Shimano RP3 cycling shoes review

Shimano’s budget shoe has a quality construction, although the sole unit is a bit flexy

Shimano RP3
(Image credit: Cycling Studio)
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The Shimano RP3 shoes have a quality upper with a really comfortable fit. They’re easy to adjust when out riding, but are a bit let down by the flexy sole unit and overpadded upper. You get good ventilation but may find over time that you want something that gives a more connected pedal feel.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Ratchet adjustment

  • +

    Well vented

  • +

    Floating cleat bolts give extra adjustment for 3-bolt and 2-bolt cleats

  • +

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Flexy sole unit

  • -

    A bit over-padded and loose fitting for efficient pedalling

  • -

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The Shimano RP3 shoe benefits from a ratchet upper closure. This gives a firm hold on the foot, for good pedalling efficiency and leads to easy adjustment while on the move. Its not quite got the fine adjustability of the Bontrager Circuit’s Boa or a Velcro strap though.

The upper strap is nice and wide and the ratchet is positioned well to the side of the upper. This, coupled to the padded tongue, leads to comfortable distribution of pressure over the top of the foot.

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1