Shimano is once again gearing up for gravel and adventure. This time, with three new shoes that span the gap between casual and racey adventures.
First up, Shimano has the new race-inspired RX600 for those of us that need a performance gravel shoe. Then there’s the new EX series of kickaroos that enhance the performance on and off the bike…
The RX600 expands on Shimano’s popular RX8 gravel race shoe platform, check it below… followed by the comfy-looking EX700 and EX300 series shoes!
RX600
Built with a single L6 BOA dial and a velcro strap at the toes, the RX600 is similar to the RX8 gravel shoe (one that we quite like). The difference is that through a choice of materials like the carbon fiber reinforced nylon midsole, Shimano gets the pricing down to $180 for a shoe that weighs in at 270g for a size 42. Shimano had this to say about the RX600,
“The new RX600 offers even more riders SHIMANO’s signature performance and fit for gravel rides, bikepacking, and adventuring. Ready for all the mud, dust and mixed terrain encountered on these rides, the RX600 offers smooth, powerful pedaling performance and superior grip that you can trust.
Pedaling efficiency is maintained with a stiff carbon fiber reinforced nylon midsole, while the wide-spaced lugs allow for stable, controlled walking. A synthetic leather upper features micro-perforations for ventilation, and a mesh insert provides superior breathability to facilitate improved temperature regulation on your ride
The L6 BOA dial closure delivers an even and easily adjusted support across the top of the shoe, ensuring your foot feels stable on the pedals and on the trail. Utilizing SHIMANO DYNALAST, the foot is securely held in place, creating a comfortable fit, which reduces power loss at the pedal, and lessens fatigue during long rides by employing a toe-spring section that reduces tension in your feet, calves, and hamstrings.”
EX700 & EX700 GTX
For those that want something more casual looking but still want a clipless shoe, the new EX700 delivers with a single BOA dial, knit upper, and ULTREAD outsole. There’s also a GTX version, which we need to confirm, but usually stands for Goretex. The resulting shoe is a bit heavier at 380g, and bit more expensive at $190 for the standard or $200 for the GTX.
Shimano says that “the EX700 offers smooth, powerful pedaling performance on the bike, combined with grip and traction you can trust when walking or pushing the bike, the EX700 and EX700 GTX (with added water and dust protection) take you further.
Shimano’s new ULTREAD sole technology offers a proprietary new rubber compound and sole pattern for enhanced grip and traction off the bike. The EX700 and EX700 GTX features a lightweight and aggressive lugs for walking on dirt, rock, or mud, and offers exceptional grip in the wet with hard-wearing durability.
Made partially with recycled materials, the EX700 features a glass fiber reinforced nylon midsole for pedaling efficiency; a cushioned midsole for walking; and a breathable mesh upper to ensure effective regulation of temperature and comfort throughout your ride.”
EX300
However, Shimano also offers the new EX300 and EX300W which take the basic design from the EX700 with a more affordable build using laces and a more street-focused outsole. The result is a much lower $120 price tag, and they’re also a bit lighter at 324g.
The Press Release on the EX300 states that “the EX300 and EX300W shoes present a sleek and stylish outer that looks at home wherever you are. Ideal for quick and easy commutes around town or heading off the beaten path on a multi-day tour, a flexible sole provides the perfect balance of pedal efficiency and walkability.”
All of the shoes mentioned should be available in Fall, 2022.
