Test Shimano S-PHYRE XC903: Lightweight race shoe for cross country and gravel

The new Shimano S-PHYRE XC903 racing shoe is aimed at cross-country and gravel riders who are looking for lightweight, high-performance footwear for demanding racing. The model combines a breathable microfibre synthetic leather upper with a stiff carbon fibre composite sole. Shimano specifies the stiffness as 11 out of 12, which according to the manufacturer corresponds to the level of professional and elite racing shoes. According to BIKE measurements, the S-PHYRE XC903 in size 43 weighs 327 grams (including cleats; manufacturer's specification: 293 g / 42 / without cleats). We have already been able to test the race shoe in practice in the very eye-catching blue colour variant. More on this below.

Closure system and fit

For precise adjustment to the foot, Shimano uses two high-quality BOA Li2 twist locks on the XC903. These allow the fit to be micro-adjusted. The lower twist lock also has a safety device to prevent unintentional release due to impacts. The fastening system is complemented by a slim, flat crossover lacing in the forefoot area. A heel cap with anti-twist protection is designed to ensure optimum foot positioning during strong acceleration and high cadences.

Sole and traction

The outsole of the S-PHYRE XC903 is made from the Shimano Ultread XC rubber compound. It has a special tread pattern which, according to the manufacturer, should provide plenty of grip during the race. The shoe also comes with specially shaped studs, which are designed to provide even more traction in the forefoot area. The flat carbon fibre composite midsole is designed to stabilise the foot and optimise power transmission. The proven SPD system is used as the cleat system.

Colour variants and area of application

The Shimano XC903 is available in four colour variants: white, black, blue and camouflage. With its focus on cross-country and cyclocross/gravel racing, the shoe is particularly suitable for ambitious bikers who are looking for a light and stiff model for competitions.

How the Shimano S-PHYRE XC903 rides

Admittedly, the Shimano S-PHYRE XC903 is too well ventilated for the mostly cool temperatures during the test period. Only thick socks and short laps helped. But it's also a finding that the many small openings on the cap and sides actually provide cooling. What is also immediately noticeable is the stiffness, which - as Shimano itself categorises it - is in the range of a classic racing shoe, i.e. really stiff. You realise after two pedal strokes that these are race shoes for cross-country or gravel races. The heel cap sits - almost sticks - to the foot, which is essential for traction when pedalling round - but also helps when pushing uphill or carrying on steep terrain.

The fit of the XC903, which Shimano has relaunched for the current 2025 season, is also perfect. With the two BOA dials and the lacing that covers the instep, the bike shoe can be adjusted very well. The high-quality Boa Li2 system can also be further adjusted in very small steps.

Sole and cleats

Not only does the shoe sit well on the foot when walking, the sole with the football boot-like studs also provides very good grip on soft ground, but the rubber compound is just as grippy on stones. The continuous rubber coating on the sole is particularly practical here. Some off-road shoes feature bare carbon or bare plastic, such as the Shimano RX6 gravel shoes or the S-Works Recon. So if you tread with a flat foot, there is a risk of slipping. Not so with the Shimano XC903. In addition, the toe cap, the all-round rubber coating and the extremely firm heel cap offer plenty of protection. Another good solution is how much space there is for threading the cleats into the pedals. You can no longer really speak of a "cleat channel", as the "entry lane" begins after the optional cleats.

Conclusion on the new Shimano XC903 racing shoe

The outstanding features of the new Shimano XC903 racing shoe are the fit and the stiff sole, which really converts every watt into pedalling power. Although the sole has good grip, the stiffness makes it a little cumbersome - except on steep climbs. Just like in racing bike shoes. The ventilation is good, too good for cold days in any case. The weight of the shoes is compared to many other XC/gravel shoes ok, but not at a record level. However, the price of 370 euros is at the lofty height of a S-Works shoewhich is then lighter. However, the colour we tested is a real eye-catcher and was very well received by many. It's also good that Shimano offers the race shoe in wide and narrow widths to allow for an even better fit.

Technical specifications at a glance

• Price (RRP): 369.95 euros >> available here
• Plate system: SPD
• Closure: BOA Fit System, 2 Li2 twist locks, Powerzone wire guide
• Upper material: microfibre imitation leather
• Outsole material: Ultread rubber
• Midsole material: carbon fibre composite
• Standard insole: high-density cap insole with customisable arch supports
• Stiffness: 11 out of 12 (Pro/Elite Level Rider)
• Weight: 327 grams (BIKE measurement, size 43, with cleats)
• Colours: White, black, blue, camouflage
• Sizes: Standard 38-48 // Wide: 41-48