 | | | Are road shoes appropriate for gravel riding? Here’s a full shoe/pedal breakdown to help you understand the differences. | |
| These road-style 3-bolt cleat/pedal systems (sometimes called “Look-style”) offer a larger platform, giving you maximum power transfer and pedaling efficiency. If you’re chasing those off-road KOMs the extra power is great, but the benefits of those super-stiff soles end the moment you get off your gravel bike. With very little tread, 3-bolt shoes are less than ideal if you need to get off and hike up a steep/rocky climb. And those beautiful, shiny outsoles can take a beating on sharp rocks. | |
 |  | | Many gravel riders use 2-bolt cleat/pedal systems (sometimes called “SPD-style”). Most commonly used with mountain bike shoes, 2-bolt pedals are smaller and better at clearing dirt and debris. Another benefit is that the smaller cleats allow for shoe outsoles with aggressive tread that can provide traction off the bike. The downside? Compared to road-style systems, 2-bolt cleats/pedals generally aren’t as efficient in terms of power transfer. | |
| Of course, you can ride any kind of pedal you like. Just make sure that your shoe is a good match with the pedals. Not sure about your choice? Learn more about 2-bolt and 3-bolt pedals, shoes, technology, fit, and performance below. | |
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