Shimano's 2016 Gravity model range consists of three models. The Athertons had a hand in the SPD-compatible "AM9" and recommend the shoe for tough downhill, enduro and trail use. An outsole made from new, gravity-specific rubber with a traction-optimized profile is intended to help increase the durability of the "AM9" and ensure good grip when walking. The newly designed pedal channel in the outsole of the AM9 makes it easier to click back into the pedal if the connection is briefly released.

The "AM7" is by no means a slimmed-down version of the pair above, but is designed for more pedestrian comfort and is therefore equipped with a comfortable Vibram sole. Like the "AM9", the 5 model is equipped with a cover for the shoe laces so that they cannot cause any mischief in contact with the chain or cranks.

The "AM5" dispenses with the lace cover in favor of a street-oriented design. This makes it feel just as at home in skate parks as it does in bike parks - and everywhere in between. With a lightweight, non-compressed, flat insole, the AM5 offers even and comfortable foot cushioning that is ideal for riding as well as walking. The new AM shoes will be available from November 2015 at the latest.

If you are looking for pure adventure on your mountain bike, you might find the right footwear in Shimano's new XM series. The "XM9" looks like a veritable mountain shoe, but with its raised ankle protection and support designed for walking, the "XM9" also looks like a mountain or hiking shoe in terms of functionality. Nevertheless, it has real cycling shoe genes and features that predestine it for cycling. The ankle padding is designed not only to provide effective protection against impacts from rocks, roots or other obstacles, but also to ensure that mobility is not restricted when pedaling. The padding has been cut in such a way that it prevents the ingress of dust and dirt. Further protection from the elements is provided by features such as the durable rubber toe cap, nubuck natural leather or the breathable, waterproof Gore-Tex membrane for controlling the climate inside the shoe.

The "XM7" counterpart is a little less chunky: without the ankle protection, this shoe is lighter than the "XM7" and weighs in at a slimmer 870 g in size 40. It also feels particularly comfortable in combination with the PD-M8020 or PD-T780 pedals. The two cross-mountain models will be available for the first time from October.

Since the next winter is sure to come, Shimano already has the right footwear ready and will be launching the new "MW7" winter boot in stores as early as September. With a fleece insole and a Gore Tex membrane, the "MW7" is designed to defy all weathers. With equipment details such as the integrated toe cap, the raised ankle padding and the robust, padded synthetic leather upper, the winter boot should not only protect the foot from the cold, but also reliably protect it from obstacles such as rocks or roots in the terrain. The sixth strap with Velcro lace cover ensures a comfortable and secure fit on the foot.

Shimano has also thought about women: New in the portfolio are two new shoes aimed at the dedicated biking woman. The closure system consists of two Velcro straps and a ratchet closure for the "WM64" shoe and three Velcro straps for the "WM53". The soles of both shoes are shaped to better adapt to the natural contours of the foot, resulting in fewer cavities between the shoe and sole. Of course, both shoes are manufactured on special women's lasts, which are intended to be optimally adapted to the anatomy of the female foot with a slimmer heel area, reduced volume with optimized support, especially in the instep area, as well as a smaller toe box.

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