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Gravel Shoes
2021 BUYER’S GUIDE
GEAR
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GRAVEL SHOES
Q36.5 Unique Adventure $594 Rapha Explore PowerWeave $485 Pearl Izumi Gravel X $350
Designed as a premium gravel riding shoe, the Unique Adventure features innovative construction details that deliver exceptional performance and fit. For the upper, Q36.5 specs a lightweight and subtly perforated microfibre material that conforms to the foot and provides adequate ventilation when riding in warm conditions. Two Boa closures combine with a Power Wrap Support strap (located at the middle of the shoe inside the upper) to deliver a locked-in fit when climbing and sprinting. Q36.5 employs its unique carbon-fibre outsole for optimal stiffness and efficient power. The outsole also features sufficient rebound, which helps reduce fatigue on long rides. (roadkit.com)
Created specifically for gravel and cross country riding, the new Explore PowerWeave shoes offer many of the innovations originally found in Rapha’s Pro Team road shoes, as well as features specifically geared for gravel and dirt. The upper showcases Rapha’s tpU Yarn reinforced PowerWeave woven upper that’s durable, waterrepellent and provides a comfortable almost seam-free fit. Closure duties are looked after with micro-adjustable Boa dials – a solid choice that’s become the standard on high-end cycling footwear. The innovation continues in the sole with a replaceable titanium cleat plate, a tuned carbon-fibre midsole for efficient power transfer and easy walking, and an aggressive outsole for solid traction in muddy conditions. (rapha.cc/ca)
Pearl Izumi’s premium gravel shoe, the Gravel X, delivers performance and features worthy of its title. Pearl Izumi starts by spec’ing a full carbon sole for maximum stiffness and efficient power transfer. The upper consists of a durable 3D knit textile that’s highly breathable, dries quickly and easily conforms to the shape of your foot. The addition of a Boa dial ensures a locked-in fit and allows for easy on-the-fly adjustments. Finally, Pearl Izumi wraps the shoe’s perimeter with a thermoplastic polyurethane (tpU) overlay for additional protection and increased durability. This is a great shoe for serious gravel riding. (pearlizumi.com)—GA
