Shimano EX500 and EX900 Adventure Touring Shoes

Shimano has a longstanding shoe lineup that they call their Adventure Touring range. They announced the 2024 models today, which get new names and a complete redesign. Find details on the Shimano EX500, EX900, and ET701 below.

Shimano EX500 and EX500W

Replacing the MT502, the Shimano EX500 SPD shoe sits a at the top of the EX range. Shimano claims that the EX500 and EX500W (women’s version) are built with comfort in mind and have a rugged, technical construction suited for a variety of off-road cycling pursuits, including mountain biking and bikepacking. The EX500 feature a lightweight, mesh-panel upper designed to breathe well and a speed lace system with an instep strap for a secure fit.

The EX500 is made from 25 percent recycled materials and is built around Shimano’s new “ULTREAD EX” sole, which Shimano claims has better grip and stability than its predecessor. This is coupled with an EVA midsole for hiking comfort and impact absorption. Shimano also mentions that the new soles have an optimal fit with the PD-T8000 or PD-EH500 SPD pedals.

• Weight: 359g (size 42, MEN); 339g (size 40, WOMEN)
• Men’s Colors: Olive and Black
• Men’s Sizes: 38-48 full sizes
• Women’s Colors: Black and Plum
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44 full sizes
• MSRP: $140 USD/€129.95 EUR

Shimano EX900

Replacing the longstanding Shimano XM9 that we reviewed years ago, Shimano claims the new EX900 sees several improvements for rugged expedition bikepacking and backcountry mountain biking. The EX900s have a hiking-inspired design with the new ULTREAD EX outsole pattern. They also get a wider forefoot contact area for better grip and added hiking comfort and stability.

The EX900 features a new breathable mesh upper and midsole made from 18% recycled materials and a waterproof GORE-TEX liner to help keep your feet dry. The dual-dial BOA fit system features two L6 dials for a fully adjustable fit. There’s an optional rubber cleat cap available separately for unclipped usage, and Shimano claims the EX900 is built to pair with the PD-M8120 or PD-EH500 SPD pedals.

• Weight: 442g (size 42)
• Color: Black
• Sizes: 38-48 full sizes
• MSRP: $300 USD/€279.95 EUR

Shimano ET701 and ET501

Shimano also announced a couple of flat-pedal touring shoes that were made with e-bike commuting and trekking in mind. However, they look to be promising for bikepacking as well. The Shimano ET701 features a tri-panel L6 BOA closure, Shimano’s “SPLASHSHIELD” water-resistant membrane, an EVA midsole made from 20% recycled materials, and a power-transfer-friendly shank, which Shimano claims reduces power loss by up to one-half that of typical non-cycling shoes.

• Weight: 331g (size 42, MEN); 302g (size 40, WOMEN)
• Men’s Colors: Black and Green
• Men’s Sizes: 38-48 full sizes
• Women’s Colors: Almond Brown
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44 full sizes
• MSRP: $150 USD/€169.95 EUR

The ET501 includes many of the same features of the ET701 except uses a speed lace system. Both shoes are designed to pair best with the PD-T8000 or PD-EH500 flat pedals, according to Shimano.

• Weight: 336g (size 42, MEN); 308g (size 40, WOMEN)
• Men’s Colors: Black and Blue
• Men’s Sizes: 38-48 full sizes
• Women’s Colors: Black and Light gray
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44 full sizes
• MSRP: $130 USD/€109.95

Further Reading

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