Shimano Redesigns Value XC Shoes and Upgrades Enduro Shoe Rubber

Jul 30, 2020
by James Smurthwaite  
Shimano has today announced a raft of updates to its footwear line with 15 shoe ranges all getting tweaked. We've picked out some of the highlights below from its enduro and xc focussed lines.

ME7 Mountain Enduro Race Shoes

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The ME7 shoe gets an upgrade in rubber on the sole to Michelin OCX3 which should provide more grip when not clipped in or when walking around off the bike. The fit has also been revised with extra toe box volume that doesn't affect the shoe length. The shoe is now also available in 'Volume+' and 'Volume+ Wide' to fit riders with wider feet.

photo

• Sizes 40-48, Colors Black and Olive
• Weight: 380g
• MSRP: $200

ME5 Mountain Enduro Shoes

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The mid-range ME5 shoe doesn't get sole rubber from Michelin but it does see an upgraded compound from Shimano that is claimed to increase grip. The shoe is still closed with a Boa L6 fastening, as opposed to the straps of the ME7, but there's a new lace layout on the latest model that Shimano claim will allow the shoe to fit better. Finally, Shimano has beefed up the ankle protection on this year's model with a raised ankle guard.

• Sizes 40-48, Colors: Black
• Weight: 352g
• MSRP: $160

GR5 Gravity Shoes

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Pitched as an entry-level gravity shoe, the GR5 uses Shimano's new GR3 rubber that is claimed to be grippier and more durable than ever before. The shoes also get a bit of a style overhaul to make them a bit more casual.

• Sizes 33-48, Colors: Black and Olive
• Weight: 400g
• Price: $110

XC3 and XC3W Performance Value MTB Shoes

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The XC3 and XC3 W are a new addition to Shimano's shoe range and bring trickle-down technology from Shimano's S-Phyre platform to its XC range at a $120 price point. The shoe boasts low stack height for stability and power transfer, a breathable synthetic leather composite upper and surround wrapper upper structure all of which Shimano claims will offer a glove-like fit and maximum power transfer and pedaling efficiency. The shoe is finished of with a Boa L6 closure system.

• RC3 Men’s: Sizes 40-52, Colors: Black, Blue
• RC3W Women’s: Size 36-44, Colors: Black
• Weight: 310g
• MSRP: $120


XC1 and XC1W Entry-Level MTB Shoes

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The final shoes to look at are Shimano's updated, entry level XC1 and XC1W shoes. There's a new synthetic leather and mesh construction with the same rubber sole as the XC3. The shoe uses 3 velcro straps for an adjustable fit.

• XC1 Men’s Shoes: Sizes 40-48, Colors:
Black, Red
• XC1W Women’s Shoes: Sizes 36-44,
Colors: Black
• Weight: 300g
• MSRP: $90

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Reviews and Tech Press Releases Shoes Shimano Shimano Me700


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78 Comments
  • 36 2
 Why can't we get flat shoes with boa? Or at least a lace cover.
  • 29 31
 Boa sucks. Boa can come loose if knocked,it's annoying. Velcro or lace cover for sure though.
  • 6 1
 www.scott-sports.com/us/en/product/scott-sport-volt-shoe?article=2759056338024

www.chainreactioncycles.com/mobile/us/en/suplest-offroad-pro-flat-pedal-shoes-2020/rp-prod196944?gs=1&sku=sku790756
  • 11 0
 Pearl Izumi is releasing one this year. I think August.
bikepacking.com/news/2021-pearl-izumi-shoes
  • 1 0
 @addingst: Those PI's look interesting. Wonder if the rubber will be sticky like 5-10's or I should say more like a glue which I like.
  • 21 1
 @jesse-effing-edwards: never had an issue with BOA coming loose before.
  • 7 0
 The Shimano GR9's have a speed lace system and lace cover. They are rad shoes with a great fit and awesome grip..
  • 2 0
 @addingst: nice PI fits me whereas I'm strict between sizes in Shimano.. which is weird, aren't they owned by Shimano?
  • 3 5
 Boa isn't great.
  • 7 2
 @jesse-effing-edwards: quit riding like a hack and it's a none issue
  • 3 0
 @CoreyPancake:

The BOA placement on my shimano xc9's seems to be hot garbage and and has both popped off AND come unhooked walking and riding. Low, on the side, and at an angle that's super easy to hit. Never had a real issue with previous brands, including 5.10's and other shimano models.

Basically, scrape the side of your foot on a rock and it'll pop loose, then come unhooked. Run clipless shoes for long enough and it'll happen eventually, just like how most riders will bang up a rear derailleur while riding, or hit a rock from the bottom and come unclipped with crank bros. I don't think it's a real problem, but I'm sure some shoes have it worse than others.
  • 1 0
 @CoreyPancake: I'll do what I want.

I destroyed a BOA on a rock and it was in a less exposed place than on those ME5s. Scratch one perfectly good pair of shoes. Pearl Izumi has some shoes with the BOA on the tongue, which seems like the least likely place for it to catch something. I don't know why more manufacturers don't do the same.
  • 3 0
 @boozed: yeah, I have x-alps and it's in the tongue. Have yet to hit it on anything. I've definitely scuffed the sides on trees and rocks (they are looking pretty rough). Never had an issue with the boa so I can't relate to the hate.
  • 3 0
 Whenever there's an article about new flat shoes, it's always "what about the fancy clipless features".
As soon as there's any articles about flat shoes with said fancy features, everyone hates it. The comments are never happy I guess!
  • 2 0
 @boozed: right...if you hit that hard enough on a rock or root, a broken boa dial would be the least for your problems
  • 1 0
 @ReformedRoadie: You weren't there, man.

The plastic post that holds the dial to the shoe is not very strong, at least in the case of the BOA IP1.
  • 3 0
 Since Boa is lifetime warranty can't you just contact the company to get another unit sent to you? From what I've seen they look easily rebuildable.
  • 1 0
 @gus6464: Absolutely, however when it destroys the mounting post stitched into the shoe, the shoe's done. The dial itself survived the whole episode just fine!
  • 1 0
 @boozed: I’m saying that if you had a Boa on the tongue and you smashed it, the smashed Boa would be insignificant compared to your smashed foot.
Not sure how me being there is relevant.
  • 1 0
 @CoreyPancake: sage advice. I'll make sure to never get a scratch on my bike, either.

BOA solved a problem that didn't exist with a solution that is prone to fu%kery. Laces with a flap or old fashioned velcro keep your shoes done up just fine without a giant bulge to get caught on a stick or a rock or a spoke or a whatever. Has your bike never come into contact with something unexpectedly? If not you are the best rider in the universe or a roadie.
  • 2 0
 @eh-steve: yes they are a part of the Shimano family but their shoes use a different fit profile and tech. Which makes sense to me to increase their fit range. So if Shimano doesnt work for you then more than likely Pearl will, if youre happy with their offerings.
  • 1 0
 Vaude AM Moab tech is the shoe you’re looking for
  • 1 0
 @ReformedRoadie: It seems we were at cross purposes... I think the BOA on the tongue is the best place for it because it would be about as protected as it could be, in which case I absolutely agree with you there.
  • 1 0
 @gus6464: i have a pair and they are very sticky as well as great ankle support.
  • 10 0
 I've torn the rubber soles off 2 pairs of ME7 doing long hike a bikes. I know they probably aren't built/meant for it but I am hoping this rubber upgrade also comes with an adhesive upgrade so they don't pull off the plate again.
  • 3 0
 Same here, and I haven't done an unusual amount of hiking. But I've already ordered pair #3 because despite the durability issue I love these shoes.
  • 2 6
flag ace9 (Jul 30, 2020 at 11:44) (Below Threshold)
 returned my ME7's after taking two steps. how can anyone ride in them? they're like noodles
  • 3 0
 @ianswilson815 same here. I’m on the tail end of my second pair. Seems like I have to get a new pair annually, and I don’t do too much walking in them. Bummer because I really like everything else about them.
  • 1 0
 @GPP2117: Yup, same. Maybe I am stupid but I will probably get another pair since I really love them besides that.
  • 2 0
 @ace9: that's probably why people ride them. They're definitely my favorite clipless shoe because they *don't* feel like ski boots. Stiff enough to pedal all day and supple enough to be comfy. Have owned Northwave Enduro Mid, Giro Terradura, Mavic Crossmax and Deemax and 510 Kestrel Lace and BOA first and second generation. Keep coming back to the ME7.
  • 1 0
 Same here, went through two pairs of ME7s. Moved over to Chambers and way happier so far.
  • 3 0
 Not sure about other people's experiences here but both myself and my partner wear ME7s and my ME7s have lived through two riding seasons, numerous crashes, and several races flawlessly. They even go through the laundry machine frequently with no complaints. They're honestly some of the most comfortable shoes I've ever owned, and when they retire I'm going to buy another pair Smile
  • 1 0
 Delam has been a problem for how many years??? I think I warrantied at least 4 pair of M163. I thought Shimano had higher quality standards then this.
  • 10 0
 Time to complete some modules.
  • 4 0
 I love ME7's they are the best mtb shoe i've ever used. Not stoked to see the side vent though, looks like a weak spot for rocks and sticks to jab, and water to come in through. I would love to see a ME7 wet version without all the perforation.
  • 1 0
 MW7?
  • 2 0
 @MDana87: mw7 is insulated, lined and gaitered, has boa instead of prefered lace and strap closure and has a much softer sole, 5 for mw7 and 8 for me7. i dont want a hot, heavy expensive, flimsy dorky shoe.
  • 2 0
 @getsomesy: gotcha! I don't have either but, have been eye balling both as I ride in the PNW. Thanks for the info I'm not sure I've read anywhere else. This helps.
  • 2 0
 @MDana87: glad i could help. I thought about silicone sealanting over the little vent holes for a winter pair. They are ok for poor weather as is, they dont catch water like gutters but could be better. The tread is great for hiking in mud, clipping in, and is pretty ok on slippy rocks.
  • 11 4
 Flat pedal riders want lace covers damn it
  • 12 0
 Shimano's GR9 flat pedals shoes have lace covers.
  • 2 0
 Those XC3s look perfect, been wearing XC shoes on the road bike forever and the cheapish Shimano ones last for freakin ever. My 7 year old pair will probably need to be replaced just as these new ones are going on end-of-season clearance. Curious to try their flat pedal shoes as well, have yet another destroyed set of 5.10s to replace.
  • 3 0
 The current ME7's already have an incredibly wide toe box, why go wider? I've never had a shoe where I felt the toe box was too wide until this one.
  • 2 1
 I like the changes to the ME7 but can we get some decent color choices? Really tired of the drab and boring 'choices' from manufacturers. And I know I'm shouting to the void but glorious will be the day when Shimano can get their shoe sizing true to size.
  • 1 0
 Get the blue ones then. That way everyone on the mountain will see you.
  • 1 0
 @Trudeez: i dont know why that would be a bad thing
  • 1 0
 @matadorCE: merely giving you an example. Seeing how you complained about the drab and boring colors, when shimano has offered this shoe in almost neon blue for two full years now.
  • 1 0
 @Trudeez: ok so 3 color choices in like 4 years; wow what a color palette. /s/
  • 1 0
 If anyone from Shimano is trolling these comments, please make the GR9 with that crude guard thingamajig. It's so nice to keep out all the little rocks and crap from your shoes. After spending last 2 seasons with the GR7, all my Five Tens seem like a magnet for crap during my rides. Now if only your tread were a little more stickier you'd have the perfect shoe IMO of course.
  • 1 0
 What's with only doing wider options? I don't have hobbit feet, I've got narrow feet. I used to wear Shimano shoes,but I tried a pair of ME7's recently when looking for a replacement set and my feet were swimming in them!

If you can produce Volume+ and Volume+ Wide, why not Volume-?
  • 2 0
 Bet on italian shoes. Always narrower than the others.
  • 1 0
 @2d-cutout I have the same issues with need low-volume shoes. Means that I almost always wear boa-style to get the fit. I have been riding ME7s for a few seasons now, and while they’re cranked all the way down, they do fit me barely. What shoes are you wearing that work for low volume?
  • 1 0
 @GPP2117: I used to have the Mavic Crossmax, but they wore out, now got the Specialized cliplite lace. Definitely narrower than the shimano's. Not a ton, but enough to fit well.
  • 1 0
 @2d-cutout: thanks, buddy. I’ll take a look!
  • 3 0
 Dammit shimano !!!!!!! the size 52 folks want ME7 style shoes too!!! why is this soo hard for cycling shoe makers BIG FEET PEOPLE LOVE BIKES TOO ,,,
  • 1 0
 I hope they come in red. They would be match so nice with my red spandex , The chamoise makes my ass look big and round , I have this cute gait like a pidgeon toed duck when I walk. Gets the ladies all worked up when I'm shopping at Walmart.
  • 1 0
 When are we going to see a proper flat pedal shoe review, using 510’s as a bench mark. Just plain and simple, sole equal to in grip, very poor in grip, or has better grip than the 510s.

My wife brought me an pair of Ride Concepts as a birthday present, to replace my first gen (4 year old) Adidas Terrex / 510s, and the RC has no where near the Grip. No matter what pedals I use with the RC, slipped pedals are experienced multiple times on a run, to the point of being dangerous.

I don’t have the heart to tell wifey the shoes are only good for lounging...

Please can we have a honest, no holds barred review?!
  • 3 0
 ME7 is my favorite. Please never put Boa on it. Always breaks when you crash.
  • 4 1
 Lmao crashing is so 2019
  • 2 0
 @dexterfawkes: Pretty sure crashing is so 2020!
  • 4 1
 Shimano shoes are bombproof. So far held up to more abuse than any other shoes I have tried.
  • 2 0
 My current ME7s are thrashed. Time for a new pair. I like the toe vent is gone. Riding in the desert its an open invite for cactus spines.
  • 1 0
 I wore Shimano shoes for years. Last time I checked they stopped offering half sizes. I couldn’t get a good fit with the whole sizes. 44 or 45 and nothing in between. Bye bye Shimano shoes.
  • 3 0
 When do the sandals get boa dials??
  • 1 0
 Love my boa shoes. Plus boa has lifetime no questions warranty on their dials. Just got some for my older shoes I use in winter.
  • 1 0
 "the GR5 uses Shimano's new GR3 rubber that is claimed to be grippier and more durable than ever before."

We shall see.
  • 2 0
 Don’t bother with the gr5 unless you only ride flow.
They dont absorb impacts well and just aren’t stiff enough. The grip wasn’t really the problem.
  • 1 3
 The ME7 and ME5 are both good looking shoes, but it would be nice if they had an all tread sole option for those that ride flats and have to push up steeps. Current flat shoes all look like Van's copies and don't do hike-a-bike very well if there's any distance.
  • 2 0
 Why wouldn't they just put a few lugs in the toe? Seems so easy.
  • 2 0
 Peep the new 5.10/adidas Trailcross, might be just what you're looking for. It has the grip of 5.10 rubber with slightly taller, more spaced out tread. The sole has more flex and feel to it compared to the Freeriders without being soft. It's the best hike-a-bike shoe I've tried yet.
  • 3 0
 @ARonBurgundy: Those are nice looking shoes. Too bad they don't come in a US14 size. Looks like I'll be sticking with the Vasque Juxt for a while longer.
  • 2 0
 Those ME7 shoes might be my next pair!
  • 1 0
 That's what I'm thinking as well. Just wish my current ME7's would die already.
  • 5 0
 been riding ME7 shoes for about 6 years now, so comfy and so nice! the lace cover helps keep mud/dust out as well as the neoprene ankle cover. though my current ones have a huge gap in that neoprene at the seam, accidentally shoved my finger through it once while taking them off and its gone downhill since. BUT the sole is super nice to walk in and very grippy!
  • 1 0
 My budget shimano xc shoes are sooo freaking squeaky, and that's on xt pedals too..
  • 1 0
 Pumped that the ME7 has more room in the toe box! I love mine, but they are WAY too tight in the toe area.
  • 1 0
 Good price point on the XC3. Any details on outsole material or stiffness?
  • 1 2
 I'd say releasing AM/enduro shoes in 2020 and not mentioning the range of cleat adjustment is a miss IMHO







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