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Shimano is focussing on the new MW7 for sporty winter bikers. The sole of the winter shoes is made of grippy Ultread rubber. However, the tread is very narrow and is unlikely to offer ultimate safety on wintry surfaces. The MW7 is constructed in a similar way to the Giro BlazeThe Shimano also basically consists of a classic low shoe, which promises a firm and slim fit. An integrated and lightly lined Gore-Tex membrane provides weather protection. At the top of the low shoe, the Japanese company has added a generous Velcro cover and a neoprene shaft.
At first glance, the upper does not appear waterproof, the Gore-Tex membrane seems to end below the ankle - but more on that later. In contrast to 45NRTH and Gaerne Shimano only offers the simple L6 boa fastener, which can only be fine-tuned in one direction.
Handling & fit of the Shimano MW7
Thanks to the smooth-running Boa fastener and the wide Velcro strap, the Shimano MW7 winter shoes open their "mouth" wide like a yawning hippopotamus. Even without a pull tab, the foot disappears into the shoe without any problems. The fit is neither wide nor narrow and the MW7 also runs true to size. Bikers with wide feet can also opt for the wide version of the shoe, which is available in sizes 38 to 48.
The Boa wheel provides sufficient traction over the entire front of the foot. The Velcro strap can also be adjusted properly at the ankles. It also reaches far enough under the long trousers to avoid any gaps. However, the design makes it difficult to adjust the boot during the ride.
Weather protection & insulation
Our suspicion that the Shimano winter shoes might not be waterproof at the upper did not materialise in the test. The shoe defiantly withstood our simulated rain ride. Only in really heavy showers did some water penetrate the seam at the height of the upper.
The Shimano MW7 also has no real weaknesses when it comes to protection against the cold. Its lining insulates well and should reliably keep your feet warm even at temperatures around freezing point.
How to ride the Shimano MW7 winter shoes
It's amazing how comfortable a winter shoe can be - almost like a normal racing shoe and the exact opposite of the sometimes bulky, stubborn winter shoes. The neoprene shaft is pleasantly flexible, allowing the MW7 to be pedalled smoothly. The power transmission is absolutely fine, so that you can steer through the winter landscape with a swift stride.
A small drawback, however, is the single Boa fastener, which ends quite far forward on the instep. The foot is not ideally secured in the shoe here. This is also noticeable on pushing sections, where the heel can easily lift upwards. Shimano would also have been better off using the tread pattern of its trail shoes rather than the very narrow race sole. The lugs end quite far inwards, making the footing a little wobbly - unpleasant when you have to cross wet roots or bare rock.
Shimano MW7 - Info and price
- Price 249,95 Euro >> available here
- Sizes 38 to 48; also available in Wide
- Weight 955 grams per pair (size 46)
- Equipment (20 %) Boa L6C fastener; Velcro cover; Gore-Tex; fleece insole; Ultread rubber; Reflex
Conclusion & evaluation
Similar to the Giro Blaze the Shimano is also based on a classic racing shoe. Weather protection is provided by a large Velcro cover, which also makes getting into the shoe much easier. As is typical for Shimano, the fit is very successful and comfortable. The MW7 winter shoes transfer power well to the pedals and offer a lot of flex when pedalling despite the high neoprene shaft - a top training partner for wet and cold weather, especially as they reliably repel rain. Only one seam intersection did not remain permanently sealed. The sole is narrow and tippy and not made for running.
Stefan Frey
Editor
