New: The Power Couple! Shimano S-Phyre RC910 shoes and SPD-SLR pedals

Shimano SPD-SLR is Shimano's new road platform, designed to re-align shoes, pedals, and cleats into a single cohesive system. The new S-Phyre RC910 and RC810 shoes make use of the Shimano Dynalast 2.0 fit, which is far more than a simple model number update: The last is wider, the stack height is the lowest Shimano has ever engineered, and the cleats are even lighter and easier to clip into.

Shimano calls it The Power Couple: shoe, pedal, and cleat developed side-by-side rather than in isolation. Together, they embody Pushing Together, a unified setup that transfers your power to the crank as unfiltered as possible.

In this blog, we will guide you through all the updates: What Dynalast 2.0 does for your forefoot, why a 12.5 mm stack height genuinely matters, which cleat fits your riding style, and which of the two new road shoes belongs on your bike. By the end, you will know precisely what you need.

• Shimano Dynalast 2.0

• SPD-SLR Pedals

• SPD-SLR Cleats

• Shimano S-Phyre RC910

• Shimano RC810

• Build your Power Couple setup

• Conclusion

• Frequently asked questions

Shimano Dynalast 2.0 – Room for your toes at last!

Shimano Dynalast 2.0 is the new last driving Shimano’s road shoe range, and the most significant update lies in the forefoot. Where the previous generation felt narrow to many riders, you now get up to 7% more volume in the toe box.

The principle is simple: An ultra-stiff carbon sole is fantastic for power transfer but keeps your heel, arch, and toes under tension throughout your ride. Shimano measured hundreds of feet to build a brand-new last around real anatomy, creating extra space right where pressure points occur.

What this means on the bike, is that your toes can spread naturally. This provides a wider support base on the pedal, delivering better balance and stability when pushing out of the saddle. Power transfer remains completely uncompromised, as sole stiffness is unchanged.

The second major update: three width options instead of two—Narrow, Medium (or Standard), and Wide—offered in a unisex fit across top-tier models. All three are roomier than the outgoing RC903. Check your current setup below to see what you gain.

Narrow fit – formerly RC903 W
3 mm roomier at the toes, 1 mm roomier at the ball of the foot, and 3% more toe box volume.

Medium (or Standard) fit – formerly RC903
3 mm roomier at the toes, 2 mm roomier at the ball of the foot, and 7% more toe box volume.

Wide fit – formerly RC903 Wide
6 mm roomier at the toes, 3 mm roomier at the ball of the foot, and 7% more toe box volume.

Note: Figures provided by Shimano based on size EU 43.

If you stay with your usual width, you will experience a clearer, roomier fit. If you are deciding between two RC810 / RC910 widths, the Wide version offers 6 mm more toe width and 5 mm more ball width than the Medium model.

This resolves a common question: "If I select Wide, do I actually get the Wide-specific version?" Yes. The Wide fit uses a dedicated, wider last rather than an upsized upper. Base your choice on the width of your forefoot rather than shoe size alone.

SPD-SLR – The new road platform with the lowest stack height ever

SPD-SLR replaces SPD-SL as Shimano’s premier road pedal platform. The headline gain is stack height: The distance from the top of the cleat to the centre of the pedal axle is now down to 12.5 mm—the lowest Shimano has ever produced.

Why does this matter? Bringing your foot closer to the axle reduces leverage between you and the pedal. Connection feels direct, stability improves, and energy loss through play or lateral movement is minimised—noticeably so during sprints or steep climbs.

Clipping in is equally refined. The entry angle is reduced to 10.5 degrees (down from 15.5 degrees on SPD-SL), paired with a larger contact target to make clipping in from traffic lights effortless.

The cleats are up to 22% lighter than SPD-SL sets due to the removal of extra spacers. Adjustment range has also expanded: New soles offer 16 mm of fore-aft adjustment (up from 12 mm), providing ample room to dial in your cleat position.

The platform launches in two tiers: the flagship Shimano Dura-Ace R9300 SPD-SLR and the close-predecessor performance option, the Shimano Ultegra R8200 SPD-SLR. Crucial detail: SPD-SLR cleats are not compatible with SPD-SL pedals, and vice versa. Unlocking the full performance of this platform requires matching new pedals with new cleats.

Shimano Ultegra R8200 SPD-SLR Carbon

149,99

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Shimano Dura-Ace R9300 SPD-SLR Carbon

249,-

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The new SPD-SLR cleats – Red, yellow, blue, and grey

For SPD-SLR, Shimano retains its classic colour-coded cleat float system, though with updated specifications: Red is fixed (0°), Yellow offers smooth motion (3°), and Blue sits in between (1°).

CL-SL100 (Red / 0° Float): Completely rigid with zero play. Designed for racers who know their exact biomechanical setup and refuse to sacrifice a single watt.

CL-SL110 (Yellow / 3° Float): Allows gentle foot rotation through the pedal stroke to relieve knee strain. The recommended starting point for most riders.

CL-SL120 (Blue / 1° Float): A balanced middle ground—just enough float to protect knees while retaining a direct, race-ready feel.

And then there is the new addition, grey:

CL-SL130 (Grey / 3° Float): Engineered for shoes with fixed bolt holes rather than sliding slots. This allows you to run SPD-SLR pedals with almost any 3-bolt road shoe, including other brands. Note that while convenient, this cleat bypasses the ultra-low stack height and weight savings of dedicated soles.

Shimano SPD-SLR

From 25,99

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Note on package contents: Shoes rarely include cleats, whereas pedals typically do. Double-check product specifications before ordering to ensure you have everything needed for your weekend ride. Discover all sets in our cleat range.

Shimano S-Phyre RC910 – Flagship performance in three widths

The Shimano S-Phyre RC910 is Shimano’s elite road shoe, featuring a full carbon sole rated at Stiffness Index 12 alongside the complete Dynalast 2.0 last. It is built for competitive cyclists seeking maximum watt transfer.

Heel hold is secured by a carbon fibre heel cup with anti-twist stabilisation to prevent heel roll during out-of-the-saddle efforts. The redesigned upper wraps seamlessly from toe to instep, paired with strategic perforations for airflow.

Beneath the Carbon Hollow Core midsole sits the new SPD-SLR interface, complete with expanded cleat adjustment ranges and clear alignment markings.

The RC910’s defining feature is fit selection: available in Narrow, Medium, and Wide in a single unisex sizing structure. The separate women's model is discontinued—riders using the previous RC903 W transition to the Narrow RC910, which offers 3 mm more toe room than its predecessor. A narrow foot no longer requires a cramped toe box.

An extra feature under the sole is the Archsync pad (approx. 6 x 12 mm) directly beneath the arch. The Mid-height arch support comes pre-installed, with a High-height insert included in the box for quick, tool-free swaps. Discover the Shimano S-Phyre RC910.

Shimano S-PHYRE RC910

RRP 419,-

378,-

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Shimano RC810 – Shared last and platform with everyday versatility

The Shimano RC810 road bike shoe shares key engineering with the flagship model: the Dynalast 2.0 last and the SPD-SLR pedal platform, offered at a more accessible price point.

Its carbon midsole features a Stiffness Index of 10 rather than 12. While remaining extremely rigid under load, it introduces slight compliance—a characteristic many riders prefer for endurance rides lasting four hours or more.

Hollow channels run through the sole to drain water and channel air, keeping your feet cooler in heat and dry after rain. Heel hold is managed by an external stabiliser with an extended midsole, complemented by dual BOA Li2 dials for micro-adjustable tension in both directions.

The RC810 is offered in Medium (or Standard) and Wide unisex fits. (Riders seeking a Narrow fit should look to the RC910.)

Real-world note: This remains a race-oriented sole. For relaxed or purely recreational riding, a less aggressive model may prove more comfortable over long hours.

Shimano RC810

RRP 319,-

288,-

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How to build your Power Couple setup

Configuring your ideal shoe, pedal, and cleat setup comes down to three steps:

1. Select your shoe and width: When wearing your current shoes, if your toes press against the upper or feel numb after an hour, select Wide for your new shoes. If you must crank BOA dials to their limit to prevent foot movement, select Narrow (RC910 range). To determine your size, measure your foot length in millimetres and use the size chart on the product page. Shimano shoes run snug; foot measurements are far more reliable than sneaker sizes.

2. Select your pedal: If you prefer using your existing SPD-SL pedals, the new RC910 and RC810 shoes feature a standard 3-bolt pattern compatible with SPD-SL or Look Keo cleats (though you will forego the low stack height and tighter engagement of the new platform). To upgrade fully, choose between the Dura-Ace R9300 or Ultegra R8200 pedals.

3. Select your cleat: Match your cleat to your pedal system rather than your shoe. SPD-SLR pedals require CL-SL100 (Red), CL-SL110 (Yellow), or CL-SL120 (Blue). If unsure, opt for Yellow (3° float). Cleats are supplied as standard with the pedals; check carefully which ones are included with the pedals you have chosen.

Assembly tip: Torque cleat bolts to 5–6 Nm max, no tighter. Screwing into carbon requires care; stripped threads are not covered under warranty.

Would you like to have a look or try the shoes on? You can check stock availability on the product page and pop into one of our Superstores, where we will take our time to help you find your size and width.

Conclusion

The new generation of Shimano SPD-SLR combines two features that are each worthwhile in their own right: a last that finally accommodates wider feet, and a pedal system that positions your foot closer to the axle than ever before.

If you compete in races and want the stiffest, most secure and most refined shoe, the Shimano S-Phyre RC910 is the one for you, with a choice of three widths. If you train hard but prefer a slightly more flexible fit on long rides, the Shimano RC810 does the job just as well for less money.

Whichever you choose, you will not need to replace your pedals straight away—both shoes are compatible with your current 3-hole cleats. Feel free to have a look at our road cycling shoes or visit one of our Superstores to try them on.

Frequently asked questions – Shimano SPD-SLR pedals & cleats

What is the difference between SPD-SL and SPD-SLR?
SPD-SL is the previous generation; SPD-SLR is Shimano’s updated road platform featuring a lower 12.5 mm stack height (the lowest Shimano has ever made), a narrower 10.5° engagement angle, and cleats up to 22% lighter due to the elimination of extra spacers. Please note that SPD-SL and SPD-SLR components are not cross-compatible.

What is the difference between the Dura-Ace R9300 and Ultegra R8200 pedals?
Both offer identical 12.5 mm stack heights and 10.5° engagement angles, so, in use, they feel very similar. The difference lies in materials and finish: Dura-Ace R9300 uses premium lightweight materials and finishes for competitive weight savings, while Ultegra R8200 delivers near-identical functional performance at a lower price point. If you participate in races and every gram counts, go for Dura-Ace. For virtually everyone else, Ultegra is the smarter choice.

Which SPD-SLR cleats should I choose?
Base your choice on float preferences: 

• CL-SL110 Yellow (3° float) suits most riders and is the best option if you are not sure; 

• CL-SL120 Blue (1° float) offers a firmer connection with slight float and is a great choice if you want to take the strain off your knees a bit; 

• CL-SL100 Red (0° float) provides a completely locked-in feel and is intended for riders who know exactly how their foot should be positioned;

• CL-SL130 Grey (also 3° float) offers maximum fore-aft adjustment for fixed-hole soles or positional dialing. It is, however, slightly heavier than the other three.

Discover all Shimano SPD-SLR cleat options here.

Do pedals come as a pair?
Yes, pedals are sold in pairs (left and right) and typically include a set of cleats with mounting hardware. If you order separate cleats, you will also receive one set for both shoes with mounting hardware. So you don’t need to place two separate orders.

What tools are needed for installation?
Pedals require a pedal spanner or Allen key (remember: the left pedal is left-hand threaded and loosens clockwise). Cleats require an Allen key and a torque wrench set strictly to 5–6 Nm. Screwing into carbon requires care; stripped threads are not covered under warranty.

Frequently asked questions – The new Shimano road shoes

How do I choose the correct shoe size?
Measure your foot in millimetres from heel to longest toe and compare it to the size chart on the product page. Shimano sizing runs small; your calculated size will often be half to a full size larger than your casual shoe size.

Will I receive a true Wide fit if I select Wide?
Yes. Shimano Wide models use a dedicated wide last (e.g., size 43 Wide provides 6 mm more toe width and 5 mm more ball width than Medium). So choose your width based on how your forefoot feels in your current shoes, not on your shoe size.

What is the difference between the Shimano S-Phyre RC910 and Shimano RC810 road shoes?
Both feature the Dynalast 2.0 fit and SPD-SLR sole compatibility, so, in terms of fit and pedal feel, they are very similar. The Shimano S-Phyre RC910 features a Stiffness Index 12 carbon sole, anti-twist heel cup, 3 width options, and maximum wrap. The Shimano RC810 features Index 10 stiffness, ventilation channels, external heel stabiliser, and 2 width options. If you are looking for a narrow fit, the RC910 is your only option.

Can I use the new Shimano RC910 and RC810 shoes with my existing pedals?
Yes. Both models use standard 3-bolt mounting, making them compatible with existing SPD-SL or Look Keo cleats. So you don’t need to replace your pedals straight away, but will then miss out on the benefits of the new platform, such as the 12.5 mm stack height and the smaller entry angle.

Are there women-specific models?
No. Both models use a unisex sizing structure. Riders previously using RC903 W models should select the Narrow fit in the RC910 range, which is 3 mm wider at the toes than what you are used to.

Do my new road shoes come with cleats?
No. Road cycling shoes rarely include cleats, whereas pedals typically do. Double-check product specifications before ordering to ensure you have everything needed for your weekend ride.