Evolution is a funny thing. It stops when there isn't a need for improvement. Like the safety frame and pneumatic tires of 1890, they're pretty much what we're riding today. So it is with the three Velcro strap shoe closure system of today. There are many reasons to like this simple system. It's light, infinitely adjustable, durable, nearly impossible to break, and never experiences catastrophic failure. Yes, there are dials. Yes, there are ratcheting buckles. While the others may come and go, the three Velcro straps will remain as they have for more than 20 years. So it is no surprise that DMT continues to offer a Velcro strapped shoe at the Pro level -- the Radial 2. This version is made with three holes in the standard Look-style mounting pattern.DMT believes in wrapping your feet. The upper is built on a 'slip last' meaning that it's constructed from one piece of nylon mesh reinforced with microfiber and wrapped around the last before being secured below the board. The upper, thanks to the mesh and microfiber combination, doesn't stretch, which helps keep your foot in place. There are no seams to rub against your foot, and slip-lasting allows the upper to conform to your foot easily. The end result is much greater comfort. At the back of the shoe, the external heel cup is deep and soft and holds your heel securely.They have also upgraded the insole this year to their heat-moldable ASL model. It looks like the standard foam insole on top, but when you take it out of the shoe and flip it over, you can see that there is rigid EVA foam in the plantar and heel areas of the foot. It's designed so that when you heat the insole up in the oven, place it in your shoe, stand in the shoe and tighten the upper, the insole will mold around your foot. This increases the contact between your foot and the shoe and reducing pressure on any single spot on the foot. You'll get better stability and a reduced likelihood of hot spots. All add up to greater comfort when riding.
