Scott Gravel RC Shoes: Taking You From Dirt to Dirt & Road (Comfort Included)

There's a new sheriff in town for gravel cowboys and road warriors alike. The Scott Gravel RC shoe boasts a feature set that blurs the lines between these two cycling disciplines, offering a compelling option for riders who like to explore both tarmac and terrain. Let's dive into the specs and see if this gravel grinder lives up to the hype.

Specs:

• BOA® Fit System with double Li2 dials: for zonal micro-adjustments and a dialed-in fit.
• Power Plate technology: a stiff sole for efficient power transfer, putting your watts down on the pedals for those climbs and sprints.
• Sticki rubber outsole: with an aggressive tread pattern provides confidence-inspiring grip on loose gravel and dirt.
• Lightweight and breathable synthetic upper: keeps your feet cool on long rides.
• Reflective details: offer a touch of safety in low-light conditions.
• Available colors: Black/Anthracite Grey (at the time of writing, other colorways might be available)
• Weight: ~320g US 8.5
• Adjustable arch support insole: for a more customized fit and potential for increased comfort.
• Important Note: Compatible with SPD cleats only, not suitable for road cycling's 3-bolt cleat systems.

Gravel Grind Ready:

The Scott Gravel RC shines when the road gets rough. The Sticki rubber outsole with its aggressive tread pattern provides confidence-inspiring grip on loose gravel and dirt. The Power Plate technology in the sole ensures efficient power transfer, putting your watts down on the pedals for those climbs and sprints. The BOA® Fit System with double Li2 dials allows for a precise and comfortable fit, eliminating any unwanted hotspots. The lightweight and breathable upper keeps your feet cool on long rides, while the reflective details offer a touch of safety in low-light conditions.

Road Warrior Worthy (with reservations):

While the Scott Gravel RC performs admirably on paved roads thanks to the BOA® Fit System and breathable upper, it's important to note that these shoes are SPD-compatible only. This means they won't work with road cycling's standard 3-bolt cleat system. So, if your rides primarily involve asphalt, you might be better off with a dedicated road cycling shoe.

Comfort Concerns:

While the BOA® Fit System is generally praised for its adjustability, some riders might find the double Li2 dials a bit bulky. Additionally, the stiffness of the Power Plate might not be ideal for all-day comfort, especially for riders with high arches. The adjustable arch support insole might help mitigate this for some riders, but it's worth considering if you prioritize all-day comfort over maximum power transfer.

Who Should Get These?

The Scott Gravel RC shoe is a versatile option for cyclists who crave adventure on both gravel and road, with a focus on the gravel side. It's ideal for riders who participate in cyclocross races or explore mixed terrain routes, and who use SPD pedal systems.

What Riders Are Saying:

"These shoes are fantastic! They're lightweight, stiff for power transfer, and the BOA system lets me get a perfect fit."

"I've been riding these on gravel and pavement, and they've handled everything I've thrown at them. The grip is great, and my feet feel comfortable even on long rides."

Rating: With comfort tweaks and killer versatility, the Scott Gravel RC could be your one-shoe quiver for gravel and road adventures.