Product: Xtenex 100 - 500 Series Laces
Reviewed By: Steve Larsen
I often think that all of the best ideas have already been thought of, but every once in awhile I stumble across something special and wonder “why didn’t I think of that”? I have recently had the opportunity to try Xtenex (indexed-tensioning-nexus) 300 Series laces and have wondered since why I was not smart enough to think of this great idea. The premise is simple and the manufacturer’s claims prove to be correct. In the manufacturer’s words: “Xtenex laces have an elastic core and a series of knots along the entire length of the lace at consistent length intervals. Stretch the lace and the knots disappear, allowing you to thread the lace through the eyelets. Release the tension and the knots reappear. More knots between eyelets lessens the tension; fewer knots between eyelets increases tension. This technology enhances footwear fit, comfort and performance through its many advantages:
- The Xtenex Lace expands during natural foot swelling and eliminates foot compression.
- The lace does not slip — the knots maintain the original fit by restricting involuntary lace movement through the eyelets; increasing comfort and keeping the foot stable in the foot bed.
- No plastic pieces are needed.
- Eliminates “dual-compression” impact.
- A lace shoe is made into a slip-on — Never tie your shoe again!
- Asymmetrical lacing — the shoe upper can be molded to the natural non-symmetric form of the foot by independently adjusting the tension between each set of eyelets. The unique ability to have different tension zones along the entire lacing system results in a custom fit every time.
- Enhanced lateral stabilization is achieved by increasing the tension along the left or right side of a shoe upper. This aids to stabilize and support the foot within the foot bed while enhancing footwear and foot care technologies such as orthotics, arch supports and insole technologies.”
**The ability to customize the fit of one’s laces is an ingenious idea. All of our feet our different and these laces respect that fact. If you don’t believe me, here is what Olympic gold medalist Simon Whitfield has to say: “A friend gave me a pair of these laces. I tried them and immediately loved them. I used the laces all year including the Olympics!!! Simply the best product. I’m not sure I want my competition to know such a simple thing can make such a big difference to comfort and fit of the shoes. A lot of companies have tried to make a lace like this. You are the first one to get it right.” **
**There is no question that Xtenex laces are quicker than traditional lace locks and with the ability to customize and pre-set fit, they appear to be the best available option for triathletes looking to minimize time in transition and still run their best. They come in almost every possible color and five different sizes (although the X200 and X300 are most popular with triathletes), giving one the opportunity to look good as well as feel good. **
As a father of five children, three of which still can’t tie their own shoes, Xtenex laces may even be more valuable to busy parents than they are to the world’s best triathletes. If you are looking for an edge and a chance to gain “free speed” on the competition give these laces a try.
MSRP: $9.95
**Available at www.Worldtri.com http://www.worldtri.com/SearchResults.asp?mfg=XTENEX **
