Lake CX302 Special Edition Shoes

The Lake CX302 Special Edition Road Cycling Shoes are built around a single performance priority: weight. At 195 grams per shoe (size 44, without insole), the CX302 is Lake's dedicated climbing shoe — stripped back without cutting corners on the technology that matters most on long sustained efforts. The Special Edition Metal/Black colorway distinguishes it from the standard CX302, and at $379.99 it's an accessible entry point into Lake's patented double sole system.

That double sole is the defining spec. Lake pairs a semi-flexible carbon fiber inner with a rigid carbon outer sole — the inner absorbs foot flex and pressure at the ball of the foot, where hot spots and numbness typically develop during extended climbs, while the outer provides the stiffness needed to drive power through the pedals. The result is a sole that makes a legitimate performance argument: full carbon stiffness where it counts, with enough engineered compliance to stay comfortable at hour three of a mountain stage.

The upper is Clarino Microfiber with a mesh panel for breathability, shaped around Lake's CX/TX RACE last — narrow through the toe box, close-fitting in the heel, designed for high-cadence riding with minimal interior volume. A Carbitex Medial Support panel along the arch adds lateral stability without adding weight. Dual BOA Li2 dials handle retention with independent micro-adjustment at the forefoot and instep, so you can fine-tune the fit zone by zone on the fly without stopping.

Specs at a Glance

• Last: CX/TX RACE — narrow toe box, tight heel, low volume
• Outsole: Lake Race CFC 3K 100% carbon fiber, patented double sole system (semi-flex inner over rigid outer)
• Cleat mount: 3-hole road
• Upper: Clarino Microfiber with mesh
• Arch support: Carbitex Medial Support panel
• Closure: Dual BOA Li2 dials
• Weight: 195g (size 44, without insole)

Design Benefits

1. Double sole comfort on long climbs: The suspended semi-flexible inner distributes pressure at the ball of the foot — the point where standard carbon soles cause hot spots during sustained efforts — without compromising overall stiffness.
2. Race-weight build at a realistic price: At 195 grams, the CX302 competes with dedicated climbing shoes from brands charging considerably more.
3. RACE last precision fit: The narrow toe box and tight heel minimize interior movement during high-cadence pedaling, keeping energy transfer clean through every pedal stroke.
4. Dual BOA Li2 zone adjustment: Independent forefoot and instep dials let you correct fit mid-ride — practical on long climbs where foot volume changes as the effort builds.

The CX302 Special Edition is the right shoe for riders who want legitimate climbing performance without climbing to the very top of the Lake lineup — and a colorway that looks as purposeful as the shoe performs.