Fans of matchy-matchy bike gear will find a lot to like here. Shimano and Lazer’s tropical collab brings an understated but verdant sensibility to Shimano’s RX8 gravel shoes and Lazer’s Strada KinetiCore helmet.
Let’s start with the shoes. The RX801 is an updated model of the RX8, Shimano’s gravel-specific race shoe.
Lazer’s contribution to the collab is just as eye-catching. The green-and-black fern pattern pops without being grating. But of course, when it comes to helmets, what’s really important is how they protect your noggin.
The Strada KinetiCore is a Virginia Tech five-star-rated helmet — that’s about as safe as you can get. The rating springs from Lazer’s integrated rotational impact protection system. Think MIPS, but built right into the helmet.
Shimano, Lazer Head-to-Toe Tropical
“[The RX801] delivers a more breathable design, with super stiff and efficient carbon outsole[s] for your biggest efforts on the bike,” Shimano said.
Other updates include a wider contact area, a built-in heel stabilizer, and availability in half sizes. The RX801 weighs 268 g in size 42 and sports an MSRP of $275. A lot of that cost is probably the BOA Li2 dial system — a feature that seems to be popping up all over the place these days.
Shimano called it a “go-to gravel shoe optimized for gravel racers, gran fondo riders, and weekend warriors alike.” The shoes will be available to purchase through your local bike shop or directly from Shimano.
The Strada KinetiCore comes in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes and weighs 290 g in the medium. It boasts LED light compatibility in the rear and a belt retention system for “a quick and secure fit with minimal fiddling.” The Strada KinetiCore will cost you $110, and, like Shimano’s shoes, will be available through dealers or online directly from Lazer.
