Explore Shoes

Designed in-house from the ground up, the Explore Shoe is not an adaptation of a road shoe but purpose-built for the rigours of off-road riding.

A strong, lightweight carbon footplate transfers power efficiently when pedalling, but finishes before the toe and heel to provide flex just where you need it for comfort while walking. The footplate is set into an extremely grippy rubber sole with a recess for the cleat that ensures you will remain surefooted on any terrain, in all weather conditions.

The sculpted heel cup has been designed to hug your foot, keeping the shoe comfortably in place on and off the bike, with a low-cut upper that avoids rubbing your ankles. The midfoot is hugely adjustable thanks to a unique double-wall lacing system, with durable eyelets integrated in the shoe’s upper and robust laces, for a secure fit that’s tailored to your foot. Adjustable arch support allows for a range of foot shapes while a spacious toe box with a toe strap for micro adjustments means all-day comfort when riding.

Tested over tens of thousands of kilometres on bikepacking expeditions and ultra-endurance races, from Dolomite trails to the sands of the Sahara, the Explore Shoes are ready for a sure-footed getaway.

Please note: Pedals and cleats are not included.

View the story behind the design »

“The Rapha Explore shoes are a well designed, quality option for the off-road rider. They are exceptionally comfortable with the laces providing a secure fit.”

– Paul Norman, Cycling Weekly

“The sign of a good product is always that we want to keep using it; the Explore Shoe feels like it has been designed precisely for what we love doing on gravel bikes.”

Tom Hill, Technical Editor Singletrack Magazine

“The result is impressive, right out of the box […] when we wanted pure comfort, we usually laced up the Explores.”

Spencer Powlison, Velonews

“Overall, the Rapha Explore shoes are a very good option for times when you're likely to be off the bike as well as on it, whether that be gravel riding, adventuring, bikepacking, touring or commuting... You know, those times when lightweight, minimalist cycling shoes aren't the best option. They're rugged, durable and grippy, and above all they're highly comfortable.”

★★★★☆ Matt Brett, road.cc