Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes Review

If your cycling adventures regularly move beyond smooth tarmac and into gravel tracks, forest trails and long mixed-terrain rides, the Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes are designed with exactly that style of riding in mind. Built from the ground up as a true gravel-specific shoe, rather than simply adapting a road shoe for off-road use, the Riot G delivers a balance of comfort, performance and durability that many gravel riders have been searching for.

The latest version represents a complete redesign of the older Riot MTB+, and it immediately feels more refined. Lighter materials, a better anatomical fit and improved walkability all make a noticeable difference, especially on longer rides where comfort becomes just as important as outright power transfer.

For gravel riders in the UK, where routes often mix road sections, muddy bridleways and rough tracks, the Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes feel purpose-built for real-world conditions.

Why Do I Need the Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes?

One of the biggest problems with standard cycling shoes is that they are often too stiff, too narrow, or uncomfortable once you spend several hours in the saddle. Gravel riding demands something different. You need efficient pedalling performance, but also comfort when terrain becomes unpredictable.

The Riot G addresses this perfectly.

Its carbon composite sole features a very low 4.8mm stack height, helping keep your foot closer to the pedal for smoother and more efficient power transfer. That translates into a stable feel when climbing steep gravel sections or pushing hard on rolling terrain.

At the same time, the redesigned anatomical shaping gives your feet more natural room to move. Unlike some narrow race shoes, the Riot G feels supportive without becoming restrictive.

The heat mouldable construction is another huge benefit. Riders who struggle with pressure points or hotspots can customise the fit to their foot shape, creating a far more personalised feel for all-day riding comfort.

Who Is It For?

The Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes are ideal for:

• Gravel cyclists riding mixed terrain

• Bikepacking enthusiasts

• Adventure riders covering long distances

• Cyclists who value comfort alongside performance

• Riders wanting a wider and more natural shoe fit

• Cyclists upgrading from entry-level MTB shoes

They are especially appealing for UK riders tackling routes that combine road, gravel, mud and occasional hike-a-bike sections.

If you regularly jump off the bike to navigate rough terrain or café stops, the improved grip outsole provides noticeably better walkability than traditional road cycling shoes.

Key Features That Stand Out

Dual BOA® L6 Fit System

The dual-dial BOA setup allows precise adjustment across different areas of the foot. It creates a snug fit without painful pressure points, helping maintain comfort during longer rides.

Carbon Composite Sole

The carbon composite base delivers excellent stiffness for efficient pedalling, while still remaining forgiving enough for endurance-focused gravel riding.

Breathable Gravel-Specific Upper

The lightweight microfiber and technical mesh upper keeps airflow moving well, particularly useful during warmer summer rides or demanding climbs.

Refined Grip Outsole

Unlike many stiff cycling shoes, the Riot G performs surprisingly well when walking. The tread pattern improves grip on loose ground and muddy terrain.

Heat Mouldable Design

This remains one of Bont’s biggest strengths. Riders can fine-tune the fit for improved comfort and support.

Popular Reasons Riders Choose the Riot G

• Comfortable fit for long-distance gravel rides

• Efficient power transfer without harshness

• Better walking grip than many gravel shoes

• Lightweight construction

• Durable enough for demanding off-road use

• BOA system provides quick adjustments mid-ride

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent comfort for endurance riding

• Lightweight and breathable design

• Dual BOA fit system works brilliantly

• Heat mouldable fit customisation

• Great power transfer from the carbon sole

• Improved walkability for gravel adventures

Cons

• Premium pricing compared to entry-level gravel shoes

• Stiff sole may feel firm for casual riders

• Heat moulding process may not suit everyone

Final Verdict

The Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes feel like a genuine evolution in gravel footwear. Instead of simply adapting road racing technology, Bont has focused on what gravel riders actually need, comfort, stability, durability and efficient performance across mixed terrain.

For riders planning long adventures, gravel sportives or weekend bikepacking trips, these shoes offer an impressive combination of comfort and performance. The wider anatomical shaping, dual BOA fit system and low stack carbon sole create a ride feel that remains efficient without becoming uncomfortable over long distances.

If you are searching for a premium gravel cycling shoe that balances all-day comfort with serious riding capability, the Bont Riot G Gravel Shoes are well worth considering.