RIDE CONCEPTS

TALLAC MID

CRANK IT UP TO 11

Press release photos by Geoff Livingstone

DIG. RIDE. REPEAT.

We took everything we love about the award winning namesake original, and turned it up to 11. More tech, more protection, and more support. The PerformFit”‘ Wrap from the BOA’ Fit System is designed to improve power transfer and efficiency while providing a micro-adjustable, precision fit you can adjust on the fly. A mid-height collar seamlessly integrates 3D-molded D30” protection on the medial and lateral sides to provide extra support and keep your ankles safe from side impacts. We’ve also integrated D30′ padding top-of-foot for impact protection. Featuring the same trusted reverse-hex outsole as the low-rise version–grip both on and off the bike is second to none. The Cordura ‘ upper with welded construction is abrasion-resistant and built to outlast the biggest epics. This mid-top MTB shoe will take you higher and farther than you’ve ever been before and beg you for more.

FEATURES & TECH

1. D30 PROTECTION
   True to our DNA, we look for places to add protection and security. We’ve molded D30 into the ankle collar to provide protection from side impacts–either on the crank, or from crashes and on-trail debris.
2. PERFORMFIT WRAP
   A new closure system from BOA delivers dialed in performance with micro-adjustable precision fit.
3. D30 INTEGRATION
   We’ve integrated D30 into the PerformFit Wrap to provide top-of-foot impact protection.
4. REVERSE HEX TRACTION
   Just like the original Tallac, we’ve employed out proven and trusted reverse hex traction outsole to make the inevitable hike-a-bike slightly more enjoyable.

FEATURES & TECH

• PerformFit'” Wrap from the BOA® Fit System delivers dialed in performance with micro-adjustable precision fit powered by Li2 and low friction TX4 Lace
• Integrated D30® pads for top-of-foot protection
• 3D-molded D30® collar protects ankles from side impacts
• Hexagon outsole featuring reverse hex traction pattern on toe and heel for hike-able climbs and descents
• EVA midsole provides support and shock absorption
• Fully gusseted tongue prohibits intake of dirt and debris
• D30® High Impact Zone Technology insole absorbs impact and reduces fatigue
• Lightweight bonded upper featuring Cordura® mesh for durability and breathability
• Anti-bacterial mesh lining controls odor
• TPU mud guard to protect against dirt, debris and rubbing
• TPU toe and heel protection with reinforced anti-abrasion film
• Heel pull tab for easy entry

MSRP
Tallac Clip: $230 USD / $270 CAN | 530 grams
Tallac Flat: $220 USD / $260 CAN | 440 grams

Men’s Only / BOA Only

FIRST RIDE IMPRESSION IN THE RIDE CONCEPT TALLAC CLIP SHOES

Ride Concepts new Tallac Mid mountain bike shoes are positioned to offer aggressive enduro and DH riders a protective, secure-fitting and performance-enhancing. Will the durability also be a fourth compliment to the new Tallac Mid Flat and Clipless shoe models? We’ll have to wait and find out as we’ve only got a few rides in our test pairs thus far. While we can’t speak to the durability of the shoes just yet, we can certainly share some of our first thoughts regarding fit, performance and intentions of this aggressive new mountain bike shoe.

We just got back from a trip to BOA Fit System’s HQ, in Denver, Colorado. During our visit to the highly technical office and laboratories of BOA, we were treated to the sights of some to-be-released shoes, one of which was the new Ride Concepts Tallac Mid BOA. While BOA closures aren’t new to adventure sport enthusiasts, they’ve not been wholly accepted by the more “aggro” segment: enduro riders; bike park types and downhillers.

We believe that will be changing in the near future, as the advantages are undeniable. Rather than just tip-toe with a BOA closure system on a more traditional style shoe, Ride Concepts went all in and trusted BOA’s impressive laboratory and data-collection work to give the best performing shoe construction a try.

BOA’s PerformFit Wrap shoe design allows for a much more secure fit, locking the heel into the back of the shoe and allowing for a snugger shoe, without as much discomfort or hot spots on the foot. The three wrap panels that come over the foot can better articulate across the top of the foot and have a wide “wrap”, which offers a much better fit than just closing a shoe over the tongue by tightening the laces. This is something that sounds a bit too “markety” as we type it out, but if you live near a shop that sells Ride Concepts shoes, we suggest you try both a laced and BOA version of their shoes on. We think you’ll feel exactly what we’re talking about instantly.

Before we move onto the other aspects of the shoe – which are impressive and plentiful – it’s worth noting that almost all the other editors at the media event noticed the shoes felt very wide and spacious inside. So much so, that many of us wanted to size down half a size. It felt like we all received Wide-sized shoes rather than regular width shoes. We are happy to say however, that once we snugged up the BOA system and started riding, we didn’t feel the play or float as much as we’d anticipated. They do feel like high volume shoes, though.

Ride Concepts have given the Tallac Mid a mid-height collar. Shocking, we know. The collar is neatly integrated with 3D-molded D3O protective padding on the medial and lateral sides of the shoe, designed to protect your ankles from impacts. RC also give the wearer to-of-foot protection, with more D3O and a durable Cordura upper. Lastly, one of our favorite features is the D3O insole, which helps reduce fatigue and offer protection from big hits.

Available in either Flat or Clipless options, the Ride Concepts Tallac Mid shoes both feature some similarities in the tread design. A reverse Hex Traction outsole provides impressive traction while hiking, walking down slopes and yes, on the pedals too. We really liked the toe and heel scallops in the lugs, as they make for added traction going up and down steep slopes.

HOW DO THE RIDE CONCEPTS TALLAC MIDS PERFORM?

Well, they’re quite good overall. As stated, we’ve only had a couple rides on them, and the temps have been in the high 90s. We can’t say if the sweat in our socks was abnormal considering the high temps and dry trails, but it seems like they do a fair job breathing for a burly set of MTB shoes.

Traction, getting in the shoes and finding a comfortable spot was easy thanks to the BOA system and high-volume feel. The downside is that the shoes feel and look a bit bulky. We can’t say it really affected our ride at all, but it was reminiscent of the old Fiveten Impact high tops, for you old schoolers out there. Some will love that, whilst others may complain.

Overall, I like a lot about these shoes so far. I’m testing the clipless version while we’ll have other members testing the flats and reporting back on long term durability and performance. They certainly won’t be for everyone, though they’re not designed to be. Ride Concepts have an impressive line of shoes for a variety of disciplines, and these will certainly be on the map for aggressive shredders wanting a bit more protection around the feet. Downhillers, enduro, and DH-focused eMTB riders who spent lots of time pedaling through rocks and overgrown trails will all likely find a great new accomplice in the Tallac Mids.

Visit RideConcepts.com to get yours.