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 Shoes that feature Shimano’s DYNALAST Wide sizing have an increased volume around the ball of the foot to accommodate a larger range of foot shapes and sizes. However, this added volume and comfort doesn't come at the expense of performance. Instead, the bottom of the last remains the same width as the standard shoe design, which maintains the high-performance technology, pedaling efficiency, and all-day comfort of Shimano's range of cycling shoes. I’m not sure I could feel any great difference on the road, but these were certainly comfortable. Part of that may be down to the sole – it’s pretty stiff, but not incredibly so.

Shimano offers a winter cycling shoe in DYNALAST Wide sizing to keep more riders rolling, no matter the condition. 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 experienceA nice touch, whether by accident or design, is that toe warmers completely cover all the perforations, so although these shoe are designed to let air flow over your foot in warmer conditions, I used them in close to freezing conditions several times with just toe warmers without any issues. Weight, value and conclusion The insole is fairly basic, as you’d expect at this price, but support at the arch from the shape of the sole and upper is actually pretty good. Cycling shoes can also vary wildly in fit (we’ve got a guide to wide cycling shoes) and intended use. It would be easy to throw lots of money at the problem and end up with a set of shoes that don’t suit your unique foot shape or riding style. 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.

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. Finance is subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. Performance Cycling Limited FRN: 720557 trading as Tredz are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker not a lender – credit is subject to status and affordability and is provided by Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply.As with Shimano’s more expensive shoes, the RC3 is based around Shimano’s Dynalast, which the brand claims produces “an optimised toe-spring section that promotes a smoother, more energy-efficient upstroke”. Once you’ve considered all of the options, keep reading to the end for our buyer’s guide to road cycling shoes. Best cycling shoes in 2023, as rated and reviewed by our expert testers They have a super-neat wraparound design and a single L6 Boa, which is placed centrally rather than at the top of the foot. 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. The Boa dial is a popular closing mechanism for cycling shoes, alongside the more classic Velcro. David Caudery / Immediate Media