Shimano introduces new RX8 and RX8R gravel shoes
Shimano has launched updates to its gravel shoes, blending race-performance with gravel riding, delivering a lightweight, breathable construction which offers a further enhanced fit.
RX8 Gravel Race Shoes
Enhancing Shimano’s popular featherweight RX8 gravel race shoe, the updated RX801 model fills big shoes (pun fully intended) with the outgoing RX800 much loved by many, including a certain Rides of Japan.
The new RX801 delivers a more breathable design, with a super stiff and efficient carbon outsole engineered to support out and out high power efforts on the bike.
Blending the top performance features of Shimano’s premium mountain bike and road racing footwear in a shoe that balances pedalling performance and off-the-bike capability, the RX801 is your all-terrain gravel shoe optimized for gravel racers, Gran Fondo riders, and weekend riders alike.
Optimized fit for performance
Whether you’re riding smooth gravel routes or climbing chunky forest service roads, Shimano points out that 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.
The new low-profile Boa Li2 dial features a rubber grip which delivers quick, precise, micro-adjustments on the fly, preventing any pressure points on those longer adventurous races. Paired with Shimano’s Dynalast technology this ensures the foot is securely held in place, while a stiff and lightweight carbon composite sole delivers a strong, stable, shoe / pedal interface.
The new RX801R gravel adventurous racing shoe delivers all the performance features of the RX801 shoes, 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.
Jessie Gascon, Shimano Soft-Goods Product Manager comments, “The RX8 Rally concept was inspired by my favourite local ride called the Trabuco Creek Trail, which is jam-packed with jungle-cross single track, multiple creek crossings, and so much sand. Sometimes I would avoid the route to keep my feet dry and pebble-free, but not anymore!”
In the UK Shimano is distributed by Madison.
