The 12 Best Gravel Bike Shoes for Your Gravel Adventures (2023)

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This is a selection of the best gravel bike shoes. It includes mostly shoes for clipless pedals and a few shoes for platforms for both men and women.

It also includes shoes for narrow, regular, and wide feet.

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.

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).

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

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.

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What Are the Best Gravel Bike Shoes?

Gravel bike shoes for clipless pedals will provide you with 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.

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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)

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).

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

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

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 a perfect choice 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!

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

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.

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Bontrager Evoke

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

Their sole is softer than the sole of other budget gravel bike shoes, so they are better for walking. The curved sole design makes walking also 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 little 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.

Also available at trekbikes.com

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Shimano SH-XC5

The Michelin sole is the one feature that fascinated me most about the Shimano SH-XC5. It is made of special rubber that makes mud-shedding easy. You also don’t have to fear a lack of grip on flat surfaces.

Shimano SH-XC5 allow you to walk easily, yet they are relatively stiff to avoid energy losses when pedaling. But, if you are performance-oriented, get stiffer shoes like Shimano RX800.

When using laces on cycling shoes, they may be too long and get entangled in the chain. These shoes solve it with an elastic band that you can use for hiding them.

The main disadvantages include poorer ventilation, which goes hand in hand with relatively good resistance to splashing water.

Overall, these shoes are great for casual gravel bikers or people who commute and need nice-looking shoes that offer a great balance of comfort, stiffness, and walkability.

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

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Vittoria Tierra

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 cheap insole (read article on 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.

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Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 Off Road Shoes

Fizik Terra Powerstrap X4 shoes are unique thanks to the one of its 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.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com and wiggle.com

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

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Pearl iZUMi X-Alp Gravel

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 for you.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com

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

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Giro Rumble

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 bike or MTB 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 wiggle.com

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Shimano MT7

If you are looking for shoes that will allow you almost the same walkability as casual shoes, go for Shimano MT7. These hybrid shoes are great for walking or hiking because the sole is pretty soft (4 out of 12 on Shimano’s stiffness scale).

Yes, you will experience some energy losses, but they are still much stiffer than normal shoes and are very comfortable even for all-day trips.

Thanks to the BOA dial, their fastening is quick and effortless. They will fit you well if you have narrow or regular feet.

MT7 are also pretty well ventilated, but once you stop and stay in direct sunlight, your feet may start overheating due to the thick padding.

The loops on the backside of the shoes are very useful when you put them on or off your feet.

These are probably the best hybrid bike shoes for you if you combine gravel adventures with hiking.

Also available at competitivecyclist.com

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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

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

They have a very grippy sole, 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

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 Pro’s 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.

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My Verdict

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.

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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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

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Price Range

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

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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.