Since its release Shimano's RX8 gravel shoe has been competing in the best gravel bike shoe market on its own, now Shimano has introduced a budget RX600 version, as well as two new adventure-based clipless shoes.
The RX6 shoe looks almost identical to Shimano's RX8, although there are some key differences. The uppers and single Boa retention system are clearly the same although the RX600 uses a Boa L6 dial rather than the IP1 of the RX8s.
Instead of a full carbon sole, Shimano has used a carbon reinforced nylon sole for the RX600. The tread on the bottom of the shoe looks similar but is actually a little wider which should hopefully resolve our biggest complaint with the RX8s and their walking characteristics.
The RX8 is one of the lightest gravel shoes around and the RX600 won't be far behind if the 290g claimed weight is true. Shimano will release the RX600 in three colors; green, black camo, and silver. Availability is expected in Autumn 2022.
It looks like Shimano has also given the RX8s a little aesthetical revamp, featuring some new colors including a pleasing silver to black fade and a shimmery metallic finish. There was also an RX801 Tropical Leave version on display which we suspect is a 2023 Special Edition colorway.
EX700 and EX700 GTX
Shimano also has a new EX700 shoe on the way which is a technical mountain bike and adventure clipless shoe. The EX700 features a partially recycled mesh and TPU upper which Shimano says boosts comfort and breathability and has a glass fiber reinforced nylon midsole. The trainer-style tread should give the EX700 a good walking profile too when off the bike.
They are fastened with a single Boa with a cable that crosses twice down the foot. Shimano claims the EX700's will weigh in at 380g per shoe, although the size hasn't been specified.
The mesh uppers aren't going to appeal much to those that are often faced with wet weather, that's where the EX700 GTX version comes in. They feature a Gore-Tex liner with an ankle cuff to try to keep water at bay. The EX700 GTX weighs in a little heavier at a claimed 430g.
