The new DMT IAAN Gravel shoes take inspiration from golf balls to make them faster

DMT has taken advantage of the International Bike Festival in Misano to launch the new IAAN Gravel, a shoe with which the Italian brand seeks a middle ground between the performance of its most sporty models and the specific needs of riding off the asphalt. Lightness, ventilation, and stability are some of its arguments, but the big novelty lies in an upper with a peculiar technology inspired by the surfaces of golf balls.

New DMT IAAN Gravel Shoes: Lightweight, Ventilated, and with Dimple Tech

Gravel has evolved towards faster and more specialized bikes, and the equipment is following the same path. The new DMT IAAN Gravel is designed precisely for those looking for performance on tracks, roads, and mixed terrain without needing to resort to a more MTB-oriented shoe for technical areas.

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Its most recognizable element is in the upper part. DMT has developed a new IAAN upper built around a mesh with a hexagonal structure, very open visually and designed to reduce weight, facilitate ventilation, and maintain foot stability.

But behind that texture, there is also a more peculiar explanation. DMT calls the technology Dimple Tech and claims to have been inspired by the principle used in microstructured surfaces like those of golf balls.

The small bumps and cavities are designed to promote the continuity of airflow around the shoe and reduce aerodynamic drag. It is an unusual solution in gravel shoes, and DMT integrates it directly into the upper design. The brand also combines PA and TPU materials to achieve the necessary structure without excessively penalizing weight.

DMT itself points out that Dimple Tech has been developed to improve aerodynamic efficiency, in addition to contributing to the lightness, stability, and breathability of the shoe.

A Specific Sole for Gravel and More Protection

The differences compared to a road shoe are not limited to the upper. DMT has designed a new gravel-specific sole, with more effective lugs and a softer compound aimed at increasing grip and traction.

The intention is also to improve one of the inevitable aspects of this modality: walking. The geometry and arrangement of the lugs are designed to provide stability when getting off the bike, especially on uneven surfaces.

We also find a reinforced toe. Unlike purely road shoes, the IAAN incorporates additional protection against stones, branches, and the small impacts common when riding off the asphalt.

BOA Li2 and Asymmetrical Closure

For the fit, DMT has opted for a BOA Li2, but what’s interesting is how the system is arranged.

The shoe uses an asymmetrical closure designed to better distribute pressure over the instep. The goal is to maintain the precision provided by the BOA but reduce pressure points and enhance comfort during many hours on the bike.

The result is a gravel shoe sufficiently lightweight and fitted for fast pedaling, but with the protection, grip, and ease of walking required when venturing off the asphalt.

Among its main features, we find:

• Lightweight, breathable, and stable IAAN upper
• Aerodynamic Dimple Tech technology
• Hexagonal upper structure
• Reinforced toe
• BOA Li2
• Asymmetrical closure system
• New gravel-specific sole
• Lugs and compound aimed at improving grip and traction
• Sizes from 37 to 46
• Colors white/purple and sand

DMT has also included a small graphic detail on the side with three faces representing different moods. The brand uses it to reinforce the concept "in every condition," understood not only as different terrain or weather conditions but also as a reference to the cyclist's own state.

Price and Availability of the DMT IAAN Gravel

The new DMT IAAN Gravel is already listed in the brand's catalog with an official price of 279 euros. In the Spanish store, they are offered in sizes from 37 to 46, and DMT announces that the first deliveries will begin from September 18.

More information at DMT IAAN Gravel here.