Ever felt your feet slip inside your shoes when you hit a loose patch of gravel? That frustrating slide can ruin a great ride. Gravel cycling mixes the speed of road biking with the ruggedness of mountain biking. This unique blend demands gear that can handle both pavement and dirt with ease, and your shoes are right at the center of that challenge.
Choosing the perfect gravel shoe feels like a puzzle. Road shoes are stiff but offer no grip for hike-a-bike sections. Mountain bike shoes grip well but often feel heavy or too stiff for long stretches on the road. Finding that sweet spot—a shoe with good power transfer, excellent grip for walking, and enough comfort for all-day adventures—is the real struggle for every gravel rider.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what features matter most in gravel footwear, from cleat compatibility to sole flexibility. By the end of this post, you will know precisely which type of shoe fits your riding style and budget best. Let’s dive in and find the perfect pair to keep your feet comfortable and secure on every mile of gravel ahead.
Top Shoes For Gravel Riding Recommendations
- Synchwire construction is a stitch-less upper that's vented and reinforced to create a lightweight cycling shoe with incredible airflow and structural integrity. Synchwire is an advanced composite of thermo-bonded film that provides overall durability, a non-woven internal sheet for distributing the force from the closure system to the upper for direct power transfer, and mono-filament mesh for ventilation.
- The BOA® L6 Fit System provides fast micro-adjustability with the turn of the dial. The combination of the dial, lace, and guides reduces weight and provides finer adjusment (1mm increments) compared to traditional buckles, and it offers an instant release function too. The BOA Fit System dials and laces are guaranteed for the lifetime of the product.
- Our injection-molded nylon and glass fiber outsole is stiff and light, and features over-molded heel and toe pads for durability. The universal 3/2 cleat bolt pattern allows you to choose 2-bolt- or 3-bolt-style cleat/pedal systems for versatility and personal preference.
- Reflective details enhance visibility at nighttime or in low-light conditions when illuminated by a light source, such as headlights, by returning the light back to the source and reaching the driver's eye.
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Italian-designed cycling shoes built for performance since '85. For your perfect fit, select 1/2 size larger than your normal shoe size. Our Denver team ensures you're thrilled with every purchase, backed by our Lifetime Warranty. Join The Ride for fun, fitness, and community.
- Designed for riders needing reliable MTB shoes and indoor cycling shoes, these mountain bike shoes offer breathable support and durable construction for any terrain
- Compatible with 2-bolt SPD cleats, these SPD cycling shoes perform as gravel bike shoes, indoor cycling shoes for men, and mountain bike shoes, ensuring all-day comfort and precise pedal control
- Ideal MTB shoes for men seeking comfort and power transfer, these mountain bike shoes also deliver excellent performance as SPD cycling shoes for trail and off-road riders
- Blending design and durability, these SPD cycling shoes function as high-performing indoor cycling shoes for men and are the perfect mountain bike shoes for weekend warriors and professional cyclists
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Italian-designed cycling shoes built for performance since '85. For your perfect fit, select 1/2 size larger than your normal shoe size. Our Denver team ensures you're thrilled with every purchase, backed by our Lifetime Warranty. Join The Ride for fun, fitness, and community.
- DESIGNED FOR OUTDOOR & INDOOR CYCLING: Whether you ride mountain, gravel, commute, or go to a spin studio, these shoes area perfect for your style of riding. Enjoy the performance benefits, like increased stability, improved power transfer, and enhanced comfort wherever you ride. Thanks to a recessed 2-bolt cleat area, you can walk with ease. Plus, you'll be able to transfer power from your legs to the pedals more efficiently, so you can ride harder, faster, and longer, wherever you ride.
- BUILT TO LAST: Looking for mtb shoes that can handle any challenge you throw their way? Then our tough and ultra-durable Vertice cycling shoes are for you. These shoes are built tough, with reinforced soles, shoe armor, and sturdy construction that provide maximum support, stability, and power transfer. Moisture-wicking materials ensure that your feet stay cool and dry during even the most intense rides. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, the shoes can step your game up.
- STAY DRY & COMFORTABLE: We can all agree mtb shoes need to be comfortable and breathable. The challenge is providing both, while also maximizing performance. This intersection is where our mtb shoes excel, offering insane breathability, great padding, and a super stiff carbon fiber infused cleat shank. Perfect for casual rider and mountain junkies alike, because we believe everyone every man deserves high performance cycling shoes that will last a lifetime at a fair price.
- PERFORMANCE MATTERS: Every part of the Vertice 100 with Vibram sole was designed with you in mind. The quick and easy 3-strap design has you secure and comfortable in no time, while locking your heel in and avoiding hotspots and pressure points. The stiff carbon fiber infused sole will protect your feet, while give you better performance, so you can sweat out the troubles of the day, while maximizing engagement of your leg muscles. So trust Tommaso and let us help you crush your cycling goals!
- QUALITY CYCLING PRODUCTS SINCE 1985: Italian-designed cycling shoes built for performance since '85. For your perfect fit, select 1/2 size larger than your normal shoe size. Our Denver team ensures you're thrilled with every purchase, backed by our Lifetime Warranty. Join The Ride for fun, fitness, and community.
- TIMELESS STYLE: You know what's always in style, no matter what you're up to? Real suede leather. Whether you're out there shredding those trails or just kicking back with a cold one, you'll look like a total boss with these kicks on your feet. But let's not forget about comfort - we've added extra padding, support, and a shock-absorbing sole to keep you feeling fresh all day long. Don't settle for just looking good - get the best of both worlds with our timeless suede leather shoes.
- FITS LIKE A GLOVE: You need a pair of shoes that can keep up with your active lifestyle, on and off the trail. These mountain bike shoes are the perfect solution - they're so versatile, you can go straight from shredding the trail to grabbing a bite with your buds without skipping a beat. And when it comes to fit, we've got you covered. These bad boys are designed to fit snug for optimal performance and safety. If you're looking for a more laid-back fit, just size up and you're good to go.
- BUILT TO LAST: Made with tough ripstop nylon and genuine leather, these shoes can handle anything you throw at them. So whether you're hitting the trails, ripping up some MTB, or crushing gravel, you can ride without fear knowing your feet are protected. And with a tough, stiff sole that can handle any terrain, these shoes are designed to keep up with all your epic adventures. So get ready to dominate the trails and beyond, because these shoes are built to last!
- SAVE YOUR SHINS: If you're an adrenaline junkie hitting the trails on your mountain bike, you know the last thing you want is to slip off those pedals. It's a total buzzkill and can seriously affect your safety and performance. Lucky for you, I've got the solution. Introducing the STKgrip rubber compound soles - these bad boys will have your feet glued to those pedals like nobody's business. So why risk it? Save your shins and get a grip with STKgrip.
- Versatile Gravel Shoe: the RX600 is an SPD gravel shoe with balanced stiffness and walkability for off-road exploring
- Efficient Pedal Performance: stiff carbon reinforced outsole transfers your efforts directly to the pedal
- Bikepacking Friendly: wider outsole offers extra stability when walking or pushing your bike
- Tailored Fit: L6 BOA dial closure system cinches in seconds for a secure fit every ride
- VERSATILE FOR ALL TERRAINS: as possibly the most versatile shoe in our entire range, the new Atlas is designed to efficiently spin pedals off-road, equally capable of handling fast and fun downcountry laps, epic all-mountain rides, long-distance backcountry adventures and drop bar gravel grinding.
- FORMED THROUGH FEEDBACK: Atlas marks the latest addition to our Terra line-up and is the result of countless refinements based on thousands of miles of feedback from riders taking on every possible type of terrain and condition—from survivors of the toughest ultra bikepacking races to those enjoying local trails.
- ALL DAY COMFORT: long-wearing comfort with a more generous fit than before, Atlas is well-ventilated without sacrificing protection thanks to a TPU overlay that reinforces the toecap. Easily adjusted with a practical, single-BOA closure to dial in your fit and go wherever the day may lead.
- GRIP TO RIP: now more versatile than ever before, we’ve redesigned our X5 outsole for better grip and more traction. Equipped with generous studs and a rubber coating that covers the entire surface, including the mid-foot, the X5 outsole provides sure footing when steep, rough tracks require you to hike your bike.
- PEDALING FREEDOM: however, pushing pedals and punishing miles of off-road riding is what these shoes were truly made for—that’s why the hidden nylon foot plate is there to deliver balanced stiffness for pedalling efficiency, and the low-cut uppers allow for smooth, rub-free ankle movement throughout every pedal stroke.
- 【Package Includes The Free SPD Cleats】:The package includes 1 pair of MTB cycling shoes, a pair of SPD cleats, and a hex wrench, which means you don't have to pay extra for a pair of SPD cleats
- 【Footwear technology】: Reinforced TPU armoring on key impact areas protect your foot from trail debris. Whether you ride mountain, gravel, commute, or go to a spin studio, these shoes area perfect for your style of riding. Enjoy the performance benefits, like increased stability, improved power transfer, and enhanced comfort wherever you ride.
- 【Function&Compatibility】: Works with all 2-bolt pedal/cleat systems including Shimano SPD, Time ATAC, Crank Brothers, etc.
- 【Comfort and safety】: Precision fit from It’s single micro-adjustable WINDWIRE dial and a 25mm microfiber and Velcro strap. Reinforced thicker Tongue material provides vital trail impact protection.
- 【Purchase tips】: Please purchase the shoes with the appropriate size according to the size chart in our picture. If you have any problem after purchasing, such as missing accessories or assembly problems, please feel free to contact us for assistance. Kushike will try our best to solve the problem for you.
- Cycling shoes with sock-like construction made for mixed-surface and adventure rides
- SHINE ON COMFORT: Textile upper with reflective details offers comfort and shows up in low light
- STIFF AND SUPPORTIVE: Nylon and glass fiber composite plate provides the stiffness your pedals need
- PEDAL SYSTEM COMPATIBLE: Synthetic outsole with two-bolt cleat compatibility
- MADE IN PART WITH RECYCLED CONTENT: This product features at least 20% recycled materials. By reusing materials that have already been created, we help to reduce waste and our reliance on finite resources and reduce the footprint of the products we make
Gravel Riding Shoes: Your Essential Buying Guide
Gravel riding mixes road cycling speed with off-road ruggedness. You need shoes that handle both well. This guide helps you pick the right pair.
Key Features to Look For
When buying gravel shoes, focus on a few main things. These features make your ride better and safer.
Traction and Tread
- Deep Lugs: Look for deep, grippy patterns on the outsole. This helps when you have to walk or push your bike on loose gravel or mud. Good traction prevents slips.
- Walkability: Since gravel often means dismounting, the shoe needs a flexible toe and heel area. Stiff road shoes are hard to walk in.
Cleat System Compatibility
- SPD (2-Bolt): Most gravel shoes use the 2-bolt SPD system. This lets the cleat sit recessed inside the sole. Recessed cleats make walking easier and protect the metal from damage on rocks.
- Mud Clearance: Ensure the sole design allows mud to fall out easily. Clogged cleats stop you from clipping in.
Closure System
- Dial Systems (BOA): These use a thin wire tightened by a dial. They offer precise, easy adjustment, even while riding.
- Straps (Velcro): Velcro straps are simple, durable, and light. They are less prone to breaking than complex dials.
- Hybrid Systems: Some shoes combine one dial with a strap for a secure fit.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used affect comfort, weight, and durability. You want a good balance.
Outsole Materials
- Carbon Fiber: Provides maximum stiffness for efficient power transfer when pedaling hard. However, it can be slippery to walk on and often costs more.
- Nylon/Composite: These are more flexible than pure carbon. They offer better walkability because the sole flexes slightly when you step down. They are usually more affordable.
Upper Materials
- Synthetic Mesh: This material breathes well, keeping your feet cool on hot rides. It dries faster than leather.
- Reinforced Areas: Check for strong material around the toe box and heel. Gravel paths throw up sharp stones. Good reinforcement prevents punctures.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality often shows up in the details. Better design means a better ride.
Improving Quality
- Stiffness-to-Flex Ratio: High-quality shoes balance a stiff area under the pedal for power with a slightly flexible front for walking comfort.
- Durability of Closures: Dials should turn smoothly and hold tension all day. Straps should remain sticky after many uses.
Reducing Quality
- Poor Fit: A shoe that pinches or slips reduces power and causes pain. Always try shoes on before buying.
- Thin Tread: Shoes with very shallow tread wear out fast and offer poor grip when you need it most.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where you ride most often. This guides your choice.
Long Endurance Rides
For long days in the saddle, prioritize comfort and ventilation. A slightly less stiff sole (like nylon composite) might feel better after five hours because it allows for minor foot movement.
Muddy or Technical Terrain
If your routes involve lots of hike-a-bike sections or deep mud, choose shoes with aggressive, widely spaced lugs. Maximum traction is more important than absolute pedaling stiffness here.
Mixed Surface Riding (Gravel and Road)
If you frequently ride paved sections to get to the dirt, shoes with a smooth heel section are helpful. This smooth area wears down slower when you walk on asphalt.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Gravel Riding Shoes
Q: Should gravel shoes be as stiff as road shoes?
A: No. Gravel shoes need slightly more flex in the forefoot. This helps you walk comfortably when you get off the bike on rough ground.
Q: What is the best cleat system for gravel?
A: The 2-bolt SPD system is the standard choice. It allows the cleat to be recessed, which protects it and makes walking safer.
Q: Do I need waterproof shoes?
A: Waterproofing (like Gore-Tex) is great for wet climates or winter riding. For dry, warm rides, highly breathable mesh is better to prevent sweaty feet.
Q: How often should I replace my gravel shoes?
A: High-quality shoes can last several years. You know it is time to replace them when the sole tread is worn smooth or the closure systems stop working correctly.
Q: Can I use mountain bike (MTB) shoes for gravel riding?
A: Yes. Gravel shoes are very similar to cross-country (XC) MTB shoes. XC shoes are often a perfect match for gravel needs.
Q: How do I clean mud off my gravel shoes?
A: Use a soft brush and lukewarm water to gently scrub the tread and upper material. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the waterproofing or synthetic materials.
Q: What is the main difference between a cheap and an expensive gravel shoe?
A: Expensive shoes usually have stiffer carbon outsoles for better power transfer and lighter, more durable upper materials with better closure systems.
Q: Should I size up for gravel shoes?
A: Many riders choose a shoe that fits snugly but not tightly. If you plan to wear very thick winter socks, consider a half-size larger. Always check the manufacturer’s specific sizing chart.
Q: Is ventilation important in a gravel shoe?
A: Yes, ventilation is very important. Long gravel rides generate heat. Good airflow keeps your feet comfortable and reduces blistering.
Q: How durable should the toe cap be?
A: The toe cap should be reinforced with hard plastic or rubber. This feature protects your toes from accidental kicks against rocks or roots when navigating tricky sections.