SHIMANO ROAD SHOE SH-R171W -47

o translate it into terms of Shimano's groupset hierarchy, the SH-R171 Cycling Shoes might best be thought of as Ultegra-tier. They combine a carbon outsole; Shimano's new, doubly customizable closure system; and a non-stretch, highly ventilated synthetic upper — all while losing a claimed 14 grams over their predecessors, the R170s. Despite all these gains, they still don't hit you in the pocketbook, making them sort of two-faced shoes. Like Ultegra, their price appeals to the recreational cyclist, but they also bring the features, functionality, and distinctive style that we'd expect to find in a pro-level shoe.

The outsole may be the most important piece of any cycling shoe, as it's the point where power is inputted to the pedals. The SH-R171s' lightweight, stiff carbon fiber composite sole means that the shoes don't neglect this duty, and their lack of flex also helps to eliminate hot spots and distribute load away from your foot's metatarsal area.

Shimano's Dynalast construction also increases your pedal efficiency by a claimed .56% on each stroke. While that doesn't seem like much at first blush, any cyclist who's ridden for longer than two hours understands the importance of marginal gains like this. They can be the difference between finishing a group ride or race at the front or struggling to hang on. Dynalast involves lowering the toe-spring and heel section in relation to the arch and metatarsal areas. This creates an optimal pedaling angle on either side of the up-swing, so the dead time spot is shortened.

The last is covered by a synthetic leather upper that resists stretching so your fit remains unaltered during long days in the saddle. This is particularly important for the R171s because they incorporate an ingenious new ratcheting buckle closure that can be adjusted fore and aft, letting you dial the fit to an unprecedented level by changing the angle at which the strap tightens. The insole contributes to the fit by comfortably keeping your heel stable. You don't have to ratchet the straps down to the point of losing feeling in order to keep your heel from slipping.