weather

Offering both warmth and waterproofing, Northwave’s Arctic boot range has been a staple of the Cycling Plus team’s winter wardrobe for a number of years. Like previous models, the latest Arctic to roll into the stable isn’t cheap, but if it does what it’s supposed to, then the Celsius R Arctic GTX might work out as a wise long-term investment. From a winter-proofing point of view, the obvious starting point is the fact that the Arctic boasts Gore-Tex protection. Two types: an elastic membrane, Rattler, within the neoprene cuff, and the warmer membrane Koala in the uppers.

The overlapping tongue ensures no extra openings or holes for water ingress and is secured over the foot using SLW2 dials. These, plus the overlap, let you cinch up a secure fit with no undue pressure points. They’re micro-adjustable, thanks to a metal release on top of the dial – one pull and they loosen by a notch at a time– but this is small and awkward to use with thick winter gloves. The uppers are adorned with 360-degree reflective detailing, which is excellent for visibility in low light.

The Celsius Rs are fleece-lined with insulated insoles, meaning, says Northwave, they’re good to -10 C. We’ve not tested this, but even with thinner socks on chilly days, we had happy feet.

That neoprene collar might contain a GoreTex membrane, but if you’re not wearing waterproof trousers or tights that you can pull over those cuffs, water does make its way inside (which is common with Gore-Tex shoes).

These boots are very comfortable and supportive. We went up a size, as they seem to come up small, and the collar makes them a bit of an effort to pull on. At 365g for a UK size 11 (EU 45), the Arctics are reasonably un-clumpy while the carbon-reinforced sole – which takes threebolt cleats – is stiff enough for everyday use.