Shimano SH-XC50 SPD Shoe

Brand new for 2012 is the introduction of two new shoes from Shimano; the XC50 and XC60. Bridging the gap between the rubber-soled M162 shoe and the racey Carbon M240's, the XC50 is tweaked to offer up a balance between comfort, durability and stiffness, making them ideal for the all-round mountain biker. Shimano revolutionised the cycling world when it brought out the very first shoe/pedal clipping system, SPD, back in 1990. Designed to integrate shoes with a clip-in pedal system, SPD or Shimano Pedalling Dynamics brought in a new era of performance by drastically increasing riders efficiency by allowing much more power throughout the pedal stroke and not just in the downward push. Fast-foward over 20 years later, and Shimano is still leading the market with it's wide-range of performance and recreational shoes for cyclists of all disciplines.

Trail Friendly

While the XC50 shoe may seem similar on price & spec when compared to the existing M162 shoe, it features a few clever differences that set it apart from it's more casual sibling. Decked out with a glass-reinforced Polyamide sole, the XC50 boosts chassis stiffness when compared to cheaper shoes and is not that far behind the carbon-soled MT240 in terms of outright stability. Underneath the cleat area, the shoe gets a soft arch pad for pedal traction, and multi-density lugs make up the external tread to provide grip when negotiating off-the-bike excursions. This increase in overall shoe stiffness will make the XC50 a suitable choice for enthusiast mountain bikers that want a tough & durable mountain bike shoe that can still be used competitively and comfortably for all-day epics. Another upgrade is the use of a sealed Synthetic Leather upper that provides a more effective barrier against the elements, allowing your feet to stay warm and dry for longer, whilst also keeping mud & dirt out of the shoe. The micro-adjust buckle and offset straps make up the same closure system found on the high-end M315. The buckle allows for precise adjustments and the offset straps securely holds the foot in place without pinching. While not every foot will fit the XC50, a flexible inner sole and Performance LAST ensure that as many different feet shapes will find these kicks very comfortable and conforming.
 

From Shimano:

 

"Shimano offers the widest range of quality cycling footwear in the world. There is a shoe and pedal for every riding style, and each rider benefits from Shimano's proven excellence in design, manufacturing and uncompromised quality control. It's a legacy that makes a difference to hundreds of Pro Tour and World Cup racers throughout the world. And it will make a difference to you".