Bont Riot & Vaypor S Cycling Shoes Review: High-Arch Comfort & Performance

Finding the perfect cycling shoes can be a challenge, especially for cyclists with high arches. Discomfort and pressure points are common complaints, often leading to the need for specialized insoles or orthotics. This review examines two models from Bont, renowned for their comfort and support: the Bont Riot and the Bont Vaypor S. Both shoes are specifically designed to address the needs of cyclists with high arches, offering solutions for a comfortable and injury-free riding experience. We'll explore the features and benefits of each model, comparing their performance, price points, and overall suitability for different rider needs and budgets.This detailed comparison will help you determine which shoe best fits your requirements. We'll delve into the unique design features of the Riot, highlighting its affordability and surprising performance capabilities. We'll then examine the Vaypor S, a high-end model offering superior performance and a fully customizable fit. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear understanding of whether the value-driven Riot or the premium Vaypor S is the right choice for your cycling needs and foot type.

Pros And Cons

Bont Vapor S Cycling Shoes
  • Exceptionally good.
  • Lightweight
  • Full carbon sole
  • Heat moldable
  • BOA system for easy adjustment
  • Disperses pressure well
  • Can feel a bit fragile.
  • Pricey (~£300+)
Bont Riot Cycling Shoes
  • Helps disperse pressure on feet with high arches.
  • Relatively inexpensive (~£65)
  • Heat moldable
  • Not as good as Vapor S model.

Read more: 5 Best Vibram Cycling Shoes: A Buyer's Guide

Addressing High-Arch Foot Needs

Many cyclists with high arches face discomfort and pressure points from ill-fitting shoes. Finding the right footwear is crucial for comfort and preventing injuries during long rides.

Close-up of the speaker's feet, showcasing high arches.
Close-up of the speaker's feet, showcasing high arches.

Specialized insoles and orthotics often become necessary to provide adequate arch support and distribute pressure correctly across the foot.

The speaker emphasizing the need for special insoles and orthotics.
The speaker emphasizing the need for special insoles and orthotics.

This review focuses on two cycling shoe models designed to address these concerns, offering solutions for those with challenging foot shapes.

Bont Riot Cycling Shoes: Entry-Level Comfort

The Bont Riot is positioned as an entry-level model, but don't let that fool you. These shoes are designed with a wide, flat platform, often described as 'duck-billed' or 'platypus-like'.

A detailed view of the Bont Riot shoe.
A detailed view of the Bont Riot shoe.

This unique design helps disperse pressure across the foot, making them particularly suitable for individuals with high arches, metatarsalgia, or other foot issues.

Close-up showing the 'duck-billed' design of the Bont Riot sole.
Close-up showing the 'duck-billed' design of the Bont Riot sole.

The fiberglass sole provides excellent stiffness for power transfer, while the comfortable fit reduces hot spots and pressure points. Retailing around £65, they represent great value for money.

The speaker discussing the price of the Bont Riot shoes.
The speaker discussing the price of the Bont Riot shoes.

Bont Vaypor S Cycling Shoes: Top-Tier Performance

For cyclists seeking premium performance, the Bont Vaypor S represents the top-of-the-line option. These shoes feature a full carbon sole for exceptional stiffness and power transfer.

The speaker holding up the Bont Vaypor S cycling shoes.
The speaker holding up the Bont Vaypor S cycling shoes.

Like the Riot, they offer a heat-moldable design, allowing for a fully customized fit that conforms to the individual's foot shape and arch height. The Boa closure system allows for fine-tuned adjustability.

Close-up on the carbon sole and Boa dial of the Bont Vaypor S.
Close-up on the carbon sole and Boa dial of the Bont Vaypor S.

While the price point is higher, around £300, the Vaypor S provides superior performance and comfort for serious cyclists willing to invest in the best.

The speaker mentioning the price of the Bont Vaypor S shoes.
The speaker mentioning the price of the Bont Vaypor S shoes.

Comparison and Conclusion

Both the Bont Riot and Vaypor S excel in providing comfortable, supportive fits, especially beneficial for cyclists with high arches. The Riot offers excellent value at a lower price point, while the Vaypor S provides a superior, high-performance option.

The speaker discussing the heat-moldable feature.
The speaker discussing the heat-moldable feature.

The heat-moldable feature in both models allows for personalized adjustments, addressing individual foot needs. The Boa closure system on both adds to precise fit and ease of use.

Close-up on the Boa closure system on one of the shoes.
Close-up on the Boa closure system on one of the shoes.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and budget. For casual riders seeking comfortable support, the Riot is an excellent choice. For serious cyclists prioritizing top-tier performance, the additional cost of the Vaypor S is justified.

The speaker summarizing the shoes and their suitability for different needs.
The speaker summarizing the shoes and their suitability for different needs.