Performance-level, women's specific fit mountain bike shoes come directly from Shimano's long relationship with XC racing. The WM80 was developed for the power transfer and efficiency required for racing, but is equally adept for XC trail riding and cyclocross. The key is that the carbon fiber reinforced outsole has a glass fiber reinforced midsole shank, which gives you all the stiffness you need to deliver power to the pedal, but also offers just enough give while dabbing a toe, shouldering your bike, or simply walking across the parking lot. The low-profile design was optimized for energy transfer and a low sole to pedal engagement. Of course, the WM83 packs a lot more great Shimano technology above and below the sole.

The Dynalast foot bed and upper provide excellent anatomic support for most foot shapes and volumes. The heel pocket is comfortable, yet cradles the heel with a shape that results in minimal slip when sizing is correct. The upper is a full synthetic leather construction, with support material still supple enough to form fit, yet tough enough to resist abrasion and impact. Mesh panels provide air flow and breathability. Retention comes from a 3-point system. Shimano's Cross X Straps were designed to relieve pressure and tension on top of the foot during pressure motion. This anatomically informed design features a low profile ratchet strap and instep pad at the top, and alternating hook and loop closures for the mid and fore-foot zones. The mid-foot strap is anchored to the outside of the foot, while the top and offset bottom closures anchor from the instep side.The ratchet closure is easy to use and offers single click release so you can easily loosen the shoe while riding if desired.

On the sole, grip, comfort, and mud shedding are provided by polyurethane lugs. With a soft material for the heel lugs, and firmer, shaped zones in the mid and fore-foot, there is excellent traction, especially when walking or carrying up rocky sections. As with all Shimano performance shoes, you can mount standard cleat knobs up front for additional traction in mud or softer ground. The Shimano SPD standard 2-bolt cleat system is used, with the mounting plates free to slide over a good range for women's feet to ensure proper ball-of-the-foot placement. At 635 grams for the pair, the WM83 Mountain Shoes are competition worthy, but will hold up long term as your go-to shoe every time you leave the pavement.