ME stands for "Mountain Enduro" at Shimano and makes it clear: this MTB shoe is for trail bikers and enduro riders. The demands placed on such shoes are extremely varied. In order to conserve the rider's energy on long climbs, power must be transferred to the pedals as efficiently as possible. If the trail is unrideable, you have to be able to rely on the running properties and, above all, the grip of the soles. And the shoes should at least reliably keep splash water out. We tested whether the Shimano ME7 can do all this.
Shimano ME7: technical data
- Weight: 988 grams per pair, size 46, incl. Shimano cleats (50 g)
- Speed-Lacing fastener, ratchet fastener
- Michelin rubber sole
- Sizes: 38 to 50 (up to 47 also half sizes)
- Colours: black, blue
Price: RRP 220 Euro
The general recommendation for Shimano shoes is to buy one size larger. However, if, for example, Specialized shoes fit you in 46, you can confidently go for the 46 model. The ME7 is neither particularly wide nor narrow. However, the ME7 is slightly wider than its race counterpart, the Shimano S-Phyre.
With the ME7, the Japanese rely on a ratchet fastener and quick lacing system, which is located under a cover. In combination, the two fasteners hold the foot securely in the shoe and the upper material does not crease, even on narrow feet. Overall, the fastening system allows for a large adjustment range. If the ratchet is tightened a little too tightly, the upper edge of the shoe can press on the ankle depending on the shape of the foot. A clear disadvantage of the quick lacing system is that you cannot adjust the width while riding.
The Michelin sole builds up a lot of grip on surfaces of all kinds. Thanks to the not particularly stiff sole, the shoe rolls very well and longer sections are no problem. The downside of the comfortable sole: the power transmission is perfectly adequate for an all-mountain shoe, but does not reach the high level of a Specialised 2FO.
The cover prevents splash water from penetrating the inside of the shoe. However, water enters the extremely well-ventilated toe area relatively early, making the shoes unsuitable for rainy weather. The cover flap and the ratchet overlap slightly, so you have to make sure they fit properly when putting them on. The neoprene shaft prevents dirt from getting into the shoe.
Test conclusion: With the ME7, Shimano has built a capable all-round shoe for touring bikers that impresses with its fit and good walking characteristics.
Pro
- Fit
- non-slip sole
- Well ventilated
- Appropriate power transmission
Contra
- Water penetrates the toe area
- High price
