The Shimano MT701 GTX SPD Shoes are a very refined shoe that perform well on tour and trail inspired riding.
The Shimano MT701 GTX SPD Shoes are marketed as “All-weather mountain touring, bike packing or commuting” and perform remarkably well. The Boa lacing system means dialing in a precise fit is an absolute cinch. The soles are more compliant than some racier touring models, so if you’re really looking to blast along, there may be better bets.
The upper is made from TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), reckoned superior to genuine leather uppers, as it’s easier to care for and won’t alienate strict vegetarian and vegan audiences. TPU doesn’t tend to breathe so well, hence the mesh paneling. A Gore Tex liner goes some way to keep a fresh, arid inner climate. Boggy puddles and standard Cool Max socks will prove a soggy, squelchy combination, though. Waterproof TPU models, such as these 360 Dry Blue Ankle Socks, Dexshell Pro Visibility, or Gecko Calf Length Waterproof Socks are what you’ll need.
The midsole is nylon reinforced with glass fibre, the outer another hybrid, this time of shock absorbing EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) foam and rubber. This has a moderately aggressive trail pattern, and the cleat covers are held in situ with Philips head screws. These could supply added weather resistance for commuting - say scooting to work in flats, or old school clips 'n’ straps.
Staying with the soles, the MT701 feature a “bumper” to guard against stubbed toes. In terms of rigidity, the MT701 rates a 4 (out of a possible 12) on Shimano’s scale. This means they are rigid enough for tour typical cadences, compliant enough for extended walking and indeed, running.
The Boa L6 is designed for effortless, speedy adjustment and release. To tighten, slip your feet into the shoe, push the button down and turn clockwise to “ratchet” them snug. To quick release, simply pull the outer upward.
The fit is compressive, ranging from 36-48. If you’re a wider fitting, it is recommended to try for size, especially if you’re looking toward thicker/waterproof socks during the colder, wetter months.
Shimano suggests models with a wide platform are the best pairing—specifically the PD-M8120 and PD-T8000. These shoes have been paired to assorted Shimano, the P-ED500, their classic cross-country XT (PD-M8100) counterparts, and the now discontinued A520 single sided road model to favorable effect. The Shimano P-ED 500 hit the sweetest spot, something attributed to the generous platforms.
Power transfer is good, and users have been able to average 26-29 km/h (16-18 mph) for several hours on fixed and Ursula, quicker on a traditional road bike, with the A520. To some surprise, the soles are more compliant than the FLR Rexton and the MT701 also proved a little baggier around the heel. This was most apparent, riding fixed and climbing out of the saddle. Otherwise, no issues with hot-spots, or similar discomfort and the toe box is refreshingly roomy too.
In common with the FLR Rexton Active Touring/Trail Shoe, the sole is less aggressive than those typical of cross-country race shoes. However, it still offers excellent tenure on slippery surfaces—including mossy rocks, without becoming engulfed in power sapping mud, or trapping stones. This has also ensured that the great outdoors wasn’t brought indoors so easily. The cleat region is also suitably recessed, meaning you won’t be clattering around, shortening their lives—especially the brass Time type, yet still ensuring effortless and largely instant entry/exit on the bike.
The heel cup is less supportive than sportier touring models and indeed, the Rexton but the MT701 are incredibly easy (and comfortable) to pad around in for prolonged periods and over various terrain, from forest tracks to paved streets—just what you want on a day ride, or bigger excursion.
Things like sock choice will play their part, but wearing traditional cool max socks, and waterproof models discussed earlier, the uppers have remained arid and temperate, when the mercury’s between 8 and 25 degrees. No hint of wallpaper stripping funk thus far. Mesh paneling, although much less extensive than synthetic race models still suck a decent amount of cooling air inside and will resist showery rain surprisingly well. That said; waterproof socks are a must in wet, muddy conditions. If caught out in an hour of biblical rain and wearing Cool Max socks, the shoes were decidedly soggy. Rain had entered via the cleats and ventilated panels. In this context, the MT701 needed 5 hours to dry out. So long as you add waterproof socks on your bike packing adventure, or weekend tour, you’ll have no issues, even when you’ve submerged your foot in a puddle.
The MT701 are very well made throughout, using decent quality materials. A quick, damp cloth wipe-over will dismiss most organic muck (although a quick shot of bike wash, such as Motoverde Bike Wash helps shift heavier/crustier stuff). Otherwise, not so much as a loose thread. Boa systems have been found to be phenomenally reliable too—some serving ten winters before anything failed. Spares are also readily available.
Nigh on £170 is hardly small change but it's still competitive by genre standards. Quoc Pham Gran Tourer Gravel Shoes are £219 and employ “easy care” uppers and a more traditional, laced closure. They’re also reckoned to weight 363g (size 43). Giro Privateer are another model employing a laced closure come in a bit cheaper at £129.
If you’re seeking a four seasons/rough stuff touring shoe that will deliver on and off road, yet forgiving when walking for longer periods, there’s a lot to like.
Features:
- Boa lacing system for precise fit adjustment
- TPU upper for durability and easy care
- Gore Tex liner for an arid inner climate
- Nylon reinforced with glass fibre midsole
- EVA foam and rubber outer sole with aggressive trail pattern
- Cleat covers held with Philips head screws
- Toe bumper to guard against stubbed toes
- Rigidity rating of 4 out of 12 on Shimano’s scale
- Recessed cleat region for comfortable walking