The Best Gravel Bike Shoes of 2024: Comfort, Performance, and Style

Gravel cycling has exploded in popularity over the past few years, and with good reason. As the sport continues to grow, so does the demand for specialized gear that can handle the unique challenges of gravel riding.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the best gravel bike shoes of the year, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses to help you find the perfect pair for your next adventure.

What Makes a Great Gravel Bike Shoe?

Before we get into our top picks, let’s take a moment to discuss what exactly makes a great gravel bike shoe. While there are many factors to consider, here are some of the most important:

1. Comfort: Gravel rides can be long, challenging, and unpredictable, with varied terrain that can put a lot of stress on your feet. A great gravel bike shoe should be comfortable enough to wear for hours on end, with a supportive fit that prevents hot spots and blisters. Look for shoes with ample padding, a anatomical shape, and a breathable upper that allows your feet to stay cool and dry.
2. Stiffness: A stiff sole is crucial for efficient power transfer from your feet to the pedals. This is especially important in gravel riding, where you may encounter steep climbs, loose terrain, and other challenges that require maximum pedaling efficiency. Look for shoes with a carbon or nylon composite sole that provides a good balance of stiffness and compliance.
3. Traction: Unlike road cycling shoes, which are designed primarily for use with clipless pedals, gravel bike shoes need to provide good traction and walkability when you’re off the bike. Whether you’re navigating a technical trail section, crossing a stream, or simply stopping for a coffee break, a shoe with a rugged, lugged outsole will help you keep your footing on any terrain.
4. Durability: Gravel riding can be tough on your gear, with mud, water, rocks, and other obstacles that can quickly wear down lesser-quality shoes. A great gravel bike shoe should be built to last, with sturdy materials, reinforced construction, and a design that can withstand the rigors of off-road riding. Look for shoes with a robust upper, a secure closure system, and an outsole that can handle plenty of abuse.
5. Style: While performance should always be the top priority, there’s no denying that style plays a role in any cycling shoe purchase. Fortunately, many of the best gravel bike shoes on the market today offer a winning combination of form and function, with sleek, modern designs that look great both on and off the bike. Whether you prefer bold colors, understated elegance, or something in between, there’s a gravel shoe out there that will match your personal style.

My favorite gravel bike (at the moment):

Head HE03A Gravel Bike

My favorite gravel bike (at the moment):

Head HE03A Gravel Bike

The Head HE03A bike impresses me with its versatility and ample storage options that keep my gear organized. Its durable build withstands the demands of my active lifestyle, providing a comfortable ride.

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Our Top Picks for 2024

Now that we’ve covered the key features to look for in a gravel bike shoe, let’s dive into our top picks for the year. These shoes represent the best of the best in terms of comfort, performance, durability, and style, and are sure to enhance your gravel riding experience no matter where your adventures take you.

1. Shimano RX8 Gravel Shoes

The Shimano RX8 Gravel Shoes are a top choice for serious gravel riders who demand the highest level of performance and comfort. These shoes feature a lightweight, breathable upper made from synthetic leather and mesh, with perforations for added ventilation. The Boa IP1 dial closure system allows for easy, precise adjustments on the fly, while the Surround wrapping upper construction provides a glove-like fit that eliminates pressure points and hot spots.

But it’s the sole of the RX8 that really sets it apart from the competition. Shimano has utilized a carbon composite midsole and outsole that delivers incredible stiffness and power transfer, while still allowing for a bit of flex and compliance for comfort on long rides. The outsole features a dual-density rubber compound with an aggressive tread pattern, providing excellent traction and durability on any surface.

Other notable features of the RX8 include a reinforced toe box for added protection, a low-profile reverse buckle that prevents snagging on debris, and an anti-slip heel lining that keeps your foot securely in place. These shoes are compatible with SPD cleats and are available in a range of sizes and colors to suit any rider’s needs.

“I’ve been racing gravel events for years, and the Shimano RX8 shoes are hands down the best I’ve ever used. The combination of stiffness, comfort, and traction is unbeatable, and the Boa closure system makes it easy to dial in the perfect fit. These shoes have helped me power through some of the toughest courses out there, and they still look and feel great after countless miles of abuse.” – Sarah T., professional gravel racer

2. Giro Empire VR90 Knit

The Giro Empire VR90 Knit shoes are a stylish and innovative option for gravel riders who prioritize comfort and fit above all else. These shoes feature a unique knit upper that conforms to the shape of your foot like a sock, providing a customized fit that eliminates pressure points and hot spots. The lace-up closure system allows for precise adjustability across the entire foot, while the reinforced toe and heel boxes provide added durability and protection.

But the real magic of the Empire VR90 Knit lies in its outsole. Giro has partnered with Vibram, the legendary Italian rubber manufacturer, to create a highly durable and grippy outsole that can handle any terrain. The outsole features a full-length rubber tread with a hexagonal lug pattern, providing excellent traction and stability on loose or uneven surfaces. The sole is also stiff enough for efficient power transfer, thanks to a nylon shank that runs the length of the shoe.

Other notable features of the Empire VR90 Knit include a molded EVA footbed with arch support, a reflective heel tab for added visibility in low light, and a replaceable toe spike for added traction in muddy conditions. These shoes are compatible with SPD cleats and are available in a range of sizes and colors to suit any rider’s style.

“I was skeptical about the knit upper at first, but after riding in the Giro Empire VR90 Knit shoes for a few months, I’m a total convert. The fit is incredible – it’s like wearing a pair of cozy slippers, but with the performance and durability of a high-end cycling shoe. The Vibram outsole is also a game-changer, providing unbeatable traction and stability on even the gnarliest trails. These shoes have quickly become my go-to for all my gravel adventures.”

3. Fizik Terra X5

The Fizik Terra X5 shoes are a versatile and high-performance option for gravel riders who want a shoe that can handle any situation. These shoes feature a durable, water-resistant upper made from synthetic leather and recycled polyester, with perforations for added breathability. The Boa L6 dial closure system provides quick and easy adjustments, while the hook-and-loop strap across the forefoot allows for a customized fit.

But it’s the sole of the Terra X5 that really sets it apart. Fizik has utilized a carbon-reinforced nylon outsole that provides excellent stiffness and power transfer, while still allowing for a bit of flex and comfort on long rides. The outsole also features a grippy, lugged tread pattern that provides excellent traction on any surface, from loose gravel to slick rocks.

Other notable features of the Terra X5 include a supportive, ergonomic footbed with arch support, a reinforced toe box for added protection, and a reflective heel tab for improved visibility in low light conditions. These shoes are compatible with SPD cleats and are available in a range of sizes and colors to suit any rider’s needs.

“I’ve been riding in the Fizik Terra X5 shoes for a few weeks now, and I’m really impressed with their performance. The sole is stiff enough for efficient pedaling, but still comfortable enough for long days in the saddle. The traction is also top-notch – I’ve ridden through mud, sand, and even a bit of snow, and these shoes have never let me down. Plus, the Boa closure system makes it easy to get a perfect fit every time. If you’re looking for a high-performance gravel shoe that can handle anything, the Terra X5 is definitely worth checking out.”

Comparison Table

Other Notable Options

While the Shimano RX8, Giro Empire VR90 Knit, and Fizik Terra X5 are our top picks for the best gravel bike shoes of 2024, there are plenty of other great options out there. Here are a few more shoes that are worth considering:

• Specialized S-Works Recon: These high-end shoes feature a lightweight, breathable upper, a stiff FACT carbon sole, and a grippy SlipNot rubber outsole for excellent traction and durability. They also have a Boa S3 dial closure system for easy adjustments on the fly.
• Bontrager GR2: These shoes offer a great balance of performance and value, with a stiff carbon-reinforced nylon sole, a durable synthetic leather upper, and a Boa IP1 dial closure system. They also have a grippy rubber outsole with a aggressive tread pattern for excellent traction on any surface.
• Sidi Jarin: These stylish shoes feature a durable Microfibra Techpro upper, a stiff carbon-reinforced nylon sole, and a Tecno-3 dial closure system for precise adjustments. They also have a grippy MTB SRS Carbon Ground outsole with replaceable tread lugs for excellent traction and durability.
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Frequently asked question (FAQ)

Conclusion

Choosing the right gravel bike shoes can make a huge difference in your comfort, performance, and overall enjoyment of the sport. Whether you prioritize stiffness, traction, comfort, or style, there’s a shoe on this list that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. The Shimano RX8, Giro Empire VR90 Knit, and Fizik Terra X5 are all outstanding options that offer the perfect combination of features and benefits for serious gravel riders.

Of course, the best shoe for you will depend on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Be sure to try on a few different pairs, if possible, and don’t be afraid to invest in a high-quality shoe that will last for many seasons of riding. With the right pair of gravel bike shoes on your feet, you’ll be ready to tackle any adventure that comes your way, whether it’s a casual weekend ride or a grueling multi-day race. And if you need a gravel bike, take a look at this guide.

So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a new pair of gravel bike shoes today, and discover the freedom, excitement, and pure joy of exploring the world on two wheels. Happy riding!