TESTED: Shimano M200 Trail Shoe
The newest addition to Shimano’s shoe range, the M200, has been designed for the more aggressive trail rider or enduro racer, offering versatile performance in a variety of situations.
Engineered to maintain comfort and flexibility through all ranges of rider motion, the M200 is the upper echelon of Shimano’s new shoes featuring TORBAL (Torsional Balance) technology. TORBAL allows the outsole of the shoe to twist, providing unrestricted movement during aggressive, technical riding or ‘getting loose.’ Unlike many of Shimano’s previous trail shoes like the AM range, the forefoot is much more secure and remains aligned with the pedal.
The first thing I noticed was the significantly reduced weight over shoes like the AM45 despite having many similar features. The laces cover remains but gone are traditional laces replaced with a system reminiscent of light weight trail running shoes. Above that a traditional ratchet buckle holds the instep securely. At first the M200s felt a lot tighter than previous Shimano shoes I tried, and I was concerned that I might need to go to the wider E-Fit shoe. Wearing them around the office for a day without cleats proved I was wrong though and it seems the TORBAL upper just takes a little more time to shape to your foot. My advice – really take your time deciding on size with these.
The M200 is a trail rider’s delightOn the trail the M200s are some of the best shoes I have ridden in. Seriously. More comfort and protection than a more cross country styled shoe but without much of a weight penalty and much better ventilated than the AM shoes. The sole is stiff enough for racing, especially when teamed with a slightly bigger platformed pedal (such as Shimano XT Trail or Crank Brothers Mallets) but is soft enough that hike-a-bike on wet sandstone is no problem at all. They might still be a little warm in the middle of summer but really, what isn’t?
The M200s are a great choice if you’re after an extremely versatile shoe capable of trail riding, enduro or downhill racing and even some recreational cross country or bikepacking.
Hits – Protection, comfort and weight
Misses – Green is not for everyone
RRP – $229
From – Shimano Australia
