Shimano EX700 shoes?

I've got the boot version and they're great. I don't notice a lack of stiffness while pedalling, except that they are more comfortable than full on carbon soled disco slippers. They are certainly wide and the slight foot movement this allows probably makes them less stiff, but adds to comfort. They are grippy soled and decent for walking in, they are waterproof, so can be hosed off to clean after a ride and the lack of padding/absorbent fabric means that they dry quickly. I imagine they'll be warm in full summer, but I don't suffer from sweaty feet anyway. They are my go to MTB kicks now, unless it's below freezing or the sun is cracking the flags. Not even that expensive or hard to get on/off.

My ME5 are the same stiffness rating and I find them fine. Not as stiff as my winter boots, but only noticeable when wearing the winters not the other way around

Again I have boot version and have no issue with the stiffness, I'd say they're better than the old XM/MT90 range, but not up to the stiffness of there race shoes. Though I find their stiff soled shoes uncomfortable, so not a bad thing for me.

Thanks re stiffness I just don’t want something as flexible as say a normal trainer so it does sound like they will be good

I don’t think the shoe version is waterproof as in I hope it’s not . The description says breathable and doesn’t reference goretex etc

There looks to two versions, the std EX700 (not waterproof) & the goretex version the EX700 GTX.

and to confirm the ex900 are stiff, definitely not trainer flexible

I have the boot (GTX) version. Used all year round with appropriate sockage. Been great for all things Bikepacking, MTB and Gravel. Not hot or cold. Great for hike a bike too. Having the cuff is great but some might find the shoe tight to get on but fine when its there.