Cycling through winter can be a fantastic experience, but battling cold feet is a common misery. For riders like me, who find that standard cycling shoes and even shoe covers just don’t cut it when temperatures drop, the Shimano SH-RW80 winter road Bike Sh might be the answer. After a recommendation from a friend, I invested in a pair from merlincycles.co.uk for $125.00, and they’ve transformed my cold-weather rides.
Fit and Comfort
One crucial point for anyone considering these Shimano bike sh is sizing. They definitely run smaller than Sidi shoes. I usually wear a size 44 in Sidi Genius 5 Pro-Mega, but for the SH-RW80, a size 46 was the perfect fit. This larger size provides ample toe box room, even when wearing thick wool socks like DeFeet Blaze. The shoe’s design, featuring three Velcro straps and an elastic neoprene ankle cuff, offers excellent adjustability. Once my feet are in, there are no pressure points or discomfort, even on longer rides.
Putting these bike sh on does require a little technique. The neoprene ankle cuff has a tendency to fold inwards, and the Velcro can snag on your socks. A simple solution is to hold the cuff away from your sock as you slide your foot in. Similarly, the insulated flap over the top of the foot can get pushed outwards. Just remember to pull it back into position once your foot is inside to maximize warmth.
Form and Functionality
Let’s be honest, these Shimano winter bike sh prioritize function over pure style. They resemble boots more than sleek road shoes, so if you’re aiming for maximum style points, these might not be your first choice. However, when the temperature drops, keeping your feet warm is paramount, and that’s where these shoes excel.
These bike sh are noticeably bulkier than my standard road shoes. I had to adjust my Speedplay cleats, positioning them as far inwards as possible to avoid heel rub against my bike’s chain stays. Initially, I worried this might affect my pedal stroke, but thankfully, it’s been a non-issue.
Functionally, the combination of Gore-Tex uppers, DURATHERM linings, glass fiber soles, and water-resistant cuffs is impressive. Paired with thick wool socks, these shoes keep my feet warm down to around 5°C / 40°F. With neoprene shoe covers added, I’ve experienced comfortable warmth even down to -10°C / 14°F during rides lasting up to four hours. I’ve also tested them in rain and even hail, and they’ve kept my feet dry. While some users have reported wet feet in very heavy rain or standing water, I haven’t encountered those conditions yet.
Durability and Overall Value
After around 1,500km in these bike sh, they still look almost new. There’s minimal scuffing on the heels, but otherwise, they’ve held up remarkably well. The reinforced heel and toe areas feel robust and built to last. The rubber inserts on the heel and toe aren’t replaceable, but show no signs of wear so far. Using cleat covers when walking undoubtedly helps protect them.
Overall, I’m extremely satisfied with the Shimano SH-RW80 winter bike sh. They effectively keep my feet warm and dry in cold, wet, and windy conditions, which is exactly what I needed. For their performance and durability, especially at the price I paid, they offer excellent value.
Strengths:
- Excellent warmth and dryness
- Comfortable fit
- Relatively lightweight for winter shoes
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Reflective elements for visibility
Weaknesses:
- Not the most stylish design
- Slightly fiddly to put on
- Speedplay users require SPD adapter for cleats
If you suffer from cold feet while cycling in winter, the Shimano SH-RW80 bike sh are a worthwhile investment. They provide the warmth and protection needed to enjoy your winter rides in comfort. Consider sharing your own experiences and reviews on RoadBikeReview.com to help other cyclists make informed decisions about their gear.
