SHIMANO INTRODUCES FEATHERWEIGHT RX8 GRAVEL RACING SHOE

Where once riding off road was done in your beat up trainers, came MTB shoes. Where once an all-purpose MTB shoe was the answer to all trails, came specific XC and more technical shoes. And now, where once XC shoes were the answer to gravel, a new gravel-specific shoe comes from Shimano

To save weight the RX8 sheds certain features that come with MTB XC shoes, whilst keeping the abrasion-resistant TPU lugs, heel stabilizer and the super stiff carbon composite sole from Shimano’s high-end XC9 shoes for the best balance of gravel pedaling performance and off-the-bike capability.

To match the versatility and variability of gravel racing, the RX8’s upper provides the perfect balance of holding power and all day comfort, adjustable with a Boa IP1 dual micro adjustment dial. And it’s more than just the rider’s foot feeling that’s accommodated with all day comfort, Silvadur stay-fresh technology is used in the insole material to keep the shoe smelling fresh ride after ride.

The RX8 tips the scales at 265g (size 42) skimming 60-65g off the weight of Shimano’s XC9 and XC7 cross country race shoes. The weight saving is primarily achieved with a smaller heel cup, no spike mounts and one less Boa IP1 dial, replaced instead by a Velcro strap.

The RX8 is available in silver or black and comes in EU sizes 38-50 including wide fitting sizes. A women's specific version is available in navy blue. The RX8 is best matched with the Shimano SPD M9100 or M8100 pedals.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

1.       Embargoed until: May 31st (Fri) 00:00 JST / May 30th (Thurs), 17:00 CEST              

2.       Images can be found at: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/p0crxk2pi9c8bi1/AAAZFuflmd8tcubvCx0abH0Ka?dl=0

3.       About Shimano Europe: Founded in 1921, Shimano is dedicated to helping its customers get closer to nature, supporting people to realize their dreams and create new lifestyles. That comes with the desire to create outstanding products and apparel. With almost 100 years' experience in creating internationally renowned components, Shimano is proud to have developed products that continue to take countless athletes to victory and provide the means for limitless global experiences. For more information see www.shimano.com.