What are the biggest differences in the Shimano Road Shoes (170/107/088)? Is it worth taking the step up from a cost standpoint?
The 170 is $200
The 107 is $150
The 088 is $120
Thanks!
Like with most bike shoes, it’s sole stiffness mostly. Quality of materials in the upper is probably the secondary reason. The 170 also has a moldable footbed.
Whether it’s worth the money depends on what you’re looking to do with them, how much you would wear them, etc. A quick search shows that Performance has them for $180 and Art’s Cyclery for $170, although they don’t have the have sizes that Trisports shows. For those prices, I’d go for the 170.
I just purchased a pair of 077’s (all velcro straps) which are the 088’s without the buckle … They were on sale at Performance Bike for 69.00 and overall, their quality is very good, especially for the price.
One of the things I was looking for was a stiff sole on the shoe since my current shoes flex a little more than I like. The 077/088 has a pretty stiff sole and for me are quite comfortable. As with all things fit related … a lot will come down to whether they fit you or not.
As for the mold-able soles … I’m pretty sure you can purchase those separately if you so desire for a more personalized fit.
Though I lust after some high $$$ shoes … and have purchase a pair in the past … there is little difference from lower level shoes to the higher level shoes other then weight and a few basic features, which I’ve never seen make much of a difference on the bike. If the shoe fits it doesn’t matter how much it costs … you will like it.
Anybody know if these fit the same for the most part? The store I went to has the 088 but not the 170? The size 8.9 fit perfect so wanted to order online but thought I would check
Generally, the fit is fairly consistent between these versions of Shimano Shoes.
I have the 2011 SH-R133 and I fit best in the size 9.7, which is consistent with the sizing of my Nike, Asics, Saucony running shoes (9.5).
A quick look on line shows that there are some good deals to be had on the R133 ($99). I think that they are a great shoe and would highly recommend them for road cycling. They look most similar in features to this year’s R170.
Main differences as you move up in price:
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weight is less
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Soles are stiffer
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Overall a closer, more sculpted fit
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High quality materials and higher thread-count stitching ( helps with durability and fit)
Cycling shoes, and what you use are really driven by fit. Buy the shoes that fit you best.
Another factor, is that if you take good care of them cycling shoes last for years. I’ve been riding in my current shoes for 3 years. They cost $300 retail. They still look practically brand new, despite moderate use. That’s why I always tend to spend more $$ and get better quality and fit, because that cost and investment lasts a long time.