Florentin Vesenbeckh
· 10.01.2026
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Most winter shoes are based more on sporty race and road bike models. The GE900 GTX, on the other hand, has its origins in the trail and enduro category. This means a comfortable fit, secure footing with full freedom of movement on the descent and robust toe protection. Plus a casual look. For touring, trail or enduro riders, the new shoe aims to be the ideal companion for bad weather.
The waterproof Gore-Tex lining forms the basis of the weather protection. The membrane is designed to ensure breathability while keeping out water and wind. The sock-like construction with elasticated ankle cuff promises additional protection against moisture penetration.
Incidentally, the GE900 GTX is not a designated winter shoe. The Gore membrane is waterproof, but there is no additional insulating layer as with pure winter kicks. But it does have Shimano, for example, has the MW7 in its programme, the test can be found here in the link.
It's better to buy slightly larger shoes for winter. This leaves room for thick socks and an insulating layer of air. Then you remain flexible for different temperatures and conditions.
The BOA Fit System uses the L6 twist lock, which is designed to be protected against unintentional loosening. This fastening technology enables precise adjustment of the fit while riding and quick and comfortable donning and doffing. There is also a Velcro fastener at the upper end. This allows the shoe to be cinched tightly to the foot if desired.
The shoe is easy to put on and take off, and the higher shaft does not make it difficult to slip on, as it is sock-like and therefore very flexible. This also has a positive effect on comfort. What's more, it doesn't have the ultimate high heel. The retaining straps also make it easier to get on. The shoe can be adjusted quickly and easily with Velcro and twist fasteners.
This makes the shoe ideal for damp autumn or spring conditions. However, if you don't want to expose your feet to the wind on hours-long gravel laps, you can also get through the winter with these shoes. In warmer temperatures, the climate inside the shoe is sweatier than in classic kicks, so not for riding in the rain in summer.
The leg is not ultimately high and could be tighter. To prevent water from running in from above, the trousers must be long enough. Handling with the Boa fastener as well as getting in and out is very comfortable.
The gravity construction pays off on the trail. The somewhat stiff, less manoeuvrable feel of classic winter kicks is completely absent. The GE900 GTX feels much more like a classic trail shoe. With plenty of freedom of movement and good stability on the pedals.
This also applies to walking. The cleats are completely recessed, the sole is grippy and not too stiff. This means you can walk safely and comfortably. The stiffness of the shoe is at a medium to high level. Not a race shoe, of course, but also not a crumply touring shoe.
The GE900 also clicks in and out in the best trail shoe manner. No hooking, no cleat channel that is too narrow - Shimano has done a great job here.
The Shimano GE900 GTX convinced me for classic trail laps in autumn and winter. Comfortable fit, good weather protection and harmonious details. The limitations in terms of weather protection only come into play in really wet conditions or in temperatures well below freezing. As rain protection for wet summer rides, however, the shoe is too warm and sweaty. - Florentin Vesenbeckh, BIKE Editor

Editor CvD