Shimano GR9 shoes review
Grippy mountain bike shoes
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Shimano’s new headline flat-pedal shoes the GR9s replace the AM7s, which, although feature-packed, lacked in the grip department.
The GR9s may look similar, but they’re different beasts on the trail. It’s hard to knock the fit and comfort on offer. Although they’re relatively broad, the Speed Lacing system delivers even tension across the top of the foot, making them feel really secure. It also makes getting them on and off easy.
On the trail, you soon notice the venting over the toes. It’s not excessive, though, and I never struggled with cold feet. While it does mean they’re not watertight, they shrug off splashes with ease and, thanks to the lightweight construction (806g, pair of EU43s), don’t get heavily waterlogged and dry relatively quickly too.
But it’s the Michelin sole I’m most excited about. Thankfully for Shimano, the GR9s deliver when it comes to traction on the pedals. While the grip isn’t as steadfast as with Five Ten rubber, the Shimano shoes have kept my feet planted over some seriously rocky terrain.
And you can still make small adjustments to foot placement, should you need to. Stiffness is good too, with enough flex and feedback to feel precisely what your pedals are doing beneath your feet but sufficient support when you’re mashing at the pedals. The sole could be better cushioned, though
Authors
Rob Weaver is BikeRadar's technical editor-in-chief. Rob manages all of the testing here at BikeRadar and across our magazines, Mountain Biking UK and Cycling Plus. Rob first graced the pages of MBUK back in 2001 when working as a freelance writer and went on to start testing bikes for the title in 2007. In 2010 he joined the team full-time and has been keeping a close eye on all things test-related ever since. Rob’s expansive knowledge of bikes comes courtesy of his passion for racing. He cut his teeth racing cross-country mountain bikes in the early 90s before finding his feet in downhill. After many years competing on the UK national circuit (including a year attempting to race UCI DH World Cups), Rob realised his know-how and passion for bike setup, tech and writing clearly outweighed his racing ability. A degree in sports technology and decades of riding experience all help to give Rob a thorough understanding of what’s needed to create a great bike or product. While Rob’s a mountain biker at heart and never happier than when he’s sliding down a Welsh hillside, he’s more than happy to put the miles in on the road or gravel bike, too.
