best bike travel shoes

Cycle Travel Overload

Bikepacking & Adventure Cycling

Bicycle Touring Shoes | Best Shoes For Bike Touring

Finding a pair of bicycle touring shoes to suit your needs can be challenging. But that is why I compiled this post with a comprehensive list of some of the best bike touring shoes that have been recommended and tested by other bike tourers from all over the world. In no particular order the quick list of shoes for bike touring is as follows.

Keens Newport H2 & Rialto H2

Shimano sd5, shimano xm7 & xm9, evolv cruzer, five ten freerider pro, scarpa mojito gtx, mavic echappee trail elite, shimano mt3 spd.

• Lake Shoes MX145 (Cold Weather bike touring shoes)

Five Ten Guide Tennie

Northwave spider plus 2, pearl izumi x-alp iv, vibram five fingers, adidas terrex swift r2 gtx.

Before we look into each shoe lets discuss the process in choosing different options and factors to look for when selecting a pair of bicycle touring shoes.

When looking for a pair of shoes for touring touring it is important that they tick as many boxes as possible. More importantly then most should be comfort both on and off the bike. But it seems more important for on the bike comfort when pedalling for many hours every day.

Depending on what you prefer. Some like to wear standard flat shoes with flat pedals. Clipless SPD style shoes are not really necessary. For touring, these types of shoes can limit you to one foot position. generally with clipless shoes your feet will be where the cleats are. But after long days riding it is good to move your foot position around for comfort. Also dismounting is easier with flats. Especially when your bike is fully loaded, balance can be difficult. If you are looking for some flat pedals for touring and especially off road adventure cycling and gravel riding. You should check out this post I wrote about the best gravel bike pedals . In that post you will find around 8 flat pedal options. That offer large teeth to hold you feet in place while cycling large distances for days and days on end.

Some bike tourers will argue that clipless SPD shoes are a great option for touring. As I started my cycling career riding road bikes this is a roadies priority being to wear clipless shoes. As you are on the bike 100% of the time. But when your are touring you live on your bike. You are dismounting frequently, stopping walking around and exploring on foot. And walking around camp. Having dedicated road shoes for touring makes them impractical.

However MTB SPD shoes and touring specific SPD shoes can be a good option. As it is so often mentioned that clipless shoes offer a great deal of pedal efficiency. Translating a more economic amount of power into a pedal stroke, to propel you forward. This maybe true, but for me personally I think they are great. But a shoes that is multi-purpose. That also offers ‘off bike’ walking comfort as well as on bike comfort is huge. Most of these SPD shoes are super comfortable when cycling but lack comfort when walking for extended periods of time.

Like I mention in the complete list of the best bikepacking shoes . It is important that a bike shoe offer ventilation, breathability and durability. You want the shoes to be comfortable in hot weather and allow your feet the breath. Which is why you may consider getting some cycling sandals in the hot months of the year. Offer the most optimal amount of breathability then shoes.

Are you looking for cycling shoes that would be best for harsh winter conditions? Then you might want to consider these winter cycling shoes and boots!

Also hitting the jackpot and getting a pair of shoes that are built tough and lasts for the demands of bike touring is amazing too.

Before we get into the list of the recommended bike touring shoes. You should also consider just using some retired running shoes like a old pair of nikes or adidas shoes for touring in. If you are on a budget this is something to consider. Some bike tourers claim that this is what they do.

Or another option which seems to work well, is to get a pair of trail running shoes for your next tour. Some of these types of shoes are mentioned in the list below and in the bikepacking shoe list. The great thing about trail running shoes os that they are designed to offer support for your feet for when contacting rough and hard terrain. But are also lightweight! Getting a pair of waterproof trial running shoes with a flat pedal combination is very popular in the bike touring community. Something like Merrell trail shoes or Adidas are potential options.

Now that we have covered the general thought process that goes into figuring out what shoes are best for your bike touring adventures now we can have a look at more specific options that are recommended. These are in no particular order and include a variety of; clipless, sandals, flat platform, and camping or “off-bike” bike touring shoes.

If you want to read more about the shoes there is a ‘read more’ button underneath every shoe option. This will take you to the product page where you can read the reviews of these items and get a better understanding if they are a good option for your bike touring needs.

*If you want to buy any of these bike touring shoes, doing it via the affiliate links give Cycle Travel Overload a small commission which goes into creating more great resources for the bike travel community.

Both the Shimano XM700 and XM900 shoes are great bike touring shoe options. The difference between the two is one is a mid rise and the other a high raised ankle boot. They are categorised as a cross mountain shoe featuring added protection, comfort and walking stability. The Shimano XM7 and XM9 Gore-Tex Vibram Sole Touring Shoes are durable adventure shoes built for any trail condition.

These shoes are a minimalist option. They fit somewhere between a performance and casual shoe. Making them a recommended option for bike touring. They are designed also to be a casual rock climbing shoe. So they offer that grip and some structure on the bottom for support while still being minimalist.

The new and stylish looking 2019 Freerider Pro is a Mountain Bike flat pedal shoe. That offer insane grip, thanks to its soft and grippy Stealth S1 rubber outsole, combined with the Dotty tread pattern. The fabulous grip levels and all-weather performance make the Adidas Five Ten Freerider Pro MTB Shoes not only great for mountain biking but a great option for bike touring.

I was not sure if I wanted to include sandals options in this article as I have a seperate blog post about cycling sandals for touring. But It seems very popular for bike tourers to use sandals for everyday riding. But Keen sandals are almost a hybrid of a sandal and a shoe. They offer the airiness of a sandal and the toe protection of a shoe. The soles provide excellent traction and are great for water shoes. The Newport H2 style runs a 1/2 size small. So it is suggested to order a 1/2 size larger than your usual size.

Again another cycling sandal option then I promise to keep the rest of the options bike touring ‘shoes’. These are popular like the Keens when it comes to bike touring. As they offer breathability and grip, but the SD5 5 don’t have a toe protection. But they do offer more flexibility for walking. Again if you want other cycling sandal options for touring check out this post.

Available in mens and womens sizes. Featuring the Spyder sole that strikes the perfect balance between durability, grip and traction on loose surface. While also including a Gore-Tex membrane for wet weather conditions.

These Mavic shoes provide a roomer shape to accommodate wider feet, while still feeling secure on your foot. The shoes feature a Quick Lace system and Comfort Strap that take care of fit adjustments, ensuring the extra space doesn’t translate to sloppiness on long climbs. Also the shoes have a power-transferring midsole with just enough flex for comfort on hike-a-bikes. making them a good option for touring when it comes to walking off the bike.

These shoes are designed for recreational on-and off-road cycling. Meaning they are a good bike touring shoe option that offers comfort and pedalling performance when riding and excellent walking comfort.

Lake Shoes MX145

If you are looking for a shoe that is appropriate for snow bike touring in harsh winter conditions, these are a good option. Featuring a more roomy toe-box. The shoes are designed for anyone who wears their cycling shoes for long periods of time.

These shoe can be used for multiple purposes which is great in a touring bike shoe. use them for technical scrambling, climbing, long hikes or bike touring. The shoe provides water-resistance while remaining breathable on warm days with the mesh lining.

The Spider Plus 2 is a mix between a Mountain bike and hiking shoe. Which is a ideal combination that could mean this is essentially a bike touring shoe. They are designed to appear more like a casual shoe while having a anti-slip X-Crossbow Michelin sole.

Not the best looking shoes, but the made the list as they are made of mesh mostly. And mesh equals breathability. Stated by Pearl Izumi as the “perfect ride-and-run shoe”. The nylon plate, lugged outsole provides great pedalling power. While offer flexibility for running or walking in comfort. Also offers a light weight and superior breathability. Which is a high priority when it comes to bike touring.

These are one of my favourite shoes to use for bike touring. As they are remarkably lightweight and very minimal. They don’t provide much support when on the bike if that is important to you. But they can make great camping shoes after a days long of riding.

A similar shoe to the recommended bikepacking shoe option. This Adidas Terrex shoe is a great option for bike touring as it is a lightweight hiking shoe with advanced traction. The low cut design provides great movability when pedalling and a durable ripstop mesh maximises breathability. Features a fast lacing, and GoreTex waterproofing.

These are just some of the shoe options out there for bike touring. When looking for shoes for camp, you may want only footwear option. To change out of at days end. Bike tourers recommended using something like, flip flops or thongs, Crocs, Skechers, Sliders or Sandals. As a comfortable lightweight and breathable option to just slip on when walking around camp and don’t need to offer much functionality other then general comfort.

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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• Biking Gear Reviews

10 Best Bike Shoes of 2024

Our Top Picks

For several years we've been researching, buying, and testing the best bike shoes on the market to help you find the ideal pair for your next ride. We'll guide you through the top options for each biking category, from road cycling to mountain biking. Shopping on a budget? Our review also includes our top, award-winning options at incredible price points. Each pair of bike shoes was put through the wringer, with hundreds of miles of biking conducted in testing as part of our scientific and objective assessment process. Pedal your way down this page to find the best pair for you and your wallet.

Each category of biking has unique demands on its shoes. Check out our deep-dive bike shoe reviews, including the best road cycling shoes , or for the trail enthusiasts, look into the best mountain bike shoes . Our female testers have also conducted in-depth reviews for women's best mountain bike shoes and best women's best mountain bike flats . Regardless of the type of biking you enjoy most, everyone needs biking accessories such as durable bike locks or the best bike racks to get to the trailhead.

Best Overall Cycling Shoes

Fizik vento infinito carbon 2.

The updated Vento Infinito Carbon 2 remains a favorite amongst our testers, with a few improvements on an already incredible shoe. The latest update offers better BOA dial adjustment and a stiffer, lower-weight outsole that makes this version of the Carbon 2 more comfy and better performing than its predecessors. With the cleat position further back than past versions, our testers also found a noticeable reduction in knee stress as we pedaled through our various tests, which is a greatly appreciated change. We were also pleased that Fizik kept this model's weight down at 553 grams for a size 44.5 EU.

While the Carbon 2 is one of the stiffest options made by Fizik, it isn't as stiff as certain options from competing brands. Fortunately, this lack of total rigidity allows it to excel in comfort and form fit. Also, the upper folds get caught as you are trying to tighten the shoe, and although these folds look great once you're riding, putting on the shoe and dialing in the fit is a minor annoyance. Our suspicion is that this won't bug a serious roadie too much, given the incredible quality of the shoe. This premium cycling shoe, unfortunately, comes at a premium price, and if your budget is tighter, we will steer you towards an option such as the Bontrager Solstice . Overall, we had to nitpick to find anything wrong with the Carbon 2. It's an absolutely stellar road bike shoe that's worthy of your consideration as long as it's in your budget.

Read more: Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 review

Best Cycling Shoes on a Budget

Bontrager solstice.

The Bontrager Solstice is well-deserving of our award for the best budget option for road biking. It offers everything you need for an entry-level shoe, with decent form-fit in the upper, providing excellent comfort, which keeps a new road cyclist on the bike for longer. The velcro strap closure is both easy to get into and effective at providing foot security. The Solstice is a simply designed shoe, and many cyclists will appreciate how easy it is to put these on and clip in, especially when considering its price. Budget-friendly options like this are a gift to any shopper, as daunting costs can keep many would-be cyclists from getting into such an incredible sport.

The Solstice isn't intended to be used for limit-pushing rides. Compared to premium shoes, they have a high amount of flex in their soles, causing less efficient pedaling- especially on climbs. It also doesn't tighten as precisely as other options. Having said this, we firmly believe new cyclists will be happy with this option, with an excellent price point allowing one to ease into the sport without dropping a bunch of hard-earned money. If you're looking for higher performance, we'd recommend the Vento Infinito Carbon 2 , though you'll have to spend a pretty penny. The Solstice is an incredible option for those hunting for their first pair of road bike shoes and need to shop on a budget.

Read more: Bontrager Solstice review

Great Value for High-End Performance

Fizik tempo overcurve r4.

The Fizik Tempo Overcurve R4 is a utilitarian shoe that offers simplicity at a great price. It's not the fanciest shoe we tested, and for some, that's a good thing. This shoe doesn't rely on advanced features or gimmick-riddled advertising to prove its worth. The R4 includes a two-way BOA dial to adjust the polyurethane-laminated mesh upper, which kept our feet happy throughout testing. The outsole of this shoe uniquely offers a carbon-injected nylon for improved power transfer and saves some weight. This no-frills cycling shoe is worthy of your consideration as a high-performing option on a budget.

The Tempo Overcurve R4 doesn't offer much in the way of premium features, especially when compared to other full-carbon cycling shoes. The upper is stiffer than some shoes, which can lead to hotspots for some cyclists. With only one BOA dial, the fit isn't as precise as we would have liked, though some feet won't need more adjustability. The mostly nylon outsole has more flex while pedaling, so we'd steer you elsewhere if pedal performance is your priority. At the end of the day, this budget-minded shoe is well made and gifts performance you can rely on. If you're looking to maximize power transfer while maintaining a light weight, check out the Shimano SH-RC9 S-Phyre .

Read more: Fizik Tempo Overcurve review

Most Comfortable Cycling Shoes

Louis garneau course air lite xz.

The Louis Garneau Course Air Lite XZ is an updated version of the Course Air Lite II, which was a past favorite of ours. This latest and greatest option stands out, first and foremost, due to its comfort. With three adjustable arches that work with the Ergo Air Transfo 3D insole, you can get the foot support right where you need it. Our testers' toes were happy with the X-Comfort zone, gifting plenty of play space, and the ventilation throughout the upper shoe kept our feet from overheating. All of these details equate to an excellent cycling shoe from Louis Garneau.

A premium shoe like the Course Air Lite XZ demands a premium price. Outside of the cost, the Air Lite XZ runs on the narrower side, so if you have a wider foot, we'd look elsewhere. Additionally, the tongue may rub a little for some users. At the end of the day, this is an excellent road shoe for committed cyclists wanting both performance and comfort. If you value comfort above all else, we recommend the Louis Garneau Course Air Lite XZ – another top scorer for that portion of our cycling shoe review.

Read more: Louis Garneau Course Air Lite XZ review

Best Overall Mountain Bike Shoes

Five ten freerider pro.

The Freerider Pro has become the standard that all other bike shoes are compared to in the world of flats. When using flat bike pedals, the grip of your shoe is crucial, and Five Ten's Stealth rubber has long held its reputation as the best rubber available. This model offers the best pedal grip we've seen in a flat bike shoe — offering the next best form of attachment besides clipping in. The midsole of this option is stiff, gifting quality power transfer while simultaneously keeping foot fatigue to a reasonable level. Our testers were still able to strut around the brewery or the coffee shop off-the-bike in these shoes, with a slight amount of toe flex, allowing relative comfort for non-pedal travel. The Freerider Pro's medium-volume design accommodates a healthy variety of foot sizes and shapes with a modest, padded upper construction, offering protection without feeling cumbersome. This shoe is definitely worthy of your consideration if you're looking for top-of-the-line flats.

While it's considered an asset to have grippy shoes, the Freerider Pro might be too grippy for some riders who like to switch their foot position often. Being able to easily adjust foot positions is one of the mainstay positives for choosing flats over clipless. Also, the durable construction of this model unfortunately comes at the cost of breathability, causing our feet to get sweaty, especially on hot days. If you're seeking an option with an ankle cuff, check out the Five Ten Freerider Pro Mid VCS , which offers similar quality. Besides a few small drawbacks, the Freerider Pro is an incredible shoe that tops the charts for all of our testers.

Read more: Five Ten Freerider Pro review

Best Overall Women's Mountain Bike Shoes

Giro latch - women's.

The Giro Latch blew our testers away with nearly flawless performance in our rigorous and comprehensive testing. This option, first and foremost, keeps your feet attached to the pedals, even on rowdy terrain. The Latch is also built with Mute Foam and Tack Rubber on top of Gamma Tread, impressively absorbing bumps and vibrations normally felt in the pedal. Giro's Tack Rubber allows some foot movement but still gifts riders with excellent grip. The Latch strikes a balance between pedal performance and walkability, with a midsole offering some (but not too much) flex. Lastly, this option boasts a high score in the weight category, further solidifying the Latch as a top-notch choice for flats.

Before you rush out to purchase the Giro Latch , it's worth noting it doesn't offer the best breathability. Its microfiber construction in the upper does breathe ok for a mountain bike shoe, but if you need something better, we'd recommend the Specialized 2FO Roost Flat . The Latch also doesn't offer the best protection for more technical riding, with options such as the Five Ten Freerider Pro - Women's better suited for downhill/rougher trails. Despite these setbacks, the Latch is a good choice if you're seeking flats that can handle cross-country or trail riding — we thoroughly enjoyed its comfort, weight, and bump absorption.

Read more: Giro Latch Womens review

Best Bang for the Buck Mountain Bike Shoes

Ride concepts livewire.

The Ride Concepts Livewire is an excellent option that ticks virtually all of the boxes for an all-mountain bike shoe. This model offers an outsole made with Rubber Kinetics – an unwaveringly reliable rubber that maintains grip on even the bumpiest of trails. The Livewire strikes a decent balance with its mid-range sole stiffness, allowing for pedal performance without sacrificing its ability to walk, whether on the trail or at the pub. We were pleased with the protection offered by this model, with molded toe and heel construction and D30 inserts that help absorb impact. There's a lot to love about this shoe, and with a medium-volume fit, it'll work for many riders.

The Livewire isn't the stiffest option available, making it less ideal for those seeking the best in power transfer. At 458 grams per shoe for a size 11, it's not the lightest pair either, so it's not the best choice if you have a need for speed. If that's the case, we'd recommend the Giro Latch , which has a stiffer midsole for pedaling and is lighter. Many riders will find these setbacks to be minor and will love the Livewire as an amicably priced, versatile shoe.

Read more: Ride Concepts Livewire review

Best Bang for the Buck Women's Mountain Bike Shoes

Specialized 2fo roost clip - unisex.

The Specialized 2FO Roost Clip is a great option that's friendly to your wallet and to your ride. Don't let the casual appearance fool you – these shoes provide great power to your pedaling and can handle most of your rides- just keep them out of the downhill park. The 2FO Roost Clip offers the coveted SlipNot FG sole, which keeps your feet happy whether you're on your pedals or walking your bike. We also loved the high adjustability of the pedal positioning, allowing you to dial in the pedaling fit you want. Considering this option's low price point, we can't recommend this model enough.

While our heels were securely held, the Roost Clip has a relaxed fit that can cause some lateral movement in the midfoot. We were able to handle technical sections of the trail, whether up or down, but some riders will want a tighter feel. Despite this detail, the Rooster Clip still gifts excellent power transfer and felt like a dream on our feet — we still can't believe its pedal performance for being a lace-up shoe. If you need an option that performs better, look into the Crankbrothers Mallet Boa , though it's more pricey. At the end of the day, this option is worthy of your consideration as an all-arounder mountain bike shoe, and its affordable price will help you afford other needed bike purchases.

Read more: Specialized 2FO Roost Clip - Unisex review

How We Test Bike Shoes

If you add up the years we've each spent biking, our testing team here at OutdoorGearLab has collectively spent a few hundred years riding bikes. We've combined that wealth of experience and created objective, rigorous testing processes for each of our bike shoe reviews to help you make an informed decision on your next purchase. We buy every single shoe ourselves, accepting zero handouts from companies to ensure a bias-free assessment of every option. We've used and abused each bike shoe in several different environments, from the misty coastal roads of California to the dry slickrock of the Utah desert, to ensure every product's best and worst qualities are unearthed.

Every shoe's scoring metrics include durability, weight, performance, and comfort. Each type of biking has unique demands for the rider's shoe, so each category has additional unique metrics to help you objectively find the best pair of biking shoes for your needs, so dive into each of the reviews to further learn about our testing processes.

Why You Should Trust Us

Zach Wick , Jeremy Benson , Ryan Baker , Nick Bruckbauer , Zach Lovell , Ryan Baham , Dillon Osleger , Pat Donahue , and Ian Stowe . This exceptional testing team is made up of certified mountain bike guides, champion road cycling racers, bike manufacturing designers/lab testers, biking guidebook authors, and everyone is passionate about the sport of biking.

How to Choose the Best Bike Shoes

Our feet are the only parts of our body that make contact with the pedals of a bike, making our biking footwear among the most crucial elements of any bike setup. Whether you're a mountain biker or a road biker, quality bike shoes that fit you correctly are just as important as which bike you buy. Fortunately, a bike shoe is a much more affordable piece of equipment to purchase or upgrade than buying or upgrading an entire bike as long as you find the right shoe for you.

Clips, Clipless or Flat Pedals

For those newer to cycling or mountain biking, one of the greatest misunderstandings is what it means to have clips, clipless or flat biking pedals, or shoes. We totally get it — we've had those same misunderstandings, too. Until the 1890s, bike pedals were all that we would consider flats today, meaning a flat platform pedal that can be used with any shoe, and the rider is not attached to the bike. In the 1890s, pedal toe straps/clips became an option for cyclists, which allowed the rider to attach their feet to the pedal with a toe cage and straps. While designs varied, these clip pedals were all unreliable in terms of how well they kept your foot attached to the pedal. In more intense pedaling, riders could experience their foot slipping out, but in a crash, a rider might stay attached. While designs existed much earlier, it wasn't until the 1970s when "clipless" pedals became widely used, where a rider had a sort of cleat on the bottom of their shoe that would lock into the bike pedal and no longer needed clips (toe cages) to attach their foot to the bike. These clipless pedals were initially dangerous in a crash since they didn't release, but spring innovations rapidly improved their designs and allowed for shoe release in a tumble. It also became simpler to get into and out of the pedal, with a simple step-down motion to get in and a heel twist/pivot to get out.

Present-day clipless bike pedals and shoes have nearly perfected their design, and they are really the only option recommended for invested road cyclists. In the mountain biking world, one has the option to use flat (platform) bike shoes/pedals or clipless. While you can still buy toe clip pedals from a few manufacturers, we would recommend using clipless or flats for any biking to maximize performance and safety. It's also important to note there are multiple types of clipless pedals available, and one will likely need to buy a different cleat for their bike shoes (or just transfer your pedals) if switching from road to mountain biking or vice versa.

Cycling Shoes

Cycling, or road bike shoes, are the lightest category of bike shoes and are extremely aerodynamic when compared to many clunky mountain bike options. These shoes offer the greatest pedaling efficiency with a stiff sole build that is frequently made of carbon and offers unparalleled breathability with synthetic upper shoe construction. While soles that are entirely carbon offer the best performance, they're typically the most expensive, so a hybrid of nylon and carbon can be an excellent compromise between budget and value. The cleat in the forefoot of the shoe protrudes from the sole, aiding further in the level of pedal efficiency and power found only in this category.

Cycling shoes shouldn't be walked in for long periods of time, with minimal traction and a higher forefoot than the heel. This makes for a very awkward stride, especially when compared to mountain bike flats, and they sound like tap-dancing shoes on the pavement. While some options are better than others for walking, if you're utilizing a road bike as a commuter, we simply recommend keeping a pair of normal shoes at the office or in your backpack. While it's possible to use cycling shoes for mountain biking, we would generally discourage this unless you are focusing on cross-country riding.

Mountain Bike Clipless Shoes

Clipless mountain bike shoes are intended for those seeking clipless pedals and shoes for their unpaved adventures. Being attached to your mountain bike allows for better pedaling power/efficiency and maneuvering over, around, or through most features you'll encounter on the trail compared to flats. When you're attached to your pedal, you need to be more exact with your shoe fit, as any unnecessary space (or improper sizing) can encourage more rubbing/blistering than flats. While good pedaling technique involves minimal upward pull on the pedal, we all do it, so your shoe needs to fit your pedal stroke in multiple directions.

Mountain bike shoes have a few different designs that can garner strong opinions depending on the type of biking you're looking to do. Cyclists who are more oriented to racing and cross-country rides may prefer a slimmer, road bike-esc shoe with less rubber. These are frequently the lightest shoes in the category, but with reduced rubber, they can be less friendly for hiking a bike on the trail. These shoes' aesthetics are also an acquired taste should you go out to dinner or to a brewery after a ride. The other common sub-class of mountain bike shoes is the more casual, downhill-friendly design. These look similar to flats with a wider shape and sticky rubber but with an insert for cleats in the forefoot. These are more commonly used with wider clipless pedals that offer more stability for technical downhill riding with a platform that's reminiscent of flat pedals.

Avid mountain bikers are split between riding clipless or flats (arguably more riders are in the clipless camp), but if you're new to the sport, consider starting on flats as you can more easily hop off your bike on the trail as you learn the basics. While any clipless system will ultimately release in a crash, that release will not necessarily happen immediately, and you might be attached for a second longer than you'd like. Some do start off learning to mountain bike clipless, but they anticipate a steeper learning curve.

Flat Bike Shoes

This type of shoe doesn't have cleats and can only be used with flat/platform pedals. Flat shoes are the most versatile of any bike footwear genre, as they can also be used hanging around town as much as on the trail. Typically, these shoes will have a flat, wide bottom to maximize surface area on a flat pedal and will likely be made with some form of sticky rubber to stick better to the pedal. The sticky rubber used in a flat biking shoe is either similar or identical to the rubber used in approach/climbing shoes, where sticky rubber is essential for performance and safety. Without cleats and gifting excellent rubber, these shoes are likely to excel at hiking your bike if you come up on a technical section of a trail you don't want to ride or are sessioning a feature and want to run laps.

Mountain bike flats reduce pedaling efficiency when compared to clipless, but finding a pedal that fits your bike shoe's forefoot dimensions can greatly improve your pedal stroke and downhill performance. As previously mentioned in our mountain bike shoes section above, these are an excellent option for those just getting into mountain biking, as you can hop off your bike quickly. Mountain bike flats are also a great option for commuters and casual, recreational cyclists in an urban environment who want a more protective shoe for biking but still want the aesthetics of a more normal-looking shoe.

Conclusions

Best Mountain Bike Flat Pedal Shoes For Women

Best Mountain Bike Shoes of 2024

Best Road Bike Cycling Shoes of 2024

Best Mountain Bike Shoes for Women

Best Mountain Bike Flat Pedal Shoes of 2024

Best Mountain Bike Saddle of 2024

Best Bike Saddles of 2024

10 Best Bike Seats of 2024

Best Comfort Bike Seat of 2024

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Best Touring Cycling Shoes of 2024

The right shoes are a critical part of your bike touring kit, but what shoes are right for you? That will depend on where you’re riding, the conditions you expect to encounter, your personal preference, and your budget! The best touring cycling shoes span a range of needs and styles. Whether you want shoes just for riding or to double up as ride shoes and street shoes, whether you use cleated pedals or platforms or even if you’d prefer cycling sandals, there’s something on this list to fill your needs.

For more of our top bicycle touring gear recommendations, check out the Best Bike Shorts for Touring .

Quick Answer - The Best Touring Cycling Shoes

• Shimano CT5 View at Amazon
• Five Ten Sleuth DLX View at REI
• Shimano SD5 View at REI
• SIDI Dominator 7 View at Backcountry
• Pearl Izumi X-Alp Journey View at Amazon

Comparison Table - Best Touring Cycling Shoes

Reviews - the best shoes for touring cycling, shimano ct5.

• Closure : Laces
• Weight : 1 lb 8.2 oz
• Upper : Synthetic Leather/Polyurethane
• Cleat Design : 2-Hole
• Shock Absorbing Midsoles Maximize Walking Comfort
• Hidden Inner Shank For Optimum Power Transfer
• Easy Cleat Installation
• Casual Sneaker-Style Design

BEST BUDGET PICK

Is that a sneaker or a cycling shoe? It’s a bit of both. Shimano introduced the sneaker-styled CT5 to appeal to urban riders who wanted a shoe that would clip into their pedals and offer efficient power transfer but still blend in with the environment in a restaurant or an office. Touring riders want many of the same features and adopted the shoe eagerly. The CT5 balances on-bike and off-bike functions with an invisibly embedded stiffening plate that transfers power to the pedals efficiently without interfering excessively with off-bike comfort. 

If you’re looking for a single shoe for both on-bike and off-bike wear and you’d like to keep your spending at a moderate level, the CT5 will be one of your top options. Shimano shoes run a bit on the narrow side, so if your feet are wide, you may wish to order a size larger than usual.

Five Ten Sleuth DLX

• Weight : 1 lb 5.3 oz
• Upper : Suede Leather
• Cleat Design : Platform
• Stealth S1 Rubber Outsoles For Superior Pedal Grip
• Shock-Absorbing EVA Midsoles Add Comfort
• Sleek Low-Profile Silhouette

BEST SHOE FOR PLATFORM PEDALS

Most touring riders prefer cleated shoes, which provide more consistent power transfer and a solid connection to the bike. If you’re one of the holdouts who prefer platform pedals, you’ll be looking for a comfortable, durable shoe with a sole that gives you absolute traction on the pedal. The Five Ten Sleuth delivers what the touring rider needs in a platform shoe. The upper portion may look like a casual suede street shoe, but underneath it, you’ll find a sole of Five Ten’s stealth rubber, renowned for its ability to stick to almost anything, including your platform pedals. There’s a durable one-piece toe cup that reduces separation and a solid insole that will hold up to long days on the bike.

If you’re a Five Ten loyalist who still hasn’t recovered from the addition of Adidas branding on your favorite shoes, don’t worry: the top may have that Adidas look but the business side of the shoe is Five Ten all the way! The shoes will stick to your pedals, they’ll hold up to abuse, and you’ll lose that hard-floor cleat click that tells the world that there’s a cyclist in the room.

Shimano SD5

• Closure : Strap
• Weight : 1 lb 12.2 oz
• Dual Strap Design For Secure, Comfortable Fit
• Durable Uppers With Moisture-Controlling Mesh Layering
• Reinforced Shank Plate And Wide Rubber Outsole For Sole Rigidity And Comfort

BEST BIKE TOURING SANDAL

Touring in warm or hot climates can leave you wishing you could trade those rigid, efficient bike shoes for a pair of well-ventilated sandals without sacrificing the efficiency of cleated shoes. The Shimano SD5 lets you do exactly that, mating an adventure sandal upper to the sole of a cycling shoe. The result is a cycling sandal that’s ideally adapted to warm or wet conditions where you look for well-ventilated, fast-drying footwear. You can wear them with or without socks, and some diehard devotees even pair them with waterproof socks and shoe covers and wear them in winter.

The SD5 is comfortable on the bike and adapts easily to walking, but you should stay aware that you’re wearing open footwear that sacrifices some protection. The open-toe design is ideal for ventilation but loose rock or rough terrain could put your toes at risk if you’re not careful!

SIDI Dominator 7

• Closure : Velcro Strap
• Upper : Microfiber Synthetic Leather
• Reinforced Heel Keeps Foot In Optimum Position
• Fast, Secure Velcro Closures Eliminate Loose Laces
• Soft Instep Closure System For Comfortable Fit

BEST PURE RIDING SHOE

The best shoes for riding are rarely the best shoes for walking. Some riders look for a compromise, some want to use the most efficient riding shoe they can get and carry a pair of light shoes or sandals for use off the bike. If you’re in the latter category and you’re willing to spend what it takes to get the best possible riding shoe, the SIDI Dominator 7 will be a dominant choice. 

This is not a shoe that’s made to blend in off the bike: nobody will ever mistake it for anything but a cycling shoe. It is made to deliver maximum on-bike performance. It’s light, it’s rigid, and the velcro closures are secure and eliminate any chance of laces getting mixed up in your moving parts. The uppers are water-repellent but breathable and the entire shoe is designed to stand up to heavy use in difficult conditions.

The Dominator 7 comes in a range of widths and offers an unusually wide size range, making it a great choice for people with oddly sized feet. It’s far from being the cheapest shoe on the market, but if riding is your priority and you want the best cycling shoes you can get, these may be what you’re looking for.

Pearl Izumi X-Alp Journey

• Closure : Quick Lace
• Weight : 1 lb 10.4 oz
• Upper : 66% Plastic, 34% Textile
• Carbon/Rubber Lugged Outsole For Superior Traction
• Quick Lace Closure Is Fast And Secure
• Bonded Seamless Upper For Comfort And Durability

BEST ALL-AROUND SHOE

Pearl Izumi’s X-Alp line has earned enduring popularity among touring riders, and the X-Alp Journey continues that tradition. This is an all-purpose shoe made for cycling in almost any conditions. They feature slip-in bootie construction that’s comfortable with or without socks and a bonded seamless upper for all-day riding comfort. They’re made to dry fast when your trip gets wet and deliver comfort on or off the bike.

If you had to own only one pair of shoes for all your cycling needs, the X-Alp Journey would be one of your top choices: it’s light, it’s stiff, and it provides solid protection, comfort, and good power transfer. That versatility makes it a top choice for touring, especially when you’ll be riding in varied and unpredictable conditions.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING TOURING CYCLING SHOES

Cycling places very specific demands on shoes and those demands are magnified when you’re in the saddle all day, every day. Shoes are the interface between your foot and the pedal, and all of the power that keeps you moving passes through that interface. 

Shoes that are soft and flexible don’t transfer power effectively. Shoes that are completely rigid are very good at moving the bike but can make walking very uncomfortable. Manufacturers resolve this contradiction with all kinds of design innovations. Wherever your ideal balance point between walking and cycling lies, you’ll find a shoe that fits it!

CHECK YOUR PEDALS

Bike shoes and pedals spend a lot of time together and compatibility is important. 

Most touring riders use pedals designed to attach to a cleat on the shoe. Sometimes called clipless pedals (because they replaced pedals with toe clips), these pedal/shoe combinations allow the foot to power the pedal through the entire arc of pedal travel, not just on the downstroke. They allow for faster acceleration and more efficient climbing and are generally preferred for long-distance riding.

Different brands of pedals use different cleats, and the cleats you will mount on your shoe have to match your pedals. Almost all major pedal brands now use a standard 2-hole mount, and most bike shoes come equipped to mount these cleats. If your pedals use the old 3-bolt mounting system you will have to look for shoes that still accept these cleats. It may be easier to replace your pedals!

Some riders still prefer the ease and convenience of platform pedals. These can be used with any shoe, but if you plan to ride long distances day after day, you will still want to use shoes designed for cycling, with a sticky rubber compound that won’t slip off the pedal and a relatively rigid sole that allows the reliable transfer of power from foot to pedal.

TYPES OF SHOES

Most manufacturers of cycling footwear don’t make touring-specific models. Touring cyclists usually choose compatible shoes originally designed for other disciplines.

Road biking shoes , especially those designed for racing, prioritize performance. They tend to be very light and extremely rigid, which maximizes power transfer to the pedal but also makes them very uncomfortable to walk in. Cleats are often very prominent due to the minimalist soles and can be uncomfortable and noisy when walking on hard surfaces.

Mountain Biking shoes tend to be designed with both walking and riding in mind and often have softer soles and more recessed cleats. Shoes designed for downhill or freeride use often provide more protection than a touring cyclist needs and can be heavy and hot for extended rides, but many cross-country and general-purpose mountain bike shoes are ideally suited to bike touring.

Urban and Commuter shoes are designed for riders who pedal in the city, and who need riding shoes that blend in when they’re off the bike. They often sport conventional styling with cycling-oriented soles and are also easily adapted to touring, especially if you want to use one pair of shoes for on-bike and off-bike use.

Flat shoes don’t have cleats and are designed for use on platform pedals. They are often used by mountain bikers, BMX or dirt riders, and others who would rather not be attached to their bike. Many flat shoes look very much like general sports shoes, but they tend to have stiffened soles for power transfer and sticky rubber compounds that keep feet on pedals.

Bike sandals look much like all-purpose sports sandals but have stiff shanks for cycling use. Some are cleated as well. Cycling sandals dry fat and provide excellent ventilation. They are preferred by many touring cyclists who are riding in warm or hot climates.

ONE PAIR OR TWO?

Some touring cyclists prefer to bring one pair of shoes for on-bike and off-bike use. You’ll probably want to bring at least a pair of flip-flops or light sandals to give your feet a rest after a day in your bike shoes, but carrying only one pair of shoes does lighten your load and keep things simple. If you prefer this approach you’ll want a pair of dual-purpose shoes that are adaptable to both riding and walking.

Other riders like to use their riding shoes exclusively for riding and carry a second pair for walking or for use in environments where a pair of cleated cycling shoes might not be welcome (like a cafe with a polished wood floor). If you’re in this category you’ll be choosing your shoes more specifically for cycling performance.

REI offers this general guide on how to choose bike shoes , or check out this touring-specific advice on bicycle touring shoes .

SPECS AND FEATURES EXPLAINED

Upper materials.

Bike shoes get wet and dry out on a regular basis, from sweat, rain, and road moisture. Most manufacturers prefer synthetic materials, which stand up better to repeated wetting and drying. Synthetic leathers are often used for protection and support but may not be comfortable in hot weather. Many manufacturers integrate mesh panels for ventilation, which also helps to dry the interior of the shoe. 

Most touring cyclists use standard 2-bolt cleats, which fit pedals made by Shimano, Crank Brothers, Time, and many other major pedal manufacturers. 

Cleats may be fully exposed, which makes clipping to the pedal easier but may interfere with walking, or recessed. Recessed cleats are more comfortable to walk in and avoid clicking on hard floors and potentially damaging softer floors.

There are three common closures used on mountain bike shoes.

Standard laces offer a wide range of adjustment, but stray laces or loose knots can lead to a lace tangling between your pedal and crank or getting mixed up with your chainrings. If you prefer laced shoes you’ll need to pay attention to your knots and avoid long lace tails.

Quick-lace closures are fast, convenient, and do not leave enough lace to tangle. They may not adjust enough or offer consistent enough tightness across the instep to please picky riders.

Laceless closures like velcro or strap and ratchet based closure systems tighten without laces. They eliminate any possibility of loose laces but may be too bulky to suit some riders.

SHANKS, MIDSOLES, AND OUTSOLES

Shanks are rigid inserts designed to stiffen a sole to enable the efficient transfer of power from foot to pedal. Shanks may be full or partial length, with partial-shank shoes being marginally less efficient but much easier to walk in.

Midsoles are an intermediate layer between your foot and the outer sole. They are often padded to provide additional comfort.

Outsoles are the part of the shoe that is in contact with the ground when you walk or with the pedal if you right on platforms. Outsoles of shoes made for use with platform pedals need to be soft and sticky to grip the pedal. Many cleated shoes that are designed for walking as well as riding feature outsoles that resemble those of standard shoes.

For more of our top bicycle touring gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

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14 Best Bicycle Touring shoes – Stylish and Functional

Bicycle Touring shoes are an essential part of bike touring. Without the right cycling shoes, your tour can quickly become a nightmare and end abruptly. As such, you must own a good pair of touring bike shoes before setting out on your journey.

In this article, I'll share with you the best bicycle touring shoes I've found over my years of touring cross country in every situation. These cycling shoes will make your bike touring experience one with fewer issues since they all feature just the right specs to complete any tour and last longer than a few months.

I handpicked the top 14 bike touring shoes from hundreds of cycling shoes that I vetted to based on comfort, ventilation, cleat compatibility, closure type, and lastly the price.  Plus, I've even included the best bike touring sandals that I've ever owned for those that prefer biking without a hard shoe.

So if you're interested in saving loads of time and money trying out a bunch of bad options on your own, read on! 

Best Touring Bike Shoes:

• Tommaso Milano Commuter/Touring Bike Shoe
• Five Ten Kestrel Lace Mountain Bike & Touring Shoes
• Giro Rumble VR Mountain Tour Shoes
• PEARL IZUMI X-Road Fuel V5 Tour Cycling Shoes

Tommaso Vertice Bicycle Touring Shoe

• PEARL IZUMI X-alp Journey Bicycle Touring Shoe
• Giro Terraduro Bike Shoes
• Pearl iZUMi Men's X-Alp Seek V Cycling Shoes
• Tommaso Strada 200 Touring Road bike Shoes
• Exustar E-SS503 Touring Bike Sandal

SHIMANO SH-CT5W Women's Road Touring Cycling Shoe

• SHIMANO SD5 Touring Sandal
• SHIMANO SH-MT301 Touring Shoes 

Pearl Izumi Women's W X-Project Elite Cycling Shoe

Bicycle touring shoe reviews.

Here's my detailed review of each of the top cycling shoes for bike touring:

Tommaso Milano Review

For commuting, bike touring, and even bikepacking, I always turn to the Tommaso Milano bicycle touring shoes as it has been one of the most reliable cycling shoes. It is built like a sneaker and has grippy outsoles that I found offers excellent traction for the times where you need to hike or descend steep terrains. 

As a sneaker style bicycle touring shoe, you can expect exceptional comfort from the Tommaso Milano. Internally, the shoes have just the right amount of padding so they don't feel hard like a traditional cycling shoe. Furthermore, thanks to the sneaker style design, you can use them to walk around all day or even wear them like regular shoes with no problems. 

I've owned a pair of these shoes for since it was released in 2019 and even till this day its still going strong. So I know it has great durability to take you through all your bike tours. 

The Tommaso Milano lets you achieve optimum power transfer to your  road bike pedals  and reduces wasted energy for those long bike touring trips. It features SPD cleat compatibility in addition to mesh inserts and a breathable mesh tongue. Those additions to the shoe allow them to dry quickly and provides terrific ventilation while you power through your commute or bike tours. 

One thing I'm happy about with these cycling shoes is that Tommaso provides two (2) years manufacturer warranty on top of the shoe's already affordable price. With all that considered, I highly recommend this pair and think you'll love them as touring bike shoes.

• Closure System: Lace
• Upper Material: Synthetic
• Cleat Compatibility: SPD

Five Ten Men's Kestrel

Comfort is the number one factor I consider when choosing shoes for bicycle touring. And that's exactly what you can expect from the Five Ten Kestrel Lace shoe. This shoe is branded as a mountain bike shoe, but I found it very comfy to wear during my last bike touring adventure. At no point throughout the tour did I ever feel the need to rip the shoes off my feet due to discomfort. So I that for me gave it a huge boost and made me rank it higher on this list. 

The Five Ten Kestrel cycling shoes features a regular lace-up design with a top hook and loop strap that makes securing the shoe easy. Moreover, it is built with excellent materials that offer good water resistance. The outsole uses Five Tens' stealth c4 rubber material and offers enough grip for times where I needed to trek on foot. 

Related: How to Choose the Perfect Cycling Shoes for Wide Feet

Moreover, it has recessed cleats, so there was no issue walking in it even while cleats where added. If you know that the tour you have planned will involve a lot of walking, getting a shoe with recessed cleats is invaluable. So you should definitely consider this one or the tommaso milano's for your trip. 

Another point to note about these cycling shoes have a nice sole design that will allow them to grip perfectly to your mountain bike pedals. And best of all, they are very lightweight and offer enough durability to take on whatever you journey you have planned.

• Closure System: Lace and Velcro 
• Upper Material: Synthetic 

Giro Rumble VR Men's Mountain Cycling Shoes

The Giro Rumble VR cycling shoes is one of those shoes that look totally unassuming but is, in fact, a great touring cycling shoe underneath. It offers superb outsole traction for when you need to walk around. Moreover, it hugs your feet like a sock and feels natural to cycle in.

With the Giro Rumble, you get a shoe that is breathable and offers excellent comfort. It is built with synthetic suede and uses laces instead of straps. Furthermore, they've included a nylon plate in the soles of this shoe that, when paired with the recessed spd cleat offers efficient power transfer. 

If you want a regular sneaker-like feel for your bike touring shoes, consider the Giro Rumble VR. 

PEARL IZUMI Men's X-Road Fuel V5 Cycling Shoe

Are you looking for stylish touring bike shoes that still offers excellent functionality and features? If you are, then the Pearl IZUMI X-Road Fuel V5 is one to consider. It comes in two (2) good looking colors with a two-toned design. Moreover, the X-Road Fuel V5 offers quick-drying thanks to the bonded seamless upper with a breathable mesh design; this makes Pearl IZUMI shoe a great touring bike shoe for trips where any weather is expected. 

The X-Road offers excellent stability and power transfer thanks to the nylon plate in the soles to provide superior functionality. Moreover, this cycling shoes has recessed cleats that won't impede your ability to walk around in them. 

• Upper Material: Synthetic Suede

The Tommaso Vertice 100 is one of the best touring cycling shoes available right now. This shoe might not be the most beautiful shoe of all the options on this list, but it does offer excellent functionality as a touring shoe. It has a monster like outsole thanks to the ultra-rugged Vibram material. 

With the Tommaso vertice, it's next to impossible to fall while trekking in them if you are careful. But that's not all that this shoe offers. It is one of the most comfortable shoes of the bunch. Moreover, the shoe has recessed two (2) hole spd cleat compatibility that makes walking in them very comfortable. It also has a breathable mesh upper with great internal padding to cushion your feet.

You can get the Vertice 100 in two styles that feature either the three (3) velcro straps or two straps and buckle closure top strap. So if you know that you'll be walking a lot during your bike tour, getting this shoe will be the right choice. 

• Closure System: Hook and Look Velcro
• Cleat Compatibility: Velcro

PEARL IZUMI Men's X-alp Journey Cycling Shoe

The Pearl Izumi X-Alp journey is another great pair of shoes that are perfect for bike touring. It is one of the best spd touring shoes out there that looks stylish while offering excellent functionality. Most persons also know that Pearl Izumi only builds with the best quality and comfort. And the X-alp Journey cycling shoe stays true to their reputation. 

With this shoe, you get a mesh upper-bounded together to provide maximum breathability and is built to last. The shoe features a quick-lacing closure and is very easy to slip on and tighten to your feet. Moreover, the fiberglass injected composite plate provides the valuable power transfer needed from a touring shoe. 

The Pearl Izumi X-Alp has a recessed cleat design for compatibility with SPD cleats. Furthermore, it has a unique rubber sole with superb gripping performance. This Bicycle Touring shoe is one we know you will never regret buying as it'll provide the best performance for touring or commuting by bike.

• Closure System: Quick-Lace

Giro Terraduro Men's Cycling Shoes

This pair from Giro is one of our favorite touring road or mtb bike shoes. It offers excellent comfort and is very stylish while providing great functionality. With four (4) color options to choose from this shoe is perfect for bicycle touring. It is one of the most ideal shoes for cases where you are on and off the bike quite a lot. 

The outsole of the Giro Terraduro features nylon shanks that promote rigidity and maximizes pedaling power. Moreover, the inclusion of the recessed cleats makes walking around in this shoe feel natural. They've also equipped it with Vibram rubber soles that are very durable and offer excellent strength and grip to tread even the worst terrains. 

The comfort and fit of the Terraduro Touring Cycling Shoe are also top-notch. It has a hook and loop closure system that makes it easy to put on and hugs your feet very well without feeling too tight or uncomfortable. Moreover, the microfiber upper offers excellent breathability while allowing ample water resistance. 

All these excellent features come together really nicely and make this cycling shoes one that you must consider. 

• Closure System: Velcro, hook, and Loop
• Upper Material: Microfiber, Vibram Rubber
• Cleat Compatibility: SPD 

Pearl iZUMi Men's X-Alp Seek V Cycling Shoe

If a touring road bike shoe is what you need, the Pearl Izumi X-Alp Seek is a better choice. It is built like a running shoe, so it provides very good comfort. Moreover, it has recessed SPD cleat compatibility and grippy soles that make trekking easy and safe. 

The shoe features a breathable mesh upper that is similar to the X-ALP journey we reviewed earlier. But it is a little more comfortable to walk around in than that one was. This extra comfort is due to the dual-density EVA X-ALP midsole that didn't really impede flexibility while providing ample foot cushioning. 

So for touring road bikes, this is the one to get. 

• Upper Material: Synthetic Mesh Upper 

Tommaso Strada 200 Road Touring shoe

Another outstanding road bike touring shoe to get is the Tommaso Strada 200. This shoe is very comfortable and offers proper functionality and excellent power transfer. However, if you know you aren't going to be sticking to the roads, I would skip this shoe. 

It doesn't offer thick grippy outer soles, nor does it have recessed cleats. So it wouldn't be the best touring cycling shoes if you plan to be on and off the bike. But if you know that you'll be sticking to the streets and just need a road bike touring shoe, then you can give these a shot.

• Closure System: Velcro
• Upper Material: Synthetic Leather
• Cleat Compatibility: SPD and SPD-SL, Look Delta

Exustar E-SS503 Bike Sandal

If you are going bicycle touring in dry, mostly dry weather, you might fancy touring sandals instead of shoes. The Exustar bike sandal is the perfect blend of comfort, style, and function. It is easy to slip on and features compatibility with SPD Pedals. 

This touring cycling sandal is built with polyurethane leather and has a very comfy rubber sole. The screw-on recessed cleats allow you to easily clip into the pedals or walk around without any discomfort from cleats. It has three velcro straps that make finding a snug fit easy. The outsole uses stiff bio rubber with plenty of grips to walk around on even the worse terrains. 

This sandal is a great touring bike shoe option, and we highly recommend giving it a shot. 

• Upper Material: Polyurethane Leather
• Weight: 820 Grams/ pair

The Shimano SH-CT5W is a good women-specific touring cycling shoe that most females will love . It is very comfortable and fits snuggly on your feet. You can most definitely wear these shoes for bike touring and keep them on for very long. 

It has a breathable upper that allows good ventilation, and thick padding inside the shoe. In addition, the Shimano SH-CT5W has a hidden inner shank that provides good rigidity to the shoe and maximizes power transfer to the pedals. Plus, it has a recessed cleat design that will further make it very comfy to walk around in. 

Shimano SD5 Touring Sandal

The Shimano SD5 touring shoes is another brilliant pair of sandals to go bike touring in. They are very comfortable to wear thanks to the wide rubber stole. Plus, they feature a simple two-strap closure that makes it easy to strap up and start pedaling. 

In terms of performance and functionality, the Shimano SD5 doesn't fall short in any way. In fact, it quite excels here, to be honest. They've reinforced the sole of these sandals, which gives it a rigid feel. Neatly designed into the sole of the Shimano SD5 is the SPD compatible recessed cleats. This cleat design is so well done that you absolutely won't feel the cleats while walking around in this shoe.

For a touring sandal, the Shimano SD5 is one of the best we've seen and tested. So we highly recommend checking them out if touring in sandals is your thing.

• Cleat Compatibility: SPD compatible

SHIMANO SH-MT301 Touring Shoes

If you've ever wanted a multi-purpose shoe that is ideal as a touring cycling shoe, commuting, or regular walking, then the SHIMANO SH-MT301 is the one to go to. This shoe has it all and more. Plus, it offers superb comfort and breathability thanks to the breathable mesh upper and padded internals.

The SHIMANO SH-MT301 features a lace-up design that is easy to tighten on the fly. They are also stylish but not too obtrusive that you start focusing on the look of the shoe. 

With the SHIMANO SH-MT301, you get reinforced shank plates built into the outsoles, which provide just the right balance of rigidity and flexibility needed. The shoe also features recessed cleats built into the well-designed rubber soles that provide sufficient grip for walking.

• Closure System: Lace-Up
• Cleat Compatibility: Recessed SPD Cleats

The last Bicycle Touring shoes we've tested and approved is the Pearl Izumi X-Project Elite. This shoe is specifically for women but offers very solid comfort, style, and performance. It has recessed SPD cleat compatibility and offers good traction even over the worst terrains. 

The X-Project Elite features a breathable upper with carbon composite soles. Plus, it has a single strap paired with a BOA IP1 bi-directional closure system. This design allows you to easily and quickly put on and tighten up this shoe without any hassle. 

If you want a comfy bicycle touring shoe for women, get this one. 

• Closure System: BOA IP1
• Upper: Breathable Composite Upper
• Sole Material: Carbon Composite
• Cleat Compatibility: Recessed SPD

Things to Consider When Choosing The right Touring Shoe 

We've already listed the best bike touring shoes to buy above, and you can quickly read each review to see which shoe fits you. However, if you still aren't sure what to look out for here's a quick rundown:

Pay Attention to the Closure Systems

You don't want a touring shoe that features a complicated closure system. It is always best to stick to the basics and focus on comfort. As such, the best bike touring shoes will feature either lace, velcro, or quick lace/dial closure systems. 

Stay away from complicated clips and buckle style shoes. Bike touring is an adventure, and like all adventures, it mostly unpredictable to know what situations you'll encounter. So having shoes that can get damaged due to buckles and clips breaking isn't a good thing. Moreover, you want your shoes to be as comfortable as possible, which isn't the case for most shoes with buckles. 

Shoe Cleats

Most bike touring experts fancy cleats on their touring shoes, and we definitely recommend them in all cases. However, not all bicycle shoes have cleat styles suitable for bike touring. 

Bike touring requires you to get on and off the bike frequently. As such, you need touring shoes that feature recessed cleats that will allow you to quickly clip in or get off and walk around in them. Our recommendation is to always go with shoes that have recessed SPD cleat compatibility.

Sole Design

Make sure you select touring shoes with ample grip for walking over tricky terrains. The best shoe soles should be rubber and have deep patterns that will provide sufficient grip even when the weather is terrible. 

Ventilation

You can't predict the weather, nor can you know what you'll encounter while bike touring. There are times where you might need to cross streams and occasions where the rain starts pouring suddenly. So having shoes with great ventilation and dries easily is always a plus. Most of the shoes we've listed are breathable. However, none of them will dry faster than bike touring sandals. 

Sole Stiffness

Avoid extremely rigid shoes as they make walking very uncomfortable. The best bicycle touring shoes offer a great balance of rigidity and flex so you can easily walk around in them. If you buy one of the items we've listed, you won't need to worry about this issue. However, if you don't like any of them, make sure whichever you end up selecting offers the proper balance of flex and rigidity. 

Always have a backup.

On your first bike tour, always have an extra pair of shoes. So if you've never owned a pair of touring shoes, make sure you try to get two pairs from the list. Go with a shoe and sandal combination which will cover you in any case.

Bicycle Touring Shoes are an essential part of the trip, so you need to make sure you choose the best pair for your needs. Our recommendations are all the best ones that you could choose from right now. They are stylish and feature great quality and performance for even the longest of touring adventures.

You can pick some of them up at some really great prices, and you can also subscribe to our newsletters to get notified on when we hear of the latest deals. If you're still undecided on which shoe to get, you can just get a bike touring sandal as those are the most versatile for any situation. They are comfortable, cheap, and will last throughout the entire tour. Moreover, they dry the fasted and offer the best breathability. 

Join the discussion below and share your experience and reviews on the shoes you chose. 

Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Daniel White

Best gravel bike shoes and cyclocross shoes 2024: ridden and rated

Best gravel bike shoes and cyclocross shoes for riding and running off-road

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The Quick List

• 1. Best performance
• 2. Best for durability
• 3. Best for value
• 4. Best for width
• 5. Best for grip
• 6. Best for protection
• 7. Best for the dry
• 1. Best narrow
• 2. Best for sizes
• 3. Best breathability
• 4. Best for power
• WHAT TO LOOK FOR
• Heat moulding

How we test

Best gravel bike shoes and cyclocross shoes 2024

The list in brief ↴

Gravel bike shoes 1. Best performance 2. Best for durability 3. Best for value 4. Best for width 5. Best for grip 6. Best for protection 7. Best for the dry

Cyclocross shoes 1. Best narrow fit 2. Best for sizes 3. Best breathability 4. Best for po w er

What to look out for Fastenings Soles Cleats Heat moulding Conditions Fit

The best gravel bike shoes and cyclocross shoes will let you put the power down while riding your bike but also give you the grip you need to keep going when you're off your bike.

While the best road cycling shoes are focused on stiffness and efficiency for swift pedalling performance, slick carbon-soled footwear without a tread on the sole wouldn't get you very far off the beaten track. Foot dabbing, hopping on and off the bike, and generally spending more time on the ground and not riding, means something more rugged and grippy is required.

If you're planning a bikepacking trip , you'll want shoes that you can wear comfortably off the bike as well as on, so check out our guide to the best commuter cycling shoes for gravel use as well.

Until recently, most gravel bike and cyclocross bike riders have just had to pick their way through mountain bike shoes, but with an upward surge in drop-bar off-road riding, more kit specifically honed to the needs of the gravel bike rider (including gravel bike clothing ) is gradually becoming available. 

Picking out what shoe best suits you and your riding can be hard work. This guide is designed to help you find the right shoe to match your riding and at the right price point - especially handy if you're still mulling over your first gravel bike and will be looking for shoes to match. There will still be mountain bike shoes in the mix, as well as gravel and cyclocross-specific shoes for depth and breadth of options, to ensure you get the right shoe for you.

Key shoe variables will be sole construction and grip, closure systems and of course fit. We've gone into more detail on all of these areas after the product picks, helping you to create your very own Cinderella moment.

We've split our guide up into shoes we'd recommend for gravel (where long-distance comfort is a priority), and shoes we'd recommend for cyclocross racing (where power transfer is most important) - the differentiation is mostly based on sole material - but of course, there's nothing stopping you from seeking comfort for a cyclocross race or a stiff carbon sole for your gravel adventures. 

All of the shoes in this guide have been tested by Cycling Weekly, and we've only included pairs that got high ratings; click the link after each to read the full review.

Gravel Bike Shoes

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Best performance gravel shoes

We liked the weight, breathability and comfort of the Sectors. Two Boa dials allow for a precise fit and the price is very reasonable for the performance on offer. The sole does lack a little grip sometimes though.

Read more below

Best gravel shoes for durability

Giro's mid-range Privateer uses a nylon midsole for pedalling power and walking flexibility, with plenty of grip on offer too. Lace closure keeps the weight down and adds some retro style whilst we were impressed by their robustness and durability.

Best gravel shoes for value

The synthetic upper of the Recon 1.0 might lack a bit of ventilation, but that is rarely an issue in the UK, and the toe-flex system means that walking comfort doesn't compromise riding stiffness. Grip is good and the 3 Velcro straps allow for plenty of adjustment whilst helping to keep the price reasonable.

Cyclocross Shoes

Best cyclocross shoes for narrow feet

The VR90 ticks a lot of performance boxes - a Vibram tread mated to a carbon sole unit provides grip and stiffness aplenty with toe spikes for extreme conditions. Laces add a classic aesthetic and the one-piece upper looks great, but be aware that they can come up a bit on the narrow side.

Best cyclocross shoes for range of sizes

Lake offers many of its shoes in width fittings, including the MX 238 Supercross, so finding exactly the right size should be a doddle. The water-resistant leather upper and carbon sole work very well together, but they don't offer much in the way of warmth for rides that aren't flat-out at threshold.

Best cyclocross shoes for breathability

We loved the feel of the stiff Vento Ferox Carbon when powering up climbs and they proved very durable during testing too. The combination of Boa and wide Velcro strap wasn't always ideal for getting the perfect tension though.

Best comfortable gravel bike shoes

Our pick of comfort-orientated gravel shoes that are suitable for long days off-road.

Giro Sectors

1. Giro Sector gravel bike shoes

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Mixing a one-piece upper and a carbon composite sole with tall side lugs, the Giro Sector shoes are thin, supple and supportive with mesh sections for good breathability. We found the sole sufficiently flexible for comfort off-bike but it still gave good pedalling support, although grip was a bit lacking for hike-a-bike in muddy conditions.

There are two Boa L6 dial closures, making for precise fit adjustment, although with the L6 you need to pop the dial to loosen, rather than having both-ways adjustability. But otherwise, the Sectors are a top choice at a reasonable price.

Read more: Giro Sector gravel bike shoes full review

Giro Privateer

2. Giro Privateer Lace gravel bike shoes

The Privateer lace-up shoe might be middle of the range from Giro, but it's certainly a great performer. Although a huge slice cheaper than Giro's flagship Empire VR90, these shoes certainly don't compromise on comfort or durability. They weigh in at 355g (size 42) per shoe.

The nylon sole gave us a good level of stiffness for pedalling but enough give for when we had to do a bit of hike-a-bike as well. The rubber-lugged outsole gives ample grip, no matter what kind of surface you're scrambling over.

Read more: Giro Privateer lace shoes full review

Specialized Recon 1.0

3. Specialized Recon 1.0 gravel bike shoes

The S-Works version of the Recon shoes with its dual BOA system was launched in 2019, but the high price tag somewhat limited their appeal. The Recon 1.0 (as well as the 2.0 and 3.0 models) however is significantly more accessible, although this has meant a redesign.

This version comes with a triple Velcro closure and a synthetic upper with a reinforced toe box zone. In use, the minimal ventilation kept our feet warm enough, although this might be something to consider if riding in hot weather.

Specialized says the nylon sole provides a good level of stiffness for on the bike, and thanks to its own STRIDE toe-flex system should help with walking off the bike - we would have to agree with this. The deep rubber lugs are also coated in Specialized SlipNot compound to help with traction on all terrain.

The shoes weigh in at 331g for a size 42, and are available in three colours and in sizes 36 to 49EU.

Read more: Specialized 1.0 Recon gravel bike shoes full review or if you've got a little more cash burning a hole in your pocket (but not quite enough for the S-Works!) check out our review of the Specialized Recon 2.0 gravel bike shoes  

Best gravel shoes for wide foot comfort

Fizik Terra Atlas

4. Fizik Terra Atlas gravel bike shoes

Fizik says that the Terra Atlas is the most versatile shoe in its range. The sole has been reworked to add extra lugs and directional spacing and is made of rubber to up grip and the sole is mid-stiffness for off-bike comfort. The cleat holes are fixed further back, in line with the modern trend.

We thought that the toe box was roomier than many Fizik shoes and there's extra padding, which helped with comfort. Silicone dots in the heel cup help to prevent heel lift. There's a single Boa L6 dial to provide adjustability with 1mm increments, although only having one dial does limit adjustability.

Read more: Fizik Terra Atlas gravel bike shoes full review  

Best gravel shoes for grip

Quoc Gran Tourer II

5. Quoc Gran Tourer II gravel bike shoes

The Quoc Gran Tourer IIs are a comfortable and reliable option for riding off-road in late summer and early autumn conditions. They particularly excel when the temperatures are cool - but not cold - and when the conditions are damp - but not soaking wet.

The upper has proved robust and is reasonably thick. These aren’t an ultra-lightweight pair of summer shoes, but at the same time, there are holes in the splashproof microfibre fabric to help aid breathability. This makes them more of a three-season shoe, suitable for most riding throughout the year, but not a specialist for the extremes.

As with pretty much all shoes that employ only a single retention dial, we found getting the perfect tension a bit of a struggle. Our reviewer found that he was able to get the shoes sufficiently tight around the tops of his feet, but had a bit too much room left lower down. Two dials would solve this but would add a lot to the price - just a simple Velcro strap would have been a nice addition.

Despite the sole being constructed from Nylon rather than carbon, they make for quite a stiff pedalling platform, delivering good power transfer and feeling quite supportive. The lugs are quite deep and offer plenty of traction in the mud.

Read more: Quoc Gran Tourer II gravel bike shoes full review

Best laced gravel shoes with ankle protection

Adidas The Cycling Shoe

6. Adidas Gravel Cycling Shoe

Hot on the heels of the relaunched Road Shoe, Adidas have entered the gravel world with the eponymously named Gravel Cycling Shoe. Largely based on the design of the road shoe there's a little crossover from sister off-road brand Five Ten to make things more trail-centric. The upper of the shoe is made from lightweight ripstop fabric with a distinctive lace closure and ankle cuff for protection from trail muck. The sole has pimply rubber grips on the heel and forefoot as well as enough flex for walking. Colors include trendy pinks, khaki gravel and football boot black. 

The fabric upper, flexible sole and lace closure kept us comfy on long rides as well as those walks to the café counter. The main drawback of the Adidas shoe is there's no water resistance and the sole easily clogs with mud quickly, making it difficult to clip in so they're not for year-round wear.

Read more: Adidas The Gravel Cycling shoe full review  

Best gravel shoes for dry conditions

Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4

7. Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 gravel bike shoes

The Velcro Powerstrap design has been used on other Fizik shoes in the road range. It's essentially an elasticated ribbon that attaches via Velcro, so you can tighten the midfoot and instep independently for greater comfort. This might seem primitive in the age of Boa dials, but it’s actually incredibly strong. In our test, this Powerstrap closure worked well, although the Velcro straps were a bit too long and collected dirt. This can be remedied with scissors and a lighter!

The tread is thick enough to shed some mud and provide some grip when walking but isn’t as deep or aggressive as the Fizik Terra X5s. With dry conditions this was ok, but the X5 would be better for year-round use.

The Terra Powerstrap X4 shoes weigh 339g for a size 42 according to Fizik, and is available in three colours in sizes 36 to 48 EU including half sizes.

Read more: Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 gravel bike shoes full review

Best stiff shoes for gravel racing and cyclocross

These shoes maximise power transfer and efficiency for racing scenarios when every watt counts.

Giro Empire VR90

1. Giro Empire VR90

Combining old-school looks with new-school tech, the Giro Empire VR90 is a very desirable shoe. When tested, we found the shoes to be a great mix of performance, comfort and efficiency. The one-piece microfibre upper comes with a rubber toe cap for extra protection and a full lace retention system. These laces made it hard to get the perfect retention on the first attempt, so can add an element of mid-ride faff.

The sole uses a sticky Vibram rubber tread with an Easton EC90 full carbon sole unit. This provides the Empire with an incredibly stiff pedalling platform and ample grip in most conditions too. For those conditions and races when you might slip and slide, Giro provides steel toe spikes for extra grip.

It's worth noting that we generally find that Giro shoes come up slightly narrower than some other manufacturers, and as such the fit around the whole foot is a little tighter, so it might be worth going up a size if you have wider feet.

The VR90s weigh in at 345g for a size 45 and are available in four colours across men's and women's range and in sizes 36 to 48EU.

Read more: Giro Empire VR90 gravel bike shoes full review

Lake MX 238 Supercross

2. Lake MX 238 Supercross shoes

Lake uses real leather to construct its shoes, and the outer here is extremely soft to the touch. However, that's where the softness ends: these are race shoes, with a stiff carbon sole to boot. They're also water resistant, with rubber sections to help when you need to run or walk.  

Being race shoes, these are designed to be worn when you're working hard - when racing cyclocross at maximum effort they were perfect, but slower paced gravel rides did cause our feet to get a bit chilly in cold weather. 

The size range is huge, with wide options to suit those with wider feet. 

Read more: Lake MX 238 Supercross shoes full review

Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon

3. Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon

The Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon gravel shoes combine super stiff soles with a low weight and good breathability - yet they also proved to be highly durable, with the polyurethane-laminated upper shrugging off scrapes and knocks. Competing in the GritFest enduro gravel race, our reviewer was very impressed by the shoe’s efficiency on the climbs.

Although the wide Velcro strap of the Vento Ferox distributes the pressure over a wider area - which helps to reduce the chance of pinching or hotspots - it was quite difficult to get the tension exactly spot-on. Often it would be a little too loose or a little too tight. Most shoes at this price point use two Boa dials rather than Velcro straps, and that allows for much more fine-tuned adjustment. 

For instance, the Giro Sector gravel shoes cost $240.00 / £229.99 and are also lightweight and highly robust - but crucially they have two Boa dials and provide an easy-to-tweak comfortable fit. 

At $299.99 / £299.99, the Fizik Vento Ferox are significantly more expensive - but if you’re not one for mid-ride adjustments, then this is a robust performance-oriented option which could work well for you, if you’re willing to pay the premium. 

Read more: Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon gravel shoes full review

Best cyclocross shoes for power transfer

4. Shimano RX8R gravel bike shoes

The Shimano RX8R is a "rally edition" of the standard Shimano RX8 shoe, which we've also used and abused.

The RX8R gets an extra cuff around the ankle that's designed to keep debris out of the shoe. It's a lighter shoe than those in Shimano's MTB range, with a narrower carbon sole and no toe studs. There's the same tread pattern as the standard RX8 that's not as aggressive or bulky as a full-on MTB base.

There's a good range of sizes and half sizes on offer as well as wide-fit shoes, although no women's version yet and no sizes below 38. 

We found it a struggle to get the shoes on through the quite stiff cuff, which we reckon could do with being a little taller as well. The cuff adds some warmth though - good for cooler, wet rides, less so in the summer. We also found that the single dial closure resulted in pressure over the top of the foot which could become uncomfortable.

Read more: Shimano RX8R gravel bike shoe full review

What are the different gravel shoe fastening systems?

There are basically four different systems used to tighten cycling shoes: Velcro, ratchets, laces, and dials.

Many shoes at the lower end of the price range will use Velcro straps for fastening, as it's a cheaper production method. While this is great to get you started, you will find that the longevity of the shoe can be shortened due to the mechanics of the hook and eye system getting clogged with mud and then failing to function. That said, it is a lightweight option, so even some of the top-end shoes will use the odd Velcro strap, generally at the less adjusted toe box area. Just be aware that all Velcro straps will require an element of housekeeping to ensure they remain fully functioning, especially after very wet and muddy rides.

The next step up in the fastening system food chain comes in the form of laces. Laces are great at providing lots of fit adjustability and help keep the shoe weight down, but are close to impossible to adjust on the move, and trying to un-tie wet and muddy laces post-ride with cold, wet hands will soon become one of your most hated things. You'll also find laces on some expensive gravel bike shoes like those from Rapha and Giro, as the lace closure complements a lightweight shoe construction and can distribute pressure well.

Ratchets, on the other hand, offer a good level of adjustability, security and are reasonably resistant to mud, although there can be the odd panic moment when they become clogged and fail to open, meaning a contortionist style cleaning requirement whilst still wearing them. They are super easy to adjust on the bike, although this also makes them more vulnerable in crashes and they're fairly easy to loosen by accident when you brush against trailside obstacles. Ratchet systems can be heavy, and after the sole, will be one of the factors in accounting for the weight of the shoe.

At the top end of the cycling shoe closure systems are dials. The cable and mini-barrel winch system provides very secure retention, easy micro-adjustment for a precise fit, a profile that minimises the risk of damage in a crash and all at an impressively low weight. Dials are hard to beat, however, in the famous words of Mr Keith Bontrager "strong, light, cheap - pick two". Owing to the more complex construction methods to enable dials to be used, shoes tend to be on the more expensive side.

What are the different sole materials used for gravel shoes?

As with the fastening systems, there are various different materials and methods used for sole construction for cycling shoes, and the choice will largely come down to style of riding and price.

While one of the biggest choice factors in road shoes will be out-and-out stiffness, off-road shoe choice is a more 'horses for courses' approach - much like bike tyres.

Like tyres, depth and pattern of the sole ideally need to match the sort of riding/hiking/running terrain. The chunkier tread will perform best in wet mud and slippery conditions, while a thinly spaced out tread pattern is better on rocky land, and saves you from having to get a friend to act as your farrier to remove wedged chunks of stone from the sole of your shoe.

Don't be too hasty to write sole stiffness off for the mud market; many of the top-end performance cyclocross shoes will err more towards pedal power than mud or sand running prowess. If you want a more run-friendly balance, opting for a stiff midsole with a slight flex in the toe box would be a good compromise, as would the ability to swap out studs for spikes for when the course gets very muddy.

Stiffer soles are also a good option if you intend to ride more rocky routes, as, a bit like walking boots, you'll want support from the sole when off the bike and walking over uneven terrain.

At the more casual riding and touring end of the spectrum, the focus will be more on comfort on and off the bike. The shoes will still prove stiff enough for efficient pedalling, but allow sufficient flex for walking the trails as well as riding them.

Entry-level cycling shoes will generally come with nylon plastic soles, but if you pay a bit more you will get shoes with carbon composite soles (i.e. a mixture of carbon and plastic), which will help to bring the weight down a little.

For those seeking performance-specific options, then carbon-soled shoes will be the ones to look out for, as these will be stiff and light, but with that comes a risk of discomfort over longer periods on the bike and of course, the wincing as you scrabble about on anything rock or gravel like when off the bike and the underside of your shoe gets scratched and gouged.

If your gravel riding potentially contains an element of hike-a-bike, you may find that a softer compound rubber sole might be more up your (dirt) street for overall grip and durability.

Are all gravel shoes cleats the same?

All off-road clipless pedals come with cleats that use a two-bolt mounting system. There are plenty of different brands that offer pedals but on the whole, many use a Shimano SPD style cleat. Some other brands such as Time and Crankbrothers use a slightly different cleat but still with a two-bolt mount. The correct cleats should be provided with the pedals when you buy them.

What two-bolt pedal system you run shouldn't impact which shoes you choose, but you do need to ensure that the shoe offers enough adjustment that you can get the cleat in the right position for you.

Most shoes will offer an element of fore and aft adjustment, and your cleat should allow for side to side, but if you like to ride with a less common angle or position, double check the adjustability is there and that the tread pattern doesn't interfere.

What to look for in gravel and cyclocross cycling shoes

Heat moulding of cycling shoes.

There are a number of different shoes and insoles on the market, such as the Bont Vaypor G and the Lake MX range that can be customised through heat moulding to fit the shape of your feet. This means that the shoes should perfectly support the arch of your foot, giving an almost bespoke fit. This is a major plus point if you do have an above-average foot support requirement. Heat mouldable shoes can provide enhanced comfort to all foot shapes, as well as help with power transfer from a performance aspect.

What conditions will you be riding in most?

In an ideal world, we'd have a different pair of shoes for every discipline of cycling and variety of riding and weather conditions. In reality, we probably have to stick to thinking about what an average ride looks like for us.

While a pair of road shoes can be beefed up in cold and wet conditions with the addition of pulling on a waterproof or neoprene overshoe , this isn't quite as practical off-road. Although there are options out there, from experience they don't survive longer than a single season, maximum.

If cold and wet weather is a constant with your gravel riding, then you might want to look for waterproof features or winter cycling boots , or if you suffer from cold feet go up a size to ensure a thermal sock and insole will fit.

With cyclocross racing being a winter sport in Europe, bad weather is almost a given, but as the duration of time and pace spent riding is shorter and higher, cross shoes are purely performance-focused. As with XC-specific shoes, as well as not being designed for spending much time off the bike, like any performance shoe, they will offer foot ventilation, so don't just assume that because it's got grip it's going to be suited to bad weather.

Try before you buy

The best way to check the fit of a shoe is to try it on in your local bike shop before purchasing (hopefully you’ll make the purchase in the shop too). It is better to do this in the afternoon or evening as your feet may expand slightly during the day.

Shoe sizing can be pretty inconsistent across brands, particularly when compared to other pieces of cycling clothing – just because your old and worn-out size 46 shoes were comfortable, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can jump straight into a different brand in the same size.

Arch heights, shoe widths and different fastening systems can all mean that you may find yourself going a size up or down when buying new cycling shoes.

As well as the custom fit that the above-mentioned heat moulding allows, some brands offer women's-specific or wide options that will help you get the best fit for your foot.

Shoe comfort is always going to be highly subjective but Cycling Weekly's experienced testers assessed the uppers for ease of warmth, weather resistance and durability as well as giving their opinion of the comfort. The soles were evaluated for grip when walking or running off-road, ease of cleat/pedal location and stiffness for pedalling power.

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Hannah is Cycling Weekly’s longest-serving tech writer, having started with the magazine back in 2011. She has covered all things technical for both print and digital over multiple seasons representing CW at spring Classics, and Grand Tours and all races in between.

Hannah was a successful road and track racer herself, competing in UCI races all over Europe as well as in China, Pakistan and New Zealand.

For fun, she's ridden LEJOG unaided, a lap of Majorca in a day, won a 24-hour mountain bike race and tackled famous mountain passes in the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Himalayas. 

She lives just outside the Peak District National Park near Manchester UK with her partner, daughter and a small but beautifully formed bike collection. 

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Best cycling shoes 2024 | 21 top-rated road cycling shoes for every budget

The best road cycling shoes tested and reviewed by our team

Scott Windsor / Our Media

Simon von Bromley

Your feet are one of the most important contact points on a bike, so it’s vital to choose your cycling shoes carefully. There’s a lot of choice though, so it can be hard to know what’s best. Fortunately, you have come to the right place.

We’ve put in the miles, so you can find the best cycling shoes for your performance requirements, riding style and budget.

If you need something to clip into, check out our guide to the best road bike pedals . If road cycling isn't your only riding discipline, or you prefer SPD vs SPD-SL pedals , check out our buyer's guides to the best mountain bike shoes , best gravel bike shoes and best mountain bike pedals .

Once you’ve considered all of the options, keep reading to the end for our buyer’s guide to road cycling shoes .

Best cycling shoes in 2024, as rated and reviewed by our expert testers

With so many cycling shoes on the market and so much choice, we've split our pick of the best cycling shoes into different price categories, from performance-oriented shoes that cost around £400 to budget-friendly shoes under £100.

Keep scrolling to see all the shoes or click on the links below to skip to the different price points:

Best cycling shoes for £100

Best cycling shoes for £150, best cycling shoes for £200, best cycling shoes for £300, best cycling shoes for £400, boardman carbon.

• £80 as tested
• Great value
• Stiff soles and two-dial adjustment

For £80, the Boardman Carbon shoe offers great features, including an all-carbon sole and twin Atop dial adjustment – a cheaper equivalent of the Boa system that works just as well. You even get a replaceable heel bumper.

Internal padding through the majority of the upper adds comfort and there’s plenty of venting to keep your feet cool, while good toe box width provides a bit of extra space compared to many cycling shoes.

• Read our full Boardman Carbon cycling shoe review

Bont Motion

• Very stiff soles
• Heavier than the competition

The Motion shoe brings Bont’s signature stiffness to a lower price point, thanks to the fibreglass sole.

The shoe is heavier than similarly priced competitors. This is likely attributed to the fibreglass sole but some will find this weight penalty worth bearing for the shoe’s stiffness.

The Motion is built around Bont’s anatomic last. While this leads to a less sleek-looking shoe than some other brands, it does create a slightly wider – and more comfortable – fit.

Dials might be preferable to the Motion’s Velcro straps, but this does keep the cost down, and there’s no getting away from the fact this shoe offers a lot of value for money.

• Read our full Bont Motion shoe review

dhb Aeron Carbon Road Dial

• £74 as tested
• A great-quality shoe with a carbon sole
• Sizing comes up small

The Aeron Carbon Road Dial shoe from dhb is one of the least expensive carbon-soled shoes currently on the market.

The sole provides plenty of stiffness and an efficient pedalling platform, but it did scuff easily in testing.

The shoe closes with Velcro straps and dhb’s Atop dial, which works a lot like a Boa, and remained consistently snug. Do watch out for the sizing, though – we recommend going down a size.

Comfort is good and the synthetic uppers were more padded than many other road cycling shoes, even if they weren’t quite as breathable.

• Read our full dhb Aeron Carbon Road Dial shoe review

Van Rysel RoadR 900 Full Carbon

• £120 / $199 / €135 / AU$199 as tested
• Brilliant value
• Toe protector on the small side

As the name suggests, the Van Rysel RoadR 900 Full Carbon has a carbon sole, which, along with a supportive insole and two dials to adjust tension, comprises a stellar spec for the money.

The Van Rysel RoadR 900 Full Carbon is as good to ride in as these features suggest. You'll be hard pressed to find a better road cycling shoe at this price.

The only downside is that some riders may want more reinforcement in the toe area.

• Read our full Van Rysel RoadR 900 Full Carbon road cycling shoe review

Bontrager Solstice

• £100 / $85 / €105 / AU$105 as tested
• Compatible with SPD-SL and SPD cleats
• Minimal ventilation

The Bontrager Solstice is an uncomplicated road cycling shoe that punches above its reasonable price.

Since it has Velcro closure straps, a moderately stiff nylon sole and is compatible with SPD-SL and SPD cleats , the Solstice could suit riders who are new to clipless pedals . Unfortunately, the two-bolt cleat adaptor is not included.

The weight per shoe of 227g in EU42 is competitive, but ventilation might be inadequate for riding in hot weather.

• Read our full Bontrager Solstice road cycling shoe review

Triban GRVL 500

• £50 as tested
• Great value lace-up SPD shoe
• Heel raise could limit performance

The lace-up Triban GRVL 500 shoe comes in at a super-low price, but it still has a host of features.

The shoe has a nylon sole with fibreglass reinforcement. The sole is compatible with SPD cleats and has deep rubber sections for grip and walking.

The GRVL 500 provides excellent comfort on day-long rides, and while the sole is reasonably stiff, it doesn’t feel punishing.

You might find the shoe leads to your heel rising slightly when walking or riding hard, but overall there are no obvious drawbacks to this shoe.

It's are a good budget option for all sorts of riding, from commuting to more challenging off-road rides.

• Read our full Triban GRVL 500 shoe review

Udog Tensione

• £130 / $170 / €175 / AU$225 as tested
• Understated appearance
• A comfortable fit

The Udog Tensione shoes use a carbon composite / nylon blend outsole with twin inverted V-shaped ribbons either side of the mid-foot and laces to offer a comfortable yet close fit.

They were warm enough for spring rides in all weathers and not overly hot on summer days. The sole is superb on the road, offering efficiency and all-day comfort.

Being only available online, you can't try the shoes before you buy though.

• Read our full Udog Tensione shoe review

Fizik Vento Omna

• £170 / $170 / €165 / AU$273 as tested
• Admirable performance without carbon
• Sparse ventilated

If a carbon outsole isn't essential for you, the Fizik Vento Omna could be a great shoe for most types of road cycling.

The nylon-composite sole is stiff enough for hard efforts. The padded heel, spacious toe box and supple upper provide plenty of comfort for longer rides.

In hot conditions, you might want more ventilation but you usually have to spend more for a warm-weather road cycling shoe.

• Read our full Fizik Vento Omna shoe review

Shimano RC7

• £189.99 / €199.99 / $240 as tested
• Very versatile

The Shimano RC7 goes toe to toe with the brand's priciest shoe, the S-Phyre RC902, delivering fantastic performance for much less money.

Compared to the RC902, the RC7 is a touch heavier and the sole is carbon fibre composite not full carbon. The slight flex it gives is probably the best bet for the majority of your riding.

The shoe's upper feels nice, with a similar wraparound strap to the RC902, and dual Boa dials ensure an adjustable, secure fit.

Ventilation could be better, so the RC7 isn't ideal for warm-weather riding.

• Read our full Shimano RC7 shoe review

Specialized S-Works 7 Lace

• £300 / €325 / $325 as tested
• Classic looks
• Cutting-edge performance

The Specialized S-Works 7 Lace is the best lace-up shoe you can buy, in our opinion.

Lighter than many high-end shoes, the S-Works 7 Lace is also exceptionally stiff. But it remains sufficiently comfortable and ventilated to ride all day.

Although the laces preclude on-the-go adjustment, they contribute to an aerodynamic and stylish design.

• Read our full Specialized S-Works 7 Lace shoe review

Giant Surge Pro

• £299.99 / €360 / $399 as tested
• Brilliant performance

The Giant Surge Pro is the shoe worn at the WorldTour by Giant-sponsored Team BikeExchange.

As you'd expect from a dedicated race shoe, the sole doesn't flinch under the force of big efforts.

There are no pinch points in the well-ventilated polyurethane upper. Two unidirectional Boa dials and a Velcro strap allow you to tweak tension.

Our testing found the Surge Pro's premier price to be largely justified. Handy extras such as adjustable arch supports and insoles are thrown in.

• Read our full Giant Surge Pro shoe review

Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon

• £279 / €290 / $299.99 as tested
• Flawless comfort
• Stiff soles

The Fizik Tempo Decos Carbon blends comfort, performance and ventilation in an admittedly premium package.

The sole is formidably stiff, which gives the impression of efficiency without causing your feet to ache.

The light, perforated upper and vents in the sole permit air flow.

The minimalist Tempo Decos Carbon's single Boa dial turns both ways and distributes tension through the shoe.

• Read our full Tempo Decos Carbon shoe review

• £236 as tested
• Incredibly comfortable
• Not great in the wet

DMT was the original innovator of full-knit uppers and the DMT KR3 shoe uses the technology to create a gloriously comfortable shoe.

The fit is excellent. The knitted design matches the shape of your foot superbly and the Boa dial deals with tension across the forefoot.

The carbon sole provides excellent stability and is plenty stiff.

It’s worth noting these are definitely shoes for summer riding. They're breathable and well-ventilated.

While there is a polymer material fused to the main knitted fabric for protection against the elements, we wouldn’t recommend the KR3 for rainy conditions.

• Read our full DMT KR3 shoe review

Specialized S-Works Torch Lace

• £300 / $350 / €340 / AU$550
• Light, comfortable and stiff
• Laces cover form and function

The Specialized S-Works Torch Lace shoes excel across all types of road riding: they're comfortable and airy enough for long, hot rides and sufficiently stiff for full-gas efforts.

When you're going uphill, the S-Works Torch Lace's dainty weight (465g in EU45) can't hurt either.

The well-designed laces contribute to this weight saving and stay fastened while lying flat to the instep. Fans of lace-up styling will appreciate the sleek looks too.

• Read our full Specialized S-Works Lace review

Shimano S-Phyre RC902

• £320 / $425 / AU$549 / €360 as tested
• Stiff and efficient

Shimano’s new top-flight S-Phyre RC902 road shoe builds on the success of the previous RC901 model and delivers across the board, with a stiff and efficient carbon sole and a good level of ventilation.

Adjustable cleat bolt holes allow you to set up your cleat just as you like. There are high-quality insoles with interchangeable arch supports included.

Shimano has updated the fit of the shoe from the previous model. While the wraparound upper and Boa dials make for a highly tuneable fit and heel retention is great too, we did find the forefoot of the shoe to be a bit narrow.

The wide version could be worth trying if you have broader feet or prefer a roomier fit.

• Read our full Shimano S-Phyre RC902 shoe review

Sidi Shot 2S

• £425 / €419
• Fantastic ventilation and stiffness
• Weighty and not immediately comfy

The Sidi Shot 2S are very impressive and very expensive road cycling shoes. The carbon sole blends stiffness and comfort, while the ventilation is superb.

After bedding them in, the Shot 2S proved comfortable on extremely long rides. A dial on the heel enables you to fine-tune the fit.

Several parts of the Sidi Shot 2S are replaceable, so the shoes should provide many miles for your money.

• Read our full Sidi Shot 2S review

Bont Vaypor S Hologram

• £325 as tested
• Ultra-thin, ultra-stiff carbon construction
• Heat-mouldable upper offers customisable fit

The Bont Vaypor S Hologram is a premium-priced option but if the overall shape works for you – the arch is relatively high – it offers outstanding foot retention and stability.

The 'bathtub' carbon construction is super-stiff and the heat-mouldable upper can be remoulded an unlimited number of times to tweak the fit.

This 'hologram' version isn't for shy, retiring types, but it adds useful visibility and helps justify the slightly alarming price tag.

• Read our full Bont Vaypor S Hologram shoe review

• £330 as tested
• Ultra-light and breathable
• Stunningly comfortable

Tadej Pogačar’s secret weapon, the DMT KRSL's 3D knitted shoe upper is matched with an all-new carbon sole. There are four large, meshed vents for added breathability and these help to bring the weight down.

The shoes are ultra-comfortable and the stiffness and comfort is perfectly balanced. The fit is so snug that the laces seem as if they are a secondary security measure.

The heel bumper is replaceable and even on the hottest days, there wasn't a hint of sweat on our tester's feet. The downside is, the shoes can be somewhat chilly on cooler days.

• Read our full DMT KRSL shoe review

Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2

• £330 / $350 / €350 as tested
• Impressively lightweight, stiff and comfortable

The Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 adapts the design of Fizik's pro-level R1 shoe to create a lightweight and comfortable shoe.

The upper is made from a lightweight and pliable Microtex fabric.

A band across the middle of the upper closes with a micro-adjustment Boa dial.

Together, these spread pressure evenly across the foot.

The carbon sole flexes laterally to prevent any cramping or discomfort. But a 'spine' runs from the cleat area to the heal providing stiffness.

The shoe offers almost perfect comfort and performance at a high price tag.

• Read our full Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 shoe review

Fizik Vento Stabilita Carbon

• £375 / $400 / €400 as tested
• Stiff with an adaptable fit

The Vento Stabilita Carbon shoe uses Fizik’s Dynamic Arch Support (2.0).

The result is a shoe with plenty of comfort and adaptability in the fit.

Despite the cutaway section, the sole is still stiff. Overall the shoe performs tremendously well.

The Vento Stabilita Carbon will suit riders putting out big watts, or anyone who values close-fitting comfort.

• Read our full Fizik Vento Stabilita Carbon shoe review

Northwave Veloce Extreme

• £359.99 / $429 / €399.99 as tested
• Stiff and comfortable
• Very expensive

On the whole, the performance of the Northwave Veloce Extreme matches the shoes' high price tag. To sweeten the pill, they come with two sets of inner soles.

Since Northwave has prioritised comfort and efficiency over low weight, the Veloce Extreme shoes are fairly heavy (673g in EU45).

The Veloce Extreme use Northwave's own adjustment dials. These aren't as good as other systems, such as Boa dials.

But the Veloce Extreme shoes remain a good premium option if stiffness and comfort trump low weight for you.

• Read our full Northwave Veloce Extreme review

Buyer’s guide to cycling shoes: what to look for

Shopping for cycling shoes can be a bit of a nightmare with so many options, and your local shop probably doesn’t stock everything you might want to try on.

Once you’ve been cycling for a while, you might have an idea of what works for you, but if you’re just starting out it can be daunting. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a short buyer’s guide to help you get to grips with the basics.

Cycling shoes, like any other shoes, are built around what’s called a ‘last’. This is essentially a mould, shaped like a foot, that brands use to shape their shoes.

Every brand has a different last, based on their own fit philosophy. Finding a shape that works for you is obviously very important, but the only way to find out is really to try shoes on. We've got a guide to wide cycling shoes too.

So make sure you either go in to a shop in person or buy from an online retailer with a good returns policy.

As with most things bike-related, carbon is the material du jour when looking at cycling shoe soles. It does make sense though; prized for its ability to be stiff yet lightweight, carbon really is an ideal material for making cycling shoe soles.

The downside is, of course, cost. Entry-level shoes tend to use nylon or glass fibre composite soles in a bid to save money. These are likely to be slightly more flexible than full-carbon soles, but will still be streets ahead of standard training shoes, so it’s certainly not a huge loss if your budget doesn’t stretch to carbon.

Closure system

There are three main closure systems in use today. The most popular are Velcro straps or wire laces with micro-adjustable dials (Boa and similar).

Occasionally, you even get a combination of both. Velcro straps have the advantage of being cheap, effective and easy to use, so you’ll often find these on lower-end shoes. On higher-end shoes, Boa and other similar dial systems tend to dominate due to their ability to precisely control fit.

Traditional laces have also had a bit of a renaissance in the last few years, so if you like a classic look you’ll have a few more options now. Just remember you won’t be able to adjust your shoes on the bike.

Other features

It’s always worth considering what type of riding your shoes are designed for. A lot of road cycling shoes are designed to be ridden in hot weather, for example, meaning they’re very breathable and won’t offer much protection from the elements.

If you live somewhere where the weather is invariably cold and wet, it’s worth considering whether those sorts of shoes are really the right choice, or if you’d be better off with something more robust.

Do cycling shoes make a difference?

Cycling shoes and clipless pedals are the biggest upgrade you can make when you're new to road cycling.

They are designed to have little flex so the force can be transferred into the pedals.

As a result, you'll find your average speed will increase because your foot is locked into place, saving you effort and any needless fatigue.

They are also typically lighter than running or recreational shoes and offer improved ventilation.

However, road cycling shoes can quickly escalate in price.

If you're starting out cycling on a budget , you don't need to spend the earth and an entry-level shoe will have most of the key features you need to get you out on the road.

In fact, in a test we carried out, we're not sure cycling shoe stiffness actually matters .

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Escape Foot Pain: Choose the Best Touring Cycling Shoes

Explore the Best Touring Cycling Shoes for ultimate comfort on long rides. Get durability & style that matches your pace. Begin your adventure today!

Last updated: September 13, 2023

Are you tired of sore feet and blisters ruining your bike touring adventures? Don’t let uncomfortable shoes hold you back any longer!

Whether you’re a seasoned tourer or a newbie, finding the perfect pair of cycling shoes can make all the difference in your experience. But with so many options on the market, choosing can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve researched for you and compiled a list of the best touring cycling shoes for both men and women.

So, sit back, relax, and let us take the guesswork out of your next shoe purchase. Just focus on where you should be riding next!

Table of Contents

In A Rush? Here Are Our Top Picks…

• Compatible with all cleat types
• Hook and lock velcro straps
• Ventilated mesh portions
• Durable synthetic leather
• Offer maximum power transfer

• Light and portable
• Aesthetic design and shape
• Shoes are machine washable
• Comfortable for touring

• Sturdy laces for a better fit
• Padded collar
• Breathable lining
• Comfortable footbed
• High friction outsole

Best Touring Cycling Shoes On The Market Today

Tommaso Strada Cycling Shoes

• The clips break easily

The Tommaso Strada is explicitly designed for comfort and optimal power transfer , making your rides smoother and more efficient.

With a secure three-strap design , they’re ready to roll no matter what pedal system you’re on, thanks to the included cleats and installation wrench.

But these shoes aren’t just about performance. They’re about comfort too. The synthetic leather upper wraps around your foot, while the ventilated mesh keeps your feet cool even on the longest rides.

The low-profile hook and lock Velcro straps provide a precise fit, and the fiberglass-reinforced sole delivers optimal stiffness for maximum power on every pedal stroke.

They might not be the flashiest, but they sure deliver on functionality . So if you’re ready for a more comfortable and efficient ride, gear up with the Tommaso Strada. Your cycling tours will always be different!

Vibram FiveFingers V-Train 2.0

• Extended use can result in sore calves for beginners
• Smelly feet

The Vibram FiveFingers is the ideal cycling shoe for touring cyclists. These are good quality shoes that feel comfortable and offer protection when riding.

They offer good toe articulation for outstanding balance and stability when riding on different terrains while touring. The Vibram FiveFingers shoes feature quality upper construction suitable for heavy training and performance.

As with all Vibram shoes, they match the experience of being barefoot while still offering protection for your feet. They are stiff at first, but they become very comfortable once you wear them for a while.

You might also need breathable toe socks to prevent your feet from smelling bad due to sweat or long hours of riding!

The modern lacing system has a softer feel and comfort when riding. It is perfect for lateral movements and more aggressive cycling.

You will easily cycle with these shoes because it is like wearing foot gloves!

Five Ten Sleuth DLX Shoes

• Laces are cumbersome

These shoes are a tremendous multi-sport option . These offer something for all uses, from a skate park to gravel roads. 

The rubber sole offers excellent traction and is comfortable for touring cyclists. It offers the unbeatable grip you won’t get from other cycling shoes. The dotty tread is suitable for pedal control and maximum grip when cycling.

These shoes feature a suede upper that provides flexibility during motion and comfort all day . You don’t have to worry about sore feet when cycling for long tour rides.

It also features a lace closure to secure your feet. These offer traditional sturdy laces for a more secure fit when you wear the shoes.

The breathable textile lining on these cycling shoes also makes them ideal for cyclists looking for some additional comfort against the environment . The cushioned textile footbed also adds to the comfort you need when riding bikes all day or for extended periods.

The Five Ten Sleuth DLX cycling shoes come in various colorways, perfect to match your apparel. This is an ideal option if you are looking for durability and excellent grip from the next cycling pair you purchase.

PEARL IZUMI X-Alp Canyon Cycling Shoe

• Good grip on the bike
• Comfortable soles for all-day riding
• Lightweight cycling shoes
• The design provides protection
• Durable cycling shoes
• The upper vents let in water
• Laces lack elasticity

A cycling shoe designed for touring and adventure – specifically, they dry up in relatively short order once they’re wet.

The upper of these cycling shoes is seamlessly bonded to provide comfort and additional breathability . This feature also adds to these cycling shoes’ durability, making them an excellent option for touring cyclists.

The quick-lacing closure is convenient and will keep your foot secure when riding on different terrains. This closure is suitable for adjusting when riding long distances.

The lightweight EVA midsole adds comfort when riding all day. The outer sole features carbon rubber for better traction and durability. The rubber sole is soft and grips well on the rocks when riding.

You don’t have to worry about these PEARL IZUMI cycling shoes wearing out after cycling for days or weeks.

Shimano SD5 Cycling Sandals

• Flexible and comfortable shoes
• Breathable sandals
• Secure dual strap closure
• Soft and durable leather design
• These shoes can run a bit tight
• Poor cushioning

If you want quality and durable sandals for the next ride, try out the Shimano SD5 cycling shoes. You can expect nothing less than quality from Shimano. 

The upper material is made of mesh and synthetic leather. The sole is made of rubber to ensure you are comfortable when riding. These shoes also feature a dual strap closure. These materials are durable to last you months, if not years, of bike riding.

The design of the Shimano SD5 is suitable for long rides because of its breathable and easy to wear . These cycling sandals with a fiberglass-reinforced rubber sole are compatible with a two-bolt cleat.

You will feel the soothing breeze on your feet and the traction on the pedals when cycling.

The Shimano SD5 is easy to slip on and off , which is convenient when touring. You will love having your toes free when cycling through nature. You will hardly notice they are on when riding.

If you are looking for complete ventilation when riding, the Shimano SD5 is a great choice. 

Giro Rumble VR Cycling Shoes

• Breathable synthetic material
• Clipless pedal compatibility
• Comfortable and Supportive
• Easily adjustable
• Laces aren't for every cyclist

These shoes are comfortable and suitable for adventures on trails, paths, and roads . The suede synthetic is breathable with a mesh upper for a supportive fit.

With quality laces, you can adjust the fit of these shoes to get a snug fit. These laces are one of the lightest closures available that are still very secure.

The injected nylon plate allows for efficient power transfer. With these shoes, you can enjoy energy-efficient pedaling and better touring performance.

The outer sole offers high traction for better grip and stability when riding your bike. These cycling shoes work with 2-bolt pedal and cleat systems, including Crank Brothers, Time ATAC, and Shimano SPD.

The Giro’s includes a die-cut EVA footbed that offers medium arch support. Your feet will be well balanced and reduce risks of injury when biking.

Overall, these shoes are high-quality and easy to wear when you go touring.

Tommaso Vertice Touring Shoes

• Versatile shoes
• Padding for increased comfort
• Secure velcro straps
• Grippy Vibram sole
• Stable and breathable
• Heavy cycling shoes

The Tommaso Vertice Touring shoes are yet another quality cycling pair of shoes from Tommaso.

Some great features of this pair include the ultra-rugged grippy Vibram sole and reinforced toe box. It can easily handle whatever trail you choose to ride. You can count on these shoes for fantastic grip, stability, and weather resistance .

It has a quick and reliable closure system to keep your feet secure. The Velcro straps will offer a perfect fit whenever you wear the shoes.

The extra padding will ensure these shoes fit like a glove. The inner shank plate allows for optimum power transfer, meaning you can conserve energy during long rides.

No matter where you are riding, these shoes will provide you with the support and performance you need.

How To Choose the Best Touring Cycling Shoes 

Touring requires a specific type and make of cycling shoes. Your cycling shoes can’t be too soft or rigid on a long-distance ride . Otherwise, you’ll be settling in for a very uncomfortable ride!

If you need to know more about the right cycling shoes, here are some considerations to make.

Ventilation

It is impossible to predict the weather, and you don’t know what you will encounter on long-distance trips.

You might have to ride through streams or when it’s raining, so having shoes with good ventilation will help. This feature makes it easier for them to dry , so you aren’t riding around in uncomfortable wet shoes.

Breathable shoes are also better for touring cyclists due to the distance and nature of the rides.

Type Of Closure

The top of your cycling shoe is essential because this is where you adjust the shoe. You need to be able to quickly and efficiently adjust cycling shoes no matter where you are cycling. 

Three main types of closures can help you. You can choose between laces, velcro straps, and BOA lacing . 

Laces may not be the best option because you can’t adjust your shoe’s tightness while riding your bike. Laces also get dirty quickly and, worse, stuck in your chain , which can be dangerous.

It takes much longer to loosen, and unless you are part of the Cirque du Soleil crew, you’ll need to get off your bike!

Velcro straps are more popular because they are quick and easy to open .

You can adjust your shoe even when riding your bike. Unfortunately, you might have to clean them more frequently because they get dirty faster.

BOA lacing is a good choice for most riders. It features a dial system to evenly distribute the pressure across the shoe for a better fit.

All you have to do is turn the dials to loosen or tighten the cycling shoes. They are also comfortable and more convenient when touring .

Sole Design

The soles of your shoes will significantly determine your comfort when cycling.

The midsoles are the layer between your foot and the outer sole. They should feature quality padding to provide additional support for hours of pedaling.

Outsoles refer to the part of your cycling shoe that is in contact with the ground or pedals when riding. Touring shoes require soft and sticky outsoles to grip the pedal better when riding your bike.

Some of the best touring cycling shoes have rubber soles and deeper grooves for a better grip, even when the weather is terrible.

Avoid choosing cycling shoes that are too rigid. These might be too uncomfortable to walk with when off your bike. They should also be flexible for easier and faster movement.

Clipless Shoes Or Flat Shoes

When choosing the perfect cycling shoes , you can select between clipless and flat shoes. 

Flat shoes are compatible with a flat pedal which is the standard bicycle pedal. The flat pedal is compatible with almost any cycling shoe. 

Clipless cycling shoes mean that your touring shoes clip into the bicycle pedal .

Clipless shoes are great because you can quickly transfer power between your leg and the bike pedal. By clipping your shoe to the pedal, you also exert power when pulling up when cycling. 

You don’t have to worry about putting too much pressure on specific muscles when riding with clipless shoes.

These shoes are also safer and improve your performance when cycling. Your legs will be stable, and your feet will remain connected to the pedals even when riding on rocky terrain. Although they might take some time to adjust to, they are worth the effort!

Check out this video on clipless vs. flat shoes:

Cycling Pedals

The type and brand of cycling pedal you choose for your touring bike depends on the shoes you buy.

Touring cyclists are advised to choose pedals with a broader, more diverse platform. If you buy clipless shoes, you will need pedals with clips for attachment.

If you go for flat shoes, you can buy flat pedals to ride comfortably. Some riders still prefer platform pedals because they are easy to use and convenient.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are road cycling shoes suitable for bike touring.

While road cycling shoes are designed for performance, they may not always be the best option for touring.

Road shoes’ stiffer soles and tight fit can become uncomfortable on long rides and aren’t typically designed for walking comfort.

Touring shoes balance pedaling efficiency and walking comfort , making them more suitable for most bike touring trips.

How important is the fit of a touring cycling shoe?

The fit of a touring cycling shoe is critical.

Shoes that are too tight can cause discomfort or numbness. Shoes that are too loose can lead to less efficient power transfer or even blisters.

The best touring cycling shoes should fit snugly without squeezing your foot, with enough room to wiggle your toes.

Remember, feet can swell over long distances, so consider this when choosing your size.

Are there any specific touring cycling shoes that are great for wet weather?

Touring cycling shoes, like the Giro Rumble VR , are designed with wet weather in mind. 

They feature waterproof or water-resistant materials to keep your feet dry in the rain. These shoes also have robust traction for safety on wet and slippery surfaces.

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Best gravel shoes: Top options for whatever gravel means to you

The best gravel shoes out there, from race options to hike-a-bike adventure shoes

• the best budget gravel shoes

The best gravel shoes for racing

The best gravel shoes for adventure, the best gravel shoes for custom fit, the best gravel shoes for everyday, how to choose the best gravel bike shoes for you.

1. Quick list 2. Best budget 3. Best for racing 4. Best for adventure 5. Best for custom fit 6. Best for everyday use 7. How to choose

Gravel shoes are now a well-established segment; long gone are the days of putting up with footwear designed for MTB. The best gravel shoes take the majority of their design notes from the best road bike shoes but are overbuilt to some degree to take on the varying challenges that gravel riding offers. Given how diverse gravel riding has become, encompassing everything from what is basically road racing through to carrying your bike up a mountain, it's no surprise to see that diversity is now reflected in the available options on the market, almost mirroring the best gravel tyres for diversity. 

I've done my best to collect, test, and collate a genuinely useful list of the very best of each category and at various price points too. It's meant some uncomfortable rides at times over the past few months of testing, but also some truly sublime experiences too. I've learned a fair bit about what works and what doesn't, not just for specific models but in general, so as well as specific product recommendations I'll try and share what I've picked up in general terms along the way too.

As for any burning questions you may have, your best bet is to head to the bottom where I've answered what I think is probably on your mind when you're looking to make a purchase. 

Best gravel shoes overall

The one shoe that can do it all, the Giro Privateer offers excellent value for money and tops the list as the best gravel shoe overall. There’s little not to like in these shoes: they’re comfy and warm enough to wear year-round, durable enough for a bit of hike-a-bike and supportive enough over rough terrain. They’re a narrow fit, but not overly aggressive. A great choice for most gravel riders.

Read more below

The cheapest gravel shoes that are any good

If you’ve just started out in gravel riding, or you’re not able to part with the cash higher-end models demand, the dhb Dorica MTB is likely to be the shoe for you. Regularly found on sale for £50, they aren’t as well made as some of the premium models, but still play their part well. They are comfortable, with a roomy toe box, and the heel performs adequately for most riding.  

Best gravel shoes for aesthetics

These are not the best gravel shoes for much if we are honest. The Café du Cycliste Outlands is designed primarily for the aesthetics and the promise of great fun on the bike in the sunshine. Designed after a vintage set of hiking boots, these are the heaviest gravel shoes of the bunch but are extremely well made, luxurious and are perfectly fine for both walking and general use.

Best gravel race shoes

An unapologetically racy gravel shoe, the S-Works Recon are one of the most expensive on the list but is, rather surprisingly, also one of the most comfortable. Extremely lightweight thanks to a light carbon sole, the fit of these shoes is excellent, with an especially well-thought-out heel cup that keeps your foot positioned perfectly. The S-Works Recon are a favourite for those who want a close-fit, premium model for racing.

Best gravel shoes for high-tempo general use

If you’re like me you love the fit of lace-ups and want something stiff, comfortable, durable, and easy to clean, the Giro Empire VR90 are the shoe for you. A high-performance shoe, they are an all-season model with a carbon sole that does an effective job of keeping feet planted but isn't so hellishly stiff that you can't walk about in them. A great choice for everyday use.

Best gravel shoes for commuting

For a shoe that works from bike to office, you can’t ask for anything better than the Quoc Chelsea Boot. They’re quintessentially a Chelsea boot in design and feel, although are perhaps a little stiffer than you’d expect and a little less comfy to walk in, but are surprisingly effective on the bike. They’re not floppy, and have great heel retention, while also offering relatively good water-repelling qualities. 

The best gravel shoes you can buy today

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The best budget gravel shoes

1. giro privateer, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

You may be surprised to see the second-cheapest shoe on the list being given the nod for Best Overall. Yes, the more premium shoes below do offer better performance, but from the point of view of the generalist the Giro Privateer represents a very very good option at an affordable price. 

The sole is composite, but unless you're regularly riding at maximum effort that's no real drawback, and it's great for extended hike-a-bike along with the grippy outsole. While they're not super racy I did race cross in a previous iteration of them and they were perfectly adequate; I don't think better shoes would really have moved me up from my mid-pack finishes. 

The comfort factor from the laces is excellent, along with ample ankle padding that comes into play over rougher terrain and proved decent heel retention as a bonus. The extra padding and the mostly non-perforated nature of the outer does mean they get a bit hot in high summer, but the flip side is that I have been able to use these year-round, just by adding some of the best winter cycling socks. The lack of perforations means it's harder for water to get in on wet rides. The upside of them being at the cheaper end of the spectrum too is that if you do use them over winter and trash them you're less concerned; you can focus on the riding and not worry about your fancy summer slippers getting tatty.

In short, if you need one shoe to do it all then the Privateer is a perfect starting point if you're unsure which direction to take, and given that and the price that's why I think they're the best option for most people. Want the same features but more of a race focussed option, go for the Empire VR90.

The fit is narrow, but not compared to something like the Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon. If you really can't stand the idea of laces then the Giro Rincon offers similar things at a similar price, but in a package with a BOA dial and a Velcro strap, however I found the Velcro strap to be essentially pointless, and despite the more breathable exterior I'd opt for the Privateer given the choice. 

2. Quoc Escape

In all honesty, I was torn for a time as to whether to award these the overall. They fill much the same function as the Giro Privateers, at a similar price point. The Privateers however do a better job of trickle-down performance. If you're not after laces though and want a great pair of gravel shoes with a dial closure then the Escapes are hard to beat, especially as a first option. 

The single dial, a non-BOA option, is the same as the two found on the more premium Gran Tourer CX model. As per the road model of the same shoe I've also had on test the closure is perhaps the best of any single-dial shoe I've tried. Often one dial will mean the upper foot fits but the forefoot is a bit floppy, but that's not the case here. The dial itself doesn't feel as good as a BOA-branded one, even the lower-end dials, but it works nonetheless.

The fit is similar to the Privateer; relatively narrow, but with a soft enough exterior to allow the foot to expand over the edge of the sole if they aren't optimal. Shoes at this price point don't come in multiple widths sadly. They are noticeably less padded than the Privateers too; less comfy over properly rough terrain and a little less insulated for winter use, but on the flipside they feel a little more connected.

Heel retention was also excellent, though the heel lining annoyingly doesn't extend far enough around the entry to the shoe. This means there's a transition between padded and unpadded that sits just forward of the ankle and did provide a bit of irritation. Never painful, just noticeable when zoning out, but something that could easily be fixed by moving the transition forward of the tongue. 

Aesthetics matter too, and these are a lovely-looking pair of shoes, especially in the lovely deep yellow. It doesn't affect performance, but it makes me want to use them more than many others. 

I did also test the new Gran Tourer XC from Quoc, but you'll notice it is conspicuously absent from the guide. I couldn't notice any realistic improvements, and I actually found them less of a joy to wear. The ankle cup was stiffer, but with no real improvement in heel retention, and as the dials aren't as accurate as BOA options I found having two meant I genuinely couldn't get as good a fit compared to that which I could achieve with the single dial Escape, I think because, spread out over the whole shoe, the reduced dial accuracy is negated against a pair of dials only tweaking the upper/forefoot individually. The Gran Tourers are also heavier, with the same outsole, and a midsole that feels no stiffer. The only improvement was a slight reduction in the rubbing issue from the heel pad, though it did still occur. Save the £90 difference and spend it on something else. 

Likewise, I also tested the Sidi Dus; a single dial, composite soled option. It was more flexible and didn't close as well, with a dial that was more of a pain to use. The RRP is more, and while you can pick up a pair on sale for a similar price to the Escape, the only reason to do so, in my opinion, would be if you have extremely narrow feet, or you just want to wear Sidis because of the brand name or aesthetics.

3. dhb Dorica MTB

There is a distinction between "good value" and "cheap", though the two are often conflated. The Privateers represent good value, while the dhb Dorica MTB shoes are cheap. They are, however, perfectly acceptable gravel shoes for the price. They're not as well made as more premium models, and not as appealing to behold (though this may be brand snobbery at play), but they do their job adequately. Given you can pick up a pair for under £50 when they are on sale, which they are regularly, I can see why they're often of interest.

They are quite a roomy shoe in terms of volume. For my size, there's a lot more room for the upper foot to move around. You could potentially size down, but then you'd be risking squishing your toes, so it's best to just do your best with the laces. on the flat, it doesn't make a huge difference, to be honest, and the heel performed fairly, but out of the saddle, the forefoot can lift off the sole as the bike moves side to side, not helped by the less than stiff exterior fabric. I also found the base of the tongue pressed on my toes a little. 

My other bugbear was the rubber outsole is made of an extremely hard plastic, without any tack at all, meaning it's very slippery on rocks. On soft ground, it won't trouble you, though.

All in all, considering the low RRP, these perform pretty well. There is a certain amount of "you get what you pay for", but the biggest leap in performance is from these to the mid-range options, rather than mid- to high-end. If you're just starting out riding gravel or can't afford a more expensive option then these aren't going to hold you back unduly or make you miserable, which is pretty remarkable if you get them at a sale price. 

4. S-Works Recon

If the Giro Privateers are a reasonably priced generalist, the Specialized S-Works Recon exist at the other end of several spectrums. They are an out-and-out, unapologetically racy gravel shoe, but despite this, they are also one of the more comfortable options on the list. If you want a pair the main drawback is going to be the price, so let's be upfront: These are the most expensive shoes of the bunch, a full £60 more than the next most expensive, the Bont Vaypor G. What do you get for that high retail price, then?

The fit is truly sublime. The heel cup is tenacious, the forefoot wider than previous generations, and the dual Boa closure means you get a shoe that feels more of an extension of your body than any other I've tried. Heel cups on Specialized shoes, especially top-end options, are always good, but also made of very stiff material that doesn't always play nicely with ankles. Here the dropped outer ankle area keeps things comfortable when you're throwing the bike from side to side, or over rough ground. 

They're also the lightest pair of shoes on test, thanks to a light carbon sole but primarily thanks to eschewing any real interior padding and being constructed from a rather stiff (and fortunately durable feeling), outer, with just a ridge of firm foam around the rim of the ankle to hold things in place. Don't mistake this for a lack of comfort though, the Recons were some of the most comfy on test.

These are a race shoe though, essentially a gravel copy of the S-Works Torch , and that distinction is more important off-road than it would be on the tarmac; I wouldn't want to walk off-road for extended periods in these any more than I'd want to walk for ages in road cleats. The outsole is essentially there to allow you to walk to and from your bike. If you want a race-facing shoe that you can actually walk in go for the Empire VR90, or the Vento Ferox carbon if you've got dead narrow feet. 

Just a warning when purchasing: The old MTB shoes and these new gravel shoes are both named the Recon, so make sure you're getting the right ones.

5. Specialized Recon ADV

Nominally the Recon ADV is Specialized's 'adventure shoe', sadly another victim of the great gravel vowel shortage. In reality, given the sole isn't a great deal more chunky than that of the S-Works Recon I wouldn't want to yomp for miles in these, but the coverage to protect the carbon is at least substantially more comprehensive. 

In my opinion, these sit alongside the Empire VR90 as a high-performance generalist with the offer of a lace closure. As with the Empires, you get that highly tunable fit, but here it falls alongside a more secure heel cup, utilising the same style of padded upper ridge as per the Recons, but more so. On the flip side, the sole isn't as grippy, and it cannot accept toe spikes, so definitely gravel only. 

What I initially assumed was a marketing gimmick was the fact the carbon sole thins forward of the cleat plate, allowing it to flex more if you are walking. Sadly the cynic in me has to admit that it is noticeably better, though not substantially. I think this tech with a better outsole would render a truly fantastic bike-packing shoe for all terrains. As it is though they're still a brilliant option, with the stiff rear sole all you really feel. 

There's very little to choose between these and the Empires. For summer use I'd take the Recon ADV, if I had a pair of the best winter cycling shoes to fall back on, but for all-round use, or riding in wet conditions I'd take the Giro option. 

It may just be because the Empires have been around for years now and the Recons are new, but the Recon ADV are a more attractive shoe, though the wider spacing of the side panels across the upper foot does have the effect of making your foot look a little more chunky.

6. Fizik Terra Atlas

Gravel shoes, on the whole, take their design language from road shoes. The Fizik Terra Atlas to me seems like it's come more from an MTB standpoint. It's bulkier than other Fizik options, and though it's wider for sure than the Vento Ferox Carbon (I can actually get my feet in these), it's still narrow. There's a clear focus on 'adventure riding', with a fully rubberised sole heel to toe, with substantial cleats, and greater reinforcements around the lower of the upper fabric too.

The single dial does an admirable job of keeping the foot retained across the whole length, on a par with the Quoc Escape, but here at least there is a BOA-branded dial closure. It's still a lower-end model, so if you want to release the tension you do have to pop it open and then start from scratch, but in my opinion, that's less of a drawback with single-dial shoes as at least you've only got the one dial to fiddle with.

Heel retention is decent, and while the little plastic dots are well-intentioned I found them more of an irritant than any help to actually keeping my heel down. The same rings true for any heel texture; no grippy materials can replace a good fit, unless your socks are actually glued to your foot too. 

Despite not fitting me perfectly they did feel like a very supportive gravel shoe. Sturdy, well made, padded enough to feel like you're protected, but not enough to make them feel wallowy. Not a race shoe, definitely more attuned to those of you that feel MTB curious. To be honest you could probably use these for MTB quite happily too, if you need a do-it-all option. 

7. Rapha Explore Powerweave

The fit of the Rapha Powerweave is very similar to that of the S-Works Recon, especially in the heel. The twin BOA dials do a great job of properly ensconcing the foot, particularly at the upper portion, and the heel is a similarly unpadded unit with a retention ridge at the upper reach. The ankle is higher, and given the stiffness of the heel cup and the lack of padding this may be uncomfortable for some, but I never found it an issue even over full days out. 

The toe box is very pointed though, much like the Vento Ferox Carbons, so if you have a squarer toe profile you may find like me that a couple of your little piggies get distracted from having their roast beef and instead just press on the toe box.

The carbon sole is as stiff as you'd ever really want for a gravel shoe, even for racing, but the real party piece for me is the outsole. Most shoes in this list, whether they accept toe spikes or not, feature a couple of serrated or smooth blocks on either side of the cleat (so as to effectively recess it), and some toe lugs. For the Explore Powerweave, Rapha has added an unbroken tread from the midfoot all the way to the toe, meaning there's no clunk halfway through each stride as you transition from cleat lug to toe lug. It's a minor detail but it's certainly effective, and in combo with the race fit these are what I'd take if I were ever to combine high-tempo riding with a lot of walking; I'm thinking bike-packing races, primarily. 

They're better to walk in than the Recon ADV, even without a more flexible toe, but definitely a more race-oriented shoe by the fit and profile. The Powerweave outer fabric also accommodates my wider forefoot adequately, but good grief are they hard to clean. With something like the Empire VR90 you need a wet cloth and you're done, but here thanks to the textured nature of the outer, you're better off leaving them to dry and going at them with a stiff brush.

8. Lake MX238 Gravel

If, like me, you have a wide forefoot and you are yet to try a shoe that truly allows your foot to achieve its full width unimpeded by the confines of the shoe then I urge you to try a pair of Lakes. I use the standard width of the MX238 Gravel, and they are wide enough, though they come in a wider version too, so for narrow-footed riders, you will likely find them cavernous, but if you're like me and blessed with flippers they may be transformative. Just to illustrate the difference in width, these are around 15mm wider than the Vento Ferox Carbons. 

Comfort is the name of the game, being constructed in this case from a delightful, extremely supple black suede that certainly looks good against the gum outsole. Even if you do somehow find your forefoot coming up against the sides of the shoe the exterior is not only soft enough to not hem your foot in, but it'll also give with time, at least in the suede option; I cannot speak for the microfibre options I'm afraid. 

The dual BOA closure allows for an adequate fit, but the older generation dials feel dated now compared to those in use on the Rapha Powerweave, S-Works Recon etc, especially at this price. While these aren't the same kind of shoe as the Bont Vaypor G, they do both share a very roomy toe box. It takes a bit of getting used to, having never really had it in other shoes to this extent before, and while I don't think it's as important as an appropriate width shoe it certainly makes for a more comfortable setup on longer rides. 

If weight is an issue then these aren't the shoe for you, unless they're a perfect fit. Suede isn't a light material, and they're generously padded, making them the second most hefty on test, if you exclude the Quoc Chelsea.

My main issues with the MX238 Gravel come at the rear end of the shoe. The heel cup is wider than many, mirroring the fore of the shoe, resulting in (for me at least) not the best heel retention. Certainly not the worst on test by any means, and nothing to cause me concern for general riding at all, but noticeable against narrower options. The ankle cut-outs too were oddly shaped, with the low point situated very far rearward of my ankle bone protrusions. This resulted in the side of the ankle digging into my foot when pedalling out of the saddle. This will be alleviated to some degree if your cycling with your toes particularly pointed, but that tends to be a sign that your saddle is too high too.

9. Fizik Vento Ferox Carbon

Full disclosure time: I haven't tested these myself. Every other shoe I have ridden in order to compare and contrast, but these Fizik's were simply too narrow for my feet. Fortunately, though my colleague Josh Ross has already given us a full review of them, and having gone through his guide to the best road shoes recently we have very similar opinions on footwear, even if our feet are very different, so I will summarise from his work in this case:

As you've gathered already, the fit is narrow. The one Powerstrap up top is wide and comfortable, and strong enough to retain the foot even at full power. It's quick to adjust on the fly, thanks to its size, but rarely is the upper foot the bit that needs adjustment mid-ride. This is why it's a Velcro closure that I can actually get on board with for gravel use, as you're unlikely to actually expose the inner hooks and loops to grime that frequently. 

At the forefoot, the single BOA dial, a dual-direction model, takes care of smaller adjustments with ease, for the part of your foot that actually swells over the course of the day. 

The stiffness is spot on for fast-paced riding and racing. Stiff enough to be optimal, not so stiff as to be uncomfortable when you're taking it easy. The other good thing about the midsole to is the cleat plate. The slots are extremely long, allowing tonnes of fore/aft adjustment, meaning if you're into slamming your cleats to the midfoot then you're in luck. 

As for downsides... well that extremely pretty exterior that does kind of put me in mind of early 90's graphic design isn't hugely breathable, and while the toe isn't flimsy, it doesn't have the same protection from toe rub as the other models, so if you do slam our cleats back just bear that in mind. 

10. Bont Vaypor G

Carbon-soled cycling shoes, whether gravel, road or MTB, are usually constructed around a flat carbon leaf sole. Bont, on the other hand, uses a 'bathtub' option, whereby the sole extends up the sides to encase the foot entirely in a carbon hull. This has the effect of making a shoe that is mind-bogglingly stiff; think on how a steel sheet is always going to be more floppy than a steel I-beam. They are so stiff I honestly cannot fathom walking in them, stiffer than any other shoe I have used by a noticeable margin. The experience is similar to wearing mountaineering boots with fully rigid soles designed to accept crampons.

Given the bathtub construction, the heat moulding process is paramount to make sure you avoid any pressure points. Twenty minutes in the oven at 70 degrees is enough to render the soles pliable, enough for a few millimetres of adjustment in any case. Bont does offer four different width options, and choosing the correct one is key because, try as you might with the butt end of a screwdriver, if your feet are too wide for the bathtub there is nowhere for them to go. No soft material, just hard, immovable carbon fibre. 

Sadly I was just a hair too wide for the regular width so I didn't have the most comfortable experience, but I did tune the fit enough to learn that if you want a shoe that gives you the feeling of total power transfer then it's hard to find anything that touches the Vaypor G. Given the stiffness they are rather unforgiving over particularly rough ground, but as a race shoe they'd rival the S-Works option and even beat it I'd say if you can get the fit spot on. 

The closure system makes for a comfy upper even if the sole is hard going, with a wide flap meaning no pressure points occur even when cranked up for an all-out effort. The toe box, too, is wide like that of the Lakes, so your little piggies can move around happily. As per the S-Works then, a race shoe only, not for walking, despite the appearance of the aggressively lugged outsole. 

We've got a full review of these already if you need a bit more info.

11. Café du Cycliste Outlands

If you've been riding gravel for even a short term you'll probably have heard the phrase "The Spirit of Gravel". This nebulous beast means many things to almost as many people. To me it means "Wearing sexy gear while messing about in the sunshine", and no shoe better encapsulates that to me than the Café du Cycliste Outlands.

I'd have loved to be in the meeting where someone proposed styling a performance cycling shoe after a vintage set of hiking boots; I presume it occurred after a boozy lunch with lots of rich cheeses and dried meats. 

These aren't the best gravel shoe for anything really. The heel retention isn't great, despite the best efforts of the cat's tongue fabric on the inside. The laces too sometimes slip when you're trying to tie them up and slip in the eyelets, so getting the perfect fit is hard, and making a shoe with leather, metal eyelets and a full gum rubber outsole makes them the heaviest 'proper' gravel shoe of the bunch. 

I don't care though, because they're beautiful. They smell great too, for now, and are ageing well. They're an expensive affectation, but they make me feel a million dollars when I do wear them. For general riding, they're perfectly adequate from a performance standpoint, and I'm also a big proponent of the fact that looking good makes you feel better and ride better. 

They are also extremely well made and feel luxurious, more so than the more expensive shoes on the list. The full gum outsole is also second only to the Explore Powerweave in terms of ease of walking, only detracted from by the slight heel lift with each step.

These are a shoe to buy if I'm being totally honest, just because you want them, and that's fine. There's space for that alongside more pragmatic choices, but please still bear considerations such as fit in mind as I go into later in the FAQ's.  

12. Quoc Chelsea Boots

Many people opt for a gravel bike as a do-it-all wagon. Something that can handle road, gravel, and also commuting duties. Well, makes sense to include an option for those going to and from an office then, right?

The Chelsea, a Chelsea boot with an optional cleat recess in the sole, from Quoc would be my choice. For the summer, if you work somewhere distinctly modern then you could well get away with a pair of Adidas Velosambas, but for something that works on the bike year-round, and doesn't leave you falling foul of draconian dress codes, the Quoc Chelsea is hard to beat. 

While the leather forefoot and suede rear aren't totally impervious to water ingress, it does a great deal better than any other shoe on this list when you fly through a puddle. The sole is stiffer than you're likely expecting, stiffer than some of the composite soled options above, so while it's better for walking in it's not nearly as comfortable as, say, an actual pair of normal Chelsea boots. The flip side of this is that they're surprisingly good for riding in, never floppy, and with surprisingly good heel retention. You can fit a filler block where the cleat recess is, but in my mind, at that point, you may as well get a set of Blundstones. 

While reflective detailing is never a substitute for a set of the best bike lights while riding at night, adding reflectivity to shoes is a good place to do it, as the motion is unnatural to the human eye at night and stands out. The series of dots on the rear add a little bit of extra safety if you're riding to and from work after dark.  

You may notice I have a size smaller here than the other Quoc options, but after testing these are actually a smidge too small, so stick to the sizing for the other pairs if you're in two minds, that being your normal size.

13. Giro Empire VR90

Take a Privateer, slim it down a bit, add an Easton carbon midsole and a Vibram outsole and you have the Empire VR90, the gravel version of the Empire SLX road shoe, which my colleague rated as the best road shoe on the market (something I agree with him on). 

These are a better shoe than the Privateer, so why not rate these the best overall? In my opinion, the improvements over the Privateer aren't enough to warrant spending the extra hundred pounds unless you really want the performance gains, and against the backdrop of the development of the Empire SLX, the VR90 feels somewhat dated. Also, the Empire VR90 sit alongside other high-performance options, where they stand out less. 

That being said, if like me you love the fit on offer from lace-up shoes, and want something stiff, comfortable, durable, and easy to clean then these are the shoe for you. The carbon sole does an effective job of keeping the feet planted but isn't so hellishly stiff that you can't walk about in them. 

Gone is the double reinforced heel of the Privateer, resulting in a sleeker, more aesthetically pleasing exterior, but still with that all-season impervious nature. The outer sole is essentially the same as the Privateer, but with Vibram branding, which doesn't really add much in my opinion except some number to the price. 

I have delicate high arches, so I use aftermarket insoles, but these do come with a customisable set of insoles to tune the fit too, which certainly helps, but I'm yet to find a shoe with sufficient insole support out of the box. 

Of all the shoes these are what I'll probably continue to ride following the culmination of this group test because they fit me very well and aren't so fancy that I'd worry about trashing them. While they used to be a serious contender for the best race shoe, they now feel like a performance generalist. I'd love to see an SLX version in time, like Specialized has done with the Torch/Recon, to add a bit more competition at the top end.

As with any purchase, the best way to get what's perfect for you is to start by being honest about your use case. If you don't race, you don't need race shoes, for example. It's so easy to fall into the "ah but what if one day I..." trap, but I implore you to really define what you need now before you hone in on what you may one day need down the line.

Once you're done with the function, the fit is the next key thing to consider (yes, more than closure, sole material or even aesthetics I'm afraid). Footwear is a huge part of one of the main contact points with your bike, and getting the fit wrong can have knock-on implications up the biomechanical chain. More than getting choosing the perfect saddle or the best cargo bib shorts, footwear can play mischief with your tendons rather than your soft tissue. If you don't know how wide your feet are then do some research; I assumed I had the dainty narrow feet of a ballerina, but after getting a bike fit I found out I actually have troll feet, so you may be surprised. 

Then you can think about closure and aesthetics. These are more down to personal preference and don't have any real drastic impacts so you can pick your poison as you please.

Can I wear mountain bike shoes for gravel riding?

Of course, you can, but mountain bike shoes are generally more overbuilt and have soles suited to the demands of the chosen discipline.  Cross-country, or XC, shoes will be the closest analogue to gravel shoes, and before gravel-specific footwear existed this was the next best thing. However on the whole you don't need toe spikes for gravel riding, and while many gravel shoes have ports to fit them they're much more useful in cyclocross. 

At the other end of the spectrum, just because you can clip into your gravel bike with a set of downhill shoes doesn't mean you should. you'll rub your cranks, your feet will overheat, and you'll probably get blisters. 

Can I wear road shoes for gravel riding?

You can, but you shouldn't. At the very competitive end of gravel races it is something we see as they do offer a better pedalling platform thanks to the larger cleat, but this only really works though as the racers are unlikely to put a foot down over the course of the race, and also probably get free cleats. In wet and muddy races it's rarely seen at all as road pedals are much more prone to clogging. 

In short, if you're going to ride off-road regularly then get some off-road shoes. I took my road bike on an excursion down a bridleway one and my Look Keo Blade pedals got so clogged that I blew the carbon spring out of one of them trying to get my cleat to clip in. Learn from my mistakes. 

Do I need toe spikes for gravel riding?

No, not unless you really want them. Toe spikes are primarily added to shoes for cyclocross racing and CX MTB racing where the chances of having to run up a steep, muddy incline are much higher. The toe spikes dig in and stop you from failing to make any forward progress. 

Gravel riding generally doesn't involve fast, crazy steep run-ups, but if you also race 'cross then having the option to fit them when necessary will be hugely beneficial. 

My top tip is to make sure you remove them for general use too; throwing a leg over your top tube and accidentally scoring it with a sharp stud is a mistake you only make once. 

Are laces better than dials?

There isn't a 'better', they're just different. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Laces are infinitely adjustable, superlight, and durable, but are fiddly (especially in the muck), and cannot be adjusted quickly on the fly. Dials on the other hand, spearheaded by BOA, offer easy adjustment to the fit of your shoes while you're riding.

You'll notice a conspicuous absence of Velcro in this guide, save for the one Powerstrap seen on the Fizik Vento Carbon. Velcro has a finite service life at the best of times, and this is accelerated when you throw mud and dust into the mix, so if you can avoid it then steer clear, especially if it's the main closure system on the shoe. 

Should gravel shoes be stiff?

This depends on what sort of gravel riding you're doing. For racing then you do probably want a stiff shoe, as it's claimed to offer better power transfer. Given composite soles are also light it doesn't necessarily offer a great weight saving though, and if you're going to walk around in your gravel shoes a lot then a carbon sole can actually be a downside as it makes the shoes uncomfortable and ungainly to clip-clop about in compared to the more flexible feel of a composite sole. 

How should my gravel bike shoes fit?

We are conditioned in cycling to want everything to be skintight, but your feet need room to spread out to their full width under load to best transfer power, so don't go forcing yourself into a too-narrow shoe just because you want it to fit. You aren't the ugly step-sister; you are Cinderella and you deserve a gravel-specific glass slipper of your own. 

Ideally, you want enough room for your forefoot to spread out, with a heel narrow enough to prevent it from lifting on the upstroke. In my experience, the former is more important than the latter, though if you have stiff shoes and are walking a lot then heel retention does become more important as the heel wants to lift away from the shoe each stride if the sole doesn't flex. 

In general Italian shoes tend to be the most narrow, so that's Fizik from this list but also Sidi. Giro does also come up narrow, but the outer material is often softer, allowing more leeway in the fit. 

If you do have wide feet then some brands offer wide fits or are wider out of the box anyway. Bont shoes come in four widths, and Lake are both wide as standard and come in a few even wider options. 

I usually wear a size 44, so from the "weight" stat box for each shoe you can also see whether I was true to size, or had to go up or down.

How we test

Primarily by riding in all of them, you'd be unsurprised to hear. I spend a lot of time riding on gravel anyway, but heading out with several shoes isn't unusual to be able to back-to-back options to see how they stack up. I also have a tendency to get distracted and head down interesting trails, usually ending up with walking back up again when I get to a dead end, so how they grip off the bike is also at the forefront of my mind. 

As for walking about, I get about by bike in town and to the office, so as much as anything else these shoes became my daily options for some time too.

Finally, given the UK climate, I've been truly #Blessed to have had my fair share of mud as well as beautiful fast dirt to see how they handle getting filthy. 

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Will joined the Cyclingnews team as a reviews writer in 2022, having previously written for Cyclist, BikeRadar and Advntr. There are very few types of cycling he's not dabbled in, and he has a particular affection for older bikes and long lasting components. Road riding was his first love, before graduating to racing CX in Yorkshire. He's been touring on a vintage tandem all the way through to fixed gear gravel riding and MTB too. When he's not out riding one of his many bikes he can usually be found in the garage tinkering with another of them, or getting obsessive about tyres. Also, as he doesn't use Zwift, he's our go-to guy for bad weather testing... bless him.

Rides: Custom Zetland Audax, Bowman Palace:R, Peugeot Grand Tourisme Tandem, Falcon Explorer Tracklocross, Fairlight Secan & Strael

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The 10 Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Your Gravel Adventures

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This is a selection of the best gravel bike shoes. It includes shoes for narrow , regular , and wide feet, men and women, mostly for clipless pedals , and a few for platforms . I evaluated them based on this gravel bike shoe scoring . So, whether you are a beginner, advanced, or experienced gravel biker, I am sure you will choose a pair that will be the best fit for you.

Of course, you can also use road or MTB shoes, depending on the pedal style you prefer on your gravel bike.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Most gravel bikers prefer MTB-like shoes for their better walkability. However, if you don’t plan to walk often, road bike shoes with road pedals might be a better option as they tend to be more comfortable on longer distances.

The best gravel bike shoes overall are the Fizik X5 Terra . They offer the best price-value ratio (BOA dial fastening, great quality, premium look, durability, and more ). However, they are not suitable for wide feet because they are not available as “wide.”

Below, you also find out whether to use clipless or flat pedals (platforms) on a gravel bike, what to look for when buying gravel cycling shoes, and much more.

What Are the Best Gravel Bike Shoes?

Best Performance

Also available at competitivecyclist.com

Best Overall

Best for Platforms

Skip to the comparison table…

Gravel bike shoes for clipless pedals will provide the following benefits compared to shoes for flat pedals. Find out more about shoe types ideal for gravel bikes in the How to Choose Gravel Bike Shoes section.

The Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Clipless Pedals

The following shoes are mostly gravel or mountain bike shoes ideal for gravel biking . They are compatible with gravel bike pedals , clipless MTB pedals , and hybrid pedals (platform + clipless).

Remember, the stiffer the shoes, the worse for comfortable walking ( learn more ).

Fizik X5 Terra (Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Clipless Pedals)

Comfort   5/5 | Walkability   3/5 | Durability   4/5 | Weight   5/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   4.2/5

Main Features

• Fastening system: Velcro strap combined with a BOA dial
• Ideal for: Narrow and regular feet
• Weight: 790g (size 45)
• Carbon fiber sole with anti-slip pads
• Perforated upper for better ventilation
• Reinforced toe box and heel

Fizik X5 Terra are one of the best gravel bike shoes for the money. Thanks to the perforated upper, they are well-ventilated, so your feet won’t sweat as much during hot weather.

Thanks to the loops, you can put them on more easily, making them very practical. The BOA dial will allow you quick and fastening (while riding), and the velcro strap helps adjust the toe box fit. Two BOA dials would be much more convenient, but we can’t forget the price.

The carbon sole will effectively transfer your energy into every pedal stroke – you won’t get as tired during long gravel bike adventures.

You appreciate rubber pads on the sole if you need to get off your bike and walk some parts of your planned route. Just remember, if the rocks are wet, your feet may slip.

X5 Terra will protect your toes against rocks and other obstacles, thanks to a reinforced toe box. Designers did not forget about heels either. The reinforced heels will hold your heels securely.

Fizik X5 Terra will fit you well if you have narrow or regular feet. They are unsuitable for riders with wide feet (check Pearl iZUMi X-Alp Gravel instead ).

You may also be interested in the best gravel bikes for under $1000 .

Shimano SH-XC9 S-Phyre (Best High-End Gravel Bike Racing Shoes)

Comfort   5/5 | Walkability   4/5 | Durability   4/5 | Weight   5/5 | Price   1/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   4.0/5

• Fastening system: 2 BOA dials
• Ideal for: Narrow and regular feet (also available in wide fit)
• Weight: 590g (size 42, pair)
• Very stiff (11 out of 12 on Shimano’s stiffness scale )
• Carbon composite sole

Shimano SH-XC9 are the highest-end mountain bike shoes from Shimano. But they are also popular among gravel bikers.

They are made in narrow and wide versions, so they fit most riders. Just make sure you choose the correct width.

The XC9 are focused on performance – they are very stiff (11 from 12 in Shimano’s stiffness index ). Thus, your pedal strokes’ energy transfer will be super effective, making them perfect for performance-oriented riders and racers.

If you are afraid that these shoes won’t be comfortable due to the high stiffness level, don’t be. Most owners claim they are comfortable.

They are also perfect for cyclocross, thanks to the rubber pads that provide excellent grip even in muddy conditions. And, if the conditions are really bad, you can add toe spikes for an extra grip.

The heel cup will also support your ankles to stabilize your feet and prevent twists.

Shimano SH XC9 are perfect mountain bike shoes for the most demanding riders and pro racers. Even Mathieu van der Poel wore them!

Giro Privateer Lace (Men) & Giro Manta Lace (Women)

Comfort   4/5 | Walkability   3/5 | Durability   4/5 | Weight   4/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.8/5

• Fastening system: Laces
• Weight: 710g (size 42, pair)

Giro Privateer (shoes for men) and Giro Manta (shoes for women) are perfect entry-level options for beginner gravel and mountain bikers.

They are durable, so you don’t have to be afraid of putting them under pressure. Of course, they are not as stiff as more expensive gravel cycling shoes, but you will be satisfied with them if you are not performance-oriented.

Comfort is another feature that I can’t forget. It mainly depends on how well they fit you. If you choose the right size, they are great. Laces will ensure you get a firm fastening.

Unfortunately, they are poorly ventilated, although they have perforated upper, so they are not too suitable for hot weather.

The good news is that they have reinforced toe boxes and heels to protect your toes and heels against rocks and twisting your ankles.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com and tredz.co.uk

Bontrager Evoke

Comfort   3/5 | Walkability   3/5 | Durability   5/5 | Weight   4/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.7/5

• Fastening system: Velcro straps
• Weight: n/a
• Soft sole (stiffness index 6 of 14)
• Great for walking

Bontrager Evoke should catch your attention if you are looking for gravel bike shoes that are good for walking.

Their sole is softer than the sole of other budget gravel bike shoes, so they are better for walking. The curved sole design also makes walking a little bit more convenient. It is well designed to provide you traction even in mud.

Evoke are durable, so you don’t have to be afraid of putting them under pressure or riding/walking on rough terrain. They will handle it well.

Keep in mind that they are pretty warm, so they are ideal for spring/autumn riding. If you are looking for well-ventilated summer shoes, look elsewhere. Louis Garneau Granite 2 could do the job.

The main downside is the tongue, which is a bit longer and may cause discomfort.

Bontrager Evoke are suitable for riders with narrow and regular feet. I also suggest getting a larger size than you are used to wearing because they tend to run small.

DON’T MISS this selection of the best gravel bikes under $1500 .

Vittoria Tierra

Comfort   4/5 | Walkability   4/5 | Durability   3/5 | Weight   5/5 | Price   3/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.8/5

• Weight: 592g (size 42, pair)
• Unique “chameleon purple” finish

If you are looking for gravel shoes that will turn the heads of others, these are the ones. Thanks to their original “chameleon purple” finish, they change colors – from purple through blue to black.

Vittoria Tierra gravel shoes use laces that ensure snug fastening and won’t come untied while riding. Their side effect is a nice, stylish, and casual look.

Vittoria is an Italian brand, and these shoes were made in Italy, so I can’t forget to mention their built quality and attention to detail, like the metallic eyelets.

You can be sure these shoes will perform well. They are stiff yet comfortable so that you can focus on your ride.

They will also give you enough grip to tackle sections where you need to get off your bike and walk.

The main downsides of Tierra shoes are the insufficient arch support due to the cheap insole (read this article about cycling insoles to solve this), short laces, and, of course, the easily scratchable upper.

These shoes are pretty narrow, so they are unsuitable for riders with wide feet.

Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 Off Road Shoes

Comfort   4/5 | Walkability   3/5 | Durability   4/5 | Weight   5/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.9/5

• Fastening system: Powerstrap (Velcro)
• Weight: 678g (pair)
• Very comfortable

Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 shoes are unique thanks to the one-of-a-kind Powerstrap fastening system. Unlike standard velcro straps, this one wraps around your feet, ensuring great fastening and comfort.

Although you may not consider a velcro strap an effective fastening system, this one works well.

Terra X4 are ideal for performance-oriented riders who want to ride long distances. They are stiff, so they provide you with sufficient power transfer. And thanks to their low weight, you won’t get tired as quickly because you won’t have to pull the excessive weight.

The only problem with the soles is that they don’t have anti-slip pads, so if you encounter mud, your feet may slip off. On the other hand, thanks to the sole design, these shoes look almost like road cycling shoes – they are very stylish.

Fizik Terra X4 shoes have a perforated upper for better ventilation during hot days. But the ventilation could be better because it is not as effective as you would expect.

I recommend them for riders with narrow or regular feet.

Combine your new gravel bike shoes with these best gravel bike pedals .

Pearl iZUMi X-Alp Gravel

Comfort   3/5 | Walkability   4/5 | Durability   4/5 | Weight   5/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.9/5

• Fastening system: BOA Dial
• Ideal for: Wide feet
• Weight: 682g (size 43, pair)
• Shock-absorbing heel foam
• Perforated upper for better ventilation (very well-ventilated)

Pearl iZUMi X-Alp Gravel are a little bit underrated. Let me explain why they provide a great price-to-value ratio.

They are relatively stiff to efficiently transfer the power you put into every pedal stroke and move you forward, but they don’t sacrifice your comfort.

Pearl iZUMi integrated an EVA insert in the heel to absorb shocks and impact when walking. This feature further improves your walking experience.

Another great feature is the perforated upper that ensures sufficient ventilation even in hot weather. Yes, I agree. The “X-Alp” name may be confusing and evoke these shoes are for the winter season.

You can fasten them even while riding, thanks to the BOA dial fastening. This is a huge advantage compared to gravel shoes with laces. Two BOA dials would be much better, but we cannot forget the price point of these shoes. 2 BOA dials are more common among shoes that are twice as expensive.

X-Alp Gravel shoes are not the best if you are looking for gravel bike shoes for racing because they are not as stiff as high-end shoes like Shimano SH-RX800 , but if you prefer comfort, these are the right ones for you.

Check this selection of the best gravel bikes under $2000 .

Giro Rumble

Comfort   4/5 | Walkability 4/5 | Durability 3/5 | Weight 3/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.7/5

• Weight: 860g (size 42.5, pair)
• Allow comfortable walking

Giro Rumble are hybrid shoes you can use with or without cleats for clipless pedals. It depends on what pedals you have and what option you prefer.

Their sole allows comfortable walking, which is great if your trip includes some parts where you need to hop off your bike.

They are also pretty comfortable and well-ventilated, thanks to the mesh upper. This makes them ideal for hot summer days. Just remember, they are not very good for riding through puddles or for rides in the rain because they get wet easily.

Yes, they are also much softer than gravel or mountain bike shoes, but if you don’t need to break records and you rather enjoy comfort, these are the ones.

Some owners report that it is better to buy one size up to ensure the best fit possible. Your normal size may be a bit small with the Giro sizing.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com , jensonusa.com , and tredz.co.uk

The Best Gravel Shoes for Flat Pedals

If you use platforms on your gravel bike, the following shoes are ideal for platform pedals – they are relatively stiff, durable, and comfortable. Thanks to these features, they are also popular among mountain bikers.

Five Ten Freerider

Comfort   5/5 | Walkability 4/5 | Durability 3/5 | Weight 3/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   3.9/5

• Weight: 836g (size 9, pair)
• A stiff and grippy sole
• Impact-resistant toe box

Five Ten belong among the most popular brands that focus on designing shoes for flat pedals. I could not miss their legendary Freerider model, which is a predecessor of the improved Freerider Pro .

They have very grippy soles, so your feet won’t slip off platforms. In addition, the shoes are lightweight, durable, and relatively stiff, so they efficiently transfer the energy you put into your pedal strokes.

One of the things the owners of these shoes praise the most is comfort and durability. You can ride in these shoes for hours, and you won’t experience any discomfort.

You can use them for walking and hiking too. Although shoes designed specifically for hiking provide a better grip on rocks, they are a good compromise if you want to ride on platforms and combine them with a short hike.

Five Ten Freerider Pro

Comfort   5/5 | Walkability 4/5 | Durability 4/5 | Weight 3/5 | Price   4/5 | WEIGHTED OVERALL SCORE   4.1/5

• Weight: 798g (size 11, pair)
• A stiff and very grippy sole
• Very durable

I’ve selected 2 models from Five Ten into this selection—the first, less advanced Freerider , and an improved version of the Freerider Pro. These shoes are better than Freerider in almost every aspect (except the price).

They provide an excellent grip if you use platforms on your gravel bike. In addition, their sole is stiff, so it efficiently transfers the power you put into every pedal stroke. Yet, Freerider Pro are super comfy. The insole offers good arch support, and they are perfect for walking.

The upper is perforated on the front to ensure good breathability and ventilation in hot weather while riding. Unfortunately, your feet may feel a bit hot once you stop, especially in the hot weather and direct sunlight.

Five Ten Freerider Pros will protect your toes against rocks and other impacts thanks to an impact-resistant toe box.

And last but not least, they are very durable. These shoes last, so you can rely on them at any time.

Also available at jensonusa.com and tredz.co.uk

When choosing gravel bike shoes, you should mainly consider your riding style. Do you often combine riding with walking? Go for shoes that allow you to walk comfortably and are not as stiff.

But, if you are a performance-oriented rider who enjoys competition, a pair of stiff shoes will probably be much better for you because they ensure efficient power transfer.

The best gravel bike shoes are the Fizik Terra X5 . They provide great comfort and walkability and are reasonably stiff.

But I recommend checking the entire selection so you find the shoes you like visually and that are within your budget.

To learn more about choosing the right gravel bike shoes, read the following section that explains everything in detail.

How to Choose Gravel Bike Shoes?

Below, I will guide you through selecting shoes for gravel biking . You find out whether it is better to ride with shoes for clipless or flat pedals.

You learn more about fastening systems and other important features. Thanks to this information, it will be easy to decide which shoes are right for you based on your riding style.

I also recommend reading the how-to choose cycling shoes guide to learn more about other types of cycling shoes.

Shoe Type – Clipless Shoes vs. Shoes for Flat Pedals

When choosing shoes for a gravel bike, the first major question is whether to use gravel, mountain, or hybrid bike shoes for clipless pedals OR shoes for flat pedals.

The answer is based mainly on your riding style . If you want to ride off-road – on dirt, gravel, or forest roads – shoes for clipless pedals are probably a better option. There are 3 main types of clipless shoes suitable for gravel bikes .

• Gravel bike shoes are designed to be lighter than MTB shoes and look more like casual shoes. They don’t have as good toe and heel protection as MTB shoes. This is because gravel bikes are not designed for cross-country-like terrain, and you don’t need as good protection against rocks and other objects. Gravel bike shoes form a compromise between MTB and road cycling shoes .
• Mountain bike shoes provide you with heel and toe protection. These features make MTB shoes slightly heavier than gravel bike shoes and also more sport-looking. Both gravel and mountain bike shoes allow you to walk relatively easily, but MTB shoes are not as good for walking as gravel bike shoes.
• Hybrid/casual bike shoes look almost like normal casual shoes but are compatible with clipless pedals and platforms. They allow you comfortable walking, which is a big plus. Their downside is that they are not as performance-oriented – due to their lower stiffness, you experience larger energy losses when pedaling, so you get tired more easily.

On the other hand, if you use a gravel bike for short commuting , riding around the city, or your neighborhood (I don’t judge, but a hybrid bike may be a better choice for this), shoes for flat pedals are more suitable for this because you can easily take your feet off pedals on traffic lights, intersections, etc.

The following table summarizes the benefits and disadvantages of the types mentioned above of shoes in detail.

Clipless Pedals & Cleat Type Compatibility

The clipless bike shoes are manufactured in a 2-hole configuration. This means you can attach MTB cleats to them. MTB cleats are recessed into the soles so that you can walk in MTB and gravel shoes more easily than in road cycling shoes.

Brands like Shimano and Crankbrothers belong to the most popular gravel and MTB pedals manufacturers, but Time, Nukeproof, and DMR are also worth mentioning.

Remember, MTB cleats are incompatible with road bike pedals and vice versa. So if you want to use gravel or mountain bike shoes, you must use mountain bike pedals or hybrid pedals that combine an SPD clip-in mechanism with a platform.

The 3-hole configuration is used on road bike shoes , and the 4-hole is Speedplay specific.

Price Range

Once you decide what type of shoes are right for you, it is time to set your budget. There are 3 basic price ranges for clipless bike shoes :

• Budget shoes (Around $100) are ideal for beginners, thanks to their affordability. They usually use velcro straps or ratchet buckle fastening. These shoes are heavier and softer than more expensive shoes, so you get tired more easily during long rides.
• Value-for-money shoes ($150 to $300) are a great compromise between budget and performance shoes because they offer the best price-performance ratio. They are relatively light, durable, and comfortable. They mostly use velcro straps and ratchet buckle, velcro strap, and BOA dial, or BOA dials only.
• Performance shoes (Above $300) are perfect for performance-oriented riders who need stiff, light, durable, and comfortable shoes. The high-end clipless shoes have soles made of carbon, so they are stiff, ensuring effective power transfer. They mostly use BOA dials or similar fastening systems for convenient fastening.

Shoes for Flat Pedals

Shoes for flat pedals (MTB shoes for platforms) start at around $50 and can go as high as $200. The price determines mainly their quality, durability, and stiffness. Then, of course, there are premium shoes where you pay for the brand.

Most shoes for flat pedals use laces, ensuring a good and effective fastening.

Fastening System

Clipless bike shoes come with different types of fastening systems that differ in their precision, convenience, weight, durability, etc.

The following table summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of the above-mentioned fastening systems.

To find out more about individual fastening systems, feel free to read the How to Choose Cycling Shoes guide.

All types of fastening systems are suitable for gravel biking. So, choose depending on your preference. I recommend getting shoes with dials or laces to ensure a snug tightening.

Comfort & Fit

Your gravel cycling shoes must be comfortable so you can enjoy your ride. Most gravel bike shoes and shoes for platforms are designed to be comfortable, so you have to make sure you choose the right size.

Choosing the right shoe size when shopping online may be tricky because you can’t try them in person.

Luckily, most manufacturers have easy-to-follow sizing guides, so you can choose the right size easily. The problem may be with the right shoe width.

If you have wide feet, look for wide shoes. For example, Sidi calls them “MEGA,” Shimano “WIDE,” etc.

I recommend reading my article on ‘ How cycling shoes should fit ‘ for more useful tips.

To further improve your riding comfort, buy a pair of cycling insoles . They will support your arches so you won’t experience hotspots and feet numbness.

Sole Stiffness

Gravel bike shoes don’t have to be as stiff as road cycling shoes, for example. In fact, too stiff shoes can cause further problems for riders who experience painful or inflamed feet ball ( metatarsalgia ) or lack of oxygenation of the toes due to blood shortage ( ischemia ). The study showed that shoes with carbon soles increase peak plantar pressure, which may aggravate these foot conditions.

When gravel biking, you likely encounter sections requiring you to get off your bike and walk. This is when shoes that allow easy walking come in handy.

The stiffer the sole = the worse walkability

On the other hand, the softer the insole, the larger the energy losses, and you get tired more quickly during long rides. But honestly, if you are not a hardcore gravel rider who tried several pairs of shoes, you probably won’t notice too much difference between them. Of course, this does not apply to clipless gravel cycling shoes and shoes for flat pedals where the stiffness difference is significant.

Gravel Bike Shoes FAQ

Most gravel bikers use MTB clipless pedals on their gravel bikes, but you can use flat pedals (platforms) too. So which ones are a better option? This depends mainly on your riding style. Clipless pedals are popular among riders who are more performance-oriented. They ride longer distances in demanding terrains and need stiff shoes that maximize their pedaling efficiency. Because the shoes are clipped into pedals, you can pedal in circles. On the other hand, platforms are ideal for those of you who have a gravel bike for commuting and short-distance trips combined with a lot of walking. They will allow you to quickly take your feet off the pedals – for example, at traffic lights and intersections. Plus, shoes for flat pedals allow easier walking than shoes for clipless pedals.

There are multiple shoe types to wear on a gravel bike. You can either use clipless bike shoes or shoes for flat pedals (depending on the type of pedals you use). Speaking of cycling shoes for clipless pedals, you can choose from 3 basic options: 1. Gravel bike shoes – with MTB clipless pedals 2. Mountain bike shoes – with MTB clipless pedals 3. Road bike shoes – with road clipless pedals For flat pedals, I recommend either MTB shoes for flat pedals or causal, noncycling shoes. To learn what shoes are the best for what types of riders, read this entire article and the buyer’s guide section.

This depends on several factors: – How well do you take care of them? – How much do you ride? – How durable are the shoes? It may seem like a no-brainer to buy expensive gravel bike shoes, but think about it as a long-term investment. High-quality shoes will last you several years , and you get a great level of comfort. This does not mean you have to spend $300+ on them. Good gravel bike shoes can cost around $150. Read this article on when you should replace your gravel bike shoes .

This post is regularly updated to provide the most up-to-date product tips. If you find a product that is not up to date, please contact me .

About The Author

Petr Minarik

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The Best Comfortable and Lightweight Road Cycling Shoes in 2023

• By : Chris Ireland
• Updated : April 11, 2024

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Did you know that your cycling shoe is the most important piece among all your cycling gears?

Forget about the kit, sunglasses, gloves, and socks.

Here’s why.

There are three contact points between your body and the bike; your palms, pelvic bones, and feet. The feet are the most important of the three. It’s where you’ll transfer all the power from your legs to the pedals to move the bike, typically at a rate of around 80 to 90 rpm . You’ll probably be turning the pedals about 4000 to 5000 times for every hour of cycling.

Hence, choosing the right pair of cycling shoes that suit not only your style of riding but more importantly the shape of your feet is, crucial.

A Quick Glance : Our Favorite Road Cycling Shoes

Value Pick : Shimano S-Phyre RC701 “An affordably priced Shimano’s mid-tiered shoes with pro-level (almost) features and stiffness.”

Best for Beginners : Specialized Torch 1.0 “Specialized’s entry-level shoes designed using the scientifically-tested Body Geometry for comfort.”

Best for Performance : Specialized S-Works 7 “The go-to shoes for current and former road race World Champions, Julian Alanphilippe and Peter Sagan.”

Value for Money Picks ($100 to $300)

Shimano rc-701.

The Shimano S-Phyre RC701, which replaced the RC7 model, gives you pro-level performance features at non-pro prices, making it an excellent value. 

The RC701 features a lightweight and rigid carbon fibre composite sole for maximum power transfer. It rates a 10 on Shimano’s rigidity scale and incorporates Shimano’s Dynalast technology, which helps to make your pedal strokes and power transfer more efficient by optimizing the toe-spring part of the shoe. 

The RC701 is equipped with dual BOA dials, an upgrade from the RC7, which was outfitted with one BOA dial that allows you to make micro-adjustments for fit.

• Pros :  Great value for money from a reputable brand. New BOA fastening system design provides improved adjustability and fit.
• Cons :  Upper layers can be too breathable, so might not ideal for colder temperatures.

Specialized Torch 3.0

The Specialized Torch 3.0 is Specialized’s mid-tier road cycling shoes.

There are 3 models within the Torch family itself, the 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0. The 1.0 is the lowest end model. As you go higher up to 3.0, the main difference lies in the sole construction.

The 1.0 uses a carbon composite sole, while the 2.0 has a carbon fibre sole and 3.0 uses a stiffer FACT carbon sole. However, they’re not as still as the top-end S-Works 7 .

Another major difference lies in the fit. As the Torch isn’t a high-performance shoe designed for racing, it has a more relaxed fit, especially around the toe box and heels. If you’re looking for a cycling shoe that provides all-day comfort, this could be a good option to consider.

• Pros : Relaxed fit and comfortable long rides. Improved heel cup for a snug fit.
• Cons : Limited color choices.

Fizik R4B Uomo

The Fizik R4B Uomo sits in the middle of Fizik’s road cycling shoes’ range, below the top-level R1 and above the entry-level R5 series.

As with most mid-range options, the sole is made from injected carbon-fiber. This is just another fancy term for a sole made from a mixture of carbon and plastic, sort of a midpoint.

As expected, it’s not comparable to the super-stiff carbon, but it’s still plenty stiff for the majority of recreational cyclists.

• Pros : Plenty of ventilation on the top and bottom. Durable upper materials.
• Cons : Velcro straps on the toes aren’t as secure as BOA dials.

Giro Apeckx 2

The Giro Apeckx 2 is Giro’s mid-range offering. It sits just a level below the Giro Empire and Factor series which are super stiff and lightweight.

The biggest difference is in the soles. The Apeckx 2 uses composite nylon soles rather than super-stiff carbon soles made by Easton. It’s still pretty stiff with good power transfer properties but at a significantly lower cost.

Hence, it’s more affordable to the majority.

There are two variations; standard and High Volume, which is essentially the wide feet version for those who are looking for a bigger toe box.

• Pros : Available in standard and wide-feet variant. Fancy colors and design.
• Cons :  Straps and ratchets aren’t as adjustable as BOA dials.

Entry Level Picks for Beginners

Specialized torch 1.0.

The Specialized Torch 1.0 is Specialized’s entry-level cycling shoes. It’s quickly gaining popularity among cyclists due to its very affordable price point especially compared to the flagship S-Works model, which costs almost 4x more.

One of the very first things you’ll notice is the small ventilation holes on the top. There are 94 of them so keep your feet well ventilated during the hot days. In addition to that, there’s also a larger air vent at the bottom front part of the sole.

Besides, you’ll now get BOA closure dials which are slowly trickling down from performance to entry-level models. While the L6 BOA dials aren’t the best available out there, it allows you to make micro-adjustments on the fly, which is definitely a great feature to have.

And for those who are fashion-minded, you’ll be glad to know that the Specialized Torch 1.0 comes in 5 different colors; white, black, red, blue, and lime green.

• Pros : Very breathable to keep your feet cool.
• Cons : Costs more than its peers.

Giro is one of the brands you seldom go wrong with cycling shoes. Even though the Giro Savix sits on the entry-level range, it still packs plenty of features such as the BOA Fit Closure System which allows you to make quick and precise 1mm tightening adjustments while on the bike.

Together with the BOA dials, the single velcro strap is strategically placed to provide a snug, yet comfortable fit.

Unlike the Specialized Torch 1.0, the Giro Savix comes with a Universal Cleat Mount system that allows you to use either a two or three-bolt cleat. This means you can also use them for spinning classes, which uses an SPD pedal that requires a 2-bolts cleat.

You’ll have the option to choose from 3 colors; black, white, or black/red with sizes ranging from 39 to 50.

• Pros : Compatible with both SPD and SPD-SL cleats. BOA dials allow for precise adjustments.
• Cons : Heavier compared to its peers.

Pearl Izumi Quest Road

Pearl Izumi was started by a Japanese man named Kinji Shimizu. Today, it’s based out of Louisville in Colorado.

The Quest Road is Pearl Izumi’s entry-level road cycling shoes. It has a full nylon sole that achieves a balance between comfort and stiffness which is ideal for beginners and those doing century/audax type of rides. It’s compatible with either two-bolt or three-bolt cleats, so you can have the option of using road or mountain bike cleats, and even for indoor cycling classes.

A new composite material is used for its upper layers and it provides better breathability especially on those hot summer days. This material is also able to adapt the shoe’s shape to your foot over time to provide a snug fit.

It comes in 3 colors; black, red, and black/white combo.

• Pros : Comfortable design that fits most feet. Compatible with both SPD (2-bolt) and SPD-SL (3-bolt) cleats.
• Cons : Velcro straps can run loose overtime.

Budget Picks Under $100

Shimano rp1.

An excellent option for an entry-level shoe, the Shimano RP1 features two tongue-in-loop velcro straps that can be tightened to the right comfort level in a second. 

The nylon soles are stiff enough to provide power with each pedal stroke but not pro-racing stiff so that they quickly become uncomfortable. They rate a 6 on Shimano’s 12 points sole stiffness scale. 

They feature compatibility with two-bolt and three-bolt SPD cleats, allowing you to use them on your bike and at your gym’s spin class. The RP1 is crafted from matte-black synthetic leather that is both lightweight, strong, and attractive, giving it a modern look.

• Pros :  Minimalist and functional design. Compatible with both SPD (2-bolt) and SPD-SL (3-bolt) cleats.
• Cons : Boring color choices.

Scott Road Comp

While the brand Scott might be not synonymous with cycling shoes, you’ll be surprised how good the Scott Road Comp is especially considering its budget-friendly pricing.

The Road Comp sports a clean and modern-looking upper layer with lots of small ventilation holes for maximum breathability especially during the summer months. As with most newer, beginner level models, the closure system is made up of a BOA dial and a velcro strap. This allows you to fine-tune your fit on the fly in 1mm increments.

Rated 6 out of 10 in the stiffness index, the fiberglass-reinforced nylon sole isn’t the stiffest out there for 1,500 watts bunch sprints. But you’d get plenty of comfort and less feet numbness, especially on longer rides.

It comes in 2 colors; either black or white.

• Pros :  BOA dials allow for a very precise fit adjustment. Plenty of air vents for hot summer days.
• Cons : Heavy compared to its peers.

Pearl Izumi Elite Road V5

The Elite sits just below the top-end P.R.O. in Pearl Izumi’s road cycling shoes lineup. Many of its features are actually trickled down from the P.R.O such as the full carbon sole and BOA dials.

It’s a vastly improved version of its predecessor, the V4. Taking feedback from cyclists, Pearl Izumi has made significant changes to the body to provide an improved balance between fit, comfort, and stiffness.

If you’re after a mid-range cycling shoe that is plenty stiff, you’d be glad to know the Elite has a stiffness index of 13, matching some of the top range shoes from other brands.

• Pros :  Anatomical design to provide plenty of foot support.
• Cons : Stiff full carbon sole for an entry-level shoe.

Lightweight and Performance Picks ($300+)

Specialized s-works 7.

Our team gives the S-Works 7 a five-star rating. The Specialized S-Works 7 follows on from the hugely successful S-Works 6 shoes.

The S-Works 7 has undergone major changes in both the upper section and its sole. The upper now uses a new  Dyneema  mesh material which improves breathability. It also uses the new S3 BOA dials, which are exclusive to only Specialized.

Additional cushioning is added around the heel cup area to avoid nips and rubbing, which was common in its predecessor. Stiffness-wise, the S-Works 7 is on another level altogether with a stiffness index of 15, 2 notches up from previously 13 for the S-Works 6).

This is definitely among the best models money can buy.

• Pros : Sleek and good-looking, one of the most popular race shoes among serious cyclists. Improved heel cup for a snug fit.
• Cons : Expect to pay premium pricing.

Shimano S-Phyre RC9

Looking for maximum performance out of your shoes?

Then the Shimano S Phyre RC9 is for you.

This shoe is built with one thing in mind, maximizing the transition of power from your leg to the bike. The RC9 is designed with the weight weenie in mind. It has a lightweight rigid carbon sole that tops out Shimano’s rigidity scale with a 12 rating.

And like its predecessor, it is fitted with BOA LI2 dials that allow micro-adjustments to its wire lacing. The outsole of this new edition is hollow to further shave grams off its weight, making it even lighter than the first-generation S Phyre RC9 shoe.

• Pros : Very comfortable design that fits most feet. Available in half sizes and wide-feet version.
• Cons : Expect to pay premium pricing.i

Fizik Infinito R1

The Infinito R1 is now Fizik’s top of the line road shoe offering starting from the end of 2017.

With the Infinito R1, Fizik has completely redesigned the top sections. It uses two new closure system technologies which Fizik calls the Dynamic Arch Support and Increased Volume Control , aimed at providing an improved fit and increased comfort level.

• Pros : Improved design provides ample support for heel arch. Dual BOA dials closure system for precise adjustment and fit.
• Cons : White color version gets dirty easily.

Giro Factor Techlace

Look closely enough and you’ll see that the Giro Factor Techlace utilizes all three fastening systems. There is a BOA dial, velcro straps, and laces.

And there’s a reason behind this.

The previous Giro Empire that comes with laces proved to be a popular model when it was first launched. While it’s nice aesthetically, the majority of cyclists complained that they can’t adjust it while riding.

With the Factor Techlace, you now have the best of both worlds. At the top, the BOA dial allows for a precise fit through an adjustable 1mm increment in both directions.

The Techlace, which is the velcro-lace combination is replaceable. You can choose different colors and lace lengths to suit your foot size and liking.

• Pros : Super lightweight and minimalist-looking design for weight weenies.
• Cons : Be prepared to pay more.

Sidi Wire 2

As you were watching him pedal his way up the Alps en route to victory, you might have noticed the Sidi logo printed on the side of Egan Bernal’s shoes. 

Yes, Sidi is the brand of the 2019 Tour De France winner. 

Sidi, the name comes from the initials of founder Dino Signori, who has been making shoes for bicycles and motorcycles since the 1960s. The Sidi Wire 2, the second generation of the company’s wire laced shoes, includes two push dial adjusters that allow for micro-adjustments to fit. 

It also features an adjuster for the heel that is designed to eliminate heel lift. A redesigned instep and heel cup on this edition shaves grams off the weight.

• Pros : A trusted, long-time brand in the industry. Parts are easily replaceable if damaged.
• Cons : Narrow toe box design is not for everyone.

How We Pick Road Cycling Shoes

If you look around, you will quickly realize that there are hundreds of options out there. In order to filter out and shortlist the ones that are truly good, we turned to online cycling forums, asking around in our bunch rides and scouring Instagram and Facebook influencer feeds to get first-hand feedback.

We also complement this by going through the user reviews on large online retailers such as Amazon, Competitive Cyclist, and Amazon.

So in selecting our picks, we paid attention to objective criteria such as :

• Price Range. We picked the best shoes across 3 price points, from beginner (below $150) to mid-range ($150 to $300) and performance range ($300+).
• Brand Names. We picked shoes from established brand names such as Shimano, Specialized, and Giro among others that are widely used and have many cyclists’ feedback over the years. More importantly, they have good R&D when it comes to knowing what cyclists need and where to improve.
• Comfort.  Cycling shoes are very personal to everyone. To stay on the conservative side, we picked those that are known for being comfortable for most cyclists.
• For Road Cycling. There are generally 2 categories of cycling shoes; for road and off-road. For this list, we picked those that are specifically designed for road cycling.
• Pedal Compatibility. We picked shoes that have 3 holes at the bottom which are compatible with Shimano SPD-SL, Look, and Speedplay (via adapters) style cleats.

We discuss these points in detail in our cycling shoes buyer’s guide here.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I need road cycling shoes?

The shoes keep your feet firmly locked over the pedals. When you’re clipped in, this allows for efficient power transfer between your feet and the clipless pedals, especially if you’re riding hard or uphill.

Fitted and adjusted properly, the ball of your foot should be on top of the pedal spindle. This allows you to engage all your legs muscles , quadriceps, calf, and hamstring when pedaling. When you use flat pedals, you only engage your quadriceps as you can’t pull the pedals up because your shoes are not clipped into the pedals.

However, if you only ride short distances, less than 10 miles, there’s no need to get one.

2. Do the shoes come with cleats?

No, they don’t come with cleats.

The cleats come together with the pedals . If you already have existing pedals, then you can buy the cleats separately.

3. What are the advantages of carbon fibre soles?

Carbon fibre soles are usually found in top-level performance shoes. They’re very lightweight, stiff, and provides a very efficient power transfer as compared to plastic soles.

But this also means that they’re expensive .

And that’s where carbon-injected or carbon composite soles come into the picture. They’re a mixture of plastic or nylon with carbon fibre.

While not as stiff and light as carbon fibre soles, they’re more affordable and usually found in mid-range cycling shoes.

4. How long would it take for me to break in my new pair of cycling shoes?

It depends. There’s no definite answer to that as there are various factors involved.

How often you ride and how long you ride will ultimately determine the break-in duration.

From my own experience and speaking to other cyclists, it would typically take at least 20 to 30 hours of riding for you to feel comfortable in your new pair of shoes.

5. Can a female wear a male’s cycling shoe?

Yes, you can. In fact, many female cyclists do that.

However, if you have narrow or small feet, it’s advisable to get a women-specific shoe. They come in smaller sizes from 35 onwards and the shape is designed to mimic a woman’s tapered foot.

Not all brands have women-specific shoes. The few that do are Sidi, Giro, Fizik, and Specialized.

Author Recommended Reads

• How to Ease Numb Feet While Cycling
• How to Care for Your Expensive Cycling Kits

Chris Ireland

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Best Mountain Bike Shoes of 2024

From lightweight xc models to burly options for downhill and enduro riding, we break down the top shoes for mountain biking.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

A quality mountain bike shoe plays a number of important roles. Its solid platform delivers power to the pedals, strong construction keeps your feet protected, and secure fit increases comfort for long days on the trail. Our top picks for 2024 below fall into three general categories: lightweight cross-country (XC) designs for extended and non-technical rides, trail shoes that can handle moderately rough terrain, and downhill models for the harshest trails and biggest jumps and drops. Another important consideration is your pedal type, and we’ve included our favorite options for those who prefer flats or like to be clipped in (somewhat confusingly referred to as “clipless”). For more background information, see our comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team’s Mountain Bike Shoe Picks

• Best Flat Pedal MTB Shoe: Five Ten Freerider
• Best Clipless MTB Shoe: Shimano SH-ME5
• Best Budget MTB Shoe: Giro Berm
• Versatile Design for Hike-a-Bikes and Bikepacking: Pearl Izumi X-Alp
• Best for Downhill and Enduro Riders: Giro Chamber II
• Best for Cross-Country Riding: Giro Empire VR90
• Best MTB Shoe for Winter Riding: Five Ten Trailcross GTX

Best Flat Pedal Mountain Bike Shoe

1. five ten freerider ($110).

Combining legendary grip and a comfortable interior, Five Ten’s Freerider is a long-time favorite. The shoe’s main calling card is its sticky Stealth S1 rubber and dotty tread pattern, which provide a reliable and secure connection to your pedals for everything from long uphill grinds to popping off jumps and navigating technical features. In addition, the shoe’s midsole strikes a nice balance of stiffness to avoid hotspots while retaining enough flexibility and traction on rock for the occasional hike-a-bike (the dotty tread doesn’t grip as well in mud, however). Finally, the reinforced toe box and thick upper material offer decent protection and give the shoe its signature look.

Like all platform shoes, one of the downsides of the Five Ten Freerider is that you lose some efficiency and power by not being connected to the pedals. Additionally, the Freerider’s soft rubber has a reputation for breaking down fairly quickly, and high-mileage users will find they need to replace their shoes annually (we consistently need a new pair after about 1,000 trail miles). But the shorter lifespan is a fair tradeoff for the fantastic grip the shoe offers, and there’s simply nothing else on the market that can match the Freerider’s all-around abilities for the price. And for a lighter and more protective variation of the shoe, check out the Freerider Pro below. See the Men's Five Ten Freerider   See the Women's Five Ten Freerider

Best Clipless Mountain Bike Shoe

2. shimano sh-me5 ($170).

Shimano’s ME5 is a do-everything clipless mountain bike shoe. With a light and breathable construction and moderately rigid platform, it can put the power down on punchy climbs, but it’s also protective, lightly padded, and quite comfortable inside. The fit is easy to adjust with a proven Boa system and a single Velcro closure across the toes (after setting it the first time, you can just leave the toe adjustment alone). And Shimano honed in the design with a recent update that improves the on and off process—the opening used to be on the small side and required some precision to get your foot through. On our feet, the ME5 has proven to be our favorite one-quiver clipless shoe for anything from rough trail rides in the Pacific Northwest to all-day epics.

We consider the ME5 to be the best all-rounder on the market, but Shimano’s lineup also includes the popular ME7 . This shoe has been designed for enduro racing and downhill tracks with its taller neoprene cuff, sticky Michelin rubber (the ME5’s is an in-house design that’s a bit less grippy on rock), and additional lace guard. You pay a small weight penalty of about an ounce per shoe and the taller cuff can take some getting used to (it felt more restrictive on pedal-heavy days), but the ME7 provides a nice boost in protection and all-weather performance. For certain riders, it’ll be worth the extra $50. See the Shimano SH-ME5

Best Budget Mountain Bike Shoe

3. giro berm ($75).

It’s hard to find a quality pair of clipless shoes for under $100, but Giro has managed just that with their Berm. For a very reasonable $75, you get a surprisingly good setup for everyday trail riding: a sturdy upper material that mixes breathability with protection, an adjustable fit, and a rubber outsole with substantial lugs for added grip in dirt and mud. Plus, the shoe’s wide cleat pocket makes it easier for those still learning the ropes to clip in. It’s certainly not a high-performance design like the Shimano ME5 above, and committed riders should steer clear, but we think the Berm offers a whole lot of bang for your buck.

At less than half the price of the top-rated Shimano or Giro’s own Ventana below, there are inevitably going to be some compromises in the Berm’s design. First up is power: the midsole priorities comfort over stiffness, so its relatively flexible build isn’t very efficient. Second, the dual Velcro closures lack the precision and easy adjustability of a Boa or ratchet-style system. And finally, while the outsole is aggressively shaped, it isn’t going to grip as well on rock or in particularly steep and rough sections of trail. To be fair, these are all expected sacrifices, and we think the Berm is a truly impressive value option for beginners or those that only get out on the occasional trail day.  See the Men's Giro Berm   See the Women's Giro Berm

Versatile Design for Hike-a-Bikes and Bikepacking

4. pearl izumi x-alp summit ($150).

Another big-time player in the bike shoe market is Colorado-based Pearl Izumi. The company excels in the adventure and bikepacking category, and one of their strongest offerings is the clipless X-Alp Summit. Intended for intermediate riders, trail use, and off-the-bike exploration, it has the right ingredients: a composite shank in the midsole for control, durable upper material, and decent toe protection that wraps partway around the sides of the foot. You also get an aggressive and sticky Vibram outsole—a common choice for trail running and hiking footwear. At $150, the X-Alp Summit is a solid value for a shoe that can handle anything from all-mountain ripping to overnighters with extended hike-a-bikes.

What’s not to like with the mid-range design? Pearl Izumi put a premium on hiking comfort, which translates to less rigidity and outright power when really torquing on the pedals (XC cyclists should steer clear). And riders in flatter regions that don’t see major elevation gains (the Midwest of the United States comes to mind) also won’t be able to tap into the X-Alp’s adventure-ready feature set. But for areas like Pearl Izumi’s home state of Colorado or those that like to hit the backcountry in the Pacific Northwest, there’s a whole lot to like about the X-Alp’s versatile design. See the Men's Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit   See the Women's Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit

Best Shoe for Downhill and Enduro Riders

5. giro chamber ii ($150).

Giro’s Empire VR90 shoe is borderline legendary, mixing a clean, road shoe style with comfort and legit trail chops. At $300, you pay a pretty penny, but there’s serious performance built in: a full carbon fiber outsole gives it plenty of stiffness for toeing the race line, the one-piece upper is downright gorgeous and helps keep weight in check, and a Vibram outsole makes it surprisingly capable off the bike. It’s also made to last with premium materials used throughout and enough reinforcements to justify bringing it into moderately technical terrain (although serious trail riders will still want a beefier construction).

One compromise of the Giro’s performance-first layout is its snug fit, which is great for power-hungry riders but will feel restrictive on long, adventure-y days and less serious exploits. And the standard lacing system means you trade the quick adjustability of a Boa dial for better overall customization of the fit. But realistically, the biggest downside of the Giro is its price—if you spring for this shoe, it means you’re likely shaving grams from your rig wherever possible and are hoping to eke out all the watts you’re putting down with each pedal stroke. If you don’t fall under this category of rider, the Empire is likely not the best choice for you. See the Giro Empire VR90   See the Women's Giro Empire VR90

Best MTB Shoe for Winter Riding

7. five ten trailcross gtx ($200).

A lot of cyclists turn to indoor training for the winter months, but for those who don’t mind a little cold and wet misery, we recommend checking out Five Ten’s Trailcross GTX shoes. This flat-pedal design features a Gore-Tex liner and raised neoprene cuff to help keep out moisture. The combo works as advertised: We remained completely dry while hike-a-biking in sub-freezing temperatures through ankle deep snow, and the Gore-Tex bootie also provided a good dose of warmth for the downhill. Rounding out the design, the brand’s signature dotty tread and Stealth rubber compound provide reliable grip both on and off the bike.

What are the shortcomings of Five Ten’s Trailcross GTX? The full waterproof layer means the shoes run hot in mild temperatures, especially when pushing hard on an extended climb. This means you’re shelling out $200 for a product you’ll likely only use for a few months a year. That said, it easily undercuts the cost of an indoor bike trainer, so the math checks out (at least to us). For some, the over-the-ankle look may be a bit polarizing, but we think Five Ten pulled it off better than most with a sleek, modern hiking shoe-like upper. And a final note: For winter riders who run clipless pedals, Shimano’s SH-MW702 ($300) is currently our top-rated choice. See the Five Ten Trailcross GTX

Best of the Rest

8. five ten freerider pro ($160).

As the name indicates, Five Ten’s Freerider Pro is an upgraded variation of the popular Freerider shoe. For another $50, you get a lighter and more water-resistant synthetic upper, stiffer midsole for better shock absorption, and sleeker look that forgoes the standard model’s skate shoe-like styling. In addition, the toe box has been reinforced and includes some foam padding to provide an additional layer of protection from impacts (although we’ve found the standard Freerider’s toe box to be pretty tough). Importantly, you still get Five Ten’s class leading Stealth S1 rubber, which is simply unmatched in terms of grip and reliable hold to your pedals.

Who should opt for the Pro model over the cheaper Freerider? If your local terrain is particularly tough or you get out in wet conditions, the synthetic upper material is a nice upgrade over the heavier and more absorbent leather/mesh combination that comes on the standard model. On the other hand, you’re not getting significant improvements in on- and off-bike traction or fit with the simple lacing systems, and both models will have fairly short lifespans due to the soft rubber compound. In the end, the Pro has its merits for committed cyclists and those that will value the weight savings, but many trail riders will be better off with the standard model. See the Men's Five Ten Freerider Pro   See the Women's Freerider Pro

9. Fox Union Boa ($250)

Best known for their top-notch suspension forks and shocks, Fox has been dabbling more and more in the MTB apparel and accessory world. The Union is their first effort at clipless shoes—we tested the high-end Boa version—and we felt they knocked it out of the park: The shoe’s supportive platform delivers plenty of power for lengthy trail rides, the durable and protective TPU upper is confidence-inspiring on techy descents, and we love how easy it is to dial in and micro-adjust the fit with the dual Boas. Tack on a true-to-size fit (it’s great for average to slightly wide feet), very clean styling, and premium, long-lasting materials throughout, and you have all the ingredients for a quality trail and enduro shoe.

The biggest impediment with the new Fox Union Boa is its price. Even stepping down to the standard laces variation leaves you with a $180 investment—plus, we think the Boa system’s precision and ease of use is well worth the upgrade. Additionally, the shoe is on the heavy end at about 2 pounds for the pair (our size 45s were 2 lb. 3.8 oz.), but the extra heft wasn’t something we really noticed on the bike (it’d be a different story on a long hike-a-bike). And one final nitpick is that we found the collar was pretty stiff initially and uncomfortable if we cinched the upper Boa too tightly, but that issue went away as the shoe loosened up over time. In the end, we’re talking about a really well-executed first effort. And it’s readily apparent Fox sweated the details here, with tacky outsoles, a wide cleat pocket with plenty of fore and aft adjustability, and the option to swap between low and high arch support. See the Fox Union Boa

10. Specialized 2FO DH Clip ($170)

Sitting in the mid-range of Specialized's 2FO collection is the DH Clip shoe. Right off the bat, we want to address the “DH” in the name: despite the beefed-up design that’s tough and downhill-ready, we think that’s selling these shoes a bit short. With a composite nylon plate underfoot, a reasonable weight of 1 pound 11.9 ounces, and trimmed-down build that dries fairly quickly, the shoes are plenty capable on mellower terrain and long trail rides. And for the enduro and downhill enthusiasts among us, Specialized has done a great job incorporating extra protection around the toes and heel cap, and the slightly raised padding along the inside of the ankle is another nice touch.

While the 2FO DH in many ways stacks up well with the brand's top-end 2FO Cliplite (while costing $30 less), we do miss that model's dual Boa closures. The laces on the DH are perfectly fine and can be tucked away under an elastic band to keep them from flopping around, but they can’t match the micro adjustability and all-around convenience of the Boa system. In addition, we found the shoe a little flat and board-like underfoot, which led to some aching arches on pedal-heavy days (we suspect this won’t be an issue for everyone, though). Finally, if you prefer to ride flats, the 2FO DH Flat ($160) is one of only a few models on the market to legitimately give Five Ten a run for its money in pedal grip thanks to its tacky SlipKnot 2.0 rubber... Read in-depth review See the Specialized 2FO DH Clip

11. Crankbrothers Stamp Speed Lace ($180)

Crankbrothers is best known for their flat and clipless pedal collections, but they recently threw their hat into the shoe world. The naming scheme is easy to follow if you’re familiar with the brand’s pedal line: The Mallet is a clipless shoe that’s designed to work with the corresponding clipless pedal, and the same goes for the flat-pedal Stamp. Interestingly, they’ve decided to make a range of closure systems, including standard laces, a quick-pull design, and Boa (price increases with each setup). The top-of-the-line Stamp Boa model jumped out as the most interesting of the bunch, offering a unique combination of a sturdy and semi-stiff enduro-ready flat pedal shoe with the easy, precise fit adjustment of the twist-dial tech.

Pedal grip is a huge consideration for those who ride flats, and Crankbrothers have optimized the outsole to pair with the Stamp pedal (although it will work with others reasonably well too). Unfortunately, their proprietary rubber can’t match the stickiness that you get with Five Ten’s Freerider Pro above (or the SlipKnot rubber on Specialized shoes). In addition, while looks are pretty subjective, we can’t help but feel like Crankbrothers missed an opportunity to make the new shoe stand out with less generic styling. That said, if you own a pair of Stamp pedals or are on the lookout for a pair of Boa-equipped flat shoes, we think they’re well worth checking out. See the Crankbrothers Stamp Boa

12. Ride Concepts Livewire ($110)

Ride Concepts is a relative newcomer to the mountain bike shoe world, but the company already is making a serious name for themselves. The Livewire is their entry-level trail offering, and we like its tough rubber outsole, modern looks, and approachable $110 MSRP. Further, the shoe includes higher-end touches like a synthetic upper and impact protection at the heel and underfoot. And with a moderately thick midsole and recently upgraded rubber—their new Max Grip compound is a bit softer and stickier than the outgoing model—you have a shoe that crosses over nicely between flowy trail days and bike park laps.

The biggest downside to the Livewire is its weight, which is stretching into the downhill world at nearly 2 pounds for the pair. It’s still manageable and not overly clunky for pedal-heavy days, but we prefer the lighter and nimbler feel of the Freerider and Freerider Pro above. Further, the low-volume fit isn’t great for wide feet, and some users have reported needing to size up. These issues move the Livewire a little down our rankings, but we think Ride Concepts is definitely a brand to have on your radar going forward. Another Ride Concepts shoe to have on your radar is their Tallac ($160) , which includes upgrades like a Cordura upper, more aggressive lug shape for off-the-bike grip, and a better shock-absorbing insole.  See the Men's Ride Concepts Livewire   See the Women's Ride Concepts Livewire

13. Sidi Dominator 10 ($325)

Sidi is well-known in the biking world for two things: high prices and premium build quality. Their most popular mountain biking model, the Dominator, is case in point. At $325, it’s one of the most expensive options around but delivers on comfort and performance in a serious way. With a stiff outsole, low-volume fit (Sidi also makes the Dominator 10 in a wide “mega” version ), and sturdy upper, the shoe nearly puts down XC race levels of power. And its high-end construction and replaceable parts make the Dominator a good long-term investment to boot.

What do you sacrifice with a XC shoe like the Dominator? Despite softening the rubber compound a few years ago, this is not an impressive walking or hiking option. It’s tolerable for gravel rides and cyclocross events where you’re moving for short stretches and the strong power is a worthwhile tradeoff, but those that are off their bike for longer periods may want to choose a more flexible and grippier trail model. It’s also fairly thin underfoot and doesn’t isolate harsh impacts as well as shoes like the ME5, 2FO DH Clip, or Ventana. But the Dominator is an excellent choice for XC riders that spend a lot of time in the saddle. See the Men's Sidi Dominator 10

14. Five Ten Trailcross Clip-In ($160)

Five Ten’s MTB shoe line covers nearly the full spectrum of options, and the popular Trailcross here slots in as a unique, adventure-ready shoe. From the moment you slip it on, the difference is clear: The Trailcross has a sneaker-like upper that ventilates very well, there’s enough flex underfoot for extended stretches of hiking or walking, and the outsole grips reliably on everything from rock to dirt. This comfort-first design makes the shoe an equally suitable option for bikepacking and adventurous days above treeline as it is for casual mountain bikers that want a crossover urban design.

With so much focus on off-the-bike performance, it should come as little surprise that the Trailcross is not a particularly powerful shoe. There’s sufficient stiffness to limit fatigue and it’s perfectly comfortable pedaling away on rolling terrain, but you don’t get the instant response of an XC model. They also took a minimalist approach to protection, with a toe cap at the front and some cushioning along the collar but little elsewhere. And on rocky and technical trails, the thin fabric along the sides and top of the shoe left us feeling pretty vulnerable. As such, serious riders in both the XC and trail disciplines should look elsewhere. But if you put comfort at or near the top of your list of priorities, the Trailcross is well worth a look.  See the Men's Five Ten Trailcross   See the Women's Five Ten Trailcross

15. Shimano GR903 ($170)

Shimano is a major player in the clipless world—understandably as they make the ubiquitous SPD clipless pedals—but they also have a sneaky-good flat pedal lineup. Their $170 GR9 (GR stands for “gravity”) is a solid offering meant to balance the needs of trail and downhill riders. It features a similar neoprene cuff as the ME7 for keeping out small rocks and dirt, but this top-end model has standard laces (a slight downside in our eyes, especially since they lack a protective cover). That said, we’ve tested a number of the GR models over the years and have been consistently impressed with the collection’s comfortable feel and high-quality, long-lasting build.

For the GR9’s all-important outsole, Shimano has debuted its latest Ultread compound and a new tread design. The result is a durable rubber setup with tightly spaced blocks in the middle for pedal grip and wider spacing at the toe and heel for off-the-bike traction. Overall, the outsole has a firm feel that’s built to last, but it simply can’t match Five Ten’s Stealth rubber in terms of pure stickiness. As such, unless its neoprene cuff is a selling point for you, we think Five Ten’s $10-cheaper Freerider Pro above is the superior premium option. See the Shimano GR903

16. Bontrager Foray ($165)

Bontrager has been tweaking its versatile Foray shoe over the past few years, and we like where they’ve landed with this latest model. Intended for riders that like to mix in a range of disciplines, swapping from their trail bike to cyclocross or gravel grinder, the shoe hits a nice balance of comfort and performance. A moderately roomy fit and easy-to-adjust Boa dial make it a suitable choice for flow trails and short laps, but it can still put the power down pretty well with a nylon composite sole (Bontrager gives it a 6 out of 14 rating for stiffness). Traction on dirt is another highlight, and the integrated nylon cleats under the toes do an especially good job gripping on steep slopes.

Despite its well-rounded nature, the Foray unfortunately doesn’t truly stand out in any specific category. It’s a bit heavy and doesn’t launch you forward like a cross-country-oriented or gravel-specific shoe, and its shock absorption and protection fall short for rough trail riding. Further, the traditional outsole shape and tread pattern come up short on rock, where they’re lacking grip and are harder to trust. Within the unofficial “do-everything” category, we think the Shimano ME5 and Pearl Izumi X-Alp Summit are better options, but the Foray does have the widest fit of the bunch for those that need a little extra wiggle room. See the Bontrager Foray

17. Five Ten Hellcat Pro ($180)

The fourth Five Ten shoe to make our list, the Hellcat Pro, blends a downhill-minded construction with clipless pedal compatibility. Compared with the Freerider Pro above, the Hellcat puts down the power better with a midsole that’s been stiffened up with a TPU shank. The shoe also has been reinforced for downhill use with heavy armor along the exterior and thick cushioning underfoot to block out harsh impacts. And as we’ve come to expect from Five Ten, the Hellcat has a sticky tread that holds on nicely to the pedals even when not clipped in.

What pushes the Hellcat Pro down our list is that it’s overkill for most riders. Weighing well over 2 pounds, it’s 10 ounces heavier than alternatives like the Specialized 2FO DH Clip above. You do get more foot protection and the shoe performs well in bad weather, but the DH Clip is much easier to pedal and is plenty beefed up for most enduro use (plus, the Hellcat costs $30 more than Giro's similarly tough Chamber II). If you want your feet heavily armored, no matter the cost in pedaling efficiency, the Hellcat Pro is a fine choice. But most riders will be happier with the aforementioned Chamber or DH Clip. See the Men's Five Ten Hellcat Pro   See the Women's Five Ten Hellcat Pro

18. Giro Ventana Shoe ($180)

Taking the place of the much-loved Terraduro as Giro’s core trail offering is the Ventana. This design shares the sturdy feel of the discontinued model but has been thoroughly modernized with a sleek and minimalist upper, high-quality Boa closure, and grippier outsole. A unique touch is the placement of the cleat pocket, which is set further inboard than most designs on the market. The goal is to improve stability and control, although that’s been hard to quantify while testing (the good news is it doesn’t negatively impact comfort). Along with its moderately stiff construction that balances walkability with power nicely, the Ventana makes a strong case for riders that rack up serious mileage.

In using the Ventana back-to-back with our top-rated ME5 above, a few things stuck out. Most notably, the Ventana is the stiffer build, which was nice on longer days and for extended climbs. But where the tables turn is in some of the finer details. The cleat pocket of the Ventana has been a source of consistent annoyance: it’s unnecessarily compact and makes clipping in a real pain. In addition, the Giro’s Boa dial has a plastic piece along the bottom for protection, but its placement unfortunately makes it harder to adjust on the trail (cancelling out one of the main benefits of a Boa cinch). In the end, we think plenty of riders will enjoy the Ventana, but it’s a few design tweaks away from being a top pick. See the Men's Giro Ventana   See the Women's Giro Ventana

  19. Specialized S-Works Recon ($425)

Clipless Shoes One of the first steps in narrowing down your mountain bike shoe search is determining pedal compatibility. Starting with clipless designs, these shoes allow you to connect or “clip” directly into the pedal with a metal cleat (sold separately). The big upside of being connected is it’s easier to put the power down and pedal efficiently. This makes clipless a popular choice for longer rides and XC use. It also can be comforting to not have to worry about foot slippage while hitting jumps or riding through semi-technical terrain. That said, it takes some time to get comfortable with being clipped in and build up the muscle memory to kick the heel out to disconnect. And even once it’s second nature, you still won’t be able to get your foot off the pedal as quickly as with a flat pedal option. As such, clipless shoes aren’t as popular among beginner riders—unless they’re coming from a road riding background—and fewer folks use them at the bike park or on very rough downhill trails.

A stiff build underfoot is a defining feature of mountain bike shoes—it’s what allows you to put the power down to the pedals. But the level of stiffness varies quite a bit by model. For example, a dedicated cross-country racing shoe like the Specialized S-Works Recon is incredibly rigid and awkward to walk in, while a budget-friendly trail model like the Five Ten Sleuth is flexible enough to wear every day. Unfortunately there isn’t an established measurement for comparing stiffness (some brands provide a “stiffness index” to compare their models), but in general, rigidity increases with price and level of seriousness. Racers, particularly those in events that require a decent amount of pedaling, will want the stiffest shoes around. For the rest of us, a well-balanced design like the Shimano SH-ME5 or Five Ten Freerider is a better match.

For flat pedal shoes, outsole grip is an extremely important feature—it’s what keeps you connected to the bike while hustling up and down the hill. And for years, Five Ten’s rubber has stood out from the pack. The Stealth S1 compound and dotty pattern on the Freerider line—found on both the standard and Pro models on our list above—is legendary in the mountain biking world. Specialized is one of the few that's made a legitimate competitor with their latest SlipNot compound (found on their 2FO DH Flat ). Giro and Shimano incorporate rubber specialists Vibram and Michelin respectively, and their top models offer performance that is good but not great.

Clipless riders don’t need to focus as much on the outsole design as those riding on flats, but it’s still an important consideration. On the bike, a quality outsole increases your connectedness to the pedal, and can be valuable for moments when you’re temporarily unclipped or trying to quickly reconnect while riding. And off the bike, traction can be a major factor. A well-designed clipless outsole maximizes grip with a recessed slot for the cleat, which allows you to walk naturally. Further, a sticky outsole is a big helper for walking on rocks, and decent lugs—not all that dissimilar from a hiking shoe —are important for sloppy trails. How often you’ll be off your bike will dictate how important grip is for you, but we’ve found premium outsole designs to be valuable even on short (but steep) scrambles.

More than just about any other footwear category, mountain bike shoes are made with a wide range of closure types. Our picks above vary from simple lace-up designs like the Five Ten Freerider to double Boa closures and a Velcro strap on the Specialized S-Works Recon. As with pedal type, most of the decision comes down to personal preference, but laces are mostly commonly associated with flat pedal shoes. Laces are simple to use, but you need to make sure to keep them stowed away so they don’t catch on any moving parts. For quick and easy micro adjustments while wearing gloves, a Boa dial system or ratchet design is a great option. These lightweight systems are common on clipless XC and Enduro models. And finally, Velcro often is used as a secondary closure to compliment a dial and ratchet system. It doesn’t tighten as snugly or precisely, but it’s faster than lacing up and does the trick for those that aren’t serious racers.

A lightweight mountain bike shoe comes with numerous benefits. Cutting away weight reduces the amount of effort required to put the power down, which also helps with fatigue on long rides. That being said, weight doesn’t get nearly as much attention in the mountain biking market as it does in the running or hiking worlds. Part of the reason is that many bikers stick to shorter rides, but the main factor is that most shoes only vary by a few ounces for the pair. Taking a look at the comparison chart above, the average men’s model comes in at approximately 1 pound 11 ounces. Outliers include the crazy-light Specialized S-Works Recon (1 pound 3 ounces), which is streamlined to maximize efficiency for cross-country racing. On the other end of the spectrum is the downhill-oriented Five Ten Hellcat Pro (2 pounds 6 ounces), which adds heft with its heavy cushioning and protection. But the majority of XC, trail, and even many downhill designs are close enough that weight isn’t a top consideration.  

Mountain biking is a rough sport, and moving quickly over technical trails demands a lot from your footwear. Nearly all shoes include a toe cap to take the sting out of a rock strike, but there are notable differences between shoe categories (XC, trail, and downhill). Cross-country riding prioritizes weight and power transfer over all-out protection, so they’re usually the thinnest along the sides and top of the foot. Trail shoes have more cushioning for taking falls, and downhill/freeride designs are the burliest.

An additional consideration is protection underfoot. Shoes with thin mid and outsoles may not provide enough in the way shock absorption, which can become painful over lengthy sections of rocky and rooty trail. Again, trail and downhill shoes provide the highest levels of comfort in these cases. A design like the Five Ten Hellcat Pro does an impressive job keeping your feet isolated and safe.

What about fully waterproof shoes? There are a few options out there, including the flat-pedal Five Ten Trailcross GTX and clipless-compatible Shimano’s SH-MW702 . For some, a fully waterproof shoe can be valuable for surviving the winter season, especially in areas that see temperatures dip below freezing. For others, however, it’s overkill. They are heavy, lack the breathability to be practical in anything but truly cold temperatures, and don’t dry out nearly as quickly as non-waterproof options. Plus, they’ll cost you a fair bit more than a standard shoe and you’ll give up a lot in terms of versatility. An alternative for occasional winter riders is to wear a neoprene cover or bootie overtop of your standard shoes for a boost in warmth and water resistance (but keep in mind, these are vulnerable to tearing when subjected to trail abuse).  

If you do a lot of pedaling on your rides or live in a warmer climate, it’s worth getting a shoe that emphasizes breathability. Telltale signs of a good ventilating design are large swaths of mesh or a thin upper material. On the other hand, shoes with a solid upper and thick cushioning—often found in the downhill category—are the most prone to running hot. You do compromise durability and weather resistance with a highly breathable shoe—mesh tears much more easily and doesn’t resist moisture. But a well-thought-out build like the Shimano SH-ME5 balances those conflicting needs. With perforations throughout the upper material, it’s impressively cool in the heat. At the same time, a water-resistant synthetic upper holds up well to abrasions and poor weather.

Mountain Biking Gear Reviews

Specialized 2FO DH Clip Mountain Bike Shoe Review

Best Mountain Bike Helmets of 2024

Best Mountain Bike Backpacks of 2023

Shimano AM903 Bike Shoe Review

Specialized Recon 2.0 Shoe Review

Kuat Transfer v2 2-Bike Rack Review

Best Mountain Bike Brands of 2023

Best Hitch Bike Racks of 2024

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The Best Cycling Shoes for Every Type of Rider

Maximize efficiency, power transfer, and comfort with these picks.

From sleek road shoes with carbon soles to models with EVA midsoles that are still cleat-compatible, the best cycling shoe will depend on your goals as a cyclist and the type of riding you enjoy.

The best sole materials, cleated-versus-flat, and other features will change based on whether you’re road riding, racing, gravel touring, mountain biking, or getting your workout in at a spin studio. This collection of shoes focuses on clipless riding, though we did include our favorite flat shoe as well as cleat-compatible shoes that feel like running shoes. There are plenty of performance-oriented shoes on here, but we also have high-value picks that highlight some of the best technology in cycling shoes without breaking the bank. 

We chatted with Mackenize Martin, an avid gravel, road, and mountain bike rider who has traveled all around the country with Trek Bicycles on group tours. In the off season, Martin stays in shape at spin studios and has different shoes for each discipline of riding. Martin rides flats for mountain biking but rides clipless on her gravel bike, road bike, and at spin. She looks for a snug fit that doesn’t compress her toes, and sets her cleats to a moderate release to avoid injury.

“When I’m riding clipless, I’m looking for a shoe that has enough stiffness through the outsole for good power transfer and connection to the pedals, but I do like a versatile model that I can wear on gravel rides and doesn’t feel uncomfortable to walk around on," Martin says. She appreciates a good budget pick, and usually opts for an affordable Specialized or Shimano clipless shoe.

Best Overall: Fi'zi:k Vento Infinito Carbon 2 Cycling Shoe

Buy at Backcountry.com

Buy at Mikesbikes.com

Why We Love It

They're light, sleek, and stiff for streamlined fit and energy transfer.

What to Consider

Some cyclists report this shoe running narrow, so it's not the best for wide feet.

It’s hard to choose a “best overall” cycling shoe since there are so many riding styles that have varying needs for comfort, fit, and power transfer. We went with a road shoe since much of our focus is on road biking, and the Fizik Vento Infinito Carbon 2 (say that three times fast) came out on top. This is a high-level shoe for performance and efficiency, with a lower weight than previous models and an energy return that will impress high-level cyclists as well as feel comfortable for casual riders. This has two BOA dials, one at the top of the laces and one around the arch of the foot. This model uses Fizik’s stiffest carbon fiber sole for maximum power transfer and efficiency, and the uppers are a super breathable Microtex with venting channels along the sole that use your pedaling motion to help increase airflow so your feet stay cooler, dryer, and more comfortable during high-output rides. 

Price at time of publish: $369

The Details: Size range: 5.5-15 | 1.18 pounds | Fastening system: Dual BOA

Best Budget: Shimano RC1 Road Cycling Shoes

Buy at Rei.com

They have good venting for higher output workouts.

Hook-and-loop straps don’t get as tight as BOA or laces.

This is Martin’s pick for everything from casual riding to gravel races, perfect for intermediate riders who want an efficient, comfortable shoe with good power transfer that doesn’t break the bank. These have a glove-like fit with an upper that doesn’t overlap too much around the top of your foot, which helps reduce hot spots. Hook-and-loop closures aren’t our favorite for cycling shoes, since so much power transfer depends on the shoe fit, and you have less of a precise fit here, but having three straps helps. The Shimano RC1 has a wider heel profile and increased padding for more comfort and a natural stride for walking, making them a good all-around shoe for town rides, community events, and those instances where you’re getting off and pushing the bike. (It happens to all of us.) Find the men’s here .

Price at time of publish: $100

The Details: Size range: 6.5-14 | 1.03 pounds | Fastening system: 3 hook-and-loop straps

Best for Beginners: Adidas Velosamba Cycling Shoes

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Adidas.com

It’s a comfortable shoe for moderate riding and city commuting.

A more flexible outsole means less power transfer.

These fashion-forward shoes are well suited to urban commuting, casual biking, and beginner-friendly rides . Styled like the classic Adidas Samba, these blend in with your in-town outfits while still being compatible with two-bolt cleats. The sole is made with a comfortable outer material as well as a reinforced full-length midsole to closer align with standard cycling shoes, though you’ll trade some efficiency for the townie-like comfort. These are made with imitation leather and have a water resistant upper to help them stay clean during particularly puddle-heavy rides.

The Details: Size range: 4-15 | 1.25 pounds | Fastening system: Laces

Related: The Ultimate Bike Trip Packing List

Best for Wide Feet: Bont Vaypor Road Shoes

Buy at Bontcycling.com

These shoes come in two width options for even better size range.

The high price point of advanced technical features can feel prohibitively expensive.

Bont makes a wider shoe than many others on the market, allowing greater toe splay and more comfort for wider midfoots, and this high-performing shoe comes in two width options to fit a wide range of foot shapes and sizes. Known for their foot support, the Vaypor has an updated carbon fiber base that allows enhanced stability without feeling constricting. Two BOA dials offer micro-adjustment for a precise, foot-hugging fit. For the gram counters, these shoes are more than 3 ounces lighter than the previous Vaypor S model. 

Price at time of publish: $449

The Details: Size range: 4-14 | 14 ounces | Fastening system: Dual BOA

Best for Road Cycling: Fi'zi:k Tempo R5 Powerstrap Cycling Shoe

It has high-end design elements for a reasonable price.

The nylon-and-carbon sole is less powerful than straight carbon.

This versatile shoe will work for casual rides as well as aggressive training sessions, and it has a beginner-friendly fit without sacrificing stiffness and power transfer. Fizik built the Tempo series specifically for road cycling, with a stiff, lightweight build and a carbon-reinforced nylon sole for maximum power transfer. This lower cost shoe uses technology and design elements from their upper-tier models, creating an excellent road shoe that doesn’t break the bank. The “Powerstrap” closure system uses two hook-and-loop straps that connect to multiple points in their own “zone,” making for a precise, easy-to-adjust system that has a remarkable amount of adjustability and very few of the downsides of single-point hook-and-loop straps. 

Price at time of publish: $180

The Details: Size range: 7-12 | 1.12 pounds | Fastening system: Custom hook-and-loop closure

Best for Indoor Cycling: TIEM Slipstream Women's Indoor Cycling Shoe

The versatile running-shoe style can be worn comfortably outside of class.

It has less power transfer than a shoe with a stiffer outsole.

These popular shoes don’t look like a sleek road shoe, but they feel natural to walk around in (just don’t track mud into the spin studio!) and have a recessed clip that almost lets you forget you’re wearing a spin-compatible shoe. These have a wider toe box and a generous-but-not floppy heel counter for more on-bike comfort, though the upper is less flexible than a standard running shoe and might feel a bit stiff at first. Instead of a carbon sole, these have a rubber outsole and EVA midsole, so you won’t have quite the power transfer of a more classic spin shoe modeled after clipless road-biking shoes.

Price at time of publish: $135

The Details: Size Range: 5-12 | 1.32 pounds | Fastening system: Single-strap closure

Related: The 12 Best Bike Racks for Safely Transporting your Bicycle

Best Breathability: Giro Empire SLX Cycling Shoe

It’s an incredibly light shoe with excellent cooling and venting through the mesh.

You can’t adjust cleat placement and fit.

Like any gear on the extreme end of the ultralight spectrum, Giro’s Expire SLX isn’t for everyone. But for cyclists looking for a lightweight, incredibly breathable performance shoe, this is it. With a minimalist design and mesh-enhanced upper, these shoes have impeccable contact, a driving power transfer, and feel like a second skin connecting you to your bike. By shaving grams you lose some features like adjustability, and you won’t be able to tweak the cleat placement on these. But you can feel secure on your ride with titanium hardware that won’t fail, and these have options for varying arch support for different foot shapes.

Price at time of publish: $366

The Details: Size range: 8.5-14 | 13 ounces | Fastening system: Laces

Best Flats: Giro Tracker Cycling Shoe

Buy at Giro.com

The outsole grip and patterning has remarkable traction on flat pedals.

It has a less protective midsole and upper than other flat shoes.

While we love the cushioned upper and classic design of Five Ten’s Freerider line, this streamlined take on a flat shoe was Martin’s pick. Martin has ridden for years in the Freeriders, but opted for the Giro Tracker this year as her go-to flat shoe. This is a lightweight, comfortable shoe that has more breathability than plusher models, making it comfortably versatile for gravel rides, commuter trips , and low-key singletrack where you don’t need the extra protection and would rather have a lower profile shoe. Giro’s Tack Rubber outsole feels firm and secure on pins, and the EVA midsole is supportive and comfortable for hike-a-bike sections.

Price at time of publish: $130

The Details: Size range: 8.5-12.5 | 1.31 pounds | Fastening system: BOA

Most Comfortable: Shimano EX3 Cycling Shoes

Buy at Scheels.com

A wider build and textile lining is comfortable on the bike and in town.

The mesh upper is less durable than other materials.

Will you be walking? Pedaling? Sitting down for lunch? All three? The Shimano EX3 shoes look like a walking shoe but have a midfoot SPD cleat placement for more efficient riding. The EVA midsole and rubber outsole won’t have the power transfer of a stiffer road shoe, but there’s a reason these are our Most Comfortable pick. These shoes also have a wider forefoot than traditional road biking shoes, which is better for walking and can also feel secure riding flats. We love the versatility of these shoes, with Martin calling them “a great all-around shoe for casual days, long rides, and everything in between.”

Price at time of publish: $120

The Details: Size range: 7-12 | 1.5 pounds | Fastening system: Laces

Related: The 11 Best Bikes for Every Type of Rider in 2023

Best For Long Bike Trips: Shimano EX500W Cycling Shoes

Buy at Ride.shimano.com

The hiking-style forefoot is built for those hike-a-bike sections.

The cleats are sold separately.

Multi-day tours are gaining popularity and cycling gear is working hard to catch up. These shoes are Shimano’s offering for extended rides, and they created a comfortable, versatile shoe that has great style without losing features. The uppers are made with a breathable mesh reinforced with synthetic leather on high-abrasion areas, and a single-pull lace system makes tightening a breeze. They have deep lugs for forefoot traction on rugged terrain during sections where you’re pushing your bike and are lightweight and antimicrobial … necessary components for an extended bike tour . The cleat pocket is set further back than other models, which is more comfortable for walking and extended wear, perfect for long tours where you want the efficiency of a clipless system but aren’t going full-out the entire time. Find the men’s here . 

Price at time of publish: $140

The Details: Size range: 6.5-11.5 | 1.49 pounds | Fastening system: Single-pull lace

Tips for Buying Cycling Shoes

Select an efficient closure system.

You have three main options for your cycling shoe closure system: Laces, hook-and-loop, and BOA, a dial-tightening system.

Laces might seem antiquated, but they are making a comeback after being used in the professional road cycling circuit. Laces are lightweight, inexpensive, and are easy to repair along with being widely adjustable. 

Hook-and-loop (non-brand name for velcro-style) is inexpensive and easy to adjust, but it can get caked with mud and they aren’t as easy to fine-tune as dial or lace systems. 

Finally, BOA (or dial) systems are the most high tech. These close with a hub attached to cables. When you turn the dial, the cables tighten over the shoe. These are the most adjustable, fastest to tighten, and the least impacted by mud and grit, though they are pricier and can create pressure points with single-dial closures.

Consider power transfer

Power transfer is one of the biggest considerations when shopping for a cycling shoe. This means the percentage of energy transferred from your legs during each pedal stroke to your crank arm. Cycling shoes have stiffer soles (often carbon) that don't absorb any energy like a plush running shoe with a rubber outsole and EVA midsole. Most of the shoes on our list are SPD-compatible for riding clipless, which means you’ll get even more power with each pedal rotation. For maximum power transfer, look for cleated shoes with carbon soles, but be prepared to pay more for the materials, and they won’t be as comfortable to walk around in.

Know what style of bike shoe fits your cycling preference

We listed several styles in this piece, including stiff-soled road-style shoes, clipless shoes styled like running shoes, and flats. 

Road biking shoes have excellent power transfer and on-bike efficiency, but are less comfortable for walking. These are best for cyclists looking for a good workout who get to take the shoes off after the ride.

Middle ground are clipless shoes that have more of a running-shoe midsole/outsole combo, along with a more generous fit through the uppers. These are great for cyclists who enjoy the power transfer of riding clipless, but don’t want to clop around the grocery store like a horse after their ride. 

Lastly, you can ride flats, which have pedal-optimized outsole patterns to fit securely on pedal pins without the challenges that come with riding cleats. These are good options for bike touring, mountain biking, and casual riders who prefer to fall off their bikes with the option of getting their feet on the ground before their body hits.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should cycling shoes fit?

Road-biking shoes should be snug, but not so tight they cut off circulation. The uppers will likely stretch over time, so starting with the shoe on the snug side isn’t a bad idea. The attachment points should be pinch-free, and you want your heel to feel secure without hotspots. You want the toe box to be more form-fitting than a hiking shoe, but not so much that your feet feel cramped. We recommend trying on the shoes before you buy them, being prepared to order several sizes, or asking for help with fitting from a local spin studio or gear shop.

Do good cycling shoes make a difference?

Good cycling shoes are helpful, but totally not necessary for riding a bike. You can ride your bike in flip-flops, Chacos, or running shoes and still enjoy yourself. However, cycling shoes (for road, gravel, and mountain biking) are designed for each of the disciplines, which does mean more efficient pedaling, adjustable cleat placement on many models, and stiff outsoles to get the most out of each pedal rotation. For people looking to increase their speed and proficiency on a bike, riding clipless is a great start, and cleat-compatible shoes are built to be low profile, stiff, and breathable for high-output efforts. 

Should I ride flats or clipless?

This depends on what you want to get out of your cycling. Are you looking to be a competitive road cyclist, or maybe just a more efficient rider? Riding clipless enables you to clip into your pedals, increasing energy transfer with each pedal stroke. This means you can pull up into the pedal at the top of the rotation along with pressing down on the bottom. This engages your hamstrings as well as your quads, making you a stronger, more efficient rider. It does take practice though, and you’ll want to ride with your cleats on the looser side until you’re adept at clipping in and out. 

Riding flats is best for casual cyclists and people who want to be able to put their foot down quickly, or who want shoes that feel as comfortable hiking in as they do on a bike. Each style has pros and cons, and it’s worth becoming a proficient rider in both flats and clipless so you can switch it up depending on the bike, day, and ride goals.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Maggie Slepian is an avid cyclist with more than a decade of professional gear testing experience. She has cycled thousands of miles on road bikes, gravel bikes, and mountain bikes, and transported her bikes across the country to different routes, races, and regions. When researching cycling shoes, she spoke with road cyclist, gravel rider, and long-time spin-studio member Mackenzie Martin.

Related: Cyclists Swear These Padded Bike Shorts

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The best way to explore Moscow! - Moscow Bike Tours

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I was a solo traveler and I just had one day in Moscow. This bike tour was great not only did it... read more

Vado was a fabulous tour guide and he took us to unexpected and delightful places. His ability to... read more

The best way to explore Moscow!

The cycling tour was definitely the highlight of our visit of Moscow. Vado was an excellent guide. His English is very good, he knows a lot about the city and everything's there's to see, not only the most touristy places. He is perfectly able to improvise and customise the tour to whatever you want to see or know about. As we had already seen the Red Square and its surroundings, he showed us some spots that you wouldn't normally get to see on a first visit of the city. Especially the parks were great to cycle through. He is very concerned about your safety and well-being. As we were enjoying it so much, he made the tour even much longer than was indicated on the website. We made some welcome stops for coffee, lunch and icecream. If you want, he also takes pictures of you throughout the tour (free of charge!), which is a very nice plus. I would recommend Moscow Bike Tours to anyone visiting the city, be it for the first time or not!

We had such a great time with Vado on our bike tour. He was super knowledgable of the city and had such interesting facts about things we would never even know to ask about. He took us on a private tour and we were able to customize it to what we liked. He always was conscious of our safety and did not ride too fast or too slow. I especially liked how he took pictures throughout our travel. We would love to do another bike tour with him and explore other gems Moscow has to offer.

This tour was fun, adjusted to our needs and wishes - several times actually on the tour. The guide Vado was very knowledgeable on various subjects, very willing to share it, answer questions and just a very likeable guy. He helped us finding a taxi at a reasonable rate (lot's of different rates for taxi's) and not reading the Cyrillic alphabet and since this is not a big company with a big logo (which is part of their quality) we do recommend taking a taxi to their location. We did find their bikes in the driveway and a very discreet label with their phone number. We can honestly say we thoroughly enjoyed the tour and can recommend it.

From booking this trip through to getting the photos after, Vado, with his perfect English, was a superstar, certainly not letting us down on the day with his insightful, informative and exciting bike tour around Moscow. I really do believe that this is the best (and certainly most healthy) way of seeing the busy city. You not only see the main sites, but all those small places that you would never get to see otherwise, allowing you to interact with the people and places, which would otherwise be impossible on a bus tour. Vado ensured that we went at a pace we were comfortable with and stayed safe on the roads. I was incredibly impressed with the work the local mayor is overseeing to make it a bike friendly city. This is a big thumbs up from my wife and I.

I spent a week in Moscow with a friend and we wanted to get a good overview of the city on the first stay, which we got with the bike tour. The tour was worth every penny we paid for it. We started at midday right on time and the tour ended at about 7 pm with a lunch break. We got to see the main sights of the city and since we booked a private tour we could stop anywhere we wanted, to take pictures, to visit a couple of monasteries... Our guide, Nadia, was very nice, she knew many stories about many things we got to see, recommended more things we could do during our stay, restaurants we could go to, good Russian or Soviet movies we should watch... We had a great time. I would highly recommend this tour.

The tour was everyting and more than what we expected. Vado is a very frienly and knowledgeable person. He speaks fluent english with a lot of humor. We covered the whole city in 6 hours, had a lovely lunch at an old soviet diner. I would definately advice any person who visits Moscow to do the cycling tour on their first or second day. Thanks Vado for a great day well spend!

The Best Walking Shoes for Men, According to Testing

From max cushioning to stability shoes, we found the most comfortable sneakers to wear all day.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Best Overall

Asics men's gel-cumulus 26 running shoe.

Under Armour Men's Charged Assert 10

Best for Wide Feet

New balance men's fresh foam x 1080 v13 running shoe.

Best for Plantar Fasciitis

Brooks men’s glycerin 21 neutral running shoe.

Best for Hiking

Merrell agility peak 5.

Best for Long Distances

Saucony endorphin pro 4.

Best Cushioned

Hoka clifton 9.

Best Slip-On

Kizik athens hands free mens or womens sneakers.

Best Cross Trainer

Reebok unisex nano x4 sneaker.

Best Lightweight

On running men's cloud 5 sneakers.

Whether you're lacing up your sneakers for a walk or run, you need the right footwear. Without the proper support and cushioning, every step you take has the potential to lead to discomfort and even injury. The best walking shoes for men are lightweight, offer superior foot support and cushioning, and, above all, are comfortable during extended wear.

In our walking shoe tests, ASICS sneakers continue to be top performers. The Gel-Cumulus line offers neutral support with ample cushioning that's still sleek, making for an attractive sneaker that's comfortable to wear on walks and runs. The foam cushioning is gel-infused for improved shock absorption. Designed for added comfort and ankle stability, this pair features a padded back tab by the heel. This shoe is designed for those who underpronate (foot rolls outward) or have neutral feet; if you overpronate, this isn't the best shoe for you.

"I love the cushioning and look of these sneakers," reported one tester who wore this pair on brisk walks. Testers liked that they were easy to slip into while still feeling secure. One GH analyst said, "They felt just as comfortable out of the box and after wearing them for 10,000 steps."

While most walking shoes cost over $100, this pair costs about half that. This pair from Under Armour has a classic design with a soft, sock liner and a breathable upper for a comfortable, airy fit. Available in 23 colors, including red, blue and gray, this pick has an impressive size range with standard, X-wide and XX-wide widths.

Because of the ample cushioning around the collar and midfoot, one tester reported, " All that cushioning made my foot feel comfortable during casual wear —running errands and such." He also added that they are "excellent shoes for standing at my standing desk for long periods of time." The compression-molded foam in the midsole is designed to improve the shoes' durability, but testers found the foam firmer than other shoes. One tester found this pair "too clunky" for longer runs or walks.

Shoes need to fit properly not only from heel to toe but also from side to side. Opting for wide sizing can help ensure you have enough room in the toebox to prevent pinching or rubbing. These New Balance shoes have wide and extra-wide sizing options for a comfortable fit. Testers with wide feet applauded these shoes for their excellent fit with a stretchy knit upper to accommodate bunions too.

The brand's signature foam is plush for a cloud-like feel without adding extra weight. This pair features a rocker design for smoother transitions from heel to toe. Testers were especially impressed with its comfortable cushioning. One tester, who wore these sneakers on 2-mile walks, said, " The extra foam definitely puts a pep in my step. The extra bounce is almost a mood changer." He also liked the appearance of these sneakers compared to his previous walking shoes. Some sizes are only available in limited colorways.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you know how difficult it can be to find shoes that properly support your arches and prevent heel pain. Brooks shoes continue to be top performers in our tests for their unparalleled arch support and stability. This pair has super soft cushioning for walkers who prefer a pillowy feel . With neutral support and maximal cushioning, this pair is designed to be lightweight and responsive for smooth heel-to-toe transitions.

"They haven’t flared up my plantar fasciitis at all, even after many hours of wear and several miles," reported one tester. He added, "I especially like how these shoes offer more arch support compared to all of my other sneakers." He found this pair to be comfortable right out of the box too. "For me, the plush feel is unbeatable." Some testers noted they looked a bit clunky and would have preferred a sleeker appearance.

When walking on trails, you need a pair of shoes that offer sufficient traction without feeling too heavy or bulky. These Merrell hiking sneakers have a rugged outsole with a toe cap that helps provide enough traction on all types of trails, wet or dry, while protecting you from debris. With thicker cushioning in the midsole and a padded collar, these shoes are designed to feel comfortable mile after mile. The brand also offers a GORE-TEX waterproof version.

"The sneakers have more than enough cushioning for a rocky trail hike and easily transition to city sidewalk walking," said one tester who wore this pair when walking on trails and commuting to work. He said they looked great "with jeans, athletic clothes or casual work clothes." He added that they are "very comfortable shoes for a wide variety of purposes."

These Saucony sneakers are designed to feel cushiony and light on your feet even after 10+ miles. This is the only style included in this round-up with a carbon plate, which helps return energy back to your feet for a more comfortable feel when covering longer distances. The shoe is designed to help propel you forward with responsive foam. Some testers even reported that they felt like they could run faster in these shoes. We like the sleek sock liner and stretchy, integrated tongue for immediate comfort as soon as you put the shoes on. Note that these shoes are only available in limited colors and sizes with no wide widths.

Popular for feeling lightweight with comfortable cushioning, these shoes received high marks from walkers and runners. One tester said, "I enjoy running in them and due to the large cushioned sole, I feel very light on my feet."

When we asked testers which brand of sneakers they were currently wearing, Hoka was the most popular answer. The thick cushioning on this pair may seem intimidating initially, but the foam midsole creates a responsive feel, ideal for anyone with joint pain. The early stage meta-rocker helps propel you forward for smoother heel-to-toe transitions. "They felt immediately comfortable from the first wear," said one tester. He added that they "don't flare up my plantar fasciitis and my feet feel actively supported during long periods of exercise."

Designed with comfort top of mind, this pair has a padded collar and tongue to prevent painful rubbing or blisters. The stretchy knit upper allows excellent airflow, but testers did note that water easily soaked through in rainy weather.

Kizik designs slip-on shoes that don't sacrifice style, like these sneakers with a classic, athletic design. This sneaker features the brand's signature flexible cage at the heel of the shoe that springs back into place when you step in, ideal for anyone with mobility concerns. We appreciate that this hands-free, gender-neutral sneaker is sold in a wide range of sizes from a men's 4.5 (women's 6) to a men's 15 (women's 16.5).

One tester with Parkinson's reported that Kizik sneakers are easier for him to get on than any of his other shoes. Another tester shared, "I'm always rushing out of the house, so slip-on sneakers are a total game-changer." Some testers noted that these shoes don't offer enough support for running and only recommend wearing them on casual walks.

If you love walking as a warm-up to gym workouts, a cross-trainer sneaker is ideal. Our testers were impressed by how comfortable these Reebok cross-trainers were when lifting weights and jogging on a treadmill. "These shoes are incredibly supportive through the midsole and heel. You almost feel locked in," said one tester who wore this pair on brisk walks and during gym workouts. He added, " I really enjoyed how breathable they were — my feet tend to run pretty hot and I didn't run into any moisture or stink issues." He reported that the toebox felt wide and comfortable without any pinching. The flat bottom helps provide stability when weightlifting but may be too stiff for longer walks or runs.

Avoid lugging around heavy shoes with these lightweight sneakers from On Running. This pair comes with either traditional or stretchy laces, so you can easily slip them on. The brand's CloudTec cushioning is popular for soft landings without a bulky foam midsole . Because they lack stability features and thicker cushioning, they are less suited to someone with foot or joint sensitivities. There is also a waterproof version of this shoe.

"The shoes are impressively lightweight and I thought they wouldn't offer enough support, but they were surprisingly comfortable," said one tester. Another tester said, "I like the flexible design of the sole, [which] allows the shoe to be a bit more responsive to whatever is underfoot." He added, "They have a great look to them and feel very sturdy on my foot!" Multiple testers applauded how well this pair works for both walking and gym workouts.

Columbia Men's Konos TRS OutDry Shoes

Avoid uncomfortable wet socks with a waterproof shoe that doesn't feel stuffy. This pair of hiking sneakers from Columbia features OutDry technology with bonded construction between the waterproof membrane and the outer shell to keep water out of the shoe. This technology allows these sneakers to be both waterproof and breathable.

With thicker cushioning, these shoes are designed to take you from hiking to commuting. The molded footbed helps support your feet and arches while cradling your heel to help reduce impact. To prevent slips in wet conditions, the outsole has deep grooves for excellent traction. "They are supportive and substantial but still lightweight and breathable," said one tester. He gave perfect scores across the board for comfort, fit and traction. "They’re very comfortable and convenient to wear for a long walk or quick errand," he added. His only concern was they looked "a bit boring and clunky." There are more sizes and colors available on Columbia's site .

How we tested the best walking shoes for men

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab regularly evaluates shoes for their performance in daily activities from walking to running and hiking. We depend on our network of consumer testers with varying shoe sizes and foot shapes to provide feedback on the comfort, aesthetics and utility of shoes as they use them in their day-to-day lives. We combine this feedback with in-Lab data, assessing the construction, materials, and durability.

In our latest walking shoes test, we put 25 shoes to the test with testers ranging from a men's size 8 to a men's size 13. Each tester wore the shoe for at least 3 hours (culminating in over 250 hours of walk testing!) on different terrains, including sidewalks, hiking trails, roads and even at the gym. Here are the main factors we considered before making these recommendations:

• Comfort: We noted how comfortable each shoe was right out of the box and after wearing it all day. Each tester rated how comfortable the shoes felt and if they caused any noticeable pain in their feet or joints.
• Fit: All testers tried on the shoes in Lab and gave notes about fit, including the length of the shoe, size of the toebox and more.
• Cushioning: We evaluated each pair's cushioning to see if it was soft or firm. Testers rated the cushioning to ensure it was even throughout the sole and helped absorb shock on walks.
• Stability: For shoes designed for overpronation or underpronation, we evaluated whether they helped improve walkers' gaits.
• Value: Because walking shoes from top brands tend to be expensive, we compared each pair's cost to its performance to ensure it is a quality buy.

What to look for when shopping for walking shoes

There are a few items to consider when looking for walking shoes:

✔️ Check in with your podiatrist or physician: If you're experiencing foot pain or have recently sustained an injury, check with your podiatrist or orthopedist for recommendations or their thoughts on a pair of shoes you're considering. Their knowledge of the foot's anatomy and your specific needs related to pain/injury will help you make the right decision.

✔️ Comfort: Dr. Johnson advises that comfort is of utmost importance when selecting a walking shoe. Be sure to try on a pair and make sure that it feels good on the feet before locking in your purchase. If you're shopping online, choose retailers that allow returns in case the fit isn't just right.

✔️ Weight: Generally speaking, lighter-weight shoes will offer more comfort and be easier to walk in for extended durations. The exception is if you have a specific foot concern, which may require the greater support of a heavier shoe.

✔️ Traction: We recommend taking a peek at the shoes' outsole before purchasing. Look for treads and grooves to ensure they'll offer sufficient traction. If you enjoy walking on rugged terrain or trails, opt for hiking-specific sneakers.

✔️ Waterproof: Most sneakers aren't waterproof because waterproof shoes are less breathable and can feel sweaty after extensive wear. We recommend only wearing waterproof sneakers in rainy weather or muddy conditions and sticking with more breathable options regularly.

As a data engineer in the Good Housekeeping Institute , Nik (he/him) works with all of our Labs to develop testing protocols and manage data collection and analysis. Before joining Good Housekeeping in 2022 , Nik worked in the labs of MIT and Regeneron, working on projects ranging from chemical inventory and reporting to the development of bioassays. He holds a degree in chemical engineering from Northeastern University.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is a senior product analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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Vote for your favorite bike tour!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel for their fantastic guided and self-guided tours that take you around the globe on two wheels.  Which bike tour company would you most like to tour with? Vote for your favorite once per day until polls close on Monday, May 27 at noon ET. The 10 winning tour companies will be announced on Wednesday, June 5. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

One of the best and greenest ways to experience the beauty of the world is by bike. Just start pedaling and the journey becomes as important as the destination. These top companies have been nominated by an expert panel...   Read More

Best Bike Tour Nominees

Photo courtesy of Adventure Cycling, photo from Bruce Malarky

Adventure Cycling

A dedicated advocate for all forms of biking, Adventure Cycling has compiled more than 50,000 miles of bike routes across North America since their inception in 1973. While seasoned cyclists are welcome to peruse their interactive map as they plan their next journey, the company also offers a wealth of guided tours, with regions ranging from the Florida Keys to the Pacific Northwest.

Photo courtesy of Backroads

Backroads believes in the transformative power of going at your own pace, which is why the company offers bike tours for every type of rider. Guests ride custom-built titanium bikes on itineraries in some 55 countries. In the United States, tours include everything from Death Valley or Saguaro National Park to Martha’s Vineyard or the Hudson Valley.

Photo courtesy of Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures

Bicycle Adventures’ motto is "stay curious, eat well, and pedal happy." With more than 35 years of experience in the industry, that’s just what many a guest does, whether biking the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway in Wyoming or riding through Oregon’s Columbia Gorge. Itineraries cover 11 states, along with around a dozen countries.

Photo courtesy of BikeHike Adventures

BikeHike Adventures

With curated tours across five continents, BikeHike Adventures showcases the diverse landscapes and cultures across the globe from the comfort of a bicycle. While strictly-cycling excursions can be booked across destinations like Colombia, Ireland, and Morocco, ambitious adventurers can also sign up for a multi-sport itinerary for some added hiking and kayaking.

Photo courtesy of Kruck20 // Getty Images

BikeTours.com

BikeTours.com specializes in organizing biking tour experiences in over 30 European countries. They offer both guided and self-guided tours geared towards all experience levels from leisure riders to biking enthusiasts. Riders can also enjoy family-oriented tours and a combination of biking/boating adventures.

Photo courtesy of Patrick Laughlin

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers

Bubba's Pampered Pedalers offers the ultimate bicycling vacation options. Whether taking a weeklong or cross-country tour, or simply overnighting at a hotel or bed-and-breakfast, you'll experience some of the best scenery from D.C. to Colorado or the sunny coasts of Florida. 

Photo courtesy of Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation. From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Photo courtesy of Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico

Ciclismo Classico is a woman-founded bike tour company that specializes in educational trips to European countries and the Northeast United States. Cyclists are fully immersed in the local art, language, music, and delicious cuisine of each unique area, aiming to meet the company's goal of providing an adventure their guests will never forget.

Photo courtesy of DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co. / Gwen Kidera

DuVine Cycling + Adventure Co.

DuVine's mission is "for every traveler to experience the world by bike." These luxury bike tours focus heavily on food and wine, and itineraries often include family-run restaurants and boutique accommodations. You’ll find tours around the globe, including domestic options in California, the Hudson Valley, Maine, and Vermont, among others.

Photo courtesy of Exodus Adventure Travels

Exodus Adventure Travels

Founded 50 years ago, Exodus Adventure Travels offers small group and self-guided cycling trips to over 100 countries. Cycling tours include leisurely exploration in places like Portugal and the Baltics, as well as more challenging routes in places like Sicily, Panama, and Sri Lanka.   

Photo courtesy of ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! Bicycle Tours

ExperiencePlus! is one of the oldest and most well-respected bike touring companies based in the United States. For more than a half-century, adventurous cyclists and active travelers have joined their guided bike tours and followed along some of the most delightful roads in the world. ExperiencePlus! provides both novice and seasoned cyclists alike with local tour leaders, thoughtful routes, and plenty of cultural immersion.

Photo courtesy of Daniele Mazierli / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Great Explorations

Built around being environmentally conscious, Great Explorations believes in leaving the environment around the biking trips the way it was found. As a boutique travel company with tours taking place across multiple continents, they create one-of-a-kind experiences that include charming hotels and unique dining experiences with cycling days that range between 25-40 miles.

Photo courtesy of Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel

Launched in 1989, Intrepid Travel offers more than 1,000 voyages across the globe — and cycling tours are no exception. In addition to classic biking destinations like Provence and Tuscany, the company has mastered the art of shining a spotlight on underrated regions, operating bike excursions to Sri Lanka, Slovenia, Tanzania, and a wealth of other countries.

Photo courtesy of REI Co-op / REI Adventures

REI is a household name for adventure seekers and outdoorsy tourists alike. Cycling enthusiasts will want to check out their biking adventures around some of the nation's best national parks, which range from three to six days in duration.

Photo courtesy of Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling

Summer Feet Cycling was founded more than two decades ago, offering bicycle tours of Maine. Today, the company continues to introduce visitors to the Pine Tree State, with additional tour offerings in Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Europe.

Photo courtesy of Barbara Hoyt

Timberline Adventures

Timberline Adventures provides guided and self-guided cycling tours throughout the United States and Canada. All guided adventures include lodging, support from a sag wagon, and most meals. Destinations include Death Valley National Park, the Northwest Passage, Aspen, and more.

Photo courtesy of U. J. Alexander / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Trek Travel

Trek Travel leads all kinds of adventure tours to all corners of the globe, but the company got its start in bicycling trips. From North America to Europe, and South America to the Asia-Pacific region, see the world with personalized care and fantastic guides for your type of cycling style. 

Photo courtesy of VBT Bicycling Vacations

VBT Bicycling Vacations

Guests traveling with VBT can choose their trip by activity level: easy, easy/moderate, moderate, or moderate/challenging. Guided and self-guided itineraries explore destinations around the globe, including the Vermont countryside, South Carolina Lowcountry, and the Sonoran Desert of Arizona.

Photo courtesy of Wilderness Voyageurs

Wilderness Voyageurs

From the arid depths of New Mexico to the lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula, Wilderness Voyageurs provides guests with an opportunity to traverse some of the most gorgeous bike paths across the lower 48. While road, gravel, and mountain bike tours are all available, the company's inn-to-inn rail trail tours offer a more relaxing perspective on the sport, combining outdoor adventure with cozy accommodations throughout the trip.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Brandon withrow.

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in...   Read More

Brandon Withrow is a travel journalist based in Northwest Ohio, covering ecotourism, wildlife, outdoor adventures, and eco-friendly stays, as well as the secrets of underrated cities. He appears in The Daily Beast, BBC Travel, Canadian Geographic, Business Insider, The Hill, and Sierra Magazine. You can find him at  www.brandonwithrow.com ,  @bwithrow  on Twitter, and  @bgwithrow  on Instagram.

Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for...   Read More

Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Dave Stamboulis

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer...   Read More

Dave Stamboulis is a travel writer/photographer based in Bangkok. Born in Athens, Greece and growing up in the U.S., Dave first discovered Bangkok while on a 45,000-kilometer bicycle trip and moved there for good in 2005. Dave's photos appear in publications around the world. He's the author of Odysseus' Last Stand , which received the Silver Medal for Travel Book of the Year from the Society of American Travel Writers. In addition to updating the Fodor's Guidebook to Thailand, he is the author of 500 Hidden Secrets to Bangkok, and his travel stories and photography appear in publications around the globe. 

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

15 Best Men's Summer Shoes for Every Occasion

From comfortable white sneakers, stylish sandals, suede penny loafers, and everything in between.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Because online shoe shopping can feel like navigating a minefield, we made the work easy for you by rounding up some of our favorite styles of the season based on designs, materials, and budget. Whether you're looking for a casual pair for everyday wear or want a dressier option for special occasions , ahead you'll find the very best men's summer shoes to add to your seasonal collection.

The Horsebit Loafers

Gucci men's loafer with horsebit.

The Boat Shoes

Ralph lauren merton leather boat shoe.

The Suede Loafers

Loro piana sea-sail walk loafers.

The Driving Loafers

Tod's gommino driving shoe.

Todd Snyder Nomad Suede / Leather Crossover Sandal

The Statement Makers

J.m. weston suede loafers.

The White Sneakers

Common projects original achilles sneaker.

The Breezy Pair

Manolo blahnik mario leather-trimmed raffia loafers.

The Espadrilles

Frescobol carioca helio suede espadrilles.

The Sandals

Saint laurent culver leather sandals.

Because there's always room for another pair of Gucci's horsebit loafers.

Material: Suede

Size Range: 5.5-14.5

No summer shoe collection is complete with the humble boat shoe, and Ralph Lauren's iteration is classic as it gets.

One reviewer writes: "Comfort, versatile and easy to wear are the best adjectives to describe these shoes. I can wear boat shoes all day everyday with confidence that my foot will not hurt. I appreciate the ability to wear these casual shoes any and every where needed."

Material: Leather

Size Range: 7-15

Loro Piana is the latest luxury brand giving boat shoes the designer treatment in 2o24. Featuring a supple suede upper, flexible footbed, and durable rubber soles for extra grip, this minimalist pair is the product of fine Italian craftsmanship.

Size Range : 39-46

Originally created in the '60s for men who wanted extra grip while sitting behind the wheel, Tod's driving shoes are versatile enough for casual- and formal-wear alike.

Size Range : 7-13

Handcrafted by artisans in Tuscany, these leather slides feature a suede cushioned footbed that comfortably hugs the feet with each and every step. Slide them on with a pair of shorts during the day or linen pants for evening outings.

One reviewer reports: "These look great with jeans or shorts and are the most comfortable sandals yet."

Material: Leather/suede

Size Range: 8-13

These bright blue espadrille-loafers were made for having fun in the sun.

Material: Suede/jute

Size Range : UK7-UK11

Like the little black dress of footwear, white sneakers can be dressed up and down without a second thought.

One shopper says: "Excellent white sneakers that were specifically what I was looking for. Clean, sleek and versatile! Comfortable!"

Size Range: 6-14

On blistering hot days when leather feels like a no-go, Manolo Blahnik's elegant raffia loafers are the answer to your outfit woes.

Material: Raffia/leather

Size Range : UK6-UK13

Espadrille flats are having a huge moment in the women's shoe department, and men's styles are just as comfortable, lightweight, and breezy.

Material: Suede/straw

Size Range: 40-46

Forget flip flops: these strappy sandals will have you looking put together and polished by the pool.

Size Range: EU39-EU45

Vince Fletcher Loafer

For a fuss-free sneaker you can slip and on off with ease, you can't go wrong with sporty slip-ons. Vince's pair also features perforations that lend to comfy breathability.

One shopper says: "Excellent sneaker, can be dressed up or dressed down."

Size Range: 7-13

Birkenstock Arizona Soft Footbed

Would this really be a best men's summer shoe roundup without a pair of Birkenstock's cult-classic Arizonas?

One shopper says: "I’ve worn Birkenstock for over 20 years! They are the most comfortable sandal on the market!"

Size Range: 7-13.5

Peter Millar Excursionist Penny Loafer

When shopping for summer loafers, opt for muted colors and airier materials. This sage penny loafer-sneaker hybrid is exactly what we had in mind.

One shopper says: "I love these loafers, and have bought a pair in all the colors. They are great looking, fit extremely well and are made of top-notch construction."

Size Range: 8-12

Brunello Cucinelli Suede Loafers with Tassels

When you want to kick your casual footwear game up a notch, you turn to Brunello Cucinelli. Case in point: these suede tasseled loafers will add oomph to an otherwise understated outfit.

Size Range: 6-13

Scarosso Andrea Nero Loafers

Black leather makes this pair formal, while the woven details add a touch of texture and breezy flair with every step.

Size Range: 39-48

Sophie Dweck is the associate shopping editor for Town & Country, where she covers beauty, fashion, home and décor, and more. 

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Best Bike Rental in Moscow

Local recommendations from our my guide moscow team.

Bike renting is a good way to cross the clogged city and enjoy the view of it at the same time. There are modern and comfortable bikes for a ride at Moscow bicycle stations. Don't ignore the way to use green means of transport and find yourself on the picturesque Moskva river embankments or in a beautiful park.

Velobike rental

There are now open 30 bike renting stations around Moscow centre where you can.........

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Best-selling Adidas Sneakers, Comfy Clothes, and More Are Up to 50% Off at Amazon This Weekend

This sale has everything you need to give your wardrobe a sporty refresh.

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

If your travel wardrobe is in need of a dire refresh, you’ve come to the right place. Amazon has discounted a plethora of stylish and sporty styles from Adidas just in time for warmer weather. Travel + Leisure writers and celebrities alike have praised the brand for its comfortable sneakers and apparel, and right now shoppers can snag deals up to 50 percent off this weekend.  During this under-the-radar sale, you can score some of the brand's most iconic staples, including the widely loved Stan Smith sneakers , track jackets , backpacks , and more for as little as $15. But here’s the catch: We don’t know how much longer these deals will last, so make sure to head to checkout ASAP to grab these discounts before they disappear. 

Adidas Cloudfoam Pure 2.0 Running Shoes

Shoppers gush over the cushioning of these appropriately named running shoes, claiming that they feel like “walking on clouds.” That comfort comes from the brand’s signature cloudfoam padding that is designed to keep feet supported all day long. Beyond this shoe’s comfort, these running sneakers have a convenient slip-on tab and textured outsole, making them easy to pull on while offering excellent traction. Plus, the sneakers are available in sizes 5 to 11. 

Adidas Women’s Stan Smith Sneakers

Ever since Adidas launched its iconic Stan Smith silhouette back in the 1960s, it has been loved among celebrities and travelers for its effortlessly stylish look and comfortable fit. In fact, my mom has been gushing over these sneakers for decades, wearing them as her go-to sneaker. The sneakers are equipped with next-level cushioning to support the arches, toes, and heels. Shoppers can pick up a handful of colors, including navy and gold . 

Adidas Men’s Stan Smith Sneakers

These sneakers are also discounted by 20 percent in men’s sizing. Like the women’s version, they feature durable rubber outsoles for anti-slip traction, meaning you can run through TSA knowing your feet will stay firmly in place. The sneakers come in sizes 4 through 13 and a number of colors. 

Adidas Daily 3.0 Sneaker

These Adidas sneakers have everything you’d want in a travel shoe: rubber outsoles for traction, an extra-cushioned footbed for comfort, and an easy-to style design that you can wear anywhere. On sale for $52 thanks to an on-site coupon, these travel-ready and best-selling sneakers may just be the only shoe you’d need to pack for your next adventure. 

Adidas All Me Tote Bag

As far as travel essentials go, a reliable tote bag is a must. Tote this versatile travel staple around a new city, use it as a gym bag, or stow it underneath your airplane seat. It also has a genius two-strap construction that can be worn on your shoulder or as a crossbody bag. And it has a handful of spacious pockets large enough to fit clothes, shoes, toiletries, and more. Try it out for yourself while it's $42 today. 

Adidas Grand Court 2.0 Tennis Shoes

These classic tennis sneakers have earned a spot on the Amazon best-sellers list. Shoppers note that they’re “comfortable to wear and boast the iconic aesthetic that [Adidas] is known for.” The sneakers are supportive, sturdy, and timeless, and you can wear them just about anywhere, whether you’re on the pickle ball courts or touching down in a new city. Pick up the discounted sneakers while they’re just $60 in select sizes and colors like black and white . 

Adidas Essentials Warm-Up Track Jacket

When it’s cool in the morning yet warm in the afternoon, having a reliable jacket is a must. We like this best-selling track jacket that boasts a full-zip design so you can customize your warmth. This jacket is machine washable and made from a material that’ll keep you warm without overheating. It also features two front pockets and is lightweight enough to tuck easily into a suitcase. 

Adidas Adilette Sandals 

With an impressive collection of more than 8,000 five-star ratings, these slip-on sandals have proven to be the ultimate multitaskers by shoppers. These quick-drying sandals effortlessly transition between “perfect house slippers” to slides you can wear at the pool and beach. Other shoppers have even worn them as shower shoes. Beyond their utility, these sandals boast a cloudfoam bottom and cushioned feel. And thanks to an on-site coupon, these do-it-all sandals are 50 percent off this weekend. 

Adidas Superlite Sport Performance Visor

My go-to choice for sun protection is usually a visor rather than a baseball cap or sun hat. The open-top style lets me keep my hair down or throw it up in a bun without sacrificing coverage from sun rays. Right now, I have my sights set on this lightweight, moisture-wicking visor, especially since it’s only $17 this weekend. Plus, it’s designed with a non-glare undervisor, meaning it won't block your vision during runs and workouts.

Adidas Creator 2 Backpack

If you’re in search of a backpack that’s designed to keep your belongings protected and organized, opt for this Adidas bag. This backpack’s spacious compartments are big enough to house a laptop and hiking shoes, whether you're flying across the country or going on a hiking trip. It also features adjustable and cushioned shoulder straps for an extra layer of comfort and two convenient mesh side pockets for a water bottle. 

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