Summary

We spent 8.8 hours reading reviews from experts and users. In summary, this is what cyclers think:

6 reasons to buy

  • According to almost all of the users, the Bont Helix is a comfortable road cycling shoe.
  • A lot of testers like that the toe box doesn’t squash their toes but is not too roomy to cause slipping or blisters.
  • A bunch of cyclists claim that this trainer’s stiffness is perfect for pedaling.
  • The light and breathable construction of this model resonates well with multiple reviewers.
  • Several people appreciate the heel lockdown provided by this footwear.
  • This product garners compliments for its style from more than a few consumers.

3 reasons not to buy

  • Several experts wish that there were two BOA dials for better micro-adjustments.
  • The stiff sole isn’t meant for walking, some individuals pointed out.
  • A few owners report pinching on the instep when the dial is tightened too much.

Bottom line

The Bont Helix is anatomically shaped. The close-fitting construction prevents unnecessary movements that could lead to chafing or blisters. This cycling shoe from Bont has a stiff sole unit that maximizes the transfer of energy from the foot to the pedal. It is also praised for its aesthetics and ventilation features.

Facts

Rankings

A top rated Road cycling shoe
A top rated Bont cycling shoe
A popular pick

Expert Reviews

88 / 100 based on 14 expert reviews

  • 80 / 100 | Bike Radar | | Level 3 expert

    Supremely stiff and ultra-light shoes that are built to race.

  • 95 / 100 | Road Bike Rider | | Level 2 expert

    Summing up, Bont’s new Helix shoes raise the bar in fit, comfort and performance, plus they even managed to drop the price. If you’re looking for a shoe upgrade give them a try. And, if you’re concerned about only one dial, give their dual-dial Vaypor S model a go.

  • 90 / 100 | Road Bike Rider | | Level 2 expert

    Bont’s new Helix shoes raise the bar in fit, comfort and performance, plus they even managed to drop the price.

  • 90 / 100 | Road.cc | | Level 2 expert

    Stiff and lightweight shoes made to Bont's usual high standards, although new closure system has both pros and cons.

  • 89 / 100 | VeloNews.com | | Level 2 expert

    Ultimately, the Helix shoes are just as excellent as the Vaypor S shoes that we’ve been so keen on in the past. Are they better? That depends. The fit is nearly identical, so it comes down to the Boa system. If you’re a fidgeter who likes to tailor snugness throughout the foot, the Vaypor S shoes are probably a better choice. If you’re after simplicity and on-the-fly adjustment in a super-stiff platform, it’s hard to beat the Helix shoes.

  • 80 / 100 | Velo News | | Level 2 expert

    The fit of Vaypor S and Helix are nearly identical, so it comes down to the Boa system. If you’re a fidgeter who likes to tailor snugness throughout the foot, the Vaypor S shoes are probably a better choice. If you’re after simplicity and on-the-fly adjustment in a super-stiff platform, it’s hard to beat the Helix shoes.

Become an expert

There are several technologies used on this pair of cycling shoes that make it a good contender for your next purchase. It uses a heat-treatable material that allows it to perfectly conform to any foot shape to deliver the most comfortable ride.

This footgear got its name from the unique retention system. The cable wraps the foot in an intricate pattern, like a helix, to provide an evenly-pressured lockdown.

If you like the Bont Helix but wish it had two dials instead of one, check out the Bont Vaypor S. This model uses almost all of the same technologies and features that provide a snug, yet comfortable fit. The main difference between the two models is that the Vaypor S has two BOA dials that allow wearers to fine-tune the fit both at the forefoot and midfoot sections.

Rigidity. A unidirectional carbon monocoque chassis makes up the bottom unit of the Bont Helix. This compound is very stiff, so wearers can expect no give in the outsole while they are pedaling. This platform makes it easier for cyclists to push and lift the pedals with every cycle.

Protection. There are sole guards on the toe and heel sections. These elements make walking comfortable. They also protect against abrasions and bumps.

The Bont Helix uses a 3-hole Look configuration. This cleat system is standard in road cycling trainers. The broader contact point between the pedal and the footgear reduces energy transfer loss.

This model is compatible with the following pedals: Look Keo 2 Max Blade 12, Shimano Ultegra SPD-SL R8000, and Time Xpresso 15, to name a few.

Comfort. The upper is constructed using Durolite, a sturdy material that also has anti-stretch properties. It has perforations on the vamp and vents on the toe bumper to facilitate heat dissipation to keep the foot fresh.

Midfoot wrap and support. A single BOA IP1 dial adorns the top of the midfoot. It is strategically placed to facilitate easy fit adjustments even when the person is on the bike. It uses a Kevlar wire that spirals around the shoe in a helix pattern to provide overall support and secure fit.

The chassis of the Bont Helix is crafted using Epoxy Thermoset Resin. This technology allows the shoe to be heat-treated so it can mold to the shape of the foot, providing a truly customized fit.

Sandwiched between the Durolite layer and a suede-like interior lining is a thin layer of memory foam. It prevents hot spots and aids in retaining the snug fit.

Inside the Bont Helix is a thermo-moldable ethylene-vinyl (EVA) acetate foam. It follows the contours of the foot as it gets warm with use.

  • The insole as well as the front and rear bumpers of the Bont Helix are all replaceable.
  • This model can be heat-treated multiple times to get the perfect fit.