Shimano RX801 Mountain Bike Shoe

Thanks to three YouTube videos led by the pros, I’ve got some precious nuggets of information about the outstanding Shimano RX801 Mountain Bike Shoe. The experts provided an in-depth analysis of the shoe’s design, focusing on its durability, weather resistance, and the comfort it offers even in the most challenging conditions. They discussed how the shoe’s innovative features, and the specialized grip of its sole, make it an ideal choice for various terrains. I’ll break it down into manageable pieces for you.

Fit
The Shimano RX801 offers a comfortable and secure fit with a wider contact area and built-in heel stabilizer, ensuring better control on different terrains. It caters to various foot shapes with its wider toe box and built-in heel cup, providing comfort and support during long rides. The shoe features a snug fit with a well-padded foot orifice and an adjustable BOA system for even tension distribution, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit.

Comfort
Designed for long rides, the RX801 provides maximum efficiency and comfort with its breathable construction and optimal fit. To further enhance comfort, additional insole pieces are included for customizable arch support. Shimano’s 60-day comfort guarantee allows riders to thoroughly test the shoes, ensuring maximum comfort during extended rides. The shoe’s Dynalast design and breathable construction contribute to overall comfort. The perforated, soft, and compliant uppers enhance breathability, making the shoe comfortable for warmer conditions. Additionally, using overshoes can make them usable in colder weather.

Clasps
The RX801 features a low-profile dial for easy and precise adjustments, allowing riders to find the perfect fit effortlessly. Its single BOA system provides precise and easy adjustments, securing the foot in place without any discomfort. While the BOA system works well for a customized fit, some users have found the velcro straps to be less effective in making shoe adjustments.

Quality and Materials
The RX801 ensures efficient power transfer and durability with its super-stiff carbon outsole. The upper material is well-ventilated and built to withstand the rigors of gravel cycling. It comes equipped with a reinforced toe cap, guaranteeing excellent durability and protection. However, some users may find the rigid sole uncomfortable on longer rides, and the plastic upstands may not grip well on certain surfaces.

Weight
Weighing around 268 grams (size 42), the RX801 is relatively lightweight, reducing the strain on your feet during long rides. Its lightweight design, weighing around 285 grams per shoe, enhances performance during long rides and races. The weight of the RX801 is around 780 grams for a pair with cleats, making it reasonably lightweight for a high-performance road shoe.

Style and Design
The RX801 comes in an attractive silver color with a pearlescent finish, making it visually appealing and stylish. Its design complements both gravel and cross-country mountain biking. While it’s suitable for general road and light off-road use, the focus is on high performance rather than being a gravel racing shoe.

Overall Notes
The Shimano RX801 gravel shoe impresses with its high-quality materials, comfortable fit, and efficient power transfer. Whether you’re tackling smooth gravel routes or challenging forest service roads, the RX801 provides excellent performance and comfort for all your gravel adventures. It stands out as an excellent choice for cyclists seeking a gravel-specific shoe that performs well in cross-country mountain biking races too. The RX801 is a high-performance road shoe with some adaptability for light off-road use.

Interested in discovering how the Shimano SH-RX801 bike shoes compare to other options? Dive into our comprehensive guides for the inside scoop on top-rated cycling shoes, designed for various riding styles and preferences. In these guides, you’ll find a variety of top choices that fit your preferences, along with useful resources to assist you in making a smart decision.

Best Gravel Bike Shoes
Gravel Bike Shoe Buyers Guide

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John