Wout van Aert conquers Paris–Roubaix in Nimbl

Mastering the cobbles of cycling’s most demanding race.

Published: April 16, 2026

Wout van Aert claimed a remarkable victory at Paris–Roubaix, one of the most demanding and unpredictable races on the calendar. With an average speed of over 48 km/h, cobbled sectors, and constant vibration and loss of traction, the race became as much a test of efficiency as strength. Van Aert managed his effort through the decisive phases, responding to every move and holding his line when it mattered most to secure his second Monument victory.

Nimbl supports riders like Van Aert with high-performance footwear and apparel designed to perform under the demands of professional racing. In this environment, efficiency, control, and reliability are essential to sustaining effort at the highest level.

Nimbl Ultimate Air

Worn by Van Aert throughout the race, the Nimbl Ultimate Air is built around a lightweight monocoque carbon chassis designed to maximise stiffness while reducing weight.

In a race like Paris–Roubaix, where every sector disrupts rhythm and forces riders to repeatedly accelerate, this balance becomes critical. A low stack height ensures a direct connection to the pedals, helping to limit energy loss over long distances, while the overall construction supports efficient power transfer even under constant vibration.

The lace closure system provides an even and stable fit across the foot, adapting naturally under prolonged effort, while the slim profile contributes to aerodynamic efficiency without compromising comfort over hours of racing.

Nimbl Apparel

Van Aert raced in full Nimbl apparel, designed to maintain efficiency under sustained physical stress.

Lightweight and breathable, the garments are developed to regulate temperature and manage effort across long race durations. In a race where conditions can shift quickly and intensity remains high from start to finish, comfort and freedom of movement become essential to maintaining performance.

The aerodynamic construction further contributes to overall efficiency, supporting the rider in conserving energy across the most demanding phases of the race.

Performance in the details

Paris–Roubaix does not reward only strength. It rewards the ability to maintain it when the road constantly interrupts it.

Van Aert’s victory reflects that balance — between power, control and the capacity to respond to every disruption without losing efficiency. In a race where margins are minimal and conditions unforgiving, every detail contributes to the final outcome