British footwear specialist QUOC is back with a sharp new addition to its growing road range, and they brought a little world firepower along for the ride. Co-developed with none other than Geraint Thomas, the M3 Pro is QUOC’s new flagship road shoe—and after many miles in them, I can safely say: this one’s a looker that backs it up with legit performance.
The G Shoe
First spotted back at Volta ao Algarve when G was spotted rocking an unfamiliar QUOC prototype—spoiler alert, it was the M3 Air. Fast forward a year, and the M3 Pro drops as a refined evolution of that shoe, tweaked to survive brutal pro mileage (plus the East Coast spring) and still wash up to look photo-shoot-ready.
But that’s not all; the new M3 Pro drops alongside the more price-palatable M3 Sport. The M3 Pro dethrones the M3 Air (more of a lightweight summer shoe, IMO), and claims the top of the podium of QUOC’s lineup—and it shows. If gravel, cross country, or off-road is more your jam, you need to take a peek at the new QUOC x MAAP collaboration.
What’s New?
From a distance, the M3 Pro looks nearly identical to the M3 Air—and that’s not bad. That same clean, race-ready silhouette remains, but the updates are subtle and smart. Most noticeably, the mesh ventilation zones of the M3 Air are gone, swapped for a glossy TPU upper that feels more durable and is way easier to clean after a winter training block or dusty crit.
This is a response to real-world pro use—because, let’s face it, keeping white shoes clean when you ride 25+ hours a week is a war of attrition. Plus, the exposed stitching and mesh seemed to take on dirt alarmingly fast. That new TPU upper shrugs off scuffs, wipes down easily, and keeps the overall look nice and sharp, thanks to covered and bonded stitching and less mesh paneling.
The rest of the package follows the QUOC formula: the same carbon sole, the same last, dual dials, and three-bolt compatibility. Even the heel and toe bumpers carry over. You’ll feel at home here if you’ve ridden the M3 Air.
QUOC M3 Series Weight:
- QUOC M3 Pro: 253g
- QUOC M3 Sport: 235g
- QUOC M3 Air: 237g
All Size 42.5*
Fit & Feel
Stepping into the M3 Pro feels like slipping on a very firm, very fast slipper. QUOC’s shaping philosophy is low-volume and sleek, which I usually don’t love, but these feel nice. If you have wide feet, though, you might want to test first—these shoes aren’t remarkably roomy, especially across the forefoot.
The Pro’s toe box feels just a touch roomier than the M3 Air’s. The new TPU upper is more forgiving and less structured than the matte material used on the Air, which might help folks with mid-volume feet find a better match.
The included stick-on arch inserts are a nice bonus, though they’re a little one-and-done after a few rides. Most riders are serious enough for a $430 shoe, and they probably have custom insoles anyway, but it’s a thoughtful touch.
The heel cup doesn’t offer great heel retention. There isn’t an internal gripper like others, which we noted in the Air’s heel. Some gripper of sorts would go a long way; the leather-like material used slips slightly, but it isn’t a big drawback on the bike when firmly snugged down.
On the Road
Stiffness? No problem. The carbon sole means business and feels solid under power—it’s the same as the M3 Air. Out of the saddle, they respond fast—no flex, no squish, no power lost. Sprinting, climbing, long seated drags—it’s all good here.
I did notice a minor rub point on the top of the shoe (similar to the Specialized S-Works 7 shoes), but it disappears once you’re clipped in. The closure dials aren’t quite as micro-adjustable as BOA’s top-tier options, and this is notable if you’re switching from a BOA model shoe. However, they are no less secure. It reminded me slightly of going to and from North Wave shoes.
What shines, though, is the ride feel. It’s light, planted, and invisible on your foot—everything you want in a pro-level shoe. The last and overall fit is modern, and the shape is foot-shaped and doesn’t come to a point like some shoes. And yes, they clean up nicely, especially for a white shoe. Just a quick wipe, and they’re ready for podium shots.
What About the M3 Sport?
I have some miles in the M3 Sports, and they feel just as nice (and they are lighter!). For $270, these shoes are a crazy deal. They are just as comfortable as the M3 Pro; truthfully, it was hard to tell the difference. It has the same sole and last, just a softer PU upper and a padded tongue. It offers more comfort and less race-rigidity. It’s a solid option if you want QUOC’s design DNA without the top-tier price.
Style Points
Aesthetically, the M3 Pro nails it. The branding is subtle enough to say, “I know what’s up,” without screaming. White is the only launch color, which won’t be for everyone, but it’s a firm flex if you can keep them clean (or now, just wipe them off).
Final Thoughts
At $430 / €380 / £320, the QUOC M3 Pro is priced alongside (or lower if you consider the new Specialized Ares 2) other flagship road shoes and earns its place. It’s a refined, cleanly executed update to an already excellent platform, with real pro input and practical improvements. This is a killer option if you’re racing, training hard, or just want your shoes to look box-fresh after every ride. I do wish they came equipped with the popular Li2 BOA dials, but you can’t have it all.
If you’re looking for all the above but on a budget, check out the M3 Sport. It has all the hype of the M3 Pro without the price tag – $270 / €237 / £204
QUOC continues to impress with its thoughtful design and commitment to real-world performance. The M3 Pro won’t reinvent the wheel, but it might just be your next favorite road shoe—especially if you’re chasing that world tour look with all-day comfort to match.
