When gearing up for a big adventure, footwear can be an important decision. On one side, you want something that is pedal efficient so you can rack up the miles in comfort. But on the other side, it’s helpful to have something that’s easy to walk in for technical hike-a-bike sections, while also remaining comfortable enough that it can double as your camp shoe. With those criteria in mind, Bontrager just launched the Avert Adventure Shoe.
As the name would suggest, the Avert is built with big adventures in mind. Specifically, it’s designed to be hikeable, while maintaining the benefits of riding clipless pedals.
The rugged outsole is designed to offer loads of traction in questionable terrain with a reverse lug pattern. The relatively large SPD compatible cleat pocket should offer plenty of adjustability.
Additional ride and hiking comfort is provided through a shock-absorbing EVA midsole. When you first try on these shoes, you’d swear they were just really comfortable sneakers – not cycling shoes. It’s actually fairly impressive how comfortable these shoes are to walk in while remaining relatively efficient for pedaling. They’re certainly not comparable to a shoe with a carbon sole, but they’re far more supportive than your average sneaker or hiking boot while pedaling.
The insole is pretty basic, but since a lot of the comfort is derived from the EVA midsole and the insides are quite forgiving, it’s more than adequate.
The shoes are designed with durability and water resistance in mind, but the Cordura and suede upper construction is said to be breathable enough for all day use. A standard lace configuration is employed to adjust the shoes and allow for easy lace replacements while out in the back country if needed. Also, the tongue is attached on both sides for easy slip-on while preventing the tongue from shifting to either side.
To add just a touch of reflectivity, the Bontrager logo at the back is reflective.
On the scale, a single 41.5 shoe weighed in at 394g.
When it comes to sizing, I’d say that these shoes are pretty true to size. I’m usually a 41.5 in most brands, and these fit well – if just a touch big. The fit is also quite roomy with a wide toebox.
Also available in black, the Bontrager Avert Adventure shoe is priced at $174.99 and is available now.
