Shimano have recently introduced a new model to their custom shoe lineup.  The SH-M230C is a half way house between the full Custom Fit range topping shoe and a regular one.

The idea behind Custom Fit is that the shoe should fit the rider like a glove, the inside of the shoe conforming to the shape of the riders foot.  This shoe features a fully custom insole and heal cup. The shoe and insole are baked in an oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 2 1/2 minutes and then moulded to the foot and heal of the rider before being returned to the oven to set. The process can only be performed in shops which have a special oven but it can be repeated should the first fitting not work for whatever reason. In practice the shoe is incredibly comfortable on the bike, noticeably different from a regular shoe and ideal for people with unusually shaped feet.

The mid sole is carbon fibre offering efficient power transfer and a ratchet buckle combined with two velcro straps keep everything snug and tight. This shoe is actually better suited to most MTB riders than the range topping SH-310S which does not have a very aggressive sole capable of dealing with off road terrain like this one. One thing we should raise is the carbon sole that shows through where the cleat is attached.  With certain pedals (Crank Brothers for example) the carbon will wear quickly.  Crank Brothers have produced a special plate to go under the cleat which protects the sole.

Shimano shoes are known for their durability and with the custom fit option, with this new shoe they have got even better.   We like them a lot.  Available for a limited time for  €182 from The Cycle Superstore.