Shoes

I decided to supplement my 8 year old, but still functional Giro Ventana shoes, which have a ratchet and double loop closure system, with the newest Giro Ventana version that has a BOA closure system. The BOA system didn't allow the tongue of the shoe to open enough to easily put on or remove the shoes, so I returned them. The non-BOA version of the Ventana was out of stock, but after more research I settled on the Shimano SH-GE 700, which I originallly overlooked because they looked like a flat pedal shoe. The footprint of the Shimano shoe is larger than the Ventana, and the sole gives really good traction when you have to get off the bike to get around obstacles or just hike-a-bike up really steep terrain. I also like the foolproof lace and one loop closure system for multi-day trips where a BOA or ratchet type closure system failure could ruin a trip. They have good ventilation in hot weather conditions, and are my favorite all-around SPD type shoe in my nearly 40 years of mountain biking.

This is my 2nd pair of the RX801. The first pair (RX-800) are 3+ years old and have been great. I tried the Sidi MTB Gravel and after riding them several times gave up on them - the footbed never felt right. So, you could say I'm fussy about shoes. I ordered the 801's in the same size as the 800's and they feel 1/4 size bigger. I've only ridden them about 10x on my Wahoo Kickr doing Zwift rides so have not used them real life so-to-speak. Somewhere in the memory banks it seems the 800's felt a bit off until after 5-6 real-world mountain bike rides. I use these shoes for road, gravel and mountain with different Crank Bros pedals. I always buy the Crank Bros Shoe Shield after having a Sidi Dominator sole crack. Bottom line - I think I like these alright. Once the snow is gone and the trails and dirt roads are open again I'll know for sure. One thing much better is the BOA lacing system - this new iteration moves much freer and is easier on/off. I had to replace one on my old pair because it was so stiff to release the laces ended up partially unwinding. BOA was good about replacing but even the replacement is harder to unwind than the new versions on the 801.

For those unfamiliar with Delaware there are no mountains here. The whole state is barely above water! I ride some gravel trails and single track at Lum's Pond State Park. I've never done any serious mountain biking. This shoe is extremely comfortable and cost effective for someone like me. I would even recommend the shoe if you commuted or ride a road bike that uses pedal the require the SPD cleat. It's nice to be able to get off the bike and walk without needing a cleat cover. The Velcro straps allow for a lot of adjustability and provide a snug fit. Not sure if Peter Sagan would recommend them but I will.!

My other Shimano (SPD) shoes have lasted me 8+ years of commuting, gravel riding, and casual city rides, so I figured I'd stick with a known quantity for new road shoes. Good choice! These are very solidly built, yet pretty lightweight, and the dual Boa dial adjustment is great for getting just the right fit. My feet are long and not super wide, so I can snug them down nicely without any bunching and get a comfortable, secure fit. Bonus points for a timeless aesthetic