Shimano has launched the IC501 training shoe, an SPD-compatible cycling shoe designed specifically for indoor use.
The new shoe features Shimano’s new FUZE technology, an anti-bacterial treatment designed to help keep it more hygenic through multiple high-intensity training sessions.
A pair of IC501s retail for £119.99 / $135 / AU$219.95 – European pricing varies by territory.
The shoes are available now in three colourways: black, 'Ice Grey' and 'Wine Red'. They come in women’s EU sizes 36-41 and men’s 42-48.
Enter FUZE technology…
Shimano describes its new FUZE technology as “a permanent treatment that adheres to the IC501 upper material and zaps odour-causing bacteria, fungus and mildew”. It’s claimed to help the shoes last longer and keep your feet fresher.
The treatment is said to be eco-friendly, non-toxic and chemical-free.
Shimano also claims FUZE technology speeds up evaporation of any sweat build-up, enhancing ventilation, a welcome feature for indoor use.
IC501 indoor cycling shoe features
The upper features a breathable, elastic sock mesh, while the shoe has a Boa L6K closure system and wide instep strap.
The closure system uses Boa’s TX4 lace, made from a mix of Dyneema and polyester, rather than the more conventional stainless-steel coated laces.
The TX4 laces tend to have a much smoother action and should be more resistant to kinking, which can be a problem with their steel counterpart. Rapha recently used this lace on its Explore Powerweave shoe to great effect. We have contacted Shimano for confirmation this lace is being used.
Shimano says the shoes can be walked in easily, too, and feature a grippy, full-length rubber outsole and a recessed cleat that sits flush with the sole.
The brand claims a 279g weight for a size 40.
We asked Shimano if it plans to release a 3-bolt cleat-compatible shoe and expand the FUZE technology across its indoor range, but the brand said it could not “comment on future product developments at this stage”.
