Purpose-built for gravel road riding, the new Bontrager GR2 gravel shoes are the latest to mix on road performance with off-road capability. As gravel continues to grow in popularity, more companies are shifting what we used to call cross-country mountain bike shoes into the new groad market.
2020 Bontrager GR2 lace-up gravel bike shoes
From the first gravel-specific shoes we’ve ridden, the message remains clear – gravel bike shoes need to mix the pedaling efficiency of a road or even XC race shoe, with a comfortable fit and real off-the-bike walkability. That’s the idea behind the new Bontrager GR2 gravel shoes, adding in a durable upper design to make them adventure-friendly too – ready “for the groad less traveled”.
GR2 gravel – Tech details
The GR2 shoes don’t look to be revolutionary, but a solid mix of performance and value from a trusted brand. The shoes are made from a durable, perforated synthetic upper with rubberized GnarGuard toe & heel scruff protection, and use simple and traditional lacing.
Small details boost usability, like the elastic loop to keep laces out of your chain and a webbing loop on the heel designed to hang the shoes for quick drying.
Bontrager says their fit leans towards the roomy side with an ‘inForm Race last’ to provide year-round comfort. They get a reinforced Bronze-level nylon composite sole for balanced stiffness, rated a 6 of 14 on Bontrager’s index. A grippy Tachyon rubber outsole with screw-in toe spikes should offer all-terrain traction.
Bontrager GR2 gravel shoes – Pricing & availability
The Bontrager GR2 gravel shoes have a claimed weight of 418g (per size 42 shoe) and come in either black or ‘Old Style’ gold – available from 36-48 & half sizes from 38-46. The shoes retail for $140 and are available direct online, or through Trek dealers around the world now. The come with the Unconditional Bontrager Guarantee, so test ride them worry-free for 30 days and return them if you aren’t totally satisfied.
Bontrager Foray mountain bike shoes, gravel shoes with a twist
Like the look and spec of the GR2, but would rather have a more modern look and closure system? The new Bontrager Foray mountain bike shoes share all of the same construction details, from synthetic upper to the 6/14 outsole, but swap in single Boa L6 dial retention and one velcro strap to secure your foot. The $150 Foray is available in four colors, ranging from subtle black to ‘Radioactive’ yellow with Waterloo blue accents.
