Changing Gears – Climber’s Shoes by Rapha (Out of the box review)

Rapha Climber's Shoes with  Speedplay cleats installed. (Sony RX1r)
Rapha’s new Climber’s Shoes with Speedplay cleats installed. (Sony RX1r)

This blog is normally reserved for photographic journeys, gear talk, techniques, trials/errors, etc, but once in a while the other hobby, cycling, pops its head in for a quick spotlight. As some of you may know over the last few years I’ve become quite a cycling fan and it’s done a lot to change my life in many positive ways.

Something that may not be so surprising to you is that I love all the gear that comes with different hobbies. It doesn’t matter what you’re into, there’s someone that sells something that you really want. I’ve been a fan of Rapha’s clothing for several years. It originally stood out, because of its simple, clean appearance. The price was something a little tough to get used to, but when I looked at other top of the line cycling apparel I found that it is pretty much in line with all of the others.

After being attracted to the simplicity of their gear it was the build quality, functionality, performance and customer service that kept me coming back to the Rapha website. *Before I go any further I should point out that I haven’t ridden these shoes yet and this is simply a first impressions review of what I’ve experienced out of the box.

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In cycling there are a few pieces of equipment that are key to comfort and performance. In no particular order, tires, wheels and shoes have a huge impact on your riding. This is where Rapha’s Climber’s Shoes come in. A couple years ago Rapha came out with their GT shoes. Again, a beautiful, simple, clean looking, well built shoe that I wanted in a bad, bad way, but I had just purchased a pair of shoes and couldn’t see spending the cash on another set.

Then the Rapha came out with the Climber’s Shoes AND I just happened to be in need of a new pair shoes so the timing couldn’t have been better.

Rapha take pride in the presentation of their gear. (Sony RX1r)
Rapha takes pride in the presentation of their gear. (Sony RX1r)

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With the Climber's shoes weight is everything. These 44.5 shoes weigh in at 239 grams, Rapha claims 210 grams for the 42.5 shoes. (Sony RX1r)
With the Climber’s shoes weight is everything. These 44.5 shoes weigh in at 239 grams, Rapha claims 215 grams for the 42.5 shoes. (Sony RX1r)
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Clean, light and well ventilated. (Sony RX1r)
Rapha joined up with Giro and uses the EC90 SLXII carbon sole for rigidity and lightness. (Sony RX1r)
Rapha joined up with Giro and uses the EC90 SLXII carbon sole for rigidity and lightness. (Sony RX1r)
Replaceable heal guards are appreciated. (Sony RX1r)
Replaceable heal guards are appreciated. (Sony RX1r)

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Speedplay cleats mounted. (Sony RX1r)
Speedplay cleats mounted. (Sony RX1r)
It's just a simple looking, not flashy shoe with exceptional build quality. (Sony RX1r)
It’s just a simple looking shoe with exceptional build quality. (Sony RX1r)

2 thoughts on “Changing Gears – Climber’s Shoes by Rapha (Out of the box review)

  1. Rapha certainly go all out with their product packaging and branding, selling the image of elite cycling alongside the actual goods. They’re a sexy pair of shoes no doubt though! Probably one to save for warmer, fair weather rides as they look like they’d dirty easily and with all those holes certainly not for chilly rides!

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