If you’re an avid cyclist, you know that having the right shoes can make all the difference on your ride. But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which pair is right for you. In this article, we’ll take a close look at two of the best cycling shoes on the market, Shimano’s RP9 and Pearl Izumi’s P.R.O. Leader III. We’ll compare and contrast their features, prices, and reviews to help you decide which pair is the best investment for you.

Shimano’s RP9 shoes are designed for road riding and racing. They have a Boa dial closure system that provides a secure, customized fit, and an ultra-rigid carbon fiber sole that maximizes power transfer. They’re also lightweight, at just 250 grams (8.8 ounces) per shoe.

Pearl Izumi’s P.R.O. Leader III shoes are also designed for road riding. They have a Boa dial closure system and an ultra-rigid carbon fiber sole, like the Shimano RP9. They’re a bit heavier than the RP9, at 280 grams (9.9 ounces) per shoe. But they make up for it with a few extra features, like a reinforced toe box and an adjustable arch support system.

Now that we’ve taken a look at the features of each shoe, let’s compare their prices. The Shimano RP9 shoes have a list price of $250, while the Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Leader III shoes have a list price of $300.

When it comes to reviews, both shoes have largely positive feedback. On Amazon, the Shimano RP9 shoes have an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, based on 11 customer reviews. The Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Leader III shoes have an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, based on 10 customer reviews.

So, which pair of shoes is the better investment? If you’re looking for the lightest possible option, go with the Shimano RP9. If you want a shoe with a few extra features, like a reinforced toe box and adjustable arch support, go with the Pearl Izumi P.R.O. Leader III. And if you’re on a budget, the Shimano RP9 is the more affordable option.