Shimano Shoes

Shimano MTB Shoes
So we know Shimano's MTB shoes come in XC and Gravity types.

In this section, we're going to expand a little more on the range.

Shimano's XC MTB shoes are designed to be slim and fitted. They are built to be light and rigid. Extra rigidity in the shoes transfers more power to the bike.

These shoes will appeal to commuters, racers or riders who value efficiency.

Shimano's Gravity MTB shoes come in the following type:

The GF (Gravity Flat) range is a range of flat shoes designed for flat pedals. These shoes use Shimano's new Ultread rubber sole that has a honey-comb structure and that digs into pedal pins.

Next is the GE (Gravity Enduro) range.

This is the clipless version of the GF range.

The Gravity line of shoes will appeal to Trail and Enduro riders. Where the terrain gets more technical and foot stability is super important.

These shoes are broader with more room in the toe box area compared to the XC range.

Shimano Road Shoes
Shimano's road shoes start at the RC102. The 3 strap design will suit riders who have a high in-step or riders who are starting out.

Shimano's RC302 (or RC3) road shoe is their mid-range offering.

It gives new riders access to the BOA closure system. This means you don’t need to rely on multiple straps to hold the correct tension across your foot. 

1 dial tightens both parts of the upper shoe together, delivering an even and a secure fit. Plus, it’s super easy and fast to tighten and loosen.

A stiffness rating of 6 (out of 12) has just enough flex to ensure that long endurance rides are comfortable too. But not too flexy, that it absorbs power you're putting into the shoe/pedal interface.

Shimano’s latest RC502 road shoes are a superb mid-range option and our best seller. 

Riders get access to the BOA dial. It’s positioned at the top of the foot (not at the bottom like the RC300) so it’s suitable for a wide range of foot shapes - especially riders with high in-steps. 

The cup insole minimises any heel slip; reducing wasted power during the pedal stroke.

Shimano uses a TPU outsole for the RC502. It has a nice texture and improves resistance to oil, grease and abrasion. 

Meshing across the top of the RC5 at the toe box and closure area means superb breathability, although riders who really feel the cold shoe definitely invest in a pair of toe covers or shoe covers for proper Winter.

Sole stiffness is rated a 8 out of 12.

This makes it perfect for riders looking for their first proper clip-in road shoe and intermediate riders who are ready to upgrade from their old pair of riding shoes.

Shimano’s RC703 range of road shoes are going to be for intermediate to advanced riders. Or if the shoe just fits your foot better than the RC5 and RC3. 

The mid and upper soles are constructed as one unit; no stitching or excess panels. It’s a glove-like fit. 

2 L6 BOA dials also help fine tune pressure and fit. One is positioned high to cater for a wide variety of foot shapes and one lower down to fine tune the pressure across the forefoot.
 
Unlike Shimano RC3 and RC5, the RC7 uses a carbon midsole (versus a nylon midsole). This helps to raise the stiffness to a 10 out of 12.