SHIMANO DEBUTS NEW GRAVEL SHOES

Aside from what are the actual design and performance features are of Shimano’s RX8 and RX801 gravel shoes is the simple celebration of style – the shoes aren’t available in white! New for Shimano’s gravel family is the higher-end RX801 intended for the racier gravel riders among us. The RX801 shares the features of the tried and true RX8, but adds a neoprene cuff (similar to a the decades old Alpinestars mountain bike shoe from the early 90s).

The key element of a gravel shoe versus a road specific shoe is that the former are designed with  a treaded sole that can be walked in. Of course, given Shimano’s history in off-road cycling,  gravel riders also have a full line of mountain bike shoe options to consider as well.

SHIMANO RX8 & RX801 GRAVEL SHOES

Press Release

Enhancing SHIMANO’s popular featherweight RX8 gravel race shoe, the updated RX801 model delivers a more breathable design, with super stiff and efficient carbon outsole for your biggest efforts on the bike. Blending 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 RX801 is your all terrain gravel shoe optimized for gravel racers, gran fondo riders, and weekend warriors alike.

 

Whether you’re riding smooth gravel routes or climbing chunky forest service roads, the RX801 delivers maximum efficiency and comfort on all types of terrain. A wider contact area and built-in heel stabilizer increase control while the Surround Wrapping Upper construction hugs the foot for optimal fit. New for the RX801 model is a range of half sizes, so more riders can experience the snug, secure, and seamless fit.

RX8 Gravel Race Shoes

The new low-profile BOA Li2 dial with rubber grip delivers quick and precise micro-adjustments so you can easily dial-in your preferred fit along the way, preventing any pressure points on those longer adventurous races. Shimano’s DYNALAST technology ensures the foot is securely held in place, while a stiff and lightweight carbon composite sole enhances every pedal stroke for a smooth, powerful riding performance.

• BOA Li2 dial
• Lightweight and breathable synthetic leather upper
• Stiff carbon composite sole
• Scratch resistant TPU outsole
• Refined toe box fit
• Vivid inkjet printed graphics
• Price: US$275
• Weight: 268 grams (size 42)
• Colors: Black, Silver, Tropical Leaves
• US Regular Sizes: 38, 39, 40, 41-46(half sizes), 47, 48
• US Wide Sizes: 40-48

 

RX8O1R Gravel Racing Adventure Shoes

Ready to Rally when the gravel riding gets rowdy? Then the new RX801R gravel adventurous racing shoe delivers all the performance features of the RX801 shoes you crave, but with a snug fitting knitted ankle cuff that boosts protection from sand, grit, and pebbles. The integrated gaiter eliminates the space between the foot and shoe for protection from the elements and provides unparalleled long-distance comfort. Ready for wherever the road takes you, the stretch-knit ankle cuff is designed to keep water, dust, and debris out of your shoes so you can focus on the road ahead.

“The RX8 Rally concept was inspired by my favorite local ride called the Trabuco Creek Trail, which is jam-packed with “jungle-cross” single track, multiple creek crossings, and so much sand,” explains Jessie Gascon, Shimano Soft-Goods Product Manager. “Sometimes I would avoid the route to keep my feet dry and pebble-free, but not anymore!”

• Knitted ankle cuff for added protection
• BOA Li2 dial
• Lightweight and breathable synthetic leather upper
• Stiff carbon composite sole
• Scratch resistant TPU outsole
• Refined toe box fit
• Vivid inkjet printed graphics
• Price: US$300
• Weight: 290 grams (size 42)
• Colors: Metallic Orange
• US Regular Sizes: 38, 39, 40, 41-46 (with half sizes), 47, 48
• US Wide Sizes: 40-48

For more: Shimano