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Rockrider MTB / Gravel Race 900 Habu cycling shoes
It doesn't always have to be the super-expensive high-end model. Decathlon's entry-level shoe from Rockrider shows how you can ride over gravel at an affordable price. The nylon sole provides sufficient power on the pedals, while the coarse tread ensures a secure grip when the only way to go is by pushing. The neatly finished and slightly water-repellent Race 900 can be comfortably adjusted to your feet with a twist lock. The arch of the foot could do with a little more support and a second twist lock would improve the customisability. Price 94,99 Euro >> available here.
Udog Forza
The special wrap-around sole from Udog not only ensures maximum grip off-road, but also protects the toes during off-road use. An extra-wide toe box helps prevent numb feet, while the higher-cut heel area prevents slippage when pedalling or running. With the water-repellent and quick-drying Forza, the Italians deliver a comfortable all-rounder for any weather. Price 199 Euro >> available here.
Northwave Extreme X
When racing, every wasted watt costs extra energy. To ensure that the power from the calves doesn't simply fizzle out, the Italians have opted for an extremely stiff sole made from unidirectional carbon fibre for the Extreme X. The asymmetrical sole structure also supports the arch of the foot for better power transfer. Lasercuts prevent heat build-up, while two SLW3 dials adjust the shoe perfectly to the foot. Minimal tread blocks enable short walking passages and can be replaced when worn. Price 299,99 Euro >> available here.
Fizik Terra Ergolace GTX
Anyone setting off on an adventure tour on a gravel bike should be prepared for anything - with a shoe that can cope with any weather and any terrain. The Terra Ergolace GTX is the Swiss Army knife of gravel shoes with a grippy Vibram sole, waterproof Gore membrane and tear-resistant ripstop fabric. It is as sure-footed as it is powerful and has an uncomplicated and ergonomically positioned lacing system. Thanks to intermediate sizes, you are guaranteed to always find the right model. Price 189 Euro >> available here.
Tatze Contact Combi
Gravel bikes are real all-rounders: gravel or road, raceday or coffee ride - anything is possible. The pedals shouldn't be one-sided either. The Contact Combi from Austrian manufacturer Tatze offers an SPD binding on one side and a large platform with ten snappy pins on the other - making almost any use possible. Robust bearings and a 409 gram CNC body ensure durability. Price 95 Euro >> available here.
Look X One GTi
If the goal is not the route, but the fastest time from A to B, then the X-One-GTi is the perfect pedal for this. It is as slim as a racing bike pedal and converts every pedal stroke into maximum propulsion. The enlarged contact surface gives the foot a secure hold and solid footing when the terrain gets tough. A titanium axle reduces the weight to just 120 grams per pedal, but drives the price up to dizzying heights. If you can put up with 50 grams more weight, choose the significantly cheaper version without titanium. Price 299 / 179 Euro
Wolftooth DEL Gravel Race Clipless
Nothing in life has only advantages, or does it? At 217 grams and with a single binding, the minimalist DEL is as light and aerodynamic as a road pedal, but thanks to the SPD mechanism it also works well off-road. Enlarged contact surfaces improve power transmission and the Q-factor can be customised in three steps. With triple bearings, the DEL should withstand even the toughest gravel races. Price 245 Euro >> available here.
Stefan Frey
Editor
