We used to call the SH-XC70 a perennial favorite, but with the recent popularity of cyclocross, this is a year round go-to shoe for many mountain bikers, cross riders or anyone looking for a well designed shoe that delvers performance on a daily basis with an optimized fit. Custom moldable upper that is supple and durable, carbon reinforced sole, sculpted lugs and lightweight, the XC70 has a lot to offer.

Shimano uses their proprietary Rovenica synthetic for the upper. This supple material is also plenty tough to stand up to the abuse of ruffians. A molded toe guard provides excellent protection, while the reinforced heel cup offers support. The offset positioned Cross X-Strap is a reversed center strap which relieves tension on the top of the foot and works together with a low-profile micro adjust buckle and an anti-slip heel lining to comfortably secure the foot. The XC-70 upper also features heat moldable Thermo-form plastic infused upper panels. These panels enable the shoe to conform perfectly to a wide variety of foot shapes and serve up a precise heel wrap and forefoot fit. The custom fit moldable insole also shape themselves to your foot for evenly distributed pressure and increased comfort. The now-familiar Shimano Dynalast XC last gives an exacting interior profile for a perfected fit. This last aligns the foot for an ideal ergonomic position for a more efficient up-stroke. Custom-Fit heat moldable insoles with an adjustable arch wedge provide support while optimizing heel stabilization.

The XC70's race specific sole features a carbon fiber cleat plate with a glass fiber composite reinforced midsole shank. This design offers plenty of stiffness and durability but with some built-in flex in the forefoot. This design makes for a solid balance of stiffness and flex. It provides the rider with a levered pedaling platform for stability on varied terrain and built-in forefoot flex to provide some comfort and flex to aid walking (and running) around on varied terrain. The front of the sole has two threaded ports for included Shimano plastic toe spikes or optional metal spikes. As you would imagine, the XC70 sole accepts a two-hole SPD type mountain cleat which is industry standard. The soft(ish) durameter lugs on the sole keep the cleat recessed and provide ample traction.