It’s a good thing that the asphalt industry isn’t relying on cyclists for business these days, as un-manicured roads such as those of the gravel persuasion have taken over as the riding terrain of choice.
To the delight of gravel grinders everywhere, Shimano has introduced a new cycling shoe called the RX8 that’s specific to the task.
“Serving as a signal of Shimano’s deep commitment to the gravel riding community and building upon the recent release of GRX, Shimano today announced the RX8, a truly high performance, lightweight gravel racing shoe. Available in both men’s and women’s versions, the RX8 marries the top performance features of Shimano’s premium mountain bike and road racing footwear in a shoe that balances pedaling performance and off-the-bike capability. The result is a lightweight, stiff, walkable shoe that is ideal for gravel racers, gran fondo riders, and weekend warriors,.” says Shimano.
According to Shimano, the RX8 features a full carbon sole with a stiffness rating of 10 (out of 11), along with lugs made of a TPU material so riders will have no qualms about portaging their bikes across unrideable sections of road.
The upper comprises a perforated, one piece design Shimano calls Surround Structure, which also incorporates a micro-shield toe guard and a two way adjustable Boa closure, as well as an additional velcro strap near the toe box.
“Comfort is critical for ultra-endurance gravel racing events and the RX8 delivers a glovelike fit. The shoe utilizes a one-piece Surround Structure synthetic upper with perforated venting and secures the foot with a single Boa IP1 dual micro adjustment dial. Weight is reduced by utilizing a Velcro strap at the front of the shoe,” adds Shimano.
The RX8 tips the scales at a very light 265g (size 42) skimming 60-65g off the weight of Shimano’s XC9 and XC7 cross country cycling shoes.
The weight saving is primarily achieved thanks to a smaller heel cup, no spike mounts and the use of just one Boa dial in combination with a velcro strap.
The RX8 will sell for $250.00, which will be available in silver or black with a range of sizes from 38 to 50 starting in August.
There will also be a women’s specific version in navy blue.
You must be logged in to post a comment.
