Shimano RX8
The Shimano RX8 earns a best-in-class spot for gravel cycling clipless shoes by combining a stiff carbon sole with a recessed two-bolt SPD-compatible platform that balances pedaling efficiency and off-bike traction. Compared with the premium S-Works Recon it delivers similar power transfer at a friendlier price, and its wider, more forgiving fit and proven Shimano retention system make it a practical, cost-efficient choice for long mixed-terrain rides. Technical strengths are reliable SPD engagement and durable construction, making it a dependable option for riders who prioritize value without sacrificing performance.
Trail-tough grip
Power transfer
Trail-tough grip
Power transfer
Review Summary
"Users praise the RX8 for its stiff, efficient carbon sole, secure fit and excellent walkability for gravel rides, though some note it's a touch heavy and less breathable on very hot days."
SPD-ready swagger
High-stiffness sole optimized for long gravel rides and efficient power transfer.
SPD-ready swagger
High-stiffness sole optimized for long gravel rides and efficient power transfer.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Shimano RX8 earns a best-in-class spot for gravel cycling clipless shoes by combining a stiff carbon sole with a recessed two-bolt SPD-compatible platform that balances pedaling efficiency and off-bike traction. Compared with the premium S-Works Recon it delivers similar power transfer at a friendlier price, and its wider, more forgiving fit and proven Shimano retention system make it a practical, cost-efficient choice for long mixed-terrain rides. Technical strengths are reliable SPD engagement and durable construction, making it a dependable option for riders who prioritize value without sacrificing performance.
Trail-tough grip
Power transfer
SPD-ready swagger
High-stiffness sole optimized for long gravel rides and efficient power transfer.
Gravel-oriented tread and recessed cleat area for more comfortable walking on rough terrain.
Trail-tough grip
Power transfer
SPD-ready swagger
High-stiffness sole optimized for long gravel rides and efficient power transfer.
Gravel-oriented tread and recessed cleat area for more comfortable walking on rough terrain.
$350-450 CAD
Specialized S-Works Recon
The Specialized S-Works Recon is the market leader for gravel clipless shoes thanks to its ultra-light, carbon-stiff sole, Body Geometry ergonomics and race-focused fit that maximize power transfer for competitive gravel riders. It is noticeably more expensive than the other models here, but the premium materials and marginal gains in weight and stiffness put it ahead for riders who prioritize top-end performance over cost. Compared to the Shimano RX8 and Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro it favors minimal weight and elite pedaling efficiency at the expense of some off-bike walkability and a higher price tag.
Featherweight power
Precision fit
Featherweight power
Precision fit
Review Summary
"Riders rate the S-Works Recon as best-in-class for power transfer, lightweight construction and comfort on long gravel stages, but it's very expensive and some find it overkill for casual gravel use."
Mud-shredding sole
Ultra-stiff, lightweight carbon sole for maximum pedaling efficiency on demanding gravel routes.
Mud-shredding sole
Ultra-stiff, lightweight carbon sole for maximum pedaling efficiency on demanding gravel routes.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Skill Development & Mastery
The Specialized S-Works Recon is the market leader for gravel clipless shoes thanks to its ultra-light, carbon-stiff sole, Body Geometry ergonomics and race-focused fit that maximize power transfer for competitive gravel riders. It is noticeably more expensive than the other models here, but the premium materials and marginal gains in weight and stiffness put it ahead for riders who prioritize top-end performance over cost. Compared to the Shimano RX8 and Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro it favors minimal weight and elite pedaling efficiency at the expense of some off-bike walkability and a higher price tag.
Featherweight power
Precision fit
Mud-shredding sole
Ultra-stiff, lightweight carbon sole for maximum pedaling efficiency on demanding gravel routes.
Precision closure delivers a race-ready, locked-in fit with excellent breathability.
Featherweight power
Precision fit
Mud-shredding sole
Ultra-stiff, lightweight carbon sole for maximum pedaling efficiency on demanding gravel routes.
Precision closure delivers a race-ready, locked-in fit with excellent breathability.
$700-850 CAD
Giro Empire VR90
The Giro Empire VR90 stands out as a gravel clipless shoe for riders who want classic lace-up micro-adjustability and superior walkability via a grippy Vibram outsole, making it one of the best choices for mixed-surface adventures and bikepacking. It trades a bit of the laser-focused stiffness of the S-Works Recon for comfort and versatile traction, and typically sits at a mid-range price that undercuts the top-tier Specialized while offering better off-bike performance than many pure road-leaning models. Its simple, durable construction and predictable fit make it especially attractive for riders who value long-day comfort and confidence on technical trails.
Classic lace fit
Carbon-snap stiffness
Classic lace fit
Carbon-snap stiffness
Review Summary
"The Empire VR90 is lauded for its classic lace fit, durable Vibram outsole and natural walkfeel, while a few users mention the laces collect debris and it's slightly less stiff than pure road shoes."
All-road charisma
Full-grain leather upper that molds to the foot for long-term comfort and durability.
All-road charisma
Full-grain leather upper that molds to the foot for long-term comfort and durability.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
The Giro Empire VR90 stands out as a gravel clipless shoe for riders who want classic lace-up micro-adjustability and superior walkability via a grippy Vibram outsole, making it one of the best choices for mixed-surface adventures and bikepacking. It trades a bit of the laser-focused stiffness of the S-Works Recon for comfort and versatile traction, and typically sits at a mid-range price that undercuts the top-tier Specialized while offering better off-bike performance than many pure road-leaning models. Its simple, durable construction and predictable fit make it especially attractive for riders who value long-day comfort and confidence on technical trails.
Classic lace fit
Carbon-snap stiffness
All-road charisma
Full-grain leather upper that molds to the foot for long-term comfort and durability.
Carbon-infused outsole balances pedaling stiffness with walkability for mixed terrain.
Classic lace fit
Carbon-snap stiffness
All-road charisma
Full-grain leather upper that molds to the foot for long-term comfort and durability.
Carbon-infused outsole balances pedaling stiffness with walkability for mixed terrain.
Fizik Terra X5
The Fizik Terra X5 earns a place on this list by delivering a balanced, performance-oriented gravel clipless shoe with a stiff carbon plate, adaptive last and a grippy outsole that bridges the gap between race shoes and walkable gravel footwear. Financially it often represents strong value relative to the S-Works Recon, offering many high-end features—secure closures and efficient power transfer—while maintaining a competitive price point and Italian design flair. Technically it shines for riders seeking a responsive ride without giving up day-long comfort or trail-side traction compared with stiffer, lighter race models.
Sticky outsole
Comfort stretch
Sticky outsole
Comfort stretch
Review Summary
"Reviewers like the Terra X5 for its comfortable fit, grippy Vibram sole and everyday gravel versatility, though many note it isn't the stiffest choice for maximum power transfer and sizing can run narrow."
BOA-tuned finesse
Durable upper paired with a grippy Vibram-style outsole for confident traction on loose surfaces.
BOA-tuned finesse
Durable upper paired with a grippy Vibram-style outsole for confident traction on loose surfaces.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Time-Saving Convenience
The Fizik Terra X5 earns a place on this list by delivering a balanced, performance-oriented gravel clipless shoe with a stiff carbon plate, adaptive last and a grippy outsole that bridges the gap between race shoes and walkable gravel footwear. Financially it often represents strong value relative to the S-Works Recon, offering many high-end features—secure closures and efficient power transfer—while maintaining a competitive price point and Italian design flair. Technically it shines for riders seeking a responsive ride without giving up day-long comfort or trail-side traction compared with stiffer, lighter race models.
Sticky outsole
Comfort stretch
BOA-tuned finesse
Durable upper paired with a grippy Vibram-style outsole for confident traction on loose surfaces.
Balanced sole stiffness that supports efficient pedaling while remaining comfortable on hikes.
Sticky outsole
Comfort stretch
BOA-tuned finesse
Durable upper paired with a grippy Vibram-style outsole for confident traction on loose surfaces.
Balanced sole stiffness that supports efficient pedaling while remaining comfortable on hikes.
$300-380 CAD
Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro
The Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro is positioned as a durable, do-it-all gravel clipless shoe offering a stiff carbon sole, reliable BOA closure options and a lugged outsole for confident walking on rough terrain. It frequently undercuts the S-Works Recon on price while matching many technical attributes—stiffness, comfort and all-condition traction—making it a high-value choice for riders who want near-pro performance without the top-tier premium. Compared with the Shimano RX8 and Giro VR90 it combines road-efficient pedal power with better long-distance comfort and durability aimed at bikepackers and gravel riders who demand longevity.
All-day comfort
Roomy toe box
All-day comfort
Roomy toe box
Review Summary
"The Expedition Pro earns praise for its comfortable, glove-like fit, rugged outsole and reliable Boa closures for long gravel rides, but some users report it's heavier and less ventilated than rivals."
Pedal-to-path confidence
Stiff, ride-focused sole designed for long days in the saddle and loaded adventures.
Pedal-to-path confidence
Stiff, ride-focused sole designed for long days in the saddle and loaded adventures.
Enhanced Physical Well-Being
Recreational Enjoyment
Time-Saving Convenience
The Pearl Izumi Expedition Pro is positioned as a durable, do-it-all gravel clipless shoe offering a stiff carbon sole, reliable BOA closure options and a lugged outsole for confident walking on rough terrain. It frequently undercuts the S-Works Recon on price while matching many technical attributes—stiffness, comfort and all-condition traction—making it a high-value choice for riders who want near-pro performance without the top-tier premium. Compared with the Shimano RX8 and Giro VR90 it combines road-efficient pedal power with better long-distance comfort and durability aimed at bikepackers and gravel riders who demand longevity.
All-day comfort
Roomy toe box
Pedal-to-path confidence
Stiff, ride-focused sole designed for long days in the saddle and loaded adventures.
Water-resistant, durable upper materials suitable for varied weather and rough trails.
All-day comfort
Roomy toe box
Pedal-to-path confidence
Stiff, ride-focused sole designed for long days in the saddle and loaded adventures.
Water-resistant, durable upper materials suitable for varied weather and rough trails.
$300-450 CAD