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To each specialty its requirements in terms of cycling equipment: the gravel shoe is no exception to the rule, or almost. Is it necessary to choose a special gravel gear? What are the features? Gravel shoe, road or mountain bike, the choice depends above all on your practice ... and your pedals. We make the point on the shoes of gravel bike.
Can you use normal shoes in gravel?
Yes and no! Now you're well on your way, aren't you?
You should know that gravel is a hybrid discipline that draws from the entire world of cycling, including road, mountain bike and cyclo-cross. The idea is to ride your bike to go on an adventure, varying the pleasures to the rhythm of the terrain encountered. So there are as many possible practices in gravel as there are riders.
Some riders will prefer to pedal mostly on asphalt while taking small side roads. Others will seek out more technical trails, akin to cross-country, or choose to use their gravel bike to get around town. Travel lovers, meanwhile, will set out to discover regions and countries.
Behind a set of gravel handlebars, you have the freedom to go wherever you want, as you please. A classic athletic shoe may fit...as well as not fit! It really depends on how you use your gravel bike.
Unless you're only riding your bike to get bread or to work, it's recommended that you buy a pair of cycling shoes.
What are the requirements for a gravel shoe?
The cycling world is adapting to the gravel trend! Several manufacturers have added to their catalogs a range of shoes specifically for gravel use. These specific models are part of a philosophy dear to gravelers: a variety of shoes and a comfortable fit. Nevertheless, be aware that a mountain bike or road pair may be more appropriate depending on your route.
In gravel, you will be required to get out of the saddle, whether it's for technical mountain passes, lunch breaks, or just to see the country. Even more so if you plan to do some bike touring!
The so-called gravel shoes are therefore similar to MTB models. They have, among other things, the following features:
They have the following features
- a sole that is neither too soft nor too stiff;
- a good foot protection;
- a lifestyle design in keeping with the gravel style;
- an easy on and off at the pedals.
Yes, your choice of shoes is inherent to your choice of pedals!
How to choose your pedals for gravel
It's impossible to talk about bike shoes without bringing up the subject of pedals. In gravel, just as in any other cycling discipline, shoes are intimately tied to the bike's pedals.
You have a choice of three types of pedals to equip for your gravel:
- Flat pedals: these are the traditional pedals found on most bikes, generally used by beginners, occasional riders or bikepackers. They are reserved for leisure use and urban travel. Some bikepackers also find their account with or without strap-on footpegs.
- Auto pedals: intended for mountain bikers and road cyclists, clip-on pedals allow the foot and pedal to be connected, offering better performance. A cleat placed under the gravel shoe snaps into the pedal attachment system. They require a minimum of training to learn how to remove the shoe without apprehension.
- Combination pedals: they combine the advantages of the previous two models with a face for cleated shoes and a flat face for regular shoes. They are practical and versatile, which will delight gravel enthusiasts.
More than a gravel shoe, it is therefore a pedal/shoe pair that you will have to choose. As you might expect: this selection depends above all on your gravel profile!
Which shoe for which use?
Not every rider has the same expectations when it comes to gravel: urban, recreational or sport use, cross-country in a mountain environment or search for road performance... As many bike shoes exist for these practices.
You have a profile turned towards bicycle touring and bikepacking: opt for a pair of flat pedals/sports shoes or mixed pedals/MTB (mountain bike) shoes. The latter option offers better resistance over time and a non-negligible gain in energy when you ride with the wedge side.
To keep your feet from getting cold during your cycling adventure, check out the Ekoï Winter Evo MTB Shoes. A comfortable, durable pair that's compatible with SPD pedals.
You have a XC mountain biker profile: a MTB shoe will get the most out of your gravel. Soles with cleats are a must to provide you with good grip. Grip is necessary to race down unstable mountain slopes and tackle muddy forest trails. Plus, you'll be able to easily step on the ground thanks to the recessed wedges.
Protective and sturdy, this model of Ekoï XC Evo mountain bike shoes should please you with its reinforced front stone guard and heel.
You have a road cycling profile: the road bike shoe is still the best option for the gravel experience without sacrificing performance. Do you plan to add a few off-road jaunts to your rides, but tarmac is still your favorite ground? The fact that you can't walk on it because of the protruding wedges shouldn't be a problem. A disadvantage largely offset by the power transfer offered by the stiffness of the soles.
Choose a breathable, lightweight, water-repellent model such as the Ekoï Strada Cristal Evo2 shoe to ride gravel in all circumstances.
How to properly fit your gravel bike shoes.
There are different tightening systems on gravel shoes:
- the laces;
- the velcro or scratch bands;
- the micrometric straps;
- the micrometric buckles or knurls;
Depending on the model, the closing method can combine several types of tightening for more speed and efficiency.
Finding the right fit provides optimal support for your foot while pedaling. To do this, make sure you tighten the adjustment straps or discs properly, without feeling like you're compressing them. You should feel comfortable in your cycling shoes and be able to wiggle your toes. As for the heel, it should not move.
Also, feet tend to swell as the day goes on. So avoid, if possible, testing your future gravel shoes in the morning and prefer a fitting in the afternoon. If your foot doesn't slide back and forth when you pedal, that's a good sign!
Have you found the right shoe for you? Now all you have to do is pick out your gravel jersey, your gravel helmet and your gravel gloves before you get in the saddle!"
