As you may have read in Jordan’s article earlier this week, bicycle component giant Shimano has unveiled DYNALAST 2.0. It’s the latest version of its cycling shoe design platform.
The prior platform was the foundation of its premium road, gravel, and cross-country footwear for over a decade. The update comes after years of biomechanical research, rider feedback, and hundreds of 3D foot scans.
The most noticeable update is in the wider toe box, which I totally support. The new platform gives your toes more room to spread naturally while you’re putting the hammer down.
At the same time, the midfoot and heel fit stays snug and secure, so you’re not losing anything as far as power transfer goes. That’s a feature that could make a real difference on longer rides where pressure points can tend to build up.
Key Features of SHIMANO DYNALAST 2.0
- Next-Generation Performance Fit: “SHIMANO DYNALAST 2.0 is an evolution of the existing SHIMANO DYNALAST shoe platform, with targeted refinements and improvements in foot hold, long-ride comfort, and pedaling efficiency, informed by years of biomechanical research and rider feedback“.
- More Natural Forefoot Shape: “A refined toe box provides additional room for the toes to naturally spread under pedaling load, reducing pressure points while maintaining a secure midfoot and heel fit for efficient power transfer“.
- Expanded Fit Options: “New dedicated Narrow, Standard, and Wide lasts deliver a more precise fit across a broader range of foot shapes. The new Wide fit is significantly wider than the previous generation, while the Narrow fit is ideal for riders who previously wore Shimano’s women’s-specific models or those seeking a lower-volume fit“.
- Research-Driven Design: “Developed using hundreds of 3D foot scans, pressure mapping, and biomechanical analysis, SHIMANO DYNALAST 2.0 optimizes the balance between comfort, stability, and pedaling performance“.
One of the more practical changes is the expanded fit system. DYNALAST 2.0 now comes in dedicated Narrow, Standard, and Wide options. The Wide is noticeably broader than the previous generation.
New Fit Details
Standard Fit
- Approximately 4% greater toe volume (size 43)
- Familiar heel and midfoot fit
- Improved long-ride comfort
Wide Fit
- Approximately 6 mm wider toe box than previous Wide size 43
- Approximately 7% greater toe volume (size 43)
- Significantly broader fit than previous Shimano Wide
- Better accommodates naturally wide feet
Narrow Fit
- Lower-volume overall fit
- Updated toe shape with additional forefoot comfort
- Recommended option for:
– Riders who previously preferred Shimano Women’s-specific footwear
– Riders who prefer a snug performance fit
For riders who’ve been buying women’s-specific models or anyone after a lower-volume shoe, the Narrow fit could be for you. If you’ve been sizing your shoes up just to get enough room in the forefoot, then this update could mean a shoe that actually fits because it matches your foot length.