Road vs Gravel vs MTB Shoes: Which Cycling Shoe Is Right for You?

When it comes to cycling gear, most riders think first about the bike itself, but have you considered your footwear? Cycling shoes are more than just something to keep your feet protected; they can make a big difference in your ride. 

Cyclists typically choose between road shoes, gravel shoes, and mountain bike (MTB) shoes, and each has their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases. As New Zealand’s go-to bike and accessory shop, we’ve helped pair many riders with their ideal shoes that’s tailored to their needs. 

In this guide, we’ll break down the characteristics of each shoe type, highlight what makes them unique, and help you choose the perfect pair.

Option 1: Road Bike Shoes

Road cycling shoes are the thoroughbreds of the cycling footwear world. They’re designed to give you better pedalling power on the road with minimal energy loss, and are ideal for those looking for a pair of more ‘serious’ cycling shoes than a normal shoe. 

The main feature of road bike shoes are its extremely stiff soles, often made from carbon fibre. This stiffness allows better power transfer to the pedal (i.e. the harder and smoother you pedal, the better the connection between your legs and the bike). You’ll find road cycling shoes a popular choice among competitive riders and long-distance road cyclists.

Most road shoes use a 3-bolt cleat system. These cleats will clip the shoe into their corresponding pedals, allowing you to press down and pull up easily on the pedal. Road bike shoes are also lightweight and breathable, which make them perfect for long climbs and hot summer rides. 

The downside? That wide cleat and stiff sole combination may be difficult to walk in, which can be challenging if you want to hop off your bike to grab a coffee.

Option 2: Gravel Cycling Shoes

Gravel riding is exploding in New Zealand, thanks to our incredible network of mixed-terrain routes and off-beaten trails. Just like the cycling itself, gravel shoes are all about versatility.

Gravel shoes combine the pedalling efficiency of road shoes with the durability of mountain bike (MTB) shoes. They typically use a 2-bolt cleat system, which makes them easier to clip on when your shoe is facing gritty, muddy conditions.

Gravel shoes are also more practical for walking than road cycling shoes. This makes them ideal for bikepacking trips, gravel events, or any ride where you might need to hop off and push your bike through rough sections.

Most gravel shoes give you a good grip on loose gravel surfaces, while still having a stiff-enough sole to pedal efficiently. However, the trade-off with gravel shoes is that they’re usually slightly heavier than road shoes and not quite as stiff (which will affect your pedalling power). 

But for riders who value comfort and practicality over pure speed, gravel shoes are an excellent choice. They’re the do-it-all option that’s useful on many road types. 

Option 3: MTB Shoes

If you’re a mountain biker, cyclocross racer, or someone who loves rough trails, mountain bike (MTB) shoes are your best friend. They’re built to take on any rough conditions, with durable and grippy soles that provide traction on dirt, mud, and rocks.

Like gravel shoes, MTB shoes use a 2-bolt cleat system with recessed cleats, making them easier to walk in. There are also flat pedal mountain bike shoes if you’re looking for a more traditional shoe that’s designed for platform pedals. Flat pedal shoes resemble tennis shoes, with a grippy and durable rubber outsole.

Many riders prefer mountain bike shoes because they can be more comfortable than gravel shoes and road shoes. They are also pretty robust and offer protection when you need it, especially around rocks. Some MTB shoes even have replaceable toe spikes for extra grip in cyclocross or extreme conditions.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a table with each of the features of road shoes, gravel shoes, and mountain bike shoes. 

Conclusion

Choosing the right cycling shoes is all about matching your footwear to your riding style, terrain, and goals. If you’re unsure which shoe fits your riding, and if you’re new to the world of cycling shoes, we recommend visiting a reputable bike accessories shop to try on a few pairs and discuss your needs with an experienced seller. 

Rouleur Cycles is New Zealand’s premium bike shop, pairing riders with the best type of bikes and accessories. We offer a range of bike shoes in-store in Auckland for your next big adventure. To find your ideal shoe, visit rouleurcycles.co.nz.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use road shoes for gravel or trail riding?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Road shoes lack durability and are usually difficult to walk in on loose surfaces. Gravel or MTB shoes are safer and more practical off-road.

Q2: What makes gravel shoes different from MTB shoes?
Gravel shoes are generally stiffer and lighter, and are built for pedalling efficiency over long distances. MTB shoes has better grip and protection for rougher trails.

Q3: Are 2-bolt and 3-bolt cleats interchangeable?
No, they use different mounting systems. A 3-bolt cleat won’t fit a 2-bolt shoe, and vice versa.

Q4: Which shoe style is best for bikepacking adventures?
Gravel shoes are ideal for bikepacking thanks to their blend of stiffness, comfort, and walkability.

Q5: Do MTB shoes reduce power transfer compared to road shoes?
Slightly! MTB soles are more flexible for walking, but the latest designs, like the Fizik Vento Proxy, still offer plenty of stiffness for most riders.