Shimano Introduces New 2021 Value, Performance Off-Road Footwear OSAKA, Japan (July 31, 2020) – Today, Shimano announced a total of 15 redesigned footwear models, evolving its entry-level road and mountain bike lines, its flagship gravel race shoe, and the popular Mountain Enduro (ME) lineup. New Shimano ME7, ME5, and GR5 gravity models feature new rubber compounds for improved grip while the entry-level XC models deliver a new level of premium performance in the value category thanks to trickle down S-PHYRE technology and style. The reimagined lineup features seamless fits and improved construction, bringing premium protection and control to all riders.
The new ME7 Mountain Enduro race shoe receives Shimano’s unique new last design with extra toe box volume to accommodate a wider range of foot shapes without affecting shoe length.
Available in both Volume+ and Volume+ Wide shoe lasts, the ME7 shoes deliver a secure wrap around the foot and comfortable fit for tackling all types or terrain.
The Michelin rubber outsole continues on the ME7 yet with a revised design and new rubber compound that increases grip and stability. The low-profile buckle and quick lace closure add security for a reliable fit.
Shimano’s mid-line ME5 shoes now feature a refined fit and more precise adjustments thanks to a new BOA® lace layout and Velcro strap closure system that create the right balance of securing the foot in comfort. The new high-grip Shimano rubber compound delivers added security and grip on and off the bike while the ankle guard provides protection for the roughest terrain. And at just $160, the ME5 shoes offer premium enduro/aggressive trail riding performance and trail style to the broadest range of riders.
Setting a new benchmark for entry-level gravity shoes, Shimano’s GR5 flats introduce Shimano’s proprietary new GR3 high-grip rubber compound that creates more grip and durability than ever before.
The updated modern appearance with mesh and synthetic leather upper delivers on and off the bike casual style while the competitive $100 price point offers premium performance for all rider levels.
The new XC3 and XC3W women’s mountain bike shoes receive key trickledown innovations and designs from Shimano’s elite S-PHYRE platform at an astonishing $120 price point.
These value shoes deliver functional features including an updated midsole structure with a lower stack height to stabilize the foot and maximize power transfer and pedaling efficiency.
Shimano’s updated XC1 and XC1W road shoes blend high value performance features with an entry level price. They deliver a comfortable, secure fit and sleek appearance thanks to new synthetic leather and mesh construction and feature the same rubber sole as the XC3 shoes for optimal grip on and off the bike. Utilizing a three-strap Velcro closure system, the XC1 and XC1W shoes are impressively lightweight and create a secure fit for a broader range of foot shapes and sizes.
Born out of the dry and desolate Southwestern landscape, Shimano’s new RX8 color scheme offers gravel racers an eye-catching design for tackling any road surface or trail.
“The inspiration for this colorful design came from a gravel ride near my house where I was blown away by the beauty of a Santa Rita Prickly Pear Cactus on the side of the trail,” explains Jessie Gascon, Shimano’s Lifestyle Gear Product Manager.
First introduced in 2019, the lightweight RX8 gravel race shoe blends the top performance features of Shimano’s premium mountain bike and road racing footwear for a perfect balance of pedaling performance and off-the-bike capability. The new RX8 Purple/Green color scheme adds a third color option to the RX8 lineup and will be available starting in September 2020.
Additional Footwear Updates In addition to launching new footwear for mountain bike and gravel athletes, Shimano also introduced a new selection of road and triathlon shoes including entry-level RC3 and RC1 shoes and the TR5 tri-specific shoes. Rounding out the full selection of model year 2021 Shimano shoes are the SD501 SPD sandals.