User submitted reviews
Review by ggswansonReviewed 3/27/2023by ggswansonCycling EnthusiastEastern MassachusettsStiff but comfortable, a good long distance shoe for all but the hottest climatesI took a chance on these shoes after persistent hot foot issues with my Bontrager shoes (regardless of insoles). Compared to the Bontrager the Shimano's feel downright plush on the inside, but the sole is super stiff. Plus the dual BOA adjusters allow for a snug but comfortable fit. Issues? While they have a ventilated sole, they still get a little warm in the summer, My feet are on the narrow side, and the RC701's are a true medium width. But the sizing is very accurate. A BIG plus is that there are alignment markings on the bottom of the shoe so anyone can mount a set of cleats accurately without a trip to the bike shop. My hot foot was not completely cured but it got a lot better, and almost completely cured by adding Ice Bug insoles.
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I took a chance on these shoes after persistent hot foot issues with my Bontrager shoes (regardless of insoles). Compared to the Bontrager the Shimano's feel downright plush on the inside, but the sole is super stiff. Plus the dual BOA adjusters allow for a snug but comfortable fit. Issues? While they have a ventilated sole, they still get a little warm in the summer, My feet are on the narrow side, and the RC701's are a true medium width. But the sizing is very accurate. A BIG plus is that there are alignment markings on the bottom of the shoe so anyone can mount a set of cleats accurately without a trip to the bike shop. My hot foot was not completely cured but it got a lot better, and almost completely cured by adding Ice Bug insoles.
Review by AnonymousReviewed 11/19/2021by AnonymousGreat value I started with the cheap shoes because I wasn't sure how much I'd ride. Bumped up to what I thought were mid grade Shimano and really wasn't that impressed over my "cheap" shoes. They were better, but not that much better. Finally decided to upgrade to carbon and decided on these bc of the price point. Great decision for me. They are a huge improvement in feeling and being able to tighten them down. Someday I'll probably get risky and try the high end stuff but for now these are great over the cheap stuff and still reasonably priced.
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I started with the cheap shoes because I wasn't sure how much I'd ride. Bumped up to what I thought were mid grade Shimano and really wasn't that impressed over my "cheap" shoes. They were better, but not that much better. Finally decided to upgrade to carbon and decided on these bc of the price point. Great decision for me. They are a huge improvement in feeling and being able to tighten them down. Someday I'll probably get risky and try the high end stuff but for now these are great over the cheap stuff and still reasonably priced.
Review by DavidReviewed 9/2/2021by DavidSouth of Denver, CO1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Great shoes!I purchased these Shimano RC701's to replace an earlier model Shimano R171's with Velcro and ratchet strap. I went with these Shimano 701's because I assumed the fit would be similar because I tried in several different brands and models years ago and selected the 171's. Luckily the fit is virtually the same. The BOA adjusters allow infinite amount of adjustment. The sole is very stiff to allow power to the pedals. Very satisfied with my purchase.
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I purchased these Shimano RC701's to replace an earlier model Shimano R171's with Velcro and ratchet strap. I went with these Shimano 701's because I assumed the fit would be similar because I tried in several different brands and models years ago and selected the 171's. Luckily the fit is virtually the same. The BOA adjusters allow infinite amount of adjustment. The sole is very stiff to allow power to the pedals. Very satisfied with my purchase.
Review by bjedgReviewed 7/31/2021by bjedgCycling EnthusiastAnn Arbor, MichiganGood shoes but weak BoasThe only disappointing thing about these is that the Boas loosen after about 15-20 minutes--sooner on rougher roads or gravel. At first I thought maybe I just under-tightened the Boas when I started out but this happens consistently on every ride. They don't loosen to the point of falling off, but the point of a cycling shoe is to hold tight and transfer force through the whole pedal cycle and these Boas loosen to the point where that is compromised.
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The only disappointing thing about these is that the Boas loosen after about 15-20 minutes--sooner on rougher roads or gravel. At first I thought maybe I just under-tightened the Boas when I started out but this happens consistently on every ride. They don't loosen to the point of falling off, but the point of a cycling shoe is to hold tight and transfer force through the whole pedal cycle and these Boas loosen to the point where that is compromised.
Review by MkeyReviewed 1/21/2021by MkeyCycling EnthusiastHouston, TX1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Love my new RC701sMy previous shoes (Shimano R171s) which I loved, were damaged in a cycling accident and needed replacement. Doing some research, it seemed like the RC701 was the logical replacement. I love these shoes. Comfortable, stylish, and Boas instead of Velcro, and a great price point. While the Boas cannot be turned the other direction to loosen them, I find that is not an issue for me. I usually keep them a little loose to start my ride and give them a little twist if I need to later. The soles are quite stiff and I really haven't noticed any difference riding from my old beloved R171s. It you don't want to spent S-Phyre money for a great shoe, the RC701is a great choice.
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My previous shoes (Shimano R171s) which I loved, were damaged in a cycling accident and needed replacement. Doing some research, it seemed like the RC701 was the logical replacement. I love these shoes. Comfortable, stylish, and Boas instead of Velcro, and a great price point. While the Boas cannot be turned the other direction to loosen them, I find that is not an issue for me. I usually keep them a little loose to start my ride and give them a little twist if I need to later. The soles are quite stiff and I really haven't noticed any difference riding from my old beloved R171s. It you don't want to spent S-Phyre money for a great shoe, the RC701is a great choice.
Review by GeorgiaJeffReviewed 12/24/2020by GeorgiaJeffCycling EnthusiastMiddle Georgia, USA1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Comfortable with irritating Tongue These are really comfortable and great for warmer riding. The sole is plenty stiff and the shoe fits comfortably around my foot. The double BOA system really gives you a lot of flexibility when trying to properly tighten the shoe to your foot; you can easily tighten and loosen to get a good feeling fit without over or under tightening the shoe and creating a hot spot. My only complaint is when putting the shoe on the tongue is hard to grip to keep it from slipping to one side or being pushed down. This is because the tongue has a "V" cut in the top which removes the part of the tongue you'd usually grasp to hold it in place while pulling on the shoe. This isn't a "deal breaker" but it is still frustrating. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase and as I've always been, happy with Bike Tires Direct's service.
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These are really comfortable and great for warmer riding. The sole is plenty stiff and the shoe fits comfortably around my foot. The double BOA system really gives you a lot of flexibility when trying to properly tighten the shoe to your foot; you can easily tighten and loosen to get a good feeling fit without over or under tightening the shoe and creating a hot spot. My only complaint is when putting the shoe on the tongue is hard to grip to keep it from slipping to one side or being pushed down. This is because the tongue has a "V" cut in the top which removes the part of the tongue you'd usually grasp to hold it in place while pulling on the shoe. This isn't a "deal breaker" but it is still frustrating. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase and as I've always been, happy with Bike Tires Direct's service.
Review by PaulReviewed 9/11/2020by PaulCycling EnthusiastIndiana2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Fantastic for my feet on long rides. ive struggled to find cycling shoes that are comfortable on longer rides. every other shoe ive tried started giving me hot spots around mile 20 and ive just had to deal with the discomfort. i decided to try these out and boy am i glad i did. the toe box is generous and comfortable. i did a 50+ mile ride the day after i got these and at mile 50 my feet felt great. no hot spots at all. easy to adjust on the fly if need be as well which is nice. overall im very happy with these so far.
also the shimano size chart is different from your standard EU to US sizing. i got a 48 based on shimanos chart (usually i wear a 46-47EU, 12US) and they fit perfectly for my size 12US feet.
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ive struggled to find cycling shoes that are comfortable on longer rides. every other shoe ive tried started giving me hot spots around mile 20 and ive just had to deal with the discomfort. i decided to try these out and boy am i glad i did. the toe box is generous and comfortable. i did a 50+ mile ride the day after i got these and at mile 50 my feet felt great. no hot spots at all. easy to adjust on the fly if need be as well which is nice. overall im very happy with these so far.
also the shimano size chart is different from your standard EU to US sizing. i got a 48 based on shimanos chart (usually i wear a 46-47EU, 12US) and they fit perfectly for my size 12US feet.
Review by Back roads fanReviewed 8/24/2020by Back roads fanCycling EnthusiastCentral VermontGood value, light and stiffI upgraded to these shoes when they were on sale, from almost 20-year-old lace-up Lake shoes. The boa system makes it so much quicker and easier to put on and remove the shoes. I am still getting used to how to fine tune the tightness of the two boas. The action is so smooth that it is easy to over tighten the lower adjuster. I find that I need to leave the tightness less than what I thought was needed and make small changes to optimize the fit.
The ventilation is good as advertised. I can feel the air move through the shoe when it is hot out.
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I upgraded to these shoes when they were on sale, from almost 20-year-old lace-up Lake shoes. The boa system makes it so much quicker and easier to put on and remove the shoes. I am still getting used to how to fine tune the tightness of the two boas. The action is so smooth that it is easy to over tighten the lower adjuster. I find that I need to leave the tightness less than what I thought was needed and make small changes to optimize the fit.
The ventilation is good as advertised. I can feel the air move through the shoe when it is hot out.
Review by East Bay CyclistReviewed 4/29/2019by East Bay CyclistCycling EnthusiastSF Bay Area4 of 4 customers found this review helpful.Roomy and well ventilatedI've always worn Shimano cycling shoes because they offer a nice size toe box for me, not that I have big toes but they have always been roomier than say SIDI for example. The RC7's are spot on, plus they seem well ventilated for those hot summer rides coming up. Not the stiffest sole I've experienced, but great for me. Lightweight carbon sole and of very comfortable. I love the twin BOA dials for getting a snug fit. The shoe last seems to be the same as previous models so I bought my usual size (46) without any worry.
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I've always worn Shimano cycling shoes because they offer a nice size toe box for me, not that I have big toes but they have always been roomier than say SIDI for example. The RC7's are spot on, plus they seem well ventilated for those hot summer rides coming up. Not the stiffest sole I've experienced, but great for me. Lightweight carbon sole and of very comfortable. I love the twin BOA dials for getting a snug fit. The shoe last seems to be the same as previous models so I bought my usual size (46) without any worry.
Review by EricReviewed 4/25/2019by EricCycling EnthusiastSouthern Colorado3 of 3 customers found this review helpful.Nice shoes!These are my first try of a shoe with the BOA dial system. My other shoes are entry level with velcro closures- not bad but was wondering what the improvement in a nicer shoe would bring to the riding experience.
There are definite differences. The new shoes feel a bit lighter than the old, I like the BOA and the snugness of the fit, the soles are very stiff and it feels like an actual improvement in power transfer, especially out of the saddle.
The cons it's difficult to get them on, and they chafe a bit above the heel the back of the shoe. I'm thinking this will improve as they break in with use.
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These are my first try of a shoe with the BOA dial system. My other shoes are entry level with velcro closures- not bad but was wondering what the improvement in a nicer shoe would bring to the riding experience.
There are definite differences. The new shoes feel a bit lighter than the old, I like the BOA and the snugness of the fit, the soles are very stiff and it feels like an actual improvement in power transfer, especially out of the saddle.
The cons it's difficult to get them on, and they chafe a bit above the heel the back of the shoe. I'm thinking this will improve as they break in with use.
Review by BReviewed 9/2/2021by BMarylandThey're awesomeThe fit is right on. Clean style and solid boa dials. I'm very happy. Might have gone top of the line, but these are great and were almost half the price- I'm not a racer, but a solid a rider.
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The fit is right on. Clean style and solid boa dials. I'm very happy. Might have gone top of the line, but these are great and were almost half the price- I'm not a racer, but a solid a rider.
Review by AaronReviewed 5/21/2021by AaronSavannah,Ga2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Awesome and stiffThe shoe is really stiff and responsive, power transfer felt spot on. The aeration is so good specially this hot and humid weather. I had some long rides a couple of times and never felt any pressure spots. The boa dials are great in spreading the tension and provides good fitting. The best thing on this is that I got it on a discounted price.
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The shoe is really stiff and responsive, power transfer felt spot on. The aeration is so good specially this hot and humid weather. I had some long rides a couple of times and never felt any pressure spots. The boa dials are great in spreading the tension and provides good fitting. The best thing on this is that I got it on a discounted price.
Review by CarbonfiberkidReviewed 4/10/2021by Carbonfiberkid1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Comfortable shoesI I haven't done any long rides yet but so far on the shorter rides, 30 minutes, on the trainer these are really comfortable. With the short tongue and BOA system they are a little harder to put on
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I I haven't done any long rides yet but so far on the shorter rides, 30 minutes, on the trainer these are really comfortable. With the short tongue and BOA system they are a little harder to put on
Review by AaronReviewed 3/25/2021by AaronSavannah,Ga2 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Awesome and stiffThe shoe is really stiff and responsive, power transfer felt spot on. The aeration is so good specially this hot and humid weather. I had some long rides a couple of times and never felt any pressure spots. The boa dials are great in spreading the tension and provides good fitting. The best thing on this is that I got it on a discounted price.
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The shoe is really stiff and responsive, power transfer felt spot on. The aeration is so good specially this hot and humid weather. I had some long rides a couple of times and never felt any pressure spots. The boa dials are great in spreading the tension and provides good fitting. The best thing on this is that I got it on a discounted price.
Review by AnonymousReviewed 12/28/2020by AnonymousCycling EnthusiastNew Braunfels, Texas1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Love these shoes, true to size compared to Bontrager shoes, I do not compete anymore but love a light weight, stiff sole shoe and these fit the bill. Haven't ridden in them enough to find anything bad with them. I love the little extra room I feel I have in the toe box area. Would buy them again from what I can tell so far. I wear an 11 in almost all my casual shoes and the 46 was a perfect fit.
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I do not compete anymore but love a light weight, stiff sole shoe and these fit the bill. Haven't ridden in them enough to find anything bad with them. I love the little extra room I feel I have in the toe box area. Would buy them again from what I can tell so far. I wear an 11 in almost all my casual shoes and the 46 was a perfect fit.
Review by Mike HReviewed 12/31/2020by Mike HNew Jersey1 of 1 customers found this review helpful.Excellent shoe, well vented and stiff soleI've been wearing Fizik for years and was ready to try something new. I bought the white and they are a beautiful shoe. Well ventilated, and very stiff sole. As far as sizing, I am a 9 1/2 and I bought these in a 45. I like my cycling shoes slightly large to accommodate swelling in hot temps. These fit perfect, and have a very roomy toe box.
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I've been wearing Fizik for years and was ready to try something new. I bought the white and they are a beautiful shoe. Well ventilated, and very stiff sole. As far as sizing, I am a 9 1/2 and I bought these in a 45. I like my cycling shoes slightly large to accommodate swelling in hot temps. These fit perfect, and have a very roomy toe box.
Review by AnonymousReviewed 10/27/2020by AnonymousCycling EnthusiastMaineComfortable yet rigid and good for high instepsPros: I use these shoes for road and gravel riding. They are responsive on climbs, especially the rigidity provides stability and power. I have a high instep and wide feet. These are great for accommodating both. I would buy them again.
Cons"For some reason the tongue can get pushed into the shoe when I am putting them on. Very small detail given the quality and performance of the shoe.
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Pros: I use these shoes for road and gravel riding. They are responsive on climbs, especially the rigidity provides stability and power. I have a high instep and wide feet. These are great for accommodating both. I would buy them again.
Cons"For some reason the tongue can get pushed into the shoe when I am putting them on. Very small detail given the quality and performance of the shoe.
Review by Solomona8Reviewed 10/9/2020by Solomona8Cycling EnthusiastSF Bay AreaSuper comfy, stiff, and good fit for a wide toe boxMy foot is a challenge to fit because I have a wide toe box and a narrow heel. The Shimano RC 701, fit my foot really well throughout the entire ride. I am > 200lbs, and they remain stiff even when I stand on the pedals. I really enjoy riding with them.
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My foot is a challenge to fit because I have a wide toe box and a narrow heel. The Shimano RC 701, fit my foot really well throughout the entire ride. I am > 200lbs, and they remain stiff even when I stand on the pedals. I really enjoy riding with them.
Review by AnonymousReviewed 4/13/2020by AnonymousCompetitive RacerPortland, OR6 of 6 customers found this review helpful.Stiff, light, I wanted a solid Shimano road shoe with double-BOA and this fit the bill. They feel very stiff (10 out of 12 according to Shimano's own scale, FWIW) and the fit is great, I have wide-ish feet and Shimano usually works well for me. The BOA is super convenient, I've found myself making adjustments a couple times while riding which I haven't done before.
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I wanted a solid Shimano road shoe with double-BOA and this fit the bill. They feel very stiff (10 out of 12 according to Shimano's own scale, FWIW) and the fit is great, I have wide-ish feet and Shimano usually works well for me. The BOA is super convenient, I've found myself making adjustments a couple times while riding which I haven't done before.
Review by MKE bikerReviewed 11/26/2019by MKE bikerCycling Enthusiast530512 of 2 customers found this review helpful.Awesome shoeGreat looking shoe. Feet are really locked in with no slipping. My only complaint is that the material buckles on the insteparch area. Looks a little wide and sloppy looking down on it. It has happened with other Shimano shoes I have owned. Other than that awesome shoe.
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Great looking shoe. Feet are really locked in with no slipping. My only complaint is that the material buckles on the insteparch area. Looks a little wide and sloppy looking down on it. It has happened with other Shimano shoes I have owned. Other than that awesome shoe.