SHIMANO Launches RX910 S-PHYRE Gravel Race Shoe with Revolutionary Pontoon Cleat System

Gravel racing is inherently contradictory. Riders need road-level power transfer for long stretches of pedaling efficiency, but also require some off-road traction for mud sections, river crossings, and technical terrain. Shimano’s new S-PHYRE RX910 gravel shoes resolve this contradiction, offering unmatched power transfer, walking stability, and all-day pedaling comfort in one streamlined package.

“Sure, you can get away with road or MTB shoes for gravel racing,” says Pete Stetina, Shimano pro gravel racer, who assisted in the development of the RX910 shoes. “But to optimize for gravel performance, we need a light and stiff shoe that has a solid contact patch for steady power transfer plus the capability to handle the occasional hike-a-bike or muddy race.”

Born from the real-world demands of elite gravel athletes like Stetina, the RX910 draws on years of Shimano product innovation in road, mountain, and gravel-specific cycling technologies. The shoe is not a compromise between road and mountain—it's an entirely new solution engineered to meet the unique demands of gravel competition.

Revolutionary Pontoon Cleat System
At the heart of Shimano’s RX910 innovation is the new Pontoon Cleat System. This new feature includes a pair of modular, replaceable TPU contact blocks that dramatically improve the shoe-to-pedal contact point and optimize power transfer. The system enables a road-shoe-like pedaling interface while maintaining SPD compatibility and off-road functionality.

“For me [the Pontoon Cleat System] is the most exciting point of this shoe,” says Stetina. “You now have road stability and power transfer while still having the offroad benefits of mud shedding and quick engagement of SPD.”

Unlike traditional outsole-mounted contact blocks, the RX910's pontoons are part of the cleat interface itself. This means they move with your cleat position – vertically or laterally – for consistent support and efficiency, no matter how your cleats are set up. Plus, the pontoons are replaceable, allowing riders to start every race with a solid shoe-pedal interface.

The RX910 is ideally paired with SHIMANO SPD pedals. Best matches include the PD-M9200 and PD-M8100 for seamless power delivery and dual-sided entry, which is a must for high-stakes remounts and technical terrain. 

Key Features of the SHIMANO S-PHYRE RX910

·        Stiff Carbon Sole (Stiffness Rating 12/12): Shimano’s stiffest sole for maximum power transfer

• Seamless Midsole Construction: Reduces stack height and improves foot stability
• Dual Drainage Holes: Drain water for river crossings and rainy-days while providing ventilation on hot rides
• TPU Lugged Outsole: Lightweight lugs shed mud while providing ample traction for off-the-bike technical terrain
• Anti-Twist Stabilizer Heel Cup: Keeps your foot locked in during explosive sprints and long efforts
  • Dual BOA® fit system Li2 Dials: Micro-Adjustable fit and secure closure on the fly
  • Surround Wrapping Upper: Comfortable, breathable, and built for long-haul durability

  Product Specifications

  • Weight: 304 grams (size 43)
  • Colour: Black, White, Blue, Deep Sea
  • Stiffness: 12
  • Standard Sizes: 38-48
  • Half Sizes: 41.5-46.5
  • Wide Sizes: 40-48
  • MSRP: £369.99 GBP