SHIMANO RC3 (RC300) SPD-SL Shoes

Product Information

Overall I am impressed by the RC5s. They don't have the stiffest soles but I've found them more than good enough for most rides, and the fact that you get some premium level features at a mid-market price adds appeal. As does the fact they also look great. Verdict Shimano’s Volume Tour Last is perfect for riders who need even more volume to balance comfort and performance on the bike. Built upon the DYNALAST platform, the Volume Last offers more space in the toe, ball of the foot, and heel while still comfortably cradling the foot when pedaling or walking. If you live somewhere where the weather is invariably cold and wet, it’s worth considering whether those sorts of shoes are really the right choice, or if you’d be better off with something more robust. Do cycling shoes make a difference?

It’s always worth considering what type of riding your shoes are designed for. A lot of road cycling shoes are designed to be ridden in hot weather, for example, meaning they’re very breathable and won’t offer much protection from the elements. The upper itself is made from synthetic leather and is almost entirely seamless. Perforations across the toe box provide a bit of airflow, as does a sizable vent in the sole, which also allows rainwater to drain from the bottom. The RC3s weigh 269g per shoe in size 45. Ride experience Although Fizik's updated unidirectional carbon sole is at the top of their stiffness range, it is not quite as stiff as some of the models offered by Sidi or Specialized. If you're not looking for the stiffest, this shoe more than makes up for it with its form, fit, and comfort. While beautiful when closed, the redesigned upper can sometimes get caught when fastening the shoe, which is an unexpected annoyance. Nevertheless, paying attention when putting the shoe on is a minor issue and can be easily avoided. We believe that serious road cyclists who prioritize comfort during long rides with occasional high-intensity efforts and climbs will find these premium road bike shoes highly enjoyable.Speaking of the BOA, the L6 dial is offset down the outside of your foot to prevent hotspots. It only spins one direction and allows for micro-adjustments when tightening, and a pop release to let out the cable. Occasionally, you even get a combination of both. Velcro straps have the advantage of being cheap, effective and easy to use, so you’ll often find these on lower-end shoes. On higher-end shoes, Boa and other similar dial systems tend to dominate due to their ability to precisely control fit. They have a super-neat wraparound design and a single L6 Boa, which is placed centrally rather than at the top of the foot. More space does not mean a loose, sloppy fit, however. Shimano’s DYNALAST Wide technology is anatomically curved to conform better to the natural contours of the foot. It features an adjusted instep height to allow the heel to sit deeper in the shoe so your foot stays snug in the shoe, even on hard, out-of-the-saddle efforts.

These Road Shoes are compatible with road bike pedal systems that use cleats with 3-bolt standards, such as: Look Delta and Keo, Shimano SPD-SL, Speedplay Light Action, Zero, X-Series (via 3-hole adapter plate), Campagnolo Pro-Fit, Mavic Zxellium, Time Iclic/Xpresso and Time Impact. Instead of a traditional tongue, the outside of the RC3’s upper wraps around your foot. The Boa dial is designed to spread the pressure evenly, and while it does so, I’m not convinced it’s better than the top-mounted Atop dial and twin Velcro combination of the dhb Aeron Carbon Road Dial shoes I also had on test. My only real complaint is that they feel a bit short. I have worn a size EU45 in Shimano shoes for some time, however, I could just feel the end with my big toe. The size label says they are 28.5cm long, just as it does on all the other Shimano shoes I have on hand, so I can’t really explain it. Best to try them on before you buy. Verdict By contrast, Shimano’s top-end S-Phyre RC9 measures 12 on the stiffness scale. If you’re producing an all-in effort, you will get the RC3’s soles to flex, but I think this level of stiffness is about right for most day-to-day and fitness riding.

Chain reaction Cycles and CRC are trading names of Wiggle Ltd (In Administration) registered in the United Kingdom at 1000 Lakeside, Suite 310, Third Floor N E Wing, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO6 3EN, The sole may not be carbon fiber, but it has its strengths. It's a lightweight glass fiber nylon. That doesn't make for an immovable pillar of adamantium, but the nylon actually improves the tensile strength while the glass fiber adds rigidity (power transfer). The result is a good balance of performance to longevity. We expect the shoe to hold up for at least 3-5 seasons of regular use before there are any problems with mechanisms, upper, sole, or seams. Value From the moment I slipped the Shimano RC3s onto my feet, I was impressed. Quite often, budget shoes offer a vastly less refined fit than their flagship counterparts. This is due to several factors; price is a big one, and intended use is another. The ultra-aggressive race cut and support of many race shoes doesn't suit quite as many feet, and is often too unforgiving for the beginner or leisure rider. Shimano has done well to relax certain aspects of the shoe without watering down the essential ingredients that define the fit.