True to form, Shimano has been busy leading up to the big show. Whether it’s our first taste of GRX Di2, new bags, bars, and components, or now, new shoes – Shimano has it all.
RC5
For the shoes that are new at Eurobike, they start with the RC5/RC5W (W for women’s) road shoes. Called a mid-level shoe, the SH-RC500 draws some tech from the top end S-PHYRE road shoes, while keeping the price down to just $150. That includes a seamless midsole which means the sole and upper are integrated to offer better fit, stability, and lower weight. As a result the stack height is 3.3mm lower for better power transfer and efficiency.
• Breathable composite synthetic leather/mesh/TPU upper
• BOA L6 micro-adjust dial closure
• Stiffness rating: 8 of 12
• Shimano Dynalast
• Sizes: 36-44 in Womens and 40-48 Men’s
• Colors: RC5W – Navy Blue, White; RC5 – Black
• Weight: 250g
• MSRP: $150
XC5
On the mountain side (or gravel and cross), the XC5/XC5W again draws from a higher end shoe, this time the XC7. A Michelin rubber outsole dials in the grip while a BOA L6 dial and velcro strap add closure.
• Breathable composite synthetic leather/mesh/TPU upper
• BOA L6 micro-adjust dial closure
• Stiffness rating: 7 of 12
• Shimano Dynalast
• Sizes: 36-44 in Women’s and 40-48 Men’s standard and wide
• Colors: XC5W – Navy Blue; XC5 – Black, Blue
• Weight: 340g
• MSRP: $160
AM7/AM9
Both the AM7/AM7W (SH-AM702) and AM9 (SH-AM902) gravity/enduro shoes have been redesigned for the coming year and each feature a new proprietary Shimano rubber outsole. That rubber tread is supposedly a unique compound and pattern to improve durability and grip and also features a wider contact area, toe/heal zones for bettery walking traction, and more cleat adjustment range.
The AM9 (SH-AM902) still includes an armored lace shield that covers the speed lace underneath. More padding protects the foot, and the shoe supposedly dries faster as well.
• Stiffness rating: 6 of 12
• Volume Tour last
• Sizes: 37-48
• Colors: Black, Navy
• Weight: 375g
• MSRP: $160
The AM7/AM7W (SH-AM702) also include a new outsole, plus better moisture management. These lose the lace shield and use traditional laces but a neoprene ankle guard helps keep out debris.
• Stiffness rating: 6 of 12
• Volume Tour last
• Sizes: 37-48
• Colors: AM7 – Black, Blue; AM7W – Grey
• Weight: 375g
• MSRP: $130
Blue ME5
Finally, since you know Shimano loves their blue – the ME5 trail shoe is now available in the Shimano Blue color for 2020.
