Shimano Winter Boot Review
The reviews were great so I took the plunge and lashed out £85.
First impressions were good. Leather uppers with no mesh, Goretex lined, neoprene ankle cuffs, wide tread pattern on the sole and spd compatible. They were very comfortable, well made and looked good.
Lets hit the dirt or shall I say mud. Feet were kept warm which was a first for me and all seemed well. During the ride I thought I felt dampness where the tongue touched the neoprene ankle cuffs. Surely not these are winter boots with Gortex? It must have been the cold air? But as the ride progressed it became apparent that it was water, not much and not running down to the toes, just aound the ankle area.
After the ride a closer inspection of the boot revealed a design flaw. The Gortex liner stops well below the cuff. If it had been higher or there was some outer splash protection, paticularly around the front outer part of the cuff, then there would not have been a problem.
So the verdict?
These boots are not a disaster but did not offer the "waterproof" protection all the reviews had said. It is a lot of money to spend for a second pair of shoes when waterproof socks may have done the job for a fraction of the price.
These boots are not waterproof but are only really a problem when riding very wet and muddy conditions as we have in the UK. Actually that was why I bought the boots in the first place!!
Update 20th Nov 2009
Well I know it's a few years on but I thought I would update this review. I have worn these shoes pretty well most weekends even in the summer because it's been so wet. While they are not what I expected i.e. waterproof, they have been pretty good. On the last ride while hiking up a rocky ascent they took a battering on the toe box and the stitching was damaged. I suppose this is wearing tear. They have been pretty tough shoes though and seen a lot of action. I think they're still waterproof in that area.Update 4th Nov 2010
Well they are still going strong inspite of the damaged stitching. Not sure exactly how long I have had these! Must be 4 years. The level of waterproofness has remained consistent. They are good. Would I buy another pair. Yes I think I would. They have taken a real battering in all conditions and just keep going. I think the main thing is that the feet stay warm!Update 27th Feb 2011
Went out on a really wet ride yesterday. We were effectively riding up a waterfall!! These shoes still perform as they did the day I got them. They look really battered and, as said before, have taken everything I have flung at them. These are highly recommended. Warm feet, Not always dry but I'll trade that for warmth! The only way water can get in is over the top. I should think that is every waterproof shoe's weakness.Images
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