Rapha kit and “reasonable pricing” don’t often appear together in launch articles. Hell, I just wrote a piece earlier about a $450 rain jacket they recently released. But their newest shoe offering is a step in the attainable direction. Yes – this launch comes off the heels (zing!) of the freshly redesigned PowerWeave shoes, clocking at a premium $480 for the pair. However, the newest shoe offering, simply named “road shoe”, trickles down the Rapha style in a sharp-looking all-day, price point performer.
Rapha Road Shoes – Familiar Shape, Friendlier Fit
At a glance, the new Rapha Road Shoes could pass for the Pro Team kicks. You’ve still got a clean, aero silhouette, a wraparound upper, and that race-ready vibe. But look closer, and you’ll notice some key differences: a synthetic PU upper instead of Powerweave knit and a Boa L6 dial setup instead of the top-tier Li2 dials on the flagship model. The sole isn’t the super stiff carbon of the Powerweave, but a nylon composite. Something that would be more walkable and suitable for all-day wear, in a foot-friendly way.
Where the Powerweave Road Shoe was built to win at speed and turn heads, the new Road Shoes are built to win riders over with all-day performance, subtle aesthetics, and a robust build.
Breathable, Stiff, and Long Ride Ready
The perforated PU upper keeps airflow in check while adding a layer of durability — ideal for riders who rack up big training miles or mix in the occasional commute.
It features the same outsole shape as the Pro Team version, so the fit and cleat setup should feel familiar to those who have tried Rapha’s top-shelf model.
BOA Dialed In and Locked Down
The Boa L6 dials should supply a secure fit, and while they don’t have the micro-adjust of the Li2s, they still get the job done with simplicity and reliability. Paired with a reinforced heel cup and grippy sole pads, these shoes provide stable support on and off the bike.
Fit & Pricing
- Sizes: EU 36–47 (whole sizes only)
- Fit: Same last as the Pro Team Powerweave — performance-oriented, not overly narrow
- Color: White with black logo detailing
- Sole: Nylon Composite
- Weight: 250g (EU 42, claimed)
- Price: $215 USD / £195 GBP / €230 EUR
How do they differ from the Pro Team Powerweave Road Shoes? At a price alone, they are $265 cheaper than the Pro Team Powerweave Road Shoes. You could buy two pairs of Rapha Road Shoes and still have money for a post-ride coffee. But we all know it’s about the fit and the performance of the shoe. The Pro Team Powerweave Road Shoes feature upgraded dials, a carbon race-stiff sole, a knit upper, and a touch of added flair. However, if you’re not racing week in and week out and don’t need to be on the cutting edge of kit, these new Road Shoes should provide you with 90% of the ride feel at a far more affordable price.
Stay tuned for a review as we get a set of our own.
Available now at rapha.cc.
