WPC16: DMT surprises w/ attractive new Enduro & “freeride” Shoes, Ale adds R-EV1 high end, & Classic line

DMT is probably best known for their high end road shoes. Perhaps that is why their new mountain bike shoes were so surprising. It’s no secret that mountain biking has changed a lot over the years, and so has the foot wear. The idea of a super stiff, XC racing inspired shoe for all riders just doesn’t cut it anymore. When I heard that DMT was introducing a new Enduro and “freeride” shoe, I was skeptical at best. What we found were some very interesting shoes that will certainly open the DMT brand to new customers…

For their enduro offering, the DMT E1 is looking quite good. The shoe uses a Vibram S188 sole that looks burly enough for gnarly, rocky trails, but also comfortable for walking/hike a biking. Built with a microfiber, vented upper, both the toe and heel are reinforced for added durability. Offered in 37-48 sizes, claimed weight for a 42 is 465g. Available in Orange Flou or solid black, the E1 will sell for $195.

One of those things that’s probably lost in translation, the “freeride” F1 is probably more appropriately an adventuring/bike packing shoe, or just an all around mountain biking shoe. With a slightly smaller over all volume and more aggressively lugged Vibram S188 sole, the F1 uses a Crosta Suede upper with a reinforced toe and heel. Getting rid of the lower velcro strap on the E1, the F1 uses a single Boa closure and is available in either grey/black or grey/black/orange Flou for $195 with a claimed weight of 400g.

Fluorescent colors seem to be the calling card for DMT’s line up for 2016 and preference on color aside, most of the shoes look quite attractive. At the high end of road and mountain you’ll find the R1 and the M1. Both shoes use a new anatomic aerated carbon sole that utilizes UD FAW150 – unidirectional carbon fiber that is 150 grams per square meter. The mountain sole adds thick, replaceable tread blocks while the road sole gets a replaceable heel block. Built for maximum pedaling performance, the dual Boa shoes come in at 225g for the road, and 320g for the mountain and both sell for $339.90 in multiple colors.

Now with distribution of DMT through Ale Bike Wear, the shoes should be easier to get here in the U.S.

That connection also led us to check out the newest threads from Ale with their new R-EV1. An improvement over their previous PRR line, the Race-Evolution1 jersey uses micro perforated lycra and a new Bio ceramic 1.3 fabric on the back as well as new Giro sleeves that offer a bigger arm band, a more ergonomic fit, lower collar in the front, and flat aero seams. On the back is a standard three pocket design but with an additional zippered pocket on the side.

The bibs see a completely new Double Ergo chamois that uses a similar density to their 8hr chamois. The 120kg density foam is cut short in front to provide some “room” while the rear is more traditionally shaped to protect your sit bones on the saddle. Created with a true race fit, the bibs feature a special Matrix fabric in the crotch to increase durability. As their top of the line kit, the R-EV1 will sell for $185 for the jersey and $220 for the bibs. Since it is designed for racing, the R-EV1 will also be offered in a skinsuit.

If you’re less about racing and more about vintage inspired style, their new Classic line should be right up your alley. Available in bibs, a short and long sleeve jersey and a matching cap, each piece uses a “comfort fit” which is loose but still ergonomic and the bibs include a 2 hour rated chamois. Pricing will run around $100-110 for the jersey and shorts individually in Verona, Pordoi, or Gavia styles.