REVIEWED : Shimano XC70 SPD shoes

The XC70 custom race SPD shoes are one of two of Shimano’s top tier offerings in mountain bike shoes, an eloquent balance between weight, strength and price. Their best attribute though is not one of those and it is that they come in ‘wide’ for the big footed amongst us. Something that is not as easily available through other companies.

On the build front they are made to last, the upper is made from select synthetic leathers giving it an exterior toughness along with well tested (and replaceable) buckle technology which has been through extra thought processes. Below the cleated area is made of a blend of carbon and glass fibres offering an equal balance of strength and lightness.

Ride wise these have been a dream. Taking up the wider shoe option for my hobbit feet was a no brainer, but what was most impressive was the comfort, especially at the tail end of a ride. A period where I would regularly begin to feel discomfort, particularly in the arch of my foot. A feeling not felt in the XC70.

Whilst the application of this shoe is clearly directed at the cross country market, I’ve used it as a bit of a do-it-all shoe. From trail use, to all mountain, to more than a few ill advised push runs on the downhill bike the XC70 takes it all in its stride. I’ve even worn them several time whilst out taking photos, time spent clambering over rocks and general hard terrain – and they survived. A little more scratched and less shiny but still functioning. The only damage inflicted on the XC70 truly has been to the mud shedding plastic blades on the sole, but that only makes the shoe more aero. So no worries there.

The XC70, like its older brother the XC90, comes with Shimanos custom fit. A heat moulding feature that sculpts the shoes to your feet which can be done at your local bike shop or even at home. It’s a process we went through part way through our test and we will have a mini feature on it shortly but we will at least fill you in on results here. Whilst the custom fit was not a life changing feature it did enhance all that was great about the XC70 in the first place. The fit became that little bit closer around the heel and toe with the arch support magnified, it feels like shoe and body are complete perfect for power output and the comfort of the shoe.

The XC70 is a moulding of lightness and stiffness without that burden of guilt the cost its elder brother brings, the electric blue XC90. So make sure you pick up this holidays it will transform your ride.

Hits: Comfortable all day everyday, stiff, the custom fit makes the shoe your own

Misses: Plastic blades on sole don’t last

From: Shimano Dealers

RRP: $239.95