Shimano designed the SH-RX801 as a road racing shoe that happens to accept SPD cleats. That philosophy shows in every detail. The carbon composite sole rates 10 out of 12 on Shimano's stiffness scale, putting it closer to their S-Phyre road shoes than their XC mountain bike line. The result is a gravel shoe that transfers power without compromise while maintaining just enough off-bike capability for checkpoint stops and brief scrambles over obstacles.

Weight drops to 265 grams per shoe in size 42, making the RX801 one of the lightest gravel shoes available. That figure matters over multi-hour efforts where rotating mass and overall shoe weight accumulate into fatigue. The savings come from stripping the design to essentials: minimal TPU lugs positioned only where they provide traction, exposed carbon sole sections between grip points, and a streamlined upper without excess padding. This is a race shoe that acknowledges gravel riders spend most of their time clipped in, not hiking.

The BOA Li2 dial closure replaced the previous IP1 in this generation, switching to a lower-profile design with a rubber grip surface that reduces accidental adjustments during riding. The wraparound upper layout means this single dial can distribute tension evenly across the instep without creating pressure points. A forefoot velcro strap supplements the system for fine-tuning the metatarsal zone independently, though most riders find the BOA handles the majority of fit adjustments. Instant release by pulling the dial outward makes shoe removal fast between stages or at the end of long days.... Read More