Shimano

SH-GR9 Cycling Shoe - Men's

Charge into rough and chundery trails feet-first with the Shimano SH-GR9 Mountain Bike Shoes, ready to shred the bike park day in and day out. The SH-GR9 shoes excel on big terrain, thanks to its burly construction that's designed for riders who like to push the limits. Tough uppers, protection where it's needed, and breathability to keep hot-foot at bay are just some of the features that make Shimano's new gravity-specific flat shoe a fan favorite.

This year's clipless shift of Shimano's well-loved SH-AM7 had us worried that flat-peddlers had been thrown to the wayside, but fortunately we received an extra-pleasant surprise of a category of our own. The new debut of the GR line gives us flat offerings to satiate us for years to come. The SH-GR9 does just that, starting with a snug hug that holds our feet in tight with synthetic leather uppers, built to repel water and mud, and dry quickly. Laser cut perforations hit the uppers both laterally along the side of your foot, and on the toe box to keep the shoe breathable. A speed lace system allows for fast and secure adjustments, and armored lace shield adds extra protection from low branches and trail debris. On the inner ankle the cut is asymmetrical, adding extra padding to protect you from the odd stray crank, or frame in the event of a crash.

Shimano pairs up with Michelin on the outsole, to give you the promise of reliable rubber that won't shred or slip. Michelin's compound is admittedly a little bit less tacky than some of the others out there, but still provides enough grip to feel locked and planted on the pedals. The rubber is remarkably durable, so you don't have to worry about shredding it in the course of one season, and provides solid traction for when you need to hike in the woods to get the perfect shot of your buddies barreling down the trail, or —you know, take a call with nature.