Shimano SH-RP5W Shoes

Shimano’s SH-RP5 Shoes are for the rider who is developing quickly, but is trying to limit budget outlays for other priorities. This is a mix of a basic package with high-performance features added.

The sole is a step up from the RP1, but has a number of similar features. It’s also a nylon sole, but here the glass-fiber reinforcing has been replaced by carbon fiber reinforcements. That makes the sole stiffer, an 8 on Shimano’s stiffness scale. there are holes for three-bolt mounting cleats, in other words, all standard road cleats should fit. There are air vents in the front of the soles for cooling your dogs on hot days. There are walking pads both front and rear, because no matter how much you ride, you’re always going to be walking a little.

The upper is made from a synthetic leather. One piece wraps around your foot, starting at the heel and going around to the heel. There are perforations in the side for venting hot feet, and a mesh panel over your toes for bringing fresh air into the shoe.

The biggest improvement might be the Boa and strap system securing your feet. The L6 Boa dial wraps the upper in two segments. This dial is directional—your tighten it only. And the direction of tightening is mirrored in the left and right shoes. That means one side you’ll tighten clockwise, the other counter-clockwise, but since they’re on opposite sides of your feet, you’ll intuitively sense it is the same direction. the L6 has a quick-release mechanism built in; you pull the dial up and all the cable tension disappears. The lower foot has a single hook-and-loop strap for adjusting the volume of the toe box. For most, this is a set-and-forget strap. you’ll do it once or twice, and probably leave it after that.

The shoe is finished with a deep heel cup.

The Shimano SH-RP5 cycling shoe weighs 275g in a size 42.