First Look: Shimano's New Gravity Shoe Lineup

Jul 14, 2015
by SHIMANO  
Press Release:

Shimano Gravity shoe collection 2016

Developed in conjunction with the Atherton family, Shimano's Gravity range of downhill, enduro and BMX racing footwear has undergone quite possibly the most rigorous testing possible to strike the optimal fusion of protection, function and durability for multiple riding disciplines. With current Men's Downhill World Champion Gee Atherton, 2013 Downhill World Champion Rachel Atherton and multiple British 4X National Champion Dan Atherton part of the testing team, you can be certain that the AM range has been designed to win races.

Three models make up the 2016 Gravity range:
• The SPD-compatible black AM9 All-Mountain shoe for aggressive downhill, enduro and trail riding
• The black AM7 All-Mountain and Downhill flat-soled shoe with a Vibram outsole for optimum pedal connectivity, comfort and protection
• The SPD-compatible AM5 Gravity and BMX shoes, in black or army green, with a focus on comfort and protection

Shimano Gravity shoe collection 2016
Shimano Gravity shoe collection 2016
The new SPD compatible AM9.

The Atherton’s influence is clear to see in the AM9, which the whole GT Atherton team has been testing since the beginning of the season, with protection and grip to suit harsh riding conditions and the most aggressive riding styles.

bigquotesWe've been testing the AM9 this season and it's the best shoe I've ever worn for downhill. Me, Rachel and Dan all had a hand in developing the shoe and it's great to see how our feedback has been integrated. We asked for better grip, better protection and less weight. Shimano definitely delivered! - Gee Atherton, current Downhill World Champion

Whether riding the two SPD options or the flat sole AM7, all Shimano’s 2016 Gravity shoes feature reinforced high side walls for ample foot protection and the new AM sole design with Pro rider calibrated shank plates for optimal rigidity and improved downhill riding stability.

New gravity-specific rubber with high-traction tread patterns on the AM9 outsole also feature to increase durability and provide superior off-the-bike grip. The newly designed pedal channel in the outsole of the AM9 makes it easier to re-engage to the pedal while unclipped. This feature also brings about a weight-saving of 217g per pair (size 40), a 23% reduction over the AM45.

To suit the aggressive racing style of Downhill and Enduro racing, the AM9 features a comfortable EVA foam construction midsole and Volume Tour Last sizing outsole for extra volume at the ball of the foot, providing additional comfort and support on and off the bike.A Velcro strap on the upper of all new AM shoes keeps the foot securely in place with even tension across the metatarsal bones. Armoured lace shields on the AM9 and AM7 provide additional metatarsal protection from the elements and keep laces confined, away from chain rings and cranks.

Shimano Gravity shoe collection 2016
Shimano Gravity shoe collection 2016
The street-inspired AM5.

The AM5 on the other hand, forgoes the lace shield to offer a street-inspired style, equally at home in skate parks, trail parks and everywhere in between. With a lightweight and non-compressed flat insole, the AM5 offers an even and comfortable foot cushion for a platform that’s ideal for both walking and riding.

Product weights:
AM9: 744g (size 40)
AM7: 731g (size 40)
AM5: 941g (size 40)

Compared to 2014’s AM45: 961g (size 40)

Availability:
AM9 and AM5: October 2015


View additional images here.


www.shimano.com, @shimano

Author Info:
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Member since Apr 7, 2000
86 articles

85 Comments
  • 134 1
 not ready for another shimano shoe yet... still trying to wear out the ones i have.
  • 12 1
 Amen. My AM45s are starting to fall apart after a year in the alps, but I spent two years kicking the crap out of my XC50s (one year as a full-time bike messenger!) and they just won't die.
  • 3 0
 hell yeah i love my AM41, just wish i'd bought the next size down haha.
  • 5 0
 my AM´s the One with the SPD-System and the One with the Flat-Sole are truly insane. I wear them since 5 Years and they won´t die.
The new Am´s looks amazing!
  • 6 18
flag GenBit (Jul 15, 2015 at 6:17) (Below Threshold)
 blue sucks
  • 8 2
 wonder if ink or sharpie will cover that blue?
  • 1 0
 After several years in use, my AM45's had to succumb to the need of change, after a wet and cold weekend last fall where drying the shoes by the fire, resulted in melted lace-covers. I'm very happy with my new Mavics, hope they last me as long as my AM45's.
  • 81 3
 Athertons iinfluence can clearly be seen on AM9. The shoe looks like its all serious. Never smiles.
  • 20 1
 The Scroo-Gee edition
  • 5 3
 lmfao
  • 3 1
 Haha, at least they look better than the old ones
  • 4 5
 Nah, it's bridges the gap, foking heeeeell!!! foking heeell!!!
  • 44 3
 WHAT ARE THOOOOOSSSSSEEEE!!!!!!!
  • 3 0
 they are EURO49s since they perfected the AM45 Shimano needs another hook
  • 9 0
 Can we start a petition for a winter shoe with GoreTex for PLATFORM pedals!?
Why is nobody peoducing them?
  • 7 0
 Because every mountain biker lives in Utah, haven`t you seen any videos on PB lately?
  • 2 1
 Just buy MT90 and use them with those covers
  • 1 0
 Salomon XA pro 3D GTX?
  • 3 0
 Anyone know if you can run the cleats further back in this new lineup than their older ones? I always had to drill new holes in mine and trim a bunch of rubber to get the position I want.
  • 1 0
 I was looking for the exact same question to be asked. Then I realized it was you, sensei, who showed me how to drill my cleats. If it was good enough for Fabien...https://vimeo.com/30128286
  • 1 0
 Fabien said it better than I ever did, but it's nice to see we agree Smile
Been drilling my shoes for 15 years, and it's taken til now for shoe manufacturers to offer a more rearward position in shoes like the latest 510s. Unfortunately those have a lifespan of 3 months, so I really want to be back on Shimano if they are also able to be moved back enough.
  • 3 1
 Okay maybe not lately, but riding in BC usually means rain, and the AM45's got really heavy when waterlogged. I'm glad to see there is weight savings up front but would be interested to hear if they get waterlogged as well.
  • 1 0
 Still wearing MP66's, the DX is still super comfy (Shimano shaped feet) and really takes a hammering... not the prettiest, and definitely not waterproof but what the hell, i'm not either........... would look at these new ones when i eventually wear out my old ones.... (i actually have a brand new pair of 5-10 Ravens, if we want to talk about ugly shoes ?)
  • 5 0
 Why can't they make the AM5 in a Flat version?! They look rad!
  • 1 0
 Well the new AM7 is totally different that the old AM41 its replacing.... except not really at all. Gotta say though I do love my 41's, they have lasted me 2 seasons although they are clapped out now. that's a long ass life for a shoe!
  • 3 1
 Maybe for racers, but I'm not holding my breathe waiting to see a kid at my park wearing a Shimano SPD-compatible bmx shoe...
  • 1 1
 Didn't Gee borrow someone's Five Ten's to race/win when it was too muddy last year? Seems like he should've used the Shimano flats being as that was last year and they have been in testing since 2013...
  • 4 0
 Probably didn't bring them at the time. I mean he rode flats on a cheap pair of Vans at first.
  • 1 0
 shimano just forgotten to bring their flat shoes .. that's why .. lol
  • 1 0
 Vans stick like glue like 5.10s but they are to flexible.
  • 1 0
 And thats why 5:10 outsell even if the heel rubber is too soft. I'd wear the green ones if they did them for flats. True story bro.
  • 6 2
 l'll "stick" with 5.10!
  • 3 0
 AM liking the look of these... Estimated pricing?
  • 3 2
 I don't understand the big ass lace guards on MTB shoes. A simple elastic retention strap does the trick just fine, saves weight and isn't fugly.
  • 6 0
 Helps keep em dryish inside
  • 2 0
 Looking good, some nice refinements and weight saving
  • 1 0
 Just bought a new set of AM45's will have to wait another eternity till i can get AM9's.
  • 1 2
 Do you still have to F**K about with a sticker under the insole, once you've positioned the cleat... biggest pain in the arse about the AM45s and the high ankle waterproof ones... still the best shoes i've ever owned tho'
  • 2 0
 Will they come in a 15, for us bigger guys?
  • 1 0
 Pretty stoked on the AM7's. Unfortunately I just bought a new pair of AM41's. Oh well, maybe next season!
  • 2 0
 I want AM9 sole and side protector on AM7 !
  • 3 1
 So what exactly is the differecnce between the am5 and the am9?
  • 2 0
 AM5 is probably a bit more soft and walkable for most riders. AM9 probably is designed to be stiff for pedal efficiency
  • 2 0
 No lace guard either. I want the AM5 in a flat sole. It looks like a shoe rather than a spaceship. I would like a good riding shoe that I can walk about town in without feeling like a twerp.
  • 3 2
 I see that BMX model getting pretty popular with the kids at the skate parks.
  • 20 1
 Kids at the skate park don't clip in....
  • 3 0
 was thinking that too, such a contradiction in terms, an spd 'skate'/bmx shoe... I'm guessing its for bmx racing though.
  • 4 0
 I'd wear it, purely for the reason so that looks so much less awful than the rest of their shoes.
  • 2 2
 @dancingwhale really ? My attempt at sarcasm was failed on you.

WTF would you make a clipless shoe aimed at Dirt Jumping and Skate Park riding for? never thought about BMX Racing so I guess there is merit there.
  • 4 1
 Yeah... They meant BMX racing dude.
  • 1 0
 Doesn't actually say BMX on there, says skate park, which it obviously isn't going to be used for.
  • 2 0
 "Gravity and BMX shoes with a focus on comfort" Read the label on the image. Just sayin
  • 2 1
 Oh yeah, they meant BMX racing for sure.
  • 11 13
 I know its not a helpful comment, and I'm ruly sorry for this, but they are not attractive. Totally uninspired styling. These could be 10+ years old. Furthermore,come on Shimano "skate inspired"? this is MTB, we still don't have out own identity yet? Really?
  • 7 1
 Dude...they look like 10+years old because the older models are 10+ years.old... theyre using it again because it works...if it works its good...no need for.an "indentity" what i like about this community is that the sports identity is made by the community amd not the industry
The identity of this sport is as relevant as your riding style for yourself... our your atention seeking... I wouldnt want this sport to be put in a light as ..football ... or...golf... meh...

Look at the edits man...at the races, be there
Youd get the "identity"
  • 3 1
 If you're worried about the "Identity" of MTB then I suggest to ignore what others think of MTB and just ride.
  • 2 0
 at least they have some colour (and will match my shorts if not to pricey)
  • 2 1
 My criticism was a comment of the 'street/skate' style sales patter-I like to think we've moved beyond that. I dont think its imaginative, and as you point out correctly and eloquently, mtb DOES have an identity-I never stated it didn't. I do though think its naive to claim however that the sports visual (not cultural) identity is shaped by riders alone, none of us are immune to savvy corporate advertising of the latest gear or kit.. the shoes look bland to me and for a corporation with vast resources, I think they could have been braver in 2015 that's all.
  • 2 1
 A lot of people including myself actually likes the 'Street/Skate' style of shoe. Probably Shimano was too afraid they might pull a FiveTen if they designed the shoe with a too unique style.
  • 1 0
 @carfreak2000 you could well be right. the 2Fo's I wear are absolutely 'skate' style shoes too of course but there seemed to be less tradition and more innovation there. It's all subjective I know. I hope they perform like champs.
  • 2 0
 Meh. THe AM5 is o.k. but I'd rather have the Giro.
  • 1 0
 i loved everything about my am-41s except they had nearly zero toe protection.... hope they fixed that
  • 2 0
 AM5 looks like a Giro Chamber
  • 1 0
 Shimano 646: Best clipless pedal ever made. Just like the 647, but all metal cage. Indestructable.
  • 2 0
 Size range? Hoping for large sizes, they look sweet.
  • 1 0
 It's a shame that Shimano shoes don't fit my feet well.
  • 1 0
 great!! for flat pedals too!! we need competition in the market!
  • 1 0
 Have I missed something or isnt ratty current world champion?
  • 1 0
 World cup champion, not world championships, he broke his foot at world champs.
  • 1 0
 my bad,didnt read it properly,DOH !
  • 1 0
 Looks very nice
  • 1 0
 Flats for life !
  • 3 2
 Definitely not cool !!!!
  • 2 2
 Looks like a session, um I mean a 5-10.
  • 1 0
 FLATS FOR LIFE!
  • 2 1
 Shit Mano
  • 1 1
 The am 7 looks fucked with the gay blue just blk please
  • 2 0
 Black sharpie...
  • 3 4
 How are the AM5s the heaviest? That does not make any sense.
  • 3 0
 Cause the AM5 has a lot more cushioning than the AM7 and the AM9. Its a more walkable shoe than the racy stiff AM9
  • 4 5
 Meh....
  • 3 5
 i got one question...WHAT ARE THHHHOOOOSSSSEEE
  • 1 4
 So the AM9 & AM7 color scheme is "blue or f**k you"? Unwise Shimano, unwise.







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