Test: With the new GF8, Shimano has expanded its large MTB shoe portfolio. As a “flat pedal gravity shoe for uncomfortable, wet and cold weather conditions, it is classified as a summer/spring shoe on the Shimano website. Is the shoe only suitable for use on trails in bad summer weather? In this report you will find out whether the shoe is also suitable for the street in winter or can be used on warmer, dry days.
The Shimano GF8 on paper
To begin, I would like to first take a look at the advertised features. The shoe is equipped with the Ultread GF rubber sole developed by Shimano. This promises more grip on the pedal, even in colder conditions. This means that the rubber does not harden too much in colder conditions and the adhesion to the pedal pins remains. The term GF stands for “Gravity Flat” and suggests more stability and control. This is achieved with the help of the Torbal 2.0 midsole. Also an in-house development that promises improved control on descents and greater efficiency when pedaling by dividing the sole into flexible and stiff zones. As with all shoes, cushioning is incorporated through an additional intermediate layer of EVA foam.
To keep your feet dry, the GF8 is equipped with a sock-like ankle cuff and the proven Gore-Tex membrane. As we expect from a gravity shoe, it is equipped with toe cap protection. However, despite the raised design, there is no ankle protection on the ankle. A Boa L6 fit system is installed on the side to ensure a firm hold on the foot. The cover, which partially protects the lacing from external influences, makes perfect sense. Contrary to the advertised protection of the locking mechanism. In general, it is questionable to attach the BOA system to the side for MTB shoes. It can quickly happen that your shoe hits an obstacle on the trail. The fact that Shimano has also equipped the shoe with reflectors makes it interesting for everyday use on the road in addition to the trail.
First impression
When you see the high-quality GF8 for the first time, it seems bulky and heavy. But the impression is deceptive. At 450 grams per shoe (we even weighed size 45), they are pleasantly light to wear. The sole, which is not too stiff, also supports this.
The construction of the upper shoe is flexible and is reminiscent of a rubber boot. The footbed is slightly wider. Thanks to BOA and the flexible construction, the shoe still provides decent support, even for narrower feet. A big benefit is that the shoe can be worn with thicker socks on cold days and the degree of insulation can therefore be flexibly determined. Another advantage is the ease of getting in and out.
The Shimano GF8 on the trail
The platform shoe proves to be a loyal supporter on the uphill. The sole impresses in terms of stiffness and grip. The raised upper shoe follows the movement of the foot without disturbing you. On a warm autumn day with 26° Celsius, the heat development in the shoe is good despite the membrane. There is no significant build-up of heat on longer tours.
When going downhill, the GF8 gives you a secure feeling on the pedal. Despite the more flexible sole, the bike is easy to push along the trail. The balance between rigidity and sensitivity is successful. However, for harder use, a little more protection for the foot would be desirable. Due to the aforementioned flexible construction (apart from the toe cap), the upper shoe does not always withstand impacts well.
