Verdict from 5 experts and 7 user reviews

7 reasons to buy

  • Comfort: The Bontrager GR2 is outstandingly comfortable, according to a considerable number of users.
  • Stiff yet walkable: Many owners laud the pair's sole for its power transfer on the bike and walking comfort off the bike.
  • Style: Several consumers commend this mountain bike shoe's design and colorway.
  • Ventilation: The GR2 is adequately breathable, according to a number of wearers.
  • Lace-up closure: Some experts are pleasantly surprised by the lace's low maintenance as it requires no adjustments oncet set correctly.
  • Price: This model is reasonably priced, claim a couple of purchasers.
  • Traction: A few testers praise the footgear's excellent grip on different terrain.

2 reasons not to buy

  • Too flexible: Some riders used to uber stiff soles find this shoe a bit too pliable.
  • Lightweight material: A couple of owners claim that the upper material is a bit flimsy.

Bottom line

Any individual who's on the hunt for a versatile gravel/MTB shoe that provides comfort should include the Bontrager GR2 in their shortlist. The shoe is ideal for long off-road adventures and endurance races. The shoe can withstand all types of surfaces and provides comfort on and off the bike.

If you need full power transfer in your shoes, you may need to look elsewhere. Overall, the GR2 from Bontrager is a durable, comfortable, and versatile shoe at a reasonable price tag.

Tip: see the best cycling shoes.

Expert reviews:

User reviews:

  • 3.3/5 by REI (3)

Bontrager GR2: A dedicated gravel shoe that tackles all terrain types

Bontrager's GR2 is a gravel bike shoe that works well for long adventures on the bike. Gravel-specific shoes require the snug fit and efficiency of road bike shoes and off-bike walkability of MTB shoes. This is the idea behind the GR2's construction and design.

What is it for? With the shoe's durable upper, versatile design, walkable yet adequately stiff soles, and grippy lugs, it performs excellently for the following activities:

  • Cyclocross
  • Endurance race
  • Mountain cycling
  • Urban commutes
  • Touring

Highlights of the Bontrager GR2

  • Lace closure for that retro, casual look, and lace tuck that keeps the laces from getting caught in the drivetrain.
  • GnarGuard rubberized coating on the toe and heel areas provide added durability and protects against bumps and impacts.
  • The brand's inForm Race last is designed to provide a slightly roomier fit than traditional cycling shoes.
  • The shoe's nylon composite sole has a stiffness index of 6 out of 14 to yield a stiff-yet-walkable performance.

How GR2 compares

This shoe: 75
All shoes average: 80
59 95
This shoe: £140
All shoes average: £180
£80 £520
This shoe: 418g
All shoes average: 407g
280g 720g
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