Review: CUBE C:68X MTB Shoes
Cube is no longer just known for its bicycles. In recent years, the Bavarian manufacturer has increasingly positioned itself as a full-service provider in its Cube Stores. Whether gloves, helmets, or backpacks—Cube now covers almost the entire range of accessories. With the new CUBE MTB C:68X, the Bavarians aim to do justice to the high-end MTB shoe segment.
With a price of 300 euros, Cube clearly deviates from the usual price-performance path for which the company is actually known. The shoe is aimed at ambitious bikers and racers – the price tag makes that clear. Less ambitious riders can find a similar shoe with the Peak model from Cube for half the price.
The carbon sole is extremely stiff, the materials appear high-quality, and the surfaces are easy to clean – perfect for muddy trails. A robust toe cap protection further emphasizes its off-road claim. The first impression fits, but the test also revealed clear points of criticism.
Criticisms – Details with potential for improvement
Despite the premium claim, there are some weaknesses that are surprising in a shoe of this price range:
- The insoles are disappointingly thin and offer little support. Anyone who is ambitious on the trails should definitely upgrade here. We couldn't understand the Natural Fit approach that Cube is advertising.
- The forefoot area cannot be tightened ultimately despite the twist closure. However, it might be different for wider forefeet. This may be due to the individual foot shape of the test person.
Rapid wear in the heel area
The inside of the Verse is lined with a smooth material to make it easy to slip into the shoe. This is generally very good, but unfortunately, this smooth, leather-like surface material started to peel off slightly from the rest of the shoe after about 120 km on our test shoe, causing a blister on the inside of both the left and right shoe at the heel. Further rapid wear due to the air under the material is inevitable here. A clear case for a complaint.
Strengths – Stiff, clean, robust
What Cube does very well:
- Extremely stiff sole – ideal for maximum power transfer.
- Low-maintenance surface to which hardly any dirt adheres.
- Spare parts for twist locks available.
- Durable materials that still look great even after many rides.
- Solid toe protection that guards against damage
Conclusion – Solid race shoe with premium ambitions
The Cube MTB C:68X is a high-quality and thoughtfully designed shoe for sporty riders who value maximum stiffness. Cube knows shoes. However, details like the simple insoles and peeling material on the inside of the heel detract from the overall picture. At a price of 300 €, that shouldn’t be the case. Those willing to invest in better insoles will get a powerful shoe that leaves nothing to be desired.
