Shimano GE900 GTX review: Ideal trail shoes for wet and miserable weather

Most winter shoes are modelled on sporty road and racing bike designs. The GE900 GTX has its origins, however, in the trail and enduro categories. This means a comfortable fit, a secure grip with full freedom of movement on descents, and robust toe protection. It also boasts a casual look. For touring, trail or enduro riders, the new boot is designed to be the ideal companion in bad weather.

​The waterproof Gore-Tex lining forms the basis of the weather protection. The membrane is designed to ensure breathability whilst keeping out water and wind. The sock-like construction with an elasticated ankle cuff promises additional protection against moisture penetration.

Incidentally, the GE900 GTX isn’t strictly speaking a winter boot. The Gore membrane is waterproof, but there’s no additional insulating layer as found in dedicated winter boots. Instead, it has Shimano, for example, has the MW7 in its range; you can find the review via the link here.

​It’s best to buy winter shoes a size or two larger. That leaves room for thick socks and an insulating layer of air. That way, you’ll be prepared for a range of temperatures and conditions.

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​>> Northwave Multicross Plus GTX review – the winter shoe for flat-pedal riders

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The BOA Fit System uses the L6 dial fastening, which is designed to prevent accidental loosening. This fastening technology allows for precise adjustment of the fit whilst riding, as well as quick and comfortable putting on and taking off. There is also a Velcro fastening at the top. This allows the shoe to be secured very tightly to the foot if desired.

​Key information about the Shimano GE900 GTX

• Price: 239.95 euros >> available here
• Snap-on shoe, SPD-compatible
• BOA Fit System with L6 twist lock, protection against accidental release
• ​Stiffness rating on the Shimano scale: 7 / 10
• ​Waterproof GORE-TEX lining
• Sock-like inner boot with an elasticated ankle cuff
• Carbon-reinforced midsole
• ULTREAD GE rubber compound
• Weight: 1,100 grams (pair, size 48)
• ​Sizes: 38–48
• Colours: Black, Oak Brown

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Fit and handling

Putting the shoe on and taking it off is a smooth process; the higher upper doesn’t make it difficult to slip on, as it is sock-like and therefore very flexible. This also has a positive effect on comfort. Furthermore, it isn’t pulled up too high. The pull tabs make it even easier to slip the shoes on. With Velcro and twist fastenings, the shoes can be adjusted quickly and with precise control.

This makes the shoe ideal for damp autumn or spring conditions. However, unless you’re keen to expose your feet to the wind during hours-long gravel rides, it’s also brilliant for getting you through the winter. In warmer temperatures, the inside of the shoe gets more sweaty than in traditional cycling shoes, so it’s not suitable for riding in the rain during the summer.

The leg isn’t pulled up as high as it could be and could fit more snugly at the top. To prevent water from running in from above, the trousers absolutely must be long enough. The Boa fastening is easy to use, and getting in and out is nice and comfortable.

On the trail, the Gravity construction really comes into its own. There’s none of that slightly stiff, restricted feeling you get with classic winter shoes. The GE900 GTX feels much more like a classic trail shoe, with plenty of freedom of movement and good grip on the pedal.

The same applies to walking. The cleats are completely recessed, and the sole offers good grip without being too stiff. This means you can walk safely and comfortably too. The shoe’s stiffness is medium to high. It’s not a racing boot, of course, but it’s not a flimsy touring boot either.

Clipping in and out with the GE900 works just like you’d expect from a top-class trail shoe. No snagging, no cleat channel that’s too tight – Shimano have done a brilliant job here.

Conclusion on the Shimano GE900 GTX

The Shimano GE900 GTX has won me over for classic trail rides in autumn and winter. Comfortable fit, good weather protection and well-thought-out details. The limitations of its weather protection only become apparent in really wet conditions or when temperatures drop well below freezing. As rain protection for wet summer rides, however, the shoe is too warm and makes your feet sweat. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, BIKE editor