What Makes a Good Gravel Shoe

Purpose-Built Footwear to Explore Beyond

For those who blend the lines between on and off-road, who relish long rides on gritty roads less traveled, who yearn for speed but aren't afraid of the occasional creek crossings or hike-a-bikes, SHIMANO's RX line of footwear is the perfect fit. Purpose-built as the world's first gravel race shoe, the RX8 initially set the standard for premium gravel shoes. The rest of SHIMANO’s line of gravel footwear has followed suit and is built with core technologies throughout.

Minimally Lugged Carbon Sole

Gravel is all about going the distance at any speed, which is why the RX series blends the best of SHIMANO’s performance road and MTB footwear. Carbon soles provide a stiff pedaling platform for exceptional power transfer. At the same time, a strategically lugged tread pattern keeps the weight down while creating a versatile shoe ready to tackle the unknowns of adventure.

Dynalast for Comfort, Stability, and Speed

The foundation of SHIMANO's gravel shoe lineup is a proprietary last, which is the solid form around which the rest of the shoe is molded. DYNALAST is a specially engineered toe spring that reduces tensions throughout the feet, resulting in a smoother pedal stroke and more efficient power transfer. This dynamic, rather than static last, maintains exceptional comfort while transferring maximum power regardless of sole stiffness. It's a technology that’s been fine-tuned on the WorldTour and adapted for maximum comfort and efficiency on gravel.

SPD System Engineered for Maximum Security and Connection

SHIMANO PEDALING DYNAMICS (SPD) was the world's first clipless off-road pedal system. The design has stood the test of time, remaining at the top of gravel, MTB, and cyclocross for more than three decades. SHIMANO gravel shoes are system engineered with SPD pedals to transfer more power from body to bike with solid, secure engagement and adjustability. Materials and design have evolved over the years, with the latest pedal shoe combos offering lower stack heights, better mud-shedding, and multiple cleat angle release options.

Surround Wrapping Upper for Ultimate Fit and Comfort

The supple yet durable sides and tops of SHIMANO gravel shoes surround the entire foot with a seamless piece of synthetic leather material. This creates an even fit, with fewer gaps and pressure points between shoes and feet. The result is better circulation and a more comfortable fit for a broader range of feet, especially with the advanced BOA lacing systems found on SHIMANO gravel shoes.