Shimano

SH-R260 Shoes - Men's

For its men's SH-R260 Shoes, Shimano incorporates all of the key features that inform the functionality of the top-tier R321 shoes while trimming the extraneous features without sacrificing comfort or efficiency. The result is a difference comparable to comparing Shimano's mechanical Dura-Ace with the Di2 group: the latter is technically superior but the former is still world class and more than adequate for the self-sponsored racer. Of the impressive list of features on the R260s' spec sheet, the customization afforded by the shoes' heat-moldable uppers, the adjustable insoles, and the Dynalast design are the standouts.

Shimano's proprietary Dynalast construction increases 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 sole is one of two areas where the R260 makes concessions to the R321, with the former rating an 11 on Shimano's stiffness scale as opposed to the latter's perfect 12. It also doesn't include the Hollow Channel technology of the more expensive model, so the net result is a claimed weight gain of 7g (size 40) and slight drop in efficiency. The upshot is that the R260's sole is a touch more forgiving, with a corresponding drop in the amount of road noise coming through the shoes into your feet. The soles are finished with an air intake system that you can enjoy during the summer and easily cover with toe caps come the cooler months.

On top of that impressive list of palmares, the R260 shoes also boast all the same technology of the less expensive R171 model. This includes the Dynalast construction detailed above, a stabilizing heel cup, an anti-odor interior, and Teijin synthetic leather uppers that resist stretching so your fit remains unaltered during long days in the saddle. The fit is dialed with a ratcheting buckle and two hook-and-loop straps that pull the offset uppers around the foot rather than strapping them down for a fit that's secure without creating pressure points.