Northwave Celsius R Arctic GTX boots review
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Northwave Celsius R Arctic GTX boots review

Boots designed for grotty weather

Our rating

3.5

250.00
280.00
210.00
378.00

David Caudery / Immediate Media

Published: February 28, 2021 at 6:00 am

Our review
A touch of luxury from these comfy shoes that come with plenty of winter-proofing features

Pros:

Comfortable; waterproof uppers; reflective

Cons:

Awkward to put on; water can get inside via collar; pricey

Offering both warmth and waterproofing, Northwave’s Arctic boot range has been a staple of the 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 -10ºC. I’ve not tested this, but even with thinner socks on chilly days, I had happy feet.

That neoprene collar might contain a Gore-Tex 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. I went up a size because 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 three-bolt cleats – is stiff enough for everyday use.

Product

Brand northwave
Price 378.00 AUD,250.00 EUR,210.00 GBP,280.00 USD
Weight 365.0000, GRAM (UK11 (EU45)) - as tested

Features

br_winterSpecific yes
Closure dial
br_cleatFitting 3_bolt_look_type
Sole Carbon-reinforced
Features Sizes: EU37-49

Colours: Black, Anthra/Reflective

Insoles: Fleece-lined