This review dives into the Adidas Gravel cycling shoes, examining whether they live up to the hype. We'll assess their comfort, fit, and overall performance, considering aspects like the unique integrated cuff, the durable construction, and the minimalist design. We'll explore both the strengths and weaknesses, focusing on key features such as the carbon outsole, the recycled materials used in their construction, and the potentially hazardous lack of grip on the midsole. Our analysis will help you decide if these shoes are the right choice for your gravel riding needs.This detailed assessment covers fit and comfort for various foot shapes, examining the advantages and disadvantages of the lacing system and the shoe's overall aesthetic appeal. We'll look at the practicality of features like the pull tabs and reflective elements, as well as delve into the sustainability aspects, highlighting Adidas' use of recycled materials. Finally, we'll discuss potential areas for improvement, considering features that could enhance the shoes' functionality, weather protection, and overall design appeal.
Pros And Cons
- Good overall fit (slightly narrow, similar to Giro VR 90, extra toe box room)
- Function pull tabs at fore and aft of foot opening
- Reflective bits
- 2-bolt cleat compatibility on a full-length carbon outsole (light and fast)
- TPU pods on outsole great for walking
- Rugged laminated ripstop upper (won't stretch or bag out)
- Nice material break in the toe cap
- Fully synthetic (vegan and at least 50% recycled)
- Lace closure mechanism offers minimal adjustment
- Integrated socklight cuff is unnecessary
- Not waterproof
- Lack of TPU grip on the middle of the shoe (can cause slipping)
- Faux suede toe cap material (aesthetic preference)
Read more: 5 Best Vibram Cycling Shoes: A Buyer's Guide
Fit and Comfort
The Adidas Gravel shoes offer a generally good fit, though it leans slightly towards the narrower side, comparable to the Giro VR90. This might be a consideration for those with wider feet. The toe box provides a bit more space, mitigating the narrowness. The lacing system offers limited adjustability, but the integrated socklight cuff helps compensate for this.
The cuff itself is a unique feature, adding to the overall comfort. While I appreciate its presence, it's not a feature I actively seek in a cycling shoe. The overall fit is comfortable for the majority, but wider-footed cyclists should consider trying them on before purchasing.
Design and Aesthetics
The Adidas Gravel shoes boast a minimalist aesthetic; understated yet distinctive. Functional pull tabs at the heel and toe greatly aid in putting the shoes on and off, enhancing practicality. The inclusion of reflective elements is a welcome safety feature for low-light rides.
The shoe's upper is constructed from a durable, laminated ripstop material, ensuring resistance against stretching or wear. A stylish toe cap adds a touch of visual appeal; although the faux suede material is an interesting choice that might not appeal to all.
Performance and Outsole
These shoes feature a full-length carbon outsole with two-bolt cleat compatibility, contributing to lightweight performance and efficient power transfer. The TPU pods on the outsole provide excellent grip for walking. However, a significant drawback is the lack of TPU in the midsole.
This design flaw results in a slippery midsole area, making it dangerous if the pedal strikes this part of the shoe. This lack of grip can be hazardous, especially during unexpected situations.
Sustainability and Material
The Adidas Gravel shoes are fully synthetic, making them vegan-friendly. They incorporate at least 50% recycled materials, reflecting Adidas' commitment to sustainability. While this is commendable, an increase to 75% recycled content would further enhance their eco-friendliness.
The use of recycled materials doesn't compromise performance. However, the opportunity exists for further improvement in their environmental profile.
Improvements and Suggestions
Several improvements could elevate these shoes further. A waterproof version would greatly broaden their appeal, especially for riders in various weather conditions. Incorporating Gore-Tex or similar technology could achieve this. A low-cut version would provide a lighter and potentially cooler option for warmer weather.
Additionally, integrating the brand's rich cycling heritage into the design through a more vintage aesthetic would make them even more attractive to a broader range of cyclists. Currently, the design appears to be more “techy” than classic.
Conclusion and Verdict
The Adidas Gravel shoes present a compelling blend of features, such as lightweight construction, a comfortable fit (for many), and stylish design. However, the lack of midsole grip remains a significant concern. This issue can be mitigated with the addition of inexpensive anti-slip shower stickers. Even with this workaround, the lack of grip reduces the overall safety and practicality.
Ultimately, the Adidas Gravel shoes are a decent option at a competitive price point, especially considering their recycled content and comfortable features. However, the safety issue related to the lack of midfoot grip, and the missed opportunity for improved waterproofing and design integration, prevent these shoes from achieving full potential and top recommendation. Consider the lack of midfoot grip as a crucial factor in your decision-making process.