Shimano SH-RP9 Cycling Shoe - SMU - Men's

Sooner or later, the time will come when you'll need a new pair of cycling shoes. You owe it to yourself since you put your old shoes through the ringer on fast group rides, countless base miles, and the occasional (but inevitable) crit pileup. We all want a suitably stiff shoe that is lightweight but this doesn't mean squat if the fit isn't great and they hurt your feet. Shimano's SH-RP9 Cycling Shoes feature lightweight carbon soles for putting down the power and ample ventilation so your feet stay cool as a cucumber even during a July Tuesday Night Worlds ride. This version of the SH-RP9 is in a limited edition blue color that adds a touch of bling to your pedal stroke. The RP9 is Shimano's flagship shoe in the Road Performance lineup and is every bit capable of racing, yet comfortable enough so you can take in the scenery without the distraction of aching feet if you're on a bike vacation. This year's model received some changes. Shimano removed the traditional ratcheting buckle and one of the hook-and-loop straps, replacing them with a Boa dial. This minimized approach is not only an upgrade to the aesthetics, it also improves the fit and makes getting in and out of the shoes quick and easy. The synthetic leather upper is dotted with perforations and hugs your foot with gentle restraint, so the support is always there and your feet can breathe. A lower hook and loop strap remains, but the extra strap and buckle are removed in favor of a Boa system that adjusts to fit your foot perfectly with micro adjustment whether its at mile 70 of a gran fondo or 1km before the city limit sign. The carbon sole scores a 10 out of 12 on Shimano's stiffness scale, offering plenty of backbone so virtually no watts are lost from your pedal stroke to the pedal. An external, shaped heel cup anchors the back of your foot, minimizing heel slip when launching an attack on a steep canyon road. An EVA foam insole provides comfort for long days when the rides are measured in smiles ...