Best Gravel Shoes 2025

Gravel riding requires a versatile gravel shoe that won't let you down. We take a look at the best gravel shoes for your next adventure and have put together some buying advice for any gravel bike rider looking for a lightweight shoe that delivers protection and efficient power transfer.

Best Shoes for Gravel Riding

• Best Entry Level: Fizik Terra Atlas Gravel Shoes

• Best for Adventure Riding: QUOC Escape Off Road Shoes

• Best for Performance: Shimano RX801 Gravel Shoes

• Best For Fit: Lake MX242 Off Road Shoes

• Best for Long Rides: Specialized Recon ADV Off Road Shoes

• Best for Technical Terrain: Sidi Physis Off Road Shoes

All prices and stock correct at time of writing

Best Entry Level: Fizik Terra Atlas Gravel Shoes

Price: £135

Specifications:

• Compatible with most 2-bolt cleats and clipless MTB pedal systems

• L6 BOA™ Fit System

• Manufacturer claimed weight: 355 grams (per shoe, EU41)

Pros:

• Reliable all-rounder, for all-terrain gravel & mountain biking

• Comfortable and roomy

• Entry level price point

The Fizik Terra Atlas Gravel Shoes stand out as the best entry gravel bike shoe. Designed with a wider fit and a roomier toe box, they provide enhanced comfort during long rides. A single Boa dial closure system offers a customisable fit, easily adjustable on the go. The stiffness rating of 5 out of 10 strikes a perfect balance between flexibility and support, making these shoes very much suited to riding gravel.

Catering to both gravel riding and bikepacking adventures, the Terra Atlas mtb shoes are highly versatile. Their rubber-coated outsole provides excellent grip on slippery surfaces, ensuring safety even in challenging conditions. Additionally, the TPU overlay protects the toe area, adding durability for rugged rides. The nylon foot plate offers the flexibility needed for walking comfort during bikepacking, while the lightweight design at 389g per shoe (size 43) enhances overall performance.

Best for Adventure Riding: QUOC Escape Off Road Shoes

Price: £150

Specifications:

• Broader treads for increased grip

• Softer soles for better comfort

• Rugged construction for durability

Pros:

• High grip and comfort

• Durable materials

• Reflective band for safety

Adventure seekers will find the QUOC Escape Off Road Shoes a perfect match, thanks to their broader treads that offer increased grip, ideal for off-road trails and rugged terrains. Softer soles enhance comfort, allowing for longer rides without fatigue. Constructed from abrasion-resistant microfibre and featuring a rubber toe cap, these gravel specific shoes withstand the toughest conditions.

The unique Quoc Dual-Dial system, featuring boa dials, allows for precise fit adjustments, ensuring maximum comfort during rides. A reflective band improves visibility, adding an extra layer of safety, especially in low-light conditions. Available in sizes from EU38 to EU47, these shoes cater to various foot dimensions, making them accessible to many riders.

Designed for adventure seekers, the QUOC Escape Off Road Shoes strike a balance between comfort, breathability, and protection. While they are heavier than some competitors, their durability and high grip make them a reliable choice for off-road adventures. However, they could be warmer in summer, which is something to consider based on your riding conditions.

Best for Performance: Shimano RX801 Gravel Shoes

Price: £179

Specifications:

• X2FC carbon outsole

• BOA Li2 dial system

• Stiffness rating: 10

Pros:

• Excellent power transfer

• Lightweight - 255 grams (per shoe, size 42)

For those seeking performance, the Shimano RX801 Gravel Shoes are a top contender. Equipped with a carbon outsole rated 11/12 for stiffness, they ensure maximum power transfer with every pedal stroke. The lightweight carbon composite sole further enhances power transfer, making these gravel cycling shoes ideal for competitive gravel racing.

Despite their racing focus, the RX801 features a snug heel cup for stability, ensuring a secure fit during high-intensity rides. The BOA Li2 dial system allows for precise fit adjustments, enabling you to fine-tune the shoe’s fit to your liking. Increased perforations in the upper material enhance ventilation, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry during intense rides. Weighing approximately 578 grams in size 43, these shoes are among the lighter options available for gravel cycling.

While excelling in performance, the Shimano RX801 Gravel Shoes are less comfortable for walking, which can be a drawback for some riders. If you’re looking for a shoe that delivers exceptional power transfer and stability, the RX801 is hard to beat.

Best For Fit: Lake MX242 Off Road Shoes

Price: £325

Specifications:

• Twin BOA® Fit System Li2 dial closure system

• Upper segmented into 6 independent zones for the most flexible fit

• Lake Competition 100% Carbon Fibre Sole

Pros:

• Some of the most innovative gravel shoes

• Comfortable for long rides

• Available in a wide fit

While the MX242 comes with a higher price tag, its focus on adaptable comfort, robust build quality, and efficient power transfer makes it a strong contender for gravel cyclists who prioritise fit and performance above all else. Riders with unique foot shapes, in particular, will likely find these shoes a revelation for extended adventures on mixed terrain.

The MX242 boasts a heat-moldable heel counter and a segmented upper with six independent zones, allowing for an incredibly tailored fit. Lake's Competition 100% Carbon Fibre Sole provides excellent power transfer, ensuring efficient pedalling on gravel climbs and flat sections. Crucially for off-road riding, this is paired with a robust Mountain Competition real rubber sole, offering extended protection and superior traction for those inevitable hike-a-bike moments.

These shoes are engineered with a strong emphasis on comfort and adjustability, making them a standout choice, especially for riders with "hard-to-fit" feet. We recommend a trip to your local bike shop in Hampton Wick, Oakham or Letchworth for a fit of Lake's gravel specific footwear.

Best for Long Rides: Specialized Recon ADV Off Road Shoes

Price: from £180

Specifications:

• Stride Toe-Flex Technology allows greater toe flex for steep inclines inclines and improved walkability

• Laser perforated upper features microfiber backing

• Greater SlipNot rubber tread coverage

Pros:

• Comfortable for long distances

• Excellent power transfer

• Lace closure for those who prefer this to a dial

The Specialized Recon ADV Off Road Shoes strike a compelling balance between on-bike performance and off-bike walkability, making them a strong contender for gravel riders who embrace adventure beyond the pedals. These lace-up shoes boast a sleek, classic aesthetic that belies their technical capabilities.

Specialized's "Body Geometry" philosophy is at the core of their design, incorporating features like the Varus Wedge, Longitudinal Arch, and Metatarsal Button to optimize foot, knee, and hip alignment for efficient and comfortable pedaling. A standout feature is the "STRIDE Toe-Flex Technology," which allows for a more natural flex in the toe area, greatly improving comfort when walking or pushing your bike up steep inclines.

Overall, the Recon ADV is a durable and comfortable option for long days in the saddle, bikepacking trips, or any gravel adventure where both riding and occasional walking are part of the plan.

Best for Technical Terrain: Sidi Physis Off Road Shoes

Price: £299

Specifications:

• Powerful XC2FC Full Carbon sole, stiffness Level 11

• Fitted with a dial system and Plustrap Closure

• High-visibility inserts

Pros:

• Made for the demands of XC mountain bike and gravel racing

• Grippy rubber sole gives traction across any terrain

• Comfortable Unum Ergo anatomical tongue

The Sidi Physis Off Road Shoes are a compelling option for gravel riders who prioritise uncompromising power transfer and a secure, precise fit. Designed with a strong emphasis on cross-country (XC) racing, these shoes translate exceptionally well to the demands of fast-paced gravel riding.

At the heart of the Physis is Sidi's X2FC full UD carbon sole, boasting a stiffness rating of 11 out of 12. This translates to exceptional power transfer, ensuring every watt you put down goes directly to the pedals, making them feel explosive on climbs and sprints

Sidi has introduced their "Millennium Fit" with the Physis, offering a slightly wider and more "foot-shaped" toe box compared to traditional Sidi shoes, which many riders will appreciate for enhanced comfort.

How to Choose the Best Gravel Bike Shoes

Choosing the best gravel bike shoes can be overwhelming for many gravel riders with so many options available. Here are some key factors to consider:

Sole Material: Often made from softer rubber to enhance grip in muddy conditions and rugged conditions, look for stiff shoes and stiff soles that balance stiffness for power transfer and flexibility for walking. Many gravel shoes such as the Recon and Physis come with a carbon sole.

Fit: Crucial for comfort and performance, ensure the shoe’s width accommodates your foot shapes. Ventilation is also important to keep your feet cool and sweat-free.

Fastening Systems: Options include velcro straps, laces, and an advanced fastening system like Boa for even pressure distribution and easy adjustability. A comfortable gravel shoe will enhance your performance on rough terrain.

Cleat Systems: Recessed SPD cleat systems in many gravel bike shoes and cycling shoes offer easier mud clearance and better usability, particularly useful for hike-a-bike sections, especially when wearing a mountain bike shoe.

Summary

Choosing the right gravel bike shoes can significantly enhance your riding experience. Whether you’re looking for the best overall option, a budget-friendly choice, or shoes designed for specific types of rides, there’s premium shoes aplenty at Sigma Sports.

Remember to consider factors like whether you prefer a stiff carbon sole or if you are more likely to hike a bike, maybe a grippy outsole is more important. When buying gravel shoes, also consider fit, fastening systems, and cleat compatibility. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect pair of gravel shoes that meet your specific needs and preferences.

Gravel Shoes FAQs

What is the difference between gravel bike shoes and mountain bike shoes?

Gravel bike shoes prioritise comfort and grip for dirt road conditions, featuring softer rubber soles and recessed SPD cleats for ease of walking. In contrast, mountain bike shoes may have stiffer soles optimised for better power transfer during riding.

How do I ensure a good fit for my gravel bike shoes?

To ensure a good fit for your gravel bike shoes, check both the length and width to match your foot shape, and prioritise ventilation to keep your feet cool if wearing in the summer. This will enhance your comfort and performance while riding. We have a full guide on cycling shoes and how they should fit. 

What are the benefits of different fastening systems?

Different fastening systems such as Velcro, laces, and Boa provide unique benefits, including adjustability and convenience. For instance, Boa systems allow for quick adjustments with even pressure distribution, while traditional laces enable precise tension control. Customers are very welcome to test gravel bike shoes in store to figure out which works best for the them.

What should I look for in the sole of a gravel bike shoe?

For a gravel bike shoe, seek soles that provide a balance of stiffness for effective power transfer and flexibility for comfort while walking. Softer rubber is advantageous for grip on challenging terrains.