Shimano RC7 Shoe Review

Words: Béatrice Barralis – Photos: BB/@3Bikes.fr

The new RC7 models have been upgraded while remaining affordable.

In 2019, Shimano updated its cycling shoe range with the flagship S-Phyre model—a trendy, eye-catching design. But it also comes with a hefty price tag of nearly €350, much like most of the competition’s high-end models. The RC7 sits immediately below them in the range, at a significantly more affordable price, without sacrificing the essentials: fit, comfort, and performance. Sitting in the accessible high-end bracket, the RC7s stand well apart from entry-level models in every way. They come in three colours: matte black and a gradient red, in addition to the pearl white of this test model.

A woman and her… cycling shoes I’m entering my fourth year of cycling, and this is my fourth pair of shoes. Thank goodness I don’t treat them like my everyday shoes—otherwise, I wouldn’t know where to put them all! The rule in cycling is to stick to a single pair that fits well; otherwise, you lose your bearings. My first pair of Shimano shoes was the triathlon model with Velcro straps… a bit like slippers around the edges, and not exactly sexy, I have to admit (back in 2016).

The carbon sole ensures stiffness and precision when adjusting the cleats.

Here we see a carbon outsole with a stiffness rating of 10 out of 12 on the Shimano scale (the S-Phyre models are rated at 12). The insole is relatively basic, with slight arch support, whereas that same support is adjustable on the S-Phyre. The heel cup is molded onto the outsole and therefore cannot be replaced. Finally, the new RC7s feature a second Boa closure compared to the previous version, but these are L6 dials rather than the IP1 dials found on the flagship models.

Both Boa closures are easy to operate.

The difference lies in how they operate: while tightening is still micrometric by turning in one direction, you must pull on the disc to disengage the system if you want to loosen the fit. These features are slightly less advanced than those found in top-of-the-line models, but they’re more than sufficient for intensive, athletic use. An impeccable finish As for the rest, the shoes feature a synthetic leather upper with small perforations for ventilation. For tightening across the instep, the Boa sits on a separate strap that wraps around the foot. The other Boa controls the lower and midfoot areas. The inner strap is lightly padded to prevent the cable from cutting off circulation on the top of the foot. At the heel, there is a good thickness of foam, and the rear section extends high enough to grip the Achilles tendon when tightened, thereby ensuring excellent foot support during the upward phase of the pedaling cycle.

The padding around the heel provides good foot stability within the shoe.

The outsole features Dynalast technology, with a shape designed to facilitate passing through the top and bottom dead centers of the pedaling cycle. It is grooved, making it easy to replace cleats.

Finally, the RC7s are particularly lightweight, weighing 221 g in size 39 (258 g with the Look cleat)—often lighter than a pair of sneakers.

The insole provides fairly basic arch support, but it’s often sufficient.

Comfort and Performance Well-fitted around the ankle, these shoes are fairly stiff thanks to the carbon sole. The dual Boa closure system provides truly optimal foot support. Nothing shifts around inside the shoe, and having your foot securely held in place on a bike is important because it helps you become much more one with your bike.

Comfort remains high, even after three hours in the saddle.

A snug fit doesn’t mean being compressed or squeezed. There’s a difference between being supported and feeling suffocated. Your feet swell during a ride, and if your shoes are too tight after two hours, that can become a real problem and a source of discomfort. I sometimes do rides lasting more than three hours, and it goes very well with the RC7s.

You really feel the power transfer when pedalling—it feels like you have a little more strength and can distribute your weight more evenly on the pedal.

Based on my experience trying them out and using them on both of my bikes (a road bike and a time trial bike—two disciplines with their own specific demands), is that you really feel the power transfer when pedaling—it feels like you have a little more strength and can distribute your weight more evenly on the pedal. That’s the kind of detail that really tips the scales.

These are unisex shoes—you just need to pair them with different socks to change up your look.

As for the look, the shoe is slim and doesn’t make your feet look huge. For those who feel like they have barges instead of feet in shoes that are too wide, move up a cleat size! As for the colour, the white has a slight pearlescent sheen for a subtle aesthetic touch. As for the argument that “they’re pretty but get dirty easily,” I agree, but I have a little trick: applying a thin layer of liquid glycerin over the entire shoe protects it from dust and other things that might stain it. Repeat as needed depending on how often you ride. Finally, note that this shoe is unisex. No discrimination here, so go wild with your socks—the must-have accessory for any stylish cyclist!

The new Shimano RC7 shoes offer excellent support, are stiff enough for most riders—men and women alike—and remain lightweight and comfortable even after long hours in the saddle. All for a retail price under €200. If you’re still on the fence, your best bet is to go try them on.

SHIMANO RC-701

Pros: stiffness, comfort, build quality, price Cons: the white color shows dirt easily Design: carbon fiber composite sole (stiffness rating 10/12), synthetic leather upper, wraparound heel, two independent Boa L6 closures for micro-adjustment, perforations for drainage and ventilation, insoles with Silvadur™ technology, 11 mm extended cleat adjustment range.

Available colours: white, matte black, gradient red Sizes: 38 to 50 in half-size increments, wide or regular. Weight: 222 g in size 39. Suggested retail price: €199