I was wondering when the other shoe would drop. The Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe just did. After TIME released a gravel pedal—despite that designation I use it for everything—shoes were sure to follow.
I think any cyclists that have spent time on gravel knows their current shoes aren’t specifically built for the application. Road shoes are too stiff and mountain too clunky. A gravel shoe is in between the two.
Finally, someone is making one.
Way back, before adventure was labelled as gravel, I had a pair of Vittorias made for me. They glued a retro leather upper onto a mountain sole. They’re amazing. I hope the GR2 and gravel shoes to follow are as good.
According to Bontrager, the GR2 is purpose-built for gravel. Like the Cyclo pedal, it’s perfect for a multitude of off-road surfaces. In a few product cycles, expect that you’ll have just one shoe for dirt, road, and anything in between.
Constructed with easily adjustable laces, a grippy foray outsole for added stability on rough terrain, and durable synthetic leather upper, the GR2 also has GnarGuard abrasion resistance.
The new Bontrager GR2 Gravel Shoe costs $139.99 MSRP online and through Trek retailers.