New version of the MW502 winter mountain biking shoe is also out
Shimano has updated its range of mid-tier and entry-level road cycling shoes, claiming the “value-packed” RC703, RC302 and RC102 incorporate tech from its flagship S-Phyre model.
The brand says it offers more women’s-specific models and sizes to bring “lightweight, stylish performance to every rider”.
In addition, the brand has refreshed its SPD-compatible winter cycling shoe, the MW502, which is designed for “riders with no off-season”.
Shimano RC703 and RC703W
The latest version of the carbon-soled RC7, the RC703, sits below the RC9 and S-Phyre in Shimano’s hierarchy of road cycling shoes.
The RC703 looks similar to the previous generation RC702, released in 2022. But costing £229.99 / $250.00 / €229.95, the RC703 is £40 / $10 more expensive.
It retains two Boa dials, a wraparound upper, a crossover lacing pattern for a secure fit, a breathable synthetic leather upper for ventilation and a moderately stiff carbon outsole.
Shimano now calls the women’s version of the RC703 the RC703W as opposed to the RC703 Women.
Shimano says women’s-specific last enhances comfort and performance for more riders.
Both standard-fit and wide-fit versions come in sizes EU38-50 with half sizes available up to EU47 inclusive. The claimed weight of a size 42 shoe is 244g.
Colours wise, you can choose from black, white and sage green.
The women’s model, the RC703W, is available in EU36-44 and in white and black.
Shimano RC302 and RC302W
Shimano claims the RC302 and RC302W are “value-packed road shoes for everyday riding”.
Much like the previous generation RC300 and RC300 Women, they have glass fibre reinforced nylon soles, Boa L6E dials, a breathable synthetic leather upper and a midsole with a low stack height.
Shimano says the RC302W’s last is specially designed for women.
The RC302 weighs slightly more than the RC703, at a claimed 252 grams in size 42. But they retail for £119.99 / $135.00 USD / €114.95, about £100 / $100 cheaper.
The standard sizes run from EU 36-52 and the wide-fit comes in EU 36-52. Available colours are black, white and navy.
A size 40 RC302W is claimed to weigh 237g. Choose from EU 36-44 sizes (it was previously available in 35-44) and black, white and navy.
RC102 and RC102W
The RC102 and RC102W are priced at £99.99/ $110 / €94.95 and use a new three-strap closure for a secure fit and sleek look.
Shimano claims the perforated synthetic leather upper, seamless midsole structure and reduced stack height provide comfort, cooling, and performance.
Like models further up the range, the RC102W includes a women’s specific last.
The wider heel pad on the RC102 and RC102W is meant to be easier to walk on.
The RC101 is available in EU 36-50, with a size 42 claimed to weigh 268g, and black, white and navy.
The RC102W comes in EU 36-44 and black or violet. A size 40 has a claimed weight of 246g.
Shimano MW502
Shimano says the MW502 will keep your feet warm and dry no matter the weather thanks to its waterproof Dryshield membrane.
The fleece-lined winter cycling shoes feature a secure lace flap over the Speed Lace closure and a neoprene ankle collar.
Shimano claims the cross-country racing pattern in the rubber outsole increases traction for winter mountain biking.
The SPD-compatible MW502 is priced at £149.99 / $225 / €159.95 and is claimed to weigh 391g in size 42.
The standard-fit wide-fit versions are both available in EU 38-48. Shimano does not offer a women’s version.