Verdict from 8 experts and 27 user reviews
8 reasons to buy
- Almost all of the reviewers have been impressed with the Shimano RC7 cycling shoe’s excellent fit.
- A significant number of wearers express delight over the footwear’s optimal comfort.
- The shoe’s dual dial closure has received praise from cyclists for being easily adjustable and efficient.
- Many riders especially appreciate the sole’s light and rigid build as it provides efficient power transfer to the pedals.
- The pair’s style is sleek, stylish, and elegant, according to plenty of consumers.
- Several purchasers think that the Shimano RC7 has excellent value for money.
- The shoe’s materials and construction are of high quality, a handful of users have said.
- Some individuals claim that the upper material is easy to clean.
3 reasons not to buy
- Several users have said that the shoe creases when fastened too tightly.
- Some have complained about how the BOA dials don’t loosen in increments.
- A few owners claim that the BOA cables can detach and need to be slotted back.
Bottom line
Undergoing several tweaks that are based on feedback, the Shimano RC7 has recently acquired BOAs in the replacement of Velcro straps. This alteration has been well-received by many long-time fans as it maintains its excellent fit and comfort while adding on-the-fly adjustments to the equation.
Moreover, the shoe’s lightweight and stiff sole, polished style, and premium quality have also garnered compliments from consumers. Despite some negative feedback, the shoe comes highly recommended for demanding road cyclists.
Tip: see the best cycling shoes.
Good to know
The Shimano RC7 is engineered as a road cycling shoe. The version in review as of this writing is the 2019 variant. This adaptation has gained dials and lost the former’s Velcro strap. Remaining true to its roots, it is still designed for racing and to support aggressive riders.
Formed with an ultra-stiff and lightweight sole, the RC7 provides excellent energy transfer that helps shave seconds off from every ride. The combination of the BOA dials and the adjustable Powerzone wire guide work in conjunction to hold the foot securely. It also features the brand’s Dynalast technology to reduce braking loss while pedaling.
Adequately stiff, lightweight sole. This shoe is crafted with a carbon fiber composite sole. It has a stiffness index of 10 out of a scale of 12. Riders are treated with sufficient rigidity for excellent power transfer with every pedal stroke.
Patented shoe last design that promotes smoother and energy-saving pedal strokes. This pair employs the brand’s signature shoe last design called the Shimano Dynalast. It is engineered with an optimized toe-spring section for lesser tension in every pedal. This technology is created based on the feedback received from pro riders. It ultimately helps reduce energy loss which is crucial for the final sprint to the line.
Walkable traction. Equipped with toe and heel rubber pads, the shoe allows the wearer to stand and walk short distances comfortably.
Vented sole. A screened ventilation hole is strategically placed on the shoe’s sole. It works in conjunction with the shoe’s perforated upper. This combination allows air to flow in and keeps the foot comfortable and dry even in the hot weather.
Cleat System
Three-bolt cleat design with sole markings. This pair is compatible with all three-hole road pedals. Outsole markings are provided to help the wearer remember their cleat placement. As for the pedals, try the following models: Shimano Ultegra 8000, Garmin Vector 3, Time Xpro10, Look Keo 2 Max, and many more.
Wider cleat adjustment. The Shimano RC7 cycling shoe employs a total of 22 mm cleat adjustment. The outsole offers an 11 mm adjustment while Shimano's SPD-SL cleat system provides an added 11 mm. A more comprehensive cleat adjustment delivers rider confidence due to the best possible cleat position.
Supple and highly-ventilated upper. Crafted from synthetic leather, the upper is perforated throughout to provide a soft and breathable fit.
Quick and tested closure system. The Shimano RC7 features two BOA L6 dials for its closure. It is preferred for its easy, on-the-fly adjustments while on the bike. It also reduces pressure points, no matter how tight the fastening is. To tighten, the dial should be turned and should be pulled for quick release.
For the BOA in the forefoot, it works in unison with Powerzone wire guides to keep it secure, while the top part of the foot uses a strap in conjunction with the other BOA dial.
Heel stabilizer. The shoe is built with a heel securing system to prevent heel slips and keep the foot in place.
The Shimano RC7 cycling shoe utilizes adaptable cup insoles. This footbed is said to shape after the wearer’s foot to provide optimal support no matter the foot shape.
- Perforations throughout the upper and a vented pocket in the outsole contribute to keeping the foot comfortable and dry during the hot weather.
- Padded collar and footbed work together to provide excellent in-step comfort.
- This cycling footwear is also known as the SH-RC701 and Shimano RC701.