Northwave Hammer Plus: All-Round Versatility, from Gravel to Cross Country

An innovative sole, flexible where needed and with large rubber inserts for maximum comfort and stability, an XC-derived fit and the best of Northwave’s off-road know-how: the Hammer Plus makes versatility its strength and is the ideal companion for anyone whose priority in cycling is fun and adventure.

Source: Press Release

Flexibility, the ability to adapt to context, to anticipate variations and react to them: this is what makes the philosophy of gravel so appealing, whether it’s an afternoon of adventure or a bike trip. The gravel revolution has had a significant impact on the world of cycling products, where rigidity – inspired by the pursuit of maximum performance – is no longer the only dogma and where, in fact, flexibility becomes a valuable asset for cyclists with different needs and requirements.

Flexibility is also the cornerstone of the Hammer Plus, Northwave’s new SS24 shoe, which makes the most of the Italian brand’s extensive experience in Cross-Country mountain biking and translates it (also) for Gravel enthusiasts.

The main credit goes to its innovative Jaws Evo outsole, offering an unprecedented level of comfort and walking efficiency in a shoe of this type. On the Hammer Plus, the Jaws Evo sole does this without sacrificing foot support and protection, and while ensuring efficient power transfer to the pedals, to fully enjoy every moment spent on the bike.

Jaws Evo, a new sole concept

The new Jaws Evo outsole has been designed to offer an unprecedented balance between pedaling efficiency and walking comfort, so crucial for bikepackers and those who like to tackle rough trails including portage sections.

The Hammer Plus is equipped with an advanced toe flexion and arch support system, designed to adapt to the foot and optimize the pedaling motion: a system resulting from Northwave’s extensive experience in the world of MTB and Cross-Country.

The toe of the sole features a flex notch that allows for unprecedented walking comfort for a technical shoe of this type, while the generous rubber inserts ensure optimal grip and traction on all terrains. All this while always guaranteeing sufficient space and maximum adjustability of the cleats thanks to the large sliding area.

Jaws Evo is a multifaceted sole, with unparalleled flexibility. An outsole designed to stand out on the road and trails, displaying colors that match the shoe’s upper.

SLW3: Northwave’s registered closure system

The Hammer Plus combines the innovation of the Jaws Evo sole with the precision and reliability of the X-Dial SLW3 system, allowing for micrometric and ultra-fast closure. The mechanism is compact, lightweight, easy to replace, and very intuitive to use: turn the dial to tighten the shoe quickly and precisely, and use the upper lever for micrometric adjustments, even while pedaling. To fully open the shoe, simply lift the lever and release the mechanism.

On the Hammer Plus, the SLW3 system is combined with a lower strap for an even more precise and customizable fit.

Protection and breathability

The perforated upper with monocoque structure of the Hammer Plus is light, breathable, and seamless to avoid uncomfortable pressure points. The thermo-welded TPU reinforcements at the toes and at the base of the upper guarantee complete protection against knocks, scratches, impacts, and the many small unexpected events that can occur during a Gravel ride.

Wide option available

The Hammer Plus is available in four colors – white, black, grey, and green – as well as a Wide Fit version (in black), specially developed for larger feet. A WMN version is also offered in black with an iridescent logo. The Hammer Plus are available online and in stores at a recommended retail price of €134.99.

Alongside the Hammer Plus, the new Hammer differs from its “big sister” by its closure, which is equipped with three Velcro straps instead of the SLW3 dial. The recommended retail price is €99.99.

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