Best Bikepacking Shoes of 2024

JUMP TO: FIZIK TERA ERGOLACE X2  |  SPECIALIZE RECON ADV  |  FIVE TEN FREE RIDER PRO  |  FIVE TEN TRAILCROSS GTX  |  GIRO BERM  |  SHIMANO SH SD 501  |  GIRO TRACKER | BUYING ADVICE | COMMON QUESTIONS

Author: Sam Brilleman | Updated: Apr 28, 2024
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The Short Version

The Long Version

When you're out on a bikepacking trip you only have three points of contact with your trusty bike: the handlebars, the saddle, and yes, you guessed it, your pedals. Comfort and performance at these three points become more important the longer you are in the saddle. When it comes to connecting pedals to feet, skimping on good bikepacking shoes can easily lead to numbness, chafing, or blisters.

Feet problems are a quick way to a bad time whether you are out for a casual bikepacking overnighter, a months-long epic, or anything in between. When picking the best bikepacking shoes you’ll need to consider the specific nature of your trip, from the surfaces you’ll be cycling on, the weather, and the amount of hike-a-bike sections and off-saddle exploring you expect to do.

We’ve put in the work to assess pedal compatibility, weight, best weather use, material construction, and closure mechanisms of the best bikepacking shoes so you can make an informed choice for your next adventure.

 

Need To Know What To Look Out For?

When looking into bikepacking shoes there is a lot to consider: material, tread, sole rigidity, closure mechanisms, breathability, weight, and pedal choice all play a role. Our buying advice at the end of the article will help you make sense of all these factors.

 

Best Overall: FIZIK TERRA ERGOLACE X2

TYPE: Clipless and Flat

BEST WEATHER USE: Versatile

WEIGHT: 329 g (Pair Size 42.5)

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Enough flexibility for comfortable walking, lightweight, huge size and color range, flat and clipless options

CONS: Minimal padding doesn’t offer a lot of cushion for the rough stuff 

Offering a blend of functionality and comfort,  the Fizik Terra Ergolace X2 shoes are geared towards long-distance bikepacking adventures with lots of walking. These shoes are not specifically catering to one extreme of cycling: they are instead reliable all-rounders, and our favorite for long adventures in variable conditions.. 

The Terra Ergolace shoes don't have the bulky padding that you might find on a more mountain biking geared shoe, so the minimal cushioning may leave something to be desired on technical singletrack. Rather, Fizik has taken a balanced approach to stiffness, comfort, and grip. They are not the best at anything, but they are great at everything, making them an ideal choice for riders seeking a versatile, stylish, and durable shoe for sightseeing, hiking, and biking. 

If you like the sound of great all-around biking shoes but think you need something for more extreme elements, Fizik offers a waterproof model of the Terra Ergolace, adding in a Gore-Tex membrane.

Best for Clipless Pedals: SPECIALIZED RECON ADV

TYPE: Clipless

BEST WEATHER USE: Warm weather

WEIGHT: 478 g (Pair US Women's 9.5)

PRICE: $$$$

PROS: Fun color options, designed for warm weather

CONS: Carbon fiber sole can be stiff for hike-a-bike

The most recent addition to the Specialized Recon lineup, the Recon Adv, is designed for adventure. The shoes features a standard two-bolt cleat pattern, lace-up closures, and a wider-than average toe box: they strike a mean balance between fit and efficiency of clipless shoes with the comfort and walkability of flat pedal shoes

These shoes have been designed with Specialized’s Body Geometry design principles, meaning the shoe has been optimized so a rider can retain proper alignment on the bike. With a blend of durability and comfort, and features like a rubber composite toe, and microfiber backing, they excel at keeping your feet dry even when sweating. 

Though marketed for their walkability, the stiff sole might not be ideal for long walking sections off the bike compared to alternatives like the Fizik Terra Ergolace X2. and there isn’t ample room to layer thick socks for colder conditions. But in most bikepacking-friendly conditions, the Recon ADV remains comfortable and responsive: it is an excellent clipless bikepacking shoe for long summer days on rideable pavement, gravel, and dirt.

Best for Flat Pedals: FIVE TEN FREE RIDER PRO

TYPE: Flat

BEST WEATHER USE: Fair weather  

WEIGHT: 836 g (Pair Mens US Size 9)

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Best pedal grip around, super comfortable padding, durable

CONS: Takes a long time to dry 

The Five Ten Free Rider Pro shoes are reliable, fun, and up for any challenge. Perfect for those who love the freedom of flat pedals, these shoes stick to your pedals like glue, giving you that extra dose of confidence while you navigate technical terrain or cruise flowy trails.

You will be hard-pressed to find a more durable shoe than the Free Rider Pro. They are built like tanks:  their rubber outsoles and lightweight but durable synthetic uppers will be able to keep up with anything you throw at them. The solid construction and supple padding of the Free RIder Pros means they aren’t very breathable and when they do get wet it will take them a long time to dry. They might not be the best option for soggy spring missions, but their comfort and durability is hard to beat.

Best Waterproof: FIVE TEN TRAILCROSS GTX

TYPE: Flat pedals

BEST WEATHER USE: Cold and wet weather

WEIGHT: 850 g (size 42) 

PRICE: $$$

PROS: Waterproof, Great pedal grip, flexible sole

CONS: Lack of ventilation, no insulation

If you ride in cold and wet situations then the Five Ten Trailcross GTX shoes are for you. The waterproofing is thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane, so the water stays out but your feet can still breathe. A neoprene ankle cuff and closed-cell sock liner take weather resistance to another level while also keeping trail debris out. 

These bikepacking shoes are our favorite option for adverse weather conditions, but their ruggedness does come with certain downsides. Most notably, the GTX membrane will leave your feet hot in warm weather. And, although they are rainstorm-worthy, the shoes are not insulated. They do best in wet but mild spring and fall conditions.

he Trailcross GTX’s construction  features Five Ten’s renowned grip and durability. The rigid soles and exceptional traction on flat pedals ensures a secure and reliable connection. Midsole flexpoints and light outsole lugs ensure just enough comfort and traction for extended hike-a-bike sections on sloppy trails or gravel roads. . 

The grip, durability, and water-resistant design make the Trailcross GTX an attractive choice for shoulder season bikepacking adventures in less than favorable conditions.

Best on a Budget: GIRO BERM

TYPE: Clipless

BEST USE: Fair and wet weather 

WEIGHT: 912 g (Pair, size 44)

PRICE: $

PROS: Budget friendly, comfortable,  dries quickly

CONS: Minimal padding, only Velcro closure 

The Giro Berm is a versatile option for bikepackers seeking a budget-friendly, clipless-compatible shoe. A reinforced heel and toe, combined with the aggressive tread means this shoe is ready to shred trails and keep up with any hike-a-bike you throw at it. The mesh upper means it's a breathable shoe that will dry quickly from inclement weather.. 

The two wide velcro straps offer a firm grip on your foot and make it effortless to get in and out., However, Velcro does have a limited life span, especially when exposed to lots of mud and dirt. The straps also don’t do much to dial in the toebox fit, which is on the wider side and may feel imprecise for narrow-footed riders.Midsole cushioning and ankle collar padding is also rather minimal.

More expensive bikepacking shoes outperform the Giro Berm on durability and overall build quality, but it is a very solid wallet-friendly option — especially if you are interested in clipless pedals but not completely sold on the idea. The Berm is marketed as a mountain bike pedal but is a true jack of all trades and can serve you well bikepacking, commuting and gravel riding. It delivers on comfort, breathability, fastening and traction at a very impressive price point.

Best Sandals: SHIMANO SH SD 501

TYPE: Flat pedals

BEST USE: Warm and wet weather

WEIGHT: 396 g (Pair Size 42)  

PRICE: $$

PROS: Unbeatable ventilation, very quick drying, great for wide feet

CONS: No protection from rocks or debris, you’ll need to pair  with socks for warmth

Bikepacking in sandals? It might sound a bit crazy to forgo foot protection.The open design does sacrifice protection from sharp and spiked debris, but bikepacking sandals like the Shimano SH SD 501 provide unbeatable airflow for warm-weather rides. On routes like the Baja Divide or the Arizona Trail, where keeping your feet dry and well-ventilated is key, they make sense. 

The SH SD 501 doesn’t have a name that rolls off the tongue or a look that screams cool, but the sandal caters perfectly to bikepackers who prioritize breathability and comfort over traditional protection. SPD cleat compatibility means you don’t have to sacrifice pedaling efficiency for comfort. An open toe design and adjustable hook-and-loop straps make it easy to rock an iconic socks and sandals look when the temperature drops.

The Shimano SH SD 501 is certainly never our bikepacking footwear choice for muddy, rocky, and rugged routes. But the sandals offer fantastic airflow and endless comfort. They are perfect for warm weather rides on cruisy terrain.

Best for Minimalists: GIRO TRACKER

TYPE: Flat

BEST WEATHER USE: Versatile 

WEIGHT: 606 grams (pair EU size 39)

PRICE: $$

PROS: Lightweight, BOA adjustability and precision 

CONS: Not a lot of padding for really rough stuff, flat sole might not offer great grip for hike-a-bike

The Giro Tracker is a lightweight and versatile backing that is well-suited to the unique demands of bikepacking. Sticky rubber soles offer control on flat pedals and are equally comfortable while in the saddle or on your feet. Boa L6 dials deliver a precise fit and are easy to adjust throughout the day as your feet begin to swell.. 

The Giro Tracker finds its place in a myriad of cycling shoe options as a scaled-down mountain bike shoe. It is made out of lighter and thinner materials than many heavier mountain biking-specific shoes, retaining many key performance elements while providing longer lasting comfort. Although they don’t match the pedaling efficiency of clipless-compatible shoes, it is hard to beat the stripped down comfort and versatility of the Tracker. It is the perfect bikepacking shoe for trips where you’re exploring on your feet as much as you are on your bike.

BUYING ADVICE FOR BIKEPACKING SHOES

FLAT OR CLIPLESS: When choosing a bikepacking shoe, the first critical consideration is deciding between clipless and flat pedals. Clipless shoes offer a secure connection to the pedal, maximizing power transfer. However, they connect you to the bike and can make a rider feel less in control since you have to unclip before putting your foot down. Flat pedal shoes provide freedom of movement on and off the bike, and easier disengagement from the bike. But that comes at the cost of reduced pedaling efficiency. Ultimately  there is no right choice – it all boils down to personal preference. 

MATERIAL:  When comparing different bikepacking shoes, consider the trade-off between durability and breathability. Sturdier materials like synthetic uppers or leather are great for protection but might compromise on breathability . Lighter mesh-based materials offer better ventilation but might be less durable in rugged conditions. Selecting the right shoe material depends on the rider's priorities and the type of terrain you plan to ride. 

TREAD: Tread design becomes a pivotal consideration if your trips include a lot of hike-a-bike. The right tread offers stability and grip when navigating off-bike sections, such as rocky or muddy trails. It is also important for  flat pedal shoes to have a reliable grip – this ensures your foot stays planted on the pedal. Good pedal grip optimizes control and confidence, especially during technical maneuvers. However, the best tread for optimal grip on flat pedals is very different from tread for walking. If you are interested in finding a flat pedal shoe, you’ll have to consider this balance.

RIGIDITY: A rigid shoe will have very efficient power transfer on the bike, so many road biking shoes are very stiff. However, when you are bikepacking you might be spending time sightseeing, lounging in cafes, or pushing your bike, so shoes that retain some flexibility are often best. Some riders prefer carbon fiber soles for their lightweight, rigid properties that enhance pedaling efficiency, but you will see a sharp reduction in comfort while walking in them.

CLOSURE: Different closure styles offer different levels of adjustment. Common closures are Boa dials, traditional laces, and  velcro. Each closure type offers varying degrees of adjustability and security, and has differing levels of durability. Boa dials are infinitely adjustable but have plastic construction that can break. Laces are durable and easily replaceable, but don;t offer easy tension adjustment and can sometimes unfasten and interfere with your drivetrain. Velcro is an easily adjustable and budget friendly option, but its effectiveness can wane after continual exposure to mud and grit.

If you have very narrow or very wide feet you might want to choose traditional laces since other closures have sharper limits on how big or small they can go. 

BREATHABILITY: During long rides in varying weather conditions, a breathable shoes help regulate temperature and moisture, preventing discomfort and potential issues like blisters. On the other hand, if it's really wet or very cold you want to make sure that water can get out but not in, which could mean either picking a shoe that fits a bulky sock, or incorporates a waterproof-breathable Gore-Tex membrane. 

WEIGHT: Lighter shoes reduce the strain on the legs, enhancing pedaling efficiency and maneuverability. With every pedal stroke and step taken, lighter shoes can reduce fatigue and ensure a more enjoyable biking experience. However, lightweight shoes might forgo conveniences like added cushioning, sole flexibility, or waterproofing so it's important to consider if you value riding speed, cushion for walking around, or extra tread for hike-a-bike.

COMMON QUESTIONS

How do I know what size of bikepacking shoes to buy? Many backpacking shoes don't run true to size, so it's very important to cross check the manufacturer's size guide for accurate measurements and fit recommendations, and to read user reviews. Check the return policy before buying, so you can easily return shoes that don’t fit. 

Are bikepacking shoes different from other cycling shoes? Yes, bikepacking shoes offer more flexibility in the sole than traditional road biking shoes for walking and comfort, and may be less bulky than traditional mountain biking shoes.

Do flat pedal shoes make any difference for cycling? Yes! Flat pedal specific shoes have tough, high-grip rubber soles to help you stay planted on the pedals while riding and waterproof or sweat-wicking materials to ensure your feet stay dry and comfortable.

MORE INFORMATION

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