Shimano MTB shoes
These shoes will always be labelled as SPD. Shimano Pedalling Dynamics.
So, when you see the SPD logo these are: MTB shoes, indoor cycling shoes and gravel shoes.
Shimano mountain bike shoes have 2 letters that indicate what that shoe range is designed for.
Example:
The letters XC indicate this shoe range is designed for cross-country mountain biking.
These shoes have a stiff undersole (for max power transfer) and a focus on reducing weight.
The number after the XC indicates the model.
So the Shimano XC1 is the entry point in the XC range. Then it's the XC3, XC5, XC7 and XC9 (the best).
Next, we've got the GE (gravity enduro) range.
These MTB shoes are designed for much more rugged terrain and riding. So they're great for DH, Enduro and heavy-duty trail riding.
These shoes are heavier, with a broader toe box and wider profile.
GE MTB shoes have more flex in the soles; delivering more control on technical descents.
Where Shimano GE shoes are a SPD shoe designed to be clipped into a pedal, the GF range is not.
GF stands for Gravity Flat. And these MTB shoes are designed to pair with proper flat pedals.