While I had mud-clogging problems with the previous generation of Specialized buckles, the 2010 version as well as the 2011 version tested here feature a buckle design that is immune. After repeated dunkings in mud bogs, I was able to easily release the buckles. In fact the “D-link” strap is the engineering gem of this shoe. It is adjustable on both ends so that you can center the comfortable pad over the instep of your foot whether you have a low, medium or high volume foot. On the medial side, a new concealed tool-free adjustment system is easy to fine-tune and holds fast when buckled down. There was one occasion where the strap seemed to adjust itself when packed in a bag on the way to a race. Be sure to check the strap adjustment whenever you pull them out of your gear bag.