Gravel cycling is good for the lungs, good for the soul, and safer than riding in traffic. You can pedal for hours without ever seeing the dusty trace of a car. Outside of the right bike and a protective helmet, a good pair of gravel bike shoes is one of the best investments you can make.

　　The feet are one of three contact points with the bike. Butt in the saddle and hands on the bars, your shoes are critical for comfort, control, and transferring your pedaling power into forward momentum. Having a well-fitting pair of gravel riding shoes that suit the type of riding youre doing can help enhance your efficiency and enjoyment out of the roads.

　　The explosion of gravel riding in recent years has led many brands to develop gravel-specific bike shoes. Cross-country mountain bike shoes arent much different, and these days, many models are now advertised as XC and gravel shoes. With so many models to choose from, finding the best pair to suit your needs and budget can seem like a daunting task.

　　To help, our gravel riding experts, Steve Graepel and Jeremy Benson, rounded up 11 of the best gravel bike shoes on the market to test and compare. Our testers rode in these shoes for months — and in some cases years — to assess important factors like fit, comfort, stiffness, walkability, closures, and durability.

　　Whether youre looking for uber-light and stiff shoes for gravel racing, something a little more forgiving for long days in the saddle or bikepacking, or a great value, check out our recommendations below. If youre not sure exactly what you need, our buying advice explains important factors to consider, while our FAQ section provides answers to common questions. To see the specs of all the models we tested at a glance, take a look at our comparison chart.

　　Editors note: We updated our gravel bike shoes buyers guide on April TKTK, 2024, with five new models including the top-rated Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon and the affordable Crankbrothers Candy Lace. We also added information to our buying advice to help steer you decide what shoes are right for you.

　　The Best Gravel Bike Shoes of 2024 Best Overall Gravel Bike Shoes: Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon Best Budget Gravel Bike Shoes: Crankbrothers Candy Lace Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Racing: Shimano S-Phyre XC9 Best Ventilated Gravel Bike Shoes: Giro Sector Most Comfortable Gravel Bike Shoes: Quoc Gran Tourer Lace Lightest Weight Gravel Bike Shoes: Specialized S-Works Recon Another Great Value: Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 Best Overall Gravel Bike Shoes Fizi:k Vento Ferox Carbon Specs Weight 662 g/pair (size 43.5) Closure Li2 Boa dial and hook and loop strap Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole X1 carbon Upper PU-laminated woven mesh Outsole Rubber

　　

　　Pros Stiff Lightweight Well ventilated Cost less than other top-shelf race shoes Easy on-off Cons Still not cheap Minimal padding may cause discomfort for those with sensitive feet Steve Graepel The Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon ($300) is the brands top-of-the-line off-road riding shoe. Whether youre racing XC, cyclocross, or all-day gravel events, these shoes are designed to meet the demands of high-output riding. And, while other brands top-tier shoes often cost upwards of $400, the Vento Ferox beat them in price by a fair margin — not that $300 is exactly cheap.

　　We found the Vento Ferox Carbon to fit true to size in length and about average in terms of volume. They are on the narrower side overall, but they arent exactly low on the volume scale. Theyre also super easy to get on and off the feet and adjust with the broad hook and loop strap over the top of the tongue and the lower Boa Li2 dial to customize the fit over the top of the foot. Inside the shoe, small dots on the inside of the heel help to lock it in place, and we never had issues with heel lift. The ankle cuff is also cut just right to avoid any hot spots or irritation.

　　Fiziks X1 carbon sole is unyieldingly stiff, and along with the secure fit of the uppers, gives these shoes impressive pedaling efficiency. There is virtually zero energy wasted during the pedal stroke, making these a fine option for racers and those with racing aspirations. The carbon midsole is almost completely covered in rubber sole lugs to protect it from damage. Those rubber lugs provide good walking and hiking grip while rocker through the toe allows for a relatively normal gait despite the sole stiffness. The Ferox Carbon also accepts toe spikes, but they arent included.

　　The generally thin woven mesh upper and perforated synthetic tongue allow for surprisingly good breathability on warm days. The woven material is robust and PU-laminated for added durability in high-wear areas. The heel cup and toe box are also nicely reinforced for a little bit of foot protection. Beyond that, however, the Ferox Carbon shoes have minimal padding, so riders with sensitive feet could potentially develop hot spots.

　　Otherwise, the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon are stellar gravel riding shoes that are ready for race day or long adventure rides. Theyre also stiff and light enough to be a one-shoe quiver for those who ride XC and road as well.

　　$300 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry Best Budget Gravel Bike Shoes Crankbrothers Candy Lace Specs Weight 746 g/pair (size 43.5) Closure Laces Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Fiber-reinforced nylon shank Upper Synthetic Outsole MC1 rubber

　　

　　Pros Affordable Great looking Grippy, walkable soles Stiff enough for most riders Well reinforced toe box Cons Relatively low volume might not work well for wider feet Not the stiffest Not the lightest Steve Graepel Crankbrothers is better known for its mountain bike components and tools, but in recent years, the brand has been growing its gravel lineup. The new Candy Lace ($160) shoes just launched in the spring of 2024 and are a very impressive effort for the brands first gravel and XC shoe. We got our hands on a pair just after they came out and quickly set about testing them on both gravel and XC rides.

　　One of the first things that stands out about the Candy shoes is how good they look. Style isnt everything, but these are some seriously classy-looking shoes. We especially liked the black color we tested with the contrasting gum soles — and the lace closure — that gives them a timeless appeal. They also come in blue and white.

　　Our size 43.5 (10 US) test pair fits perfectly true to size with a nice snug fit for our testers relatively low-volume feet. Slipping into these shoes is super easy with the laces loose and a tongue that opens up nice and wide. While laces are a little more cumbersome to deal with than Boa dials, they are comfortable and make it easy to get perfect tension over the top of the foot. An elastic lace retainer also keeps the ends tidy while you ride.

　　The fiber-reinforced nylon midsole is stiff enough for just about any type of riding short of professional-level racing. It doesnt feel like any energy is wasted through sole flex, yet it is a bit more forgiving to the feet on longer or rougher rides. Other than the cleat box, the entirety of the sole is covered in Crankbrothers MC1 rubber with fairly aggressive tread lugs. This rubber is relatively soft and provides a touch of cushion when you walk and great grip on rocks or in loose dirt.

　　The synthetic uppers are heavily perforated over the toes, sides of the foot, and the tongue, and the Candy shoes breathe better than expected. The front of the toe box and the heel cup are also nicely reinforced for added protection. So, while the new Crankbrothers Candy Lace shoes arent the absolute stiffest or lightest, they happen to be the least expensive and arguably the best-looking shoes we tested. If youre looking for comfortable, versatile, and affordable all-around gravel shoes, look no further.

　　Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Jenson USA Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Racing Shimano S-Phyre XC9 Specs Weight 616 g/pair (size 43.5) Closure Dual Boa Li2 dials Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon fiber Upper Microfiber Outsole ULTREAD XC rubber

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Super stiff and efficient Comfortable Well-ventilated Also comes in a wide version Cons Expensive Not the best for walking long distances Regular version is fairly narrow Steve Graepel Okay, so the Shimano S-Phyre XC9 ($430) shoes are technically made for cross-country mountain bike racing, but thats exactly what makes them our top choice for gravel racing too. They are super lightweight, very stiff, well-ventilated, and fit like a glove. They are also very expensive but potentially worth the asking price for high-performance riders and racers seeking maximum efficiency and marginal gains.

　　The foundation of the S-Phyre XC9 shoes is the super stiff carbon midsole. These soles dont flex (like at all) so all of your precious pedaling power goes straight into the cranks. The synthetic uppers conform very nicely to the feet with a wrap-style tongue and dual Boa Li2 closure that hugs snugly but doesnt constrict. In the well-shaped heel pocket, a textured material helps prevent any unwanted heel movement when youre laying down surges of power. Hundreds of perforations in the uppers also allow air to move around the foot and breathe in warm conditions and during high-intensity rides.

　　On the bottom of the shoes, Shimanos ULTREAD XC rubber covers nearly all of the carbon fiber except for the cleat mount area. If and when youre forced off the bike and need to walk or hike the bike, the carbon wont get all scratched up and the grippy rubber lugs provide great traction. They also accept toe spikes and are a popular choice among cyclocross riders for racing in muddy conditions. While the soles provide good grip, the midsoles are super stiff, so walking or hiking in these for an extended period isnt the most pleasant experience.

　　Our test pair fit perfectly true to size in length. The uppers have some give and break-in over the first few rides, but they are pretty low-volume in the standard width. Fortunately, Shimano also makes a wide version of the S-Phyre XC9. At 616 grams for the pair in a size 43.5, these are some of the lightest shoes we tested which almost seems surprising given how stiff and comfortable they are.

　　At $430, the Shimano S-Phyre XC9 shoes are a significant investment in race day and training speed. Theyre definitely not the right choice for everyone, but if youre seeking to maximize your efforts and shave some seconds off the clock, this is our recommendation.

　　Check Price at Backcountry Best Ventilated Gravel Bike Shoes Giro Sector Specs Weight 708 g/pair (size 43.5) Closure Dual Boa L6 dials Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon composite plate Upper Synchwire mesh with thermobonded exo-structure Outsole Rubber

　　

　　Pros Highly breathable and well ventilated Easy on and off Grippy soles Stiff enough but still walk well Cons Too breathable for colder temps Steve Graepel Giro combined a relatively stiff midsole, grippy rubber outsole, and highly breathable Sychwire mesh upper to create the Giro Sector ($240). Those ingredients result in a great all-around gravel and XC mountain bike shoe that tops the charts for its impressive ventilation and breathability.

　　What truly sets the sector apart is Giros use of their proprietary Synchwire material. The whole upper of the shoe is made from this supportive yet super porous material that allows maximum airflow to the feet. While the Synchwire is relatively supportive on its own, it also has a thermobonded exo-structure which adds additional support and durability. If youre prone to sweaty feet or ride in hot temperatures regularly, these might be your new best friend. Ride with them in temps closer to freezing, and it might be the opposite.

　　The other benefit of Synchwire is that it is fairly supple and it conforms nicely to your foot shape. Not that it needs to given Giros years of experience making great-fitting cycling footwear. Our size 43.5 test pair fit true to size and the dual Boa L6 dial closure makes snugging them up on the feet quick and easy. And for the female riders, Giro also makes the Sector in a womens version.

　　The Sector shoes arent the absolute stiffest, but they are close enough that most riders wont notice or care. Theres no discernable sole flex under power yet they manage to feel a bit more damp than some of the stiffer competition. This is nice on those all-day epics and when tackling rougher surfaces. A softer rubber compound forms a full rubber sole around the carbon composite midsole. The lugs arent especially aggressive, but it grips well and feels comfortable underfoot while walking.

　　At $240, the Giro Sector is moderately priced but provides a high level of performance and ventilation thats hard to beat. These versatile shoes have you covered for everything from cross-country mountain biking to long gravel rides and races to bike packing through the desert.

　　$212 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry Most Comfortable Gravel Bike Shoes Quoc Gran Tourer Lace Specs Weight 680 g/pair Closure Laces Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Nylon Composite Upper Microfiber with TPU Outsole Rubber

　　

　　Pros Durable Good-looking Locking laces are comfy and stay put Stiff enough but not too stiff Grippy lugged outsole Cons Racers may want something a little stiffer Not the lightest Steve Graepel The problem with most cycling shoes is, well, they feel like cycling shoes. Somewhere, somebody thought that in order to eke out the watts, feet should be locked inside a coffin. To maximize power, its not uncommon for cycling shoes to squeeze into a stiff, narrow fit that runs long for some amount of comfort.

　　Why do we love the Quocs Gran Tourer Lace ($235)? They feel normal. The width is natural, the length is appropriate, and the heel stays locked in place. This fit is most noticeable on all-day tours where every other part of the body is begging for mercy. And when you finally pull into the coffee shop, the Gran Tourer is classy enough to brush off the pain in style.

　　A traditional lace-up cycling shoe, Quocs Gran Tourer might look too nice to dirty up. But when the weather is in full mud season, this is the shoe we reach for first. Encased in a protective TPU rand, the synthetic upper is waterproof (up to the rand) and incredibly durable. And if you prefer the convenience of Boa closures, Quoc also makes the Gran Tourer II ($265).

　　We wore them on a late winter 50-miler where the gravel turned to mud, and the mud turned to ice. We rode, we grunted, and we walked a lot. At the end of the day, the shoes were caked in mud but our feet remained dry. Back home, we rinsed them under the hose, and they washed off looking unscathed. Flip them over, and the sole is an ideal combination of durability and protection. The rubber sole wraps the entire bottom of the shoe. The traction is soft enough to walk in, but after 2 years of abuse, they still show little evidence of the thousands of miles weve put on ours.

　　The Gran Tourer Lace isnt the stiffest of the bunch, but if you arent overly concerned with watts and KOMs, they hit the sweet spot of pedaling efficiency and comfort. And for most riders, thats exactly what they want and need. At $235, this is a mid-priced shoe. You can easily drop $400 on carbon platform racing shoes, but they wont last as long as Quocs.

　　Check Price at Quoc Another Excellent Gravel Race Shoe Specialized S-Works Recon Specs Weight 590 g/pair (size 43.5) Closure Dual Boa S3 dials Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon Upper Synthetic Outsole Rubber

　　

　　Pros Very lightweight Super stiff and efficient Tune-able pedal interface Very slick looks Cons Very expensive Might be too stiff for non-racers Lots of exposed carbon on soles Steve Graepel Specialized makes some of the best products in the industry across all genres of cycling. The Specialized S-Works Recon ($450) is their latest top-of-the-line shoe designed for XC and gravel riding and racing. Of all the shoes we tested, these are the most like their road bike sibling. They are essentially the S-Works Torch road bike shoes with some more aggressive toe/heel lugs and pontoons around the cleat box. In most ways, thats a good thing, but it does have its downsides.

　　When Specialized launched the redesigned S-Works Recon shoes in early 2023, they didnt just update the shoe, they completely overhauled it. Lots of changes were made with the goal of creating an ultra-high-performance off-road shoe — but one of the biggest was the fit. While the previous version was quite narrow, the current version has a significantly wider forefoot that should work well for a lot more riders. The narrow-footed among us, however, might find them to be a bit roomy.

　　Specialized also ditched the Velcro strap by the toes and now uses two Boa S3 dials to pull tension evenly over the foot. This system cinches the sleek-looking seamless synthetic uppers nicely around the feet and only adds to their classy (read: expensive) looks. What Specialized hasnt done away with is its Body Geometry technology. While it may sound like a gimmick, it does work to align the foot and lower leg more naturally.

　　The midsole is a super thin and super stiff carbon plate thats borrowed directly from Specialized top-shelf road racing shoes. This gives the Recon some of the stiffest soles you can imagine, and theres absolutely no wasted pedaling power when these puppies are on your feet. It also means that they arent the most forgiving, a tradeoff for their ruthless efficiency.

　　Specialized tried to off-road the soles of these shoes by adding some toe and heel lugs as well as pontoons that border the cleat. While they are okay for walking around on flat surfaces, they are not great for hiking, and the exposed carbon on the soles gets scratched up very easily when you look at sharp rocks.

　　At 590 grams for the pair in a size 43.5, the S-Works Recon are some of the lightest off-road shoes weve tested. Theyre also one of the stiffest and a great choice for performance-oriented riders and racers who want to look fancy, especially if you have wider feet.

　　Read review: WorldTour Winning Cycling Shoe Gets Gravel Treatment: Specialized S-Works Recon First Look

　　Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Specialized Another Great Value Gravel Bike Shoe Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 Specs Weight 624 g/pair Closure Dual hook and loop powerstraps Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Nylon Upper Synthetic Outsole Rubber

　　

　　Pros Reasonably priced Comfortable Easy on and off Moderate stiffness is good for most riding Cons Low profile outsole has less traction than more aggressive options Run a bit warmer than other options Not the stiffest soles Steve Graepel The Terra Powerstrap X4 ($170) is a wonderfully comfortable shoe that keeps the price low by securing the foot with two wide hook-and-loop straps. The lower strap zigzags over the toes, with the second closing over the foots instep. With both straps released, the tongue opens wide, making it easy to pull over the feet.

　　Velcro straps can often show early signs of wear and tear and can easily get caked in mud. But after two years of abuse, the edges of these straps are still going strong with no signs of early retirement.

　　The upper is made from a durable synthetic material with a light TPU bumper inconspicuously protecting the toe. What the shoe gains in durability, it takes back in breathability. While the material is perforated, these shoes run warmer and we found them best suited for spring and fall rides.

　　Fit-wise, the Terras are the widest of the bunch we tested and pedal toe-to-toe with the Quocs. We almost awarded this shoe our best overall shoe for the fit alone. However, we found the minimal lugs (and no lugs under the toes where the toe flexes) lacked traction for any significant hike-a-bike.

　　Theres some flex in the toes that make them walkable on tame terrain, but the narrow tread platform can feel a little tippy underfoot. 

　　For riders with above-average width feet who spend the majority of their riding time in the saddle, the Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 is a great pair of shoes and a solid value at just $170.

　　$115 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry Best of the Rest Rapha Explore Powerweave Specs Weight 709 g/pair Closure Dual Boa Li2 dials Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon Upper 3D-Woven Powerweave (100% polyester) Outsole Natural rubber

　　

　　Pros Easy to put on and adjust Customizable fit with dual Boa dials Comfortable Breathable Stiff soles but still walkable Cons Expensive Woven upper collects dust and seems prone to damage Not the lightest Steve Graepel Rapha may be better known for its high-end cycling apparel, but its been making some of the best shoes on the market for several years. The Explore Powerweave ($380) is its top-tier off-road shoe, which has a similar look and construction to its Pro Team road shoes but is denoted by the Explore moniker.

　　The namesake 3D woven upper, or Powerweave, is at the core of these shoes. This woven synthetic material not only looks great — in a different kind of way — but it helps make the shoe incredibly breathable. Not only that, but they are impressively comfortable as well since the woven material easily conforms to the shape of your foot. The only obvious drawback that we can see is that the rigors of off-road riding may impact its longevity. We experienced some early fraying in the weave after a few short walks in the bush, and they collected more dust than other shoes we tested. We recommend these for the rider who stays in the saddle and doesnt have to do a lot of hike-a-bike.

　　While many companies use a single-dial system to lace the shoe shut, the Explore Powerweave uses BOAs incremental Li2 dial platform. The two-dial system creates a custom fit around both the forefoot and instep. There are other shoes that use two dials, but none of them open up as wide as Raphas, and few come close to being as comfortable. Instead of a poly cable, Rapha uses a fiber yarn in the lace system. The TX4 lacing is woven with Dyneema, which is reputedly stronger than steel. We havent seen any durability issues, but its noticeably different — if not more pliable — and easier to use.

　　Of course, the carbon midsole is not excessively stiff but feels plenty efficient on the pedals. These shoes can mix it up in a long-distance bike race one day and embark on a multi-day backpack tour the next. At the same time, they walk pretty well. There is more than enough (seriously, a lot) natural rubber tread for grip, and the stiff carbon plate ends just before the toes and by the heel, to allow a little flex in both areas for a more natural walking feel

　　The Explore Powerweave steps in line with the Rapha ethos. But you buy into Raphas attention to detail, like titanium hardware, a carbon plate, and that subtle but undeniable Rapha swagger. If form and function are equally important, give the Powerweave a look.

　　Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Rapha Shimano RX8 Specs Weight 530 g/pair Closure Boa Li2 dial and hook and loop strap Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon composite Upper Synthetic Outsole TPU

　　

　　Pros Lightweight Stiff soles Glove-like fit Cons Not the best for walking due to stiff sole Velcro strap isnt that useful Steve Graepel One of the lightest shoes we tested, Shimanos RX8 ($275), at 265 g per shoe, has a killer price-to-weight ratio. Shockingly, these shoes are lighter than the Shimano XC9 and $155 less expensive. They also happen to fit like a glove, have soles stiff enough for racing, and do pretty well when youre forced off the bike and have to walk.

　　There isnt really a huge difference between these shoes and Shimanos models marketed as cross-country mountain bike shoes. The primary differentiation is honestly the colors and graphics on the uppers. And thats not a bad thing, given that their XC shoes are some of the best in the business. The RX8 has supple synthetic uppers and a Boa Li2 dial that tightens nicely over the instem. Down by the toes, they use a small Velcro strap to add some tension over the forefoot.

　　The carbon composite soles are plenty stiff — a hair less stiff than the XC9 — with a stiffness rating of 10 on Shimanos scale. Youd be hard-pressed to notice a difference between the two, and they certainly dont lack in pedaling efficiency. A lugged outsole covers the carbon midsole for durability and off-the-bike traction. These shoes walk and hike reasonably well for what they are. They also happen to be relatively well-ventilated with ample perforation in the uppers to let the feet get some air.

　　The Shimano RX8 is a staff favorite and our go-to shoe for fast rides and races where stiffness and low weight are the priority. They strike a strong balance of comfort, stiffness, performance, and durability. Now if we could only get Shimano to put a second BOA over the toes — but that would come at a weight penalty, of course.

　　$275 at REI$275 at Amazon Five Ten Kestrel BOA Specs Weight 724 g/pair (size 9.5 US) Closure BOA dial with 2 hook and loop straps Cleat compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Glass fiber Upper Synthetic Outsole Stealth Marathon rubber

　　

　　Pros Stiff soles Moderately priced Good toe protection Plenty of waling grip from soles Cons Not the lightest Higher volume fit Steve Graepel The new Five Ten Kestrel Boa ($230) represents a significant departure from the brands more gravity-oriented mountain bike shoe line. Known more for their legendary flat pedal shoes, this is the first stiff-soled cross-country/gravel shoe that the brand has made. Weve been riding in a pair off and on for the past year, and it turns out that theyre a great pair of shoes thats plenty stiff and offers a bit more foot protection than most.

　　Unlike more expensive shoes that typically use carbon fiber, the Kestrel Boa uses a glass fiber midsole thats plenty stiff and helps to keep the price down. It might be a touch less stiff, but we never noticed a lack of pedaling efficiency or support or felt the soles flexing under power. Five Ten also added some serious lugs to the sole made from Stealth Marathon rubber. While this is one of the firmer compounds they make, theres no lack of walking/hiking traction due in large part to the aggressive toe and heel lugs.

　　The upper is comprised of a couple of different synthetic materials. A tough, Cordura-like fabric wraps around the whole shoe and allows for decent breathability over the toes and sides of the midfoot. Thats wrapped in an abrasion-resistant material around the toes and capped with a thick rubber toe bumper to provide some serious rock strike protection. The heel also has a healthy amount of reinforcement along with padding around the ankle cuff, making these shoes more protective to the feet than others on this list.

　　Five Ten chose to use a Boa dial to tighten the shoes over the upper foot and two velcro straps to secure them over the mid and forefoot. This system is quick and easy to use and allows you to snug the shoes around the whole foot. The velcro straps do make us a little wary, however, as they tend to wear out more quickly than other closures — ours are still fine after a year, though. Its also worth noting that the fit of the Kestrel Boa is more voluminous than others. They arent too wide, necessarily — theres just quite a bit of volume. We found that replacing the thin stock footbed with a thicker aftermarket option helped tremendously to dial in the fit for our testers lower-volume feet.

　　Beyond that, the Five Ten Kestrel Boa shoes are an excellent first XC/gravel effort from the brand. These rugged shoes are quite versatile, with uses spanning from trail and cross-country mountain biking to long and adventurous days on the gravel bike. Anyone with somewhat higher-volume feet seeking something a bit more protective than typical gravel shoes will find a lot to like here.

　　Check Price at BackcountryCheck Price at Five Ten Louis Garneau Baryum Specs Weight 624 g/pair Closure Dual BOA L6 dials Cleat Compatibility 2-bolt Midsole Carbon Upper Synthetic Outsole T-flex rubber

　　

　　Pros Comfortable accommodating fit Dual BOA for easy adjustments Stiff soles Easy to walk in Cons Moderately expensive Cleat recess is a little shallow Steve Graepel Another comfortable gravel shoe we tested, Garneaus Baryum ($300) is a fine implementation of BOAs dual-lace systems. The micro-adjustments make dialing in your fit simple and easy, and the X-Comfort zone makes them accommodating to a range of shapes and widths. Essentially an off-road version of their Course Air Lite II road shoes, the Baryum combines great pedaling efficiency, lightweight, and a streamlined design with a grippy walkable sole.

　　A carbon midsole provides plenty of power transfer and stiffness. Thats completely wrapped in a heavily lugged T-flex rubber outsole that protects the carbon and offers plenty of off-bike traction. The heel and toe sections of the shoe have extra protection for durability for the scrapes and scuffs youre sure to encounter.

　　We found the Baryum to be super comfortable. The synthetic uppers conform to the feet nicely, and the dual Boa L6 dials make it really easy to achieve perfect tension over the foot. The X-Comfort zones can also stretch a bit to fit a range of foot widths. A small mesh panel over the toes and perforation on the midfoot help keep some air moving and prevent your feet from overheating.

　　We found the Louis Garneau Baryum a solid choice for everything from long gravel century rides to quick evening spins or XC mountain bike sessions. As a bonus, these shoes are quite comfortable and easy to walk in while off of the bike if your rides turn more adventurous than expected.

　　$300 at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry Comparison Chart

Shoe Model	MSRP	Weight	Closure	Midsole	Upper	Outsole
Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon	$300	662 g/pair (size 43.5)	Boa Li2 dial and velcro strap	Carbon fiber	PU-laminated woven mesh	Rubber
Crankbrothers Candy Lace	$160	746 g/pai (size 43.5)	Laces	Fiber-reinforced nylon shank	Synthetic	MC1 Rubber
Shimano S-Phyre XC9	$430	616 g/Pair (size 43.5)	Dual Boa Li2 dials	Carbon fiber	Microfiber	ULTREAD XC Rubber
Giro Sector	$240	708 g/pair (size 43.5)	Dual Boa L6 dials	Carbon composite	Synchwire w/thermobonded exo-structure	Rubber
Quoc Gran Tourer Lace	$235	680 g/pair (size ?)	Laces	Nylon composite	Microfiber w/TPU	Rubber
Specialized S-Works Recon	$450	590 g/pair (size 43.5)	Dual Boa S3 dials	carbon	Synthetic	Rubber
Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4	$170	624 g/pair (size ?)	Dual Powerstraps	Nylon	Synthetic	Rubber
Rapha Explore Powerweave	$380	709 g/pair (size ?)	Dual Boa Li2 dials	Carbon	3D-Woven Powerweave	Natural Rubber
Shimano RX8	$275	530 g/pair (size ?)	Boa Li2 dial and velcro strap	Carbon composite	Synthetic	TPU
Five Ten Kestrel Boa	$230	724 g/pair (size 9.5 US)	Boa dial and 2 velcro straps	Glass fiber	Synthetic	Stealth Marathon Rubber
Louis Garneau Baryum	$300	624 g/pair (size?)	Dual Boa L6 dials	Carbon	Synthetic	T-flex Rubber

Why You Should Trust Us At GearJunkie, we love all kinds of cycling. Our testers jumped on board the gravel train years ago and have been riding it ever since. Fortunately, were also gear nerds who are obsessed with finding the best products to make our gravel rides better. Were fortunate to be in a position that allows us to test out the latest and greatest gear, and weve been doing our best to provide honest and trustworthy product recommendations to our readers for years.

　　Our gravel bike shoes buyers guide is the combined effort of two gravel-obsessed professional gear testers — Steve Graepel and Jeremy Benson. Steve is an all-around outdoorsman from the Boise, Idaho area. Hes been testing and reviewing all sorts of outdoor gear for GearJunkie for the past ten years. Steve is an avid gravel cyclist and bikepacker, and he knows the importance of choosing the right footwear to make his rides the best they can be. Benson is an editor at GearJunkie, and hes been professionally testing and reviewing bikes and related accessories full-time for 8 years. Hes an obsessive cyclist and gravel racer who participates in numerous endurance cycling events each year. He has tested over 40 pairs of mountain and gravel biking shoes and has a great ability to tease out the performance differences in the products he tests.

　　How We Tested Gravel Bike Shoes After exhaustively researching the market, we chose 11 gravel bike shoe models to test and compare. After examining each shoes materials and construction and weighing them for consistency, Steve and Jeremy thoroughly tested them the only way they knew how — gravel riding. Okay, well, these shoes also saw their fair share of road and singletrack miles, too, but thats the beauty of gravel riding. This isnt a one-dimensional sport, gravel riding is whatever you want it to be. Every model included in this guide was tested for a minimum of several months and most were used for a year or more. From quick after-work gravel grinds, and week-long bikepacking missions, to 100-mile gravel races, these shoes were put through their paces while analyzing important factors like fit, comfort, closures, pedaling efficiency, and walkability. Rest assured, no pedal has been left unturned and these shoes have all been put through the wringer.

　　

　　Spending lots of time in the saddle while exploring gravel roads is the only real way to test gravel bike shoes. Here, Jeremy Benson is putting in some miles on the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon; (photo/Heather Benson) Buyers Guide: How to Choose Gravel Bike Shoes Gravel biking has exploded in popularity in the past decade and there are lots of different gravel bike shoes to choose from. While cross-country mountain bike shoes were previously the only option — and are still great options — there are now quite a few shoes designed and marketed towards the gravel rider. Since gravel riding and cross-country mountain biking share similar performance demands, weve tested shoes designed for each discipline and several that claim to be great at both.

　　Theres much to consider when looking for the best gravel bike shoes. Here, well discuss important factors like fit, closures, ventilation, stiffness, and outsole designs. Of course, the type of riding youre doing will also affect the shoes you choose.

　　Do You Need a Gravel Shoe? Gravel riding borrows aerodynamics, stiffness, and weight savings from the road and pulls in durability and traction from the mountain. We want out shoes to provide plenty of pedaling efficiency and support, but we also need them to be rugged enough to handle the added stresses of off-road riding. Because we all end up pushing the bike at some point, they should be comfortable enough to walk in without slipping around on loose terrain.

　　

　　Do you ride a gravel bike? The chances rae you could use some gravel bike shoes; (photo/Steve Graepel) If money is tight and you already have a pair, cross-country mountain bike shoes are a great start. In fact, the lines are becoming increasingly blurry and many modern cross-country shoes are now being touted as ideally suited to gravel and XC mountain bike riding.

　　If you ride more roads than mountains, you can split the difference and get away with one shoe for both gravel and road. If you go that route, wed recommend looking at a stiffer model, like the Shimano S-Phyre XC9, Specialized S-Works Recon, or Shimano RX8.

　　Fit A well-fitting shoe will be snug — but not excessively tight — with some room for the toes to wiggle. Ideally, you can find a width and volume that matches your foot shape, and the uppers should secure snugly around the feet like a good hug. You dont want the foot to feel constricted, but excessive movement is also undesirable as it can cause discomfort and instability or rob you of efficiency. The heel should also feel locked in the shoe’s heel pocket and shouldn’t slip up or down.

　　Laces and BOA systems can fine-tune a fit, but its always best to start with a shoe that generally fits well. If youre ordering online, be sure to look at the sizing guides. Some Euro sizing puts shoes between U.S. sizes (if thats the case for you, its usually better to size up). Some brands also offer wide sizes.

　　Closure System

　　

　　Boa closures are among the most popular on gravel bike shoes for their ease of use, seen here on the Rapha Explore Powerweave shoes; (photo/Steve Graepel) Shoes generally close with one or two of four systems. Most modern shoes use a single or double-dial closure system. You push the knob shut and spin the dial to get a custom fit around the foot. To release it, you pull the knob, and the spool unravels.

　　BOA seems to dominate the dial market and has come a long way. In our experience, its a bombproof system that makes shoes quick and easy to get in and out of and allows you to micro-adjust the fit over the ride. Our favorite shoes use a twin BOA system, allowing you to further tweak the fit over both the toes and instep. Hook-and-loop straps use Velcro over the foot. Many shoes use a combination of Velcro over the toes and a BOA system over the upper and midfoot. This combination saves a few grams (and some pocket change) but doesnt typically lock the foot in as well as a twin BOA system. In muddy conditions, crud can get trapped in the hook and loop, reducing their effectiveness. Velcro also tends to wear out faster. Good old-fashioned shoelaces are making a comeback. They are light, cheap, replaceable, and winning on the fashion front. The best applications will often vary the eyelets so you can lock a section and loosen another. This allows a custom fit over different parts of the foot. We didnt review any shoes that use this, but its worth sharing that a few older models use a ratchet system that incrementally tightens a strap over the foot, like a ski boot buckle.

　　

　　Laces, like these on the Quoc Gran Tourer Lace, are another popular closure for gravel bike shoes that cost less and look good; (photo/Marc Gasch) Sole Stiffness Linking the rider to the bike, a proper gravel shoe is stiff enough to transfer force from the legs into the drivetrain, is durable enough to endure the rough terrain, and has lugs for traction. The shoes stiffness comes from the midsole plate. Higher-end models often use carbon. Its light, stiff, and expensive. Less pricey shoes will use a durable nylon or fiberglass plate. While stiffness is often talked about in terms of performance, super stiff soles arent necessarily the best thing for all riders.

　　Racers or performance-minded riders typically steer toward very stiff soles with the goal of transferring every drop of pedaling power from their legs to the drivetrain. That said, the stiffer sole, the less forgiving it is, so race shoes can be a bit less comfortable, especially over rough surfaces. Some of the stiffest shoes we tested also happen to be the most expensive, the Shimano S-Phyre XC9 and Specialized S-Works recon are great examples.

　　

　　The stiffest soles are typically made from carbon fiber like those seen here on the Specialized S-Works Recon shoes; (photo/Jeremy Benson) If youre not racing, soles that are slightly less stiff than race shoes are often the best bet. They are still stiff enough to be efficient, yet they are a bit more forgiving and comfortable for most riders. They also make walking a bit easier. If youre more interested in the experience and comfort over PRs and watts, then a more balanced sole stiffness is likely the way to go. Shoes like the Crankbrothers Candy Lace and Quoc Gran Tourer both fit into this category.

　　There is such a thing as shoes that are not stiff enough. If you can see or feel the sole flexing under your foot while pedaling, it is also sapping a tiny bit of your pedaling energy. Soft soles can also cause foot and calf fatigue over time. Otherwise, softer-soled shoes are generally quite comfortable and make walking around much easier.

　　Some shoes, like Raphas Explore Powerweave, run the composite footplate just short of the toes, giving the shoe a little flex in the toebox. A little extra mobility in the toes makes it easier to walk around in the shoes. Many shoes also put a rocker in the front of the sole, allowing you to roll your gait in a fully rigid shoe.

　　Outsole

　　

　　Aggressive rubber outsoles like this one on the Rapha Explore Powerweave shoes provide confident traction off the bike; (photo/Marc Gasch) Put enough time in the saddle, and youll put more than enough time out of the saddle. Adcenturous gravel riding can be equal parts pushing and pedaling. A solid gravel shoe should not only be comfortable to walk in but also have enough traction so you arent slipping around.

　　We found two general kinds of lugs — a harder lug compound and a softer lug compound. For rides that walk over hard rock, we prefer the outsole with softer rubber lugs. They grip rock better, add a touch of cushion, and tend to hold up better over time.

　　For mud and muck, we appreciated the sharper edge retention found on a harder rubber lug. They bite in better, but they tend to flake off sooner.

　　If your rides dont pull you out of the saddle, you have a lot more leeway with traction. Low-traction shoes will be lighter (by a few grams) and still be comfortable enough to walk around the parking lot or coffee shop.

　　Cleat Compatibility Gravel and cross-country shoes all share one thing in common and that is the 2-bolt cleat interface. This means they are compatible with 2-bolt cleats typical of clipless (clip-in) mountain bike pedals. There arent too many true standards in cycling, but luckily the 2-bolt mountain cleat interface is one of them. Even though there is some variation in the cleat designs between pedal manufacturers, they all use the 2-bolt standard. This interface consists of two parallel tracks in the sole of the shoe under the forefoot. Inside the cleat tracks are cleat mount plates that can slide fore and aft to find the optimal position of the cleat to suit your preference.

　　

　　Gravel and mountain bike shoes use a 2-bolt cleat interface to mount and position cleats on the bottom of the shoe; (photo/Jeremy Benson) Gravel and cross-country mountain bike shoes use the 2-bolt cleat standard because the cleats are smaller and can fit in between the tread blocks that border the cleat box. These tread blocks aid in walking, protect the cleats, and often interface with the pedal body for lateral stability. This is in contrast to road bike shoes which use much larger 3-bolt cleats. Road bike shoes dont prioritize walking, instead, the goal is to maximize surface area contact between the shoes, cleat, and pedal body.

　　Price The gravel bike shoes we tested vary pretty wildly in price, from more affordable models, around $160, to super high-end race shoes that cost $400 or more. Realistically, if youre not racing or super concerned with having the absolute stiffest and lightest shoes imaginable to eke out every precious watt of your pedaling power, then any of the more affordable shoes will likely serve you just fine while keeping some money in your bank account. Shoes like the Crankbrothers Candy Lace and Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 use less exotic materials and simpler closures, but they are comfy and work well in nearly every situation.

　　As price increases, that usually involves fancier materials like carbon fiber midsoles, Boa closures, and a reduction in weight. For those looking to be at the pointy end of races or atop the Strava leaderboards, it may be worth the investment in a high-end pair of shoes to maximize your efficiency. Even then, not all light and stiff race-ready shoes cost over $400. Models like the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon and Shimano RX8 cost $300 or less and stand up well against their more expensive competitors.

　　Frequently Asked Questions Why do I need gravel bike shoes? If you ride gravel, then you could benefit from having some gravel or cross-country mountain bike shoes when you ride. The combination of stiff soles, grippy and walkable outsoles, lightweight uppers, and comfortable closures make this style of shoe the ideal footwear for riding gravel. Trail riding shoes are heavier, bulkier, and often not adequately stiff for gravel riding. Road bike shoes dont have walk-friendly outsoles, and they will get trashed when you dismount your bike on a rough gravel road. Gravel shoes combine pedaling efficiency, comfort, and walkability to make them perfectly suited to the task.

　　How are gravel bike shoes different from mountain or road bike shoes? Realistically, gravel and cross-country mountain bike shoes are essentially the same. In fact, lots of shoes these days claim to be suited to both disciplines since the footwear demands for each are basically the same. Other types of mountain bike shoes, like those for trail, enduro, or gravity riding are quite different, however. These shoes tend to be bulkier, heavier, and not quite as stiff through the sole, making them less ideal for pounding out miles on gravel roads. Likewise, unless you ride the smoothest gravel ever and never put your feet down, road bike shoes arent ideal for gravel either. While plenty stiff and light, road bike shoes typically have smooth hard soles that are not ideal for walking on gravel or trails and they will get all scratched up if you do.

　　Why are some gravel bike shoes so expensive? The fancier the materials, technologies, and components incorporated into a gravel bike shoe, the more they cost. Carbon fiber midsoles, BOA closures, and ultralight materials arent cheap, and combining them into a shoe drives the cost up. Not to mention the research, development, and testing that goes on to make them 1% lighter and faster than the previous version. We wont lie, it does seem ridiculous to pay $400+ for a pair of bike shoes. Well also admit that they are usually incredibly nice and have even improved our performance by using them. Thats not to say that everyone needs to spend that much to have a good time. You dont. But, those shoes exist for those who want them.

　　What are the best gravel bike shoes for racing? Our top pick for gravel racing is the Shimano S-Phyre XC9. Yes, this is a cross-country mountain bike race shoe, but theyre still the best weve used for gravel races. But, the best gravel race shoe for you may be different depending on what fits your foot the best. The important factors for race shoes are a stiff sole, precise and comfortable fit, and lightweight. While stiff and light shoes are great, a good fit is arguably the most important piece of the puzzle for long-term comfort while trying your hardest.

　　Also, consider your goals. If youre fighting for a podium, then shelling out big bucks for the trickest shoes may be worth it. If youre just starting out or you enter races more for fun than competition, then it may not make as much sense to go so high-end. Budget is another consideration since race-oriented shoes are often quite expensive.

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