Along with today’s announcement of wireless GRX gravel components and several new models of gravity-oriented cycling shoes, Shimano introduces a refreshed lineup of XC shoes for the other end of the riding spectrum. This includes redesigned versions of nearly all of the brand’s XC models from the entry-level XC1 to the high-performance XC7, offering something at every performance and price level. 

All of the latest XC models also come in men’s/unisex and women’s versions, and that includes the addition of the brand new women’s specific S-Phyre XC903 cross-country race shoes. Now, competitive female cross country, cyclocross, and gravel racers can get one of the best race shoes on the market with a women’s-specific last.

Shimano S-Phyre XC903W

Shimano’s top-tier cross-country race shoes now come in a women’s version. (all photos/Shimano)

Arguably, the highlight of Shimano’s new XC shoe lineup is the women’s version of the S-Phyre XC903. This top-tier cross-country race shoe utilizes the same materials, construction, and features as the existing XC903, but is built around a different last intended to better fit the shape of a woman’s foot. They include the same stiff carbon fiber sole, supple and well-ventilated synthetic uppers, and dual BOA Li2 dials for a precise fit. These shoes are comfortable, efficient, super light, and ready to drop the hammer whether you’re racing the clock or training for the next event.

XC903W Highlights

• Race-Tuned BOA® Fit System: Dual low-profile BOA Li2 dials permit precise on-the-fly micro-adjustment, while the shielded bottom dial is protected against accidental release from impacts
• Locked-In Fit: Heel cup with anti-twist stabilization assures optimally secure foot position during intense accelerations and sustained high-cadence efforts
• Breathability: Variable-size perforation holes in the upper increase ventilation and add elasticity, helping accommodate a wider variety of foot shapes
• Max Traction: Lightweight SHIMANO ULTREAD XC rubber outsole with technical tread pattern provides exceptional grip even on slick terrain
• Optimized Power Transfer: Stiff carbon sole with low stack height helps stabilize the foot for efficient all-day pedaling performance

The XC903W shoes are made for pure, uncompromised performance.

XC903 Specs

• Weight: 304 grams (size 43)
• Color: White
• Stiffness: 11
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $480 USD, €379.95

Shimano XC703 and XC703W

The updated XC703 shoes get a major style upgrade.

Stepping down a price tier, the new XC703 and XC703W shoes are arguably the best value in Shimano’s XC shoe lineup. These shoes are significantly less expensive than their S-Phyre siblings, yet they have similar styling, features, and performance. That cost saving comes with just a tiny increase in weight (~18 grams) and a slight reduction in sole stiffness to a 9 on Shimano’s rating scale. They’ve got a carbon-reinforced midsole, a seamless and heavily perforated synthetic upper, and dual BOA L6 dials for a secure fit. In addition to men’s/unisex and women’s versions, the XC703 also comes in wide sizes (40 to 48 EU) for those with wider-than-average feet.

XC703 and XC703W Specs

• Weight: 322 grams (size 43)
• Color: Black, Silver, Butterfly
• Women’s Color: Black
• Stiffness: 9
• Standard Sizes: 38-50
• Half Sizes: 41.5-46.5
• Wide Sizes: 40-48
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $260 USD, €229.95

Shimano XC503 and XC503W

The latest Shimano XC503 shoes.

In the middle of the range, the updated XC503 and XC503W are notably different than their predecessors. These shoes still slot into the same position in the lineup with a sub $200 price and moderately stiff carbon-reinforced soles with a rating of 7. Aesthetically, they’ve gotten a major overhaul, moving to a more streamlined upper with a single BOA L6C dial to snug them up. Similar to the XC703, the XC503 comes in men’s and women’s versions as well as wide sizes.

XC503 and XC503W Specs

• Weight: 310 grams (size 43)
• Color: Black, Sand Beige, Ice Blue
• Women’s Color: Black, Sand Beige
• Stiffness: 7
• Standard Sizes: 40-48
• Wide Sizes: 40-50
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $190 USD, €169.95

Shimano XC302 and XC302W

The affordable XC302 shoes get a style upgrade.

With style and technology trickling down from their more expensive siblings, the XC302 and XC302W are value-oriented cross-country shoes. The streamlined uppers and BOA closure look the part of more expensive shoes with a middling sole stiffness of 5 that’s well suited to recreational riding. In addition to men’s and women’s versions, the XC302 is also offered in wide sizes.

XC302 and XC302W Specs

• Weight: 308 grams (size 43)
• Color: Black, Ice Gray, Brown
• Women’s Color: Black, Surf Blue
• Stiffness: 5
• Standard Sizes: 40-48
• Wide Sizes: 40-52
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $140 USD, €119.95

Shimano XC102 and XC102W

The XC102 uses a simple velcro strap closure.

With a reasonable price and middle-of-the-road sole stiffness, the XC102 is the entry-level option in Shimano’s XC shoe lineup. These shoes skip the BOA dials in favor of simple velcro straps, but maintain sleek aesthetics for those seeking cycling shoes that won’t break the bank.

XC102 and XC102W Specs

• Weight: 313 grams (size 43)
• Color: Black, Olive
• Women’s Color: Black, Aqua Blue
• Stiffness: 5
• Standard Sizes: 40-48
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $120 USD, €99.95

New Shimano RC503 and RC503W Road Shoes

The RC503 shoes get a new look with updated uppers and a single BOA closure.

Piggybacking on the launch of the new XC mountain bike shoes, Shimano is also introducing an updated version of its mid-range RC503 and RC503W road shoes. These primarily get a style upgrade with a revised and heavily perforated upper and a single BOA dial to secure them over the top of the foot. They now look nearly as sleek as their much more expensive siblings, along with a sole stiffness rating of 8, which should suit most recreational cycling well.

RC503 and RC503W Specs

• Weight: 254 grams (size 43)
• Color: Black, White, Cyber Blue
• Women’s Color: Black, White,
  Airy Blue
• Stiffness: 8
• Standard Sizes: 38-48
• Wide Sizes: 40-48
• Women’s Sizes: 36-44
• MSRP: $190 USD, €159.95

New XC Shimano Shoes: Availability

Shimano’s latest XC shoes officially launch today, although they don’t appear to be available just yet. On the Shimano site, all of the models say “coming soon, with dates ranging between August and September of this year. You can find out more about all of them, eventually purchase some for yourself, or find a dealer near you on the brand’s website.

ride.shimano.com

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