It’s almost the start of autumn. This means that, for us at least, we’ll cake ourselves in mud each ride until next summer. Luckily, we’re in for a treat to tackle the elements (is mud an element?) as Shimano have just announced their latest gravity series range of footwear.
Designed with input from Gee, Rachel and Dan Atherton, they’ve got a world cup winning formula. Now, through the power of science, this has been stitched into… the shape of a shoe.
Great! Combining adequate protection, impressive grip and practical dirt and water repelling features, this new range is guaranteed to perform. Suitable for the average rider? We’d like to think so. Check out what Shimano have to offer for 2015 below:
Shimano AM9
Whats new with the AM9?
Still sporting the water-repelling practical Velcro strap, Shimano have somehow managed to improve on last year’s fantastic AM45 shoes. Coming in at just 217g a pair, the AM9s are light. They are actually 23% lighter than last year’s AM45 shoes. Shimano insist these will be some of the most comfortable ever with an EVA foam midsole and “Volume Tour Last” sizing outsole giving you extra padding on the ball of the foot when on or off the pedals. The pedal channel in the outsole of the AM9 makes it easier to re-engage to the pedal while unclipped, too.
£85 from Amazon.
Shimano AM7
What’s new with the AM7?
The Shimano AM7 is identical to the AM9 but with a flat Vibram outsole for flat pedals instead of the gap for cleats. Armoured lace shields on the AM9 and AM7 will keep your laces in place away from cranks and chainrings. It also provides protection from the elements.
£80 from Amazon.
Shimano AM5
What’s new with the AM5?
Switching up the style here, the AM5 loses the lace shield and offers a street-inspired style. Less downhill orientated the AM5 should be more at home in skate parks and trail parks. The casual-theme comes in again with a lightweight and non-compressed flat insole. This means the AM5 offers an even and comfortable foot cushion for a platform that’s ideal for both walking and riding.
£60 from Amazon.
Shimano MW7
What’s new with the MW7?
The MW7 is the newest addition to Shimano’s off-road shoe line-up. Insulated and waterproof, these boots are also fleece-lined for protection from the rain and cold. A waterproof Gore-Tex insulated liner, a heat-retaining fleece-lined insole and Shimano’s Torbal torsional midsole means that feet have got some cutting-edge protection on their side. You’ve got a stiff instep section and an independently flexible front and back section too. Apparently the design gives the foot a natural flow for descents whilst providing you with efficient power transfer to different parts of the foot when pedalling. To top it all off, there are high-traction rubber studs on the outer edges of the sole ensuring excellent traction when you’re walking around.
When mountain biking, your ankles are protected from clipping your pedals or rocks on the trail as the the MW7´s moulded toe cap and ankle support, cupped high sole and instep, and tough, padded synthetic leather surround protects the foot completely. No need to worry about laces, either. They’re taken care of with a speed-lacing pull-cord and Velcro armoured shield to ensure a quick and secure fit.
£125 from Amazon.
Keep an eye out for a review after Christmas, Santa has been notified.
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