Shimano RC703 road shoe review: sleek, stiff and robust

The Shimano RC703 road cycling shoes are designed for those seeking a level of performance similar to the range-topping S-Phyre model but without the price tag. Consider these shoes the second tier, or the Ultegra level in Shimano’s road cycling shoe lineup.

Being part of such a lineage means these shoes are intended for keen amateurs looking for fast-ride performance. During my time testing these shoes, they have performed well. There have been a few niggles, which I’ll get onto later but as second-tier products go, these shoes are a worthwhile addition to Shimano’s lineup and provide a strong choice for riders looking for one of the best cycling shoes at a lower price.

The construction

The shoe is constructed with a ‘high rigidity, hollow carbon midsole’ mated to a synthetic leather upper, with two BOA L6Z dials as the fastening system of choice.

The upper material partially wraps around the carbon sole which Shimano claims ‘reduces overlap and provides a glove-like fit’. I can’t say I entirely agree with this statement. While the shoes are comfortable, they are still shoes designed to deliver for those seeking performance. To me, ‘glove-like fit’ suggests a soft, comfortable, supple fit, whereas I found these shoes offer a firm, sturdy, locked-in feel. What the wrap-around upper does provide, is a sleek-looking shoe as it cloaks the carbon sole and creates the illusion that the majority of the shoe is one uniform colour, much like the range-topping S-Phyre model.

The insoles offer little arch support and are quite flimsy. I would recommend buying an aftermarket insole that offers a little more support and is tailored to your feet.

On the outside of the shoes, the toe box area plays host to a small plastic bash guard, which takes the brunt of tyre scrapes when clipped in, and any bumps which result from walking around. I like this feature a lot and it’s something you can see on other popular road cycling shoes. It protects the material from being cut up by abrasive surfaces and makes cleaning tyre scrapes much easier.

The BOA dials are no-nonsense; simply twist clockwise to tighten and pull out to release the tension. BOA dials are close to being an industry standard for cycling shoes and work well for those who favour on-the-fly adjustment. Aside from the mechanics of the closure system, I do like how the shoe features a tongue that sits on your foot and then a cushioned strap is pulled over the top of the tongue by the BOA, meaning pressure distribution is kept nice and even.

The ride

I first used these shoes when training indoors. I find this a nice way to check I’m happy with the cleat position and get used to how they feel in a more controlled environment. The first thing I noticed was how stiff the soles were. Rated as a ‘10’ on Shimano’s stiffness chart, the RC703s are only bested by the range-topping S-Phyres at ‘12’, and it left me wanting for very little. I felt connected to the bike in a non-squishy or flimsy way. I was locked and ready to go.

After my initial indoor rides, the shoes joined me on a trip to Spain for further testing. One small issue prevailed after my first couple of rides - a pinch point on the upper right side of my left foot. The edge of the tongue was pushing into my foot and creating a fair bit of pain, which led to me loosening the shoe to relieve the issue.

The discomfort continued until I used the shoes to the point where the uppers softened and became more malleable, better accommodating my foot. My feet may have swollen in the heat further contributing to the issue; now I’m back in the chilly UK, either the shoes have worn in or my feet are no longer a little bloated. The fact is, whatever has stopped the issue, the shoes now fit much better than they did initially and are no longer causing me any pain.

Value and conclusions

The Shimano RC703’s cost £220, or $250. The easy comparison to make is against the range toppers, which is where Shimano claims the trickle-down tech these shoes benefit from originates. The RC903s cost £349 or $450, which is a big leap in cost. The RC903s are lighter, feature better ventilation, offer more stiffness and are shod with fancier BOA dials, but the cost to get there is significant.

If you are looking for a pair of shoes that perform at a level that is almost incomprehensibly close to the RC903’s, then these won’t disappoint. The range of sizes available in both standard and wide fits is comprehensive and the comparative value is hard to ignore.

Of course, be sure to wear them in, because they get better the more you use them. I'd also suggest getting some insoles that provide the correct amount of arch support too. Finally if you, like me, love a white pair of shoes, then select your riding days carefully based on the latest weather forecast.

Specs

• Price: £220.00 / $250.00
• Weight: 488 grams
• Fastening: BOA Fit System with two L6Z dials
• Material: Synthetic leather upper
• Sole: Carbon, stiffness rating 10
• Colours: Black, White, Sage Green