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TLDR; If you want a stylish SPD cycling shoe that blends in off the bike, performs well on gravel, and can handle a rhythm spin class too – the adidas Velosamba is that shoe. It’s stiff enough for efficient power transfer, comfortable for walking, and looks like a casual trainer making it one of the best gravel cycling shoes, in my opinion.
Downsides? The white ones – from my experience – get dirty fast, and the lace loop can wear out. But still, they’re my current first choice and I’d absolutely buy them again.
What Drew Me to The adidas Velosamba
When gravel riding started taking off and I decided to have a go myself, I was after a more relaxed alternative to full on off-road mountain bikes shoes that I’d been using for cyclocross racing. The Velosamba caught my eye ’cause let’s be honest – they look kinda cool.
They’ve got that classic Samba silhouette we already know and love but are actually SPD cycling shoes built for gravel rides, commuting, and I even use them for indoor cycling.
They seemed like the perfect in-between: cycling shoes that didn’t scream “I race CX on weekends” but could still hold their own on rough terrain. And to be fair, they’re some of the best gravel shoes I’ve tried so far.
What Are adidas Velosamba Shoes?
The Style-Meets-Function SPD Shoe
The Velosamba is essentially a gravel cycling shoe disguised as a trainer. They’re clipless pedal compatible (SPD only), have a stiff sole for solid power transfer, and are designed for easy walking thanks to recessed cleats. The result? A shoe that you can wear from the saddle straight to a coffee stop (or the office…?).
Although they are compatible with clipless pedals, they can also be used with flat pedals or double sided, especially if clipping in is still something you’re working on.
The Velosamba are a lace closure which does have it’s pros and cons but I’ve found that I’ve always been able to get a secure fit despite not being as adjustable as a single boa closure, for example.
They’re available in various colours and finishes (I’m eyeing a black-on-black pair next), and there’s a leather version too – which is what I went for.
Everything You Need To Know About The Velosambas
Are They Comfortable?
Yes. Once I got the sizing sorted (more on that below), they were spot on out of the box. I’ve got wide feet, and the leather pair eventually moulded to my feet perfectly. No blisters, no hotspots – and I’ve worn them for long days on the bike and back-to-back spin classes.
Can You Walk in Them?
Absolutely. The recessed cleats mean they don’t click-clack on the pavement, and the sole is stiff but not so hard it’s uncomfortable. I can stroll around a café, walk stairs, or pop out to ride to the shops (for example) without needing to swap shoes.
And most importantly, when you end up on a gravel ride with a whole lot of hike a bike (IYKYK), having some grip, recessed cleats and the stiffer sole is a godsend.
Are They Good for Gravel?
Yes. I’ve used them for gravel rides, indoor sessions, and short commutes. The sole is stiff enough to handle longer rides without losing energy through your foot. They’re not as aggressive as some gravel race shoes, but for the everyday off-road rider, they’re ideal.
One thing to note is that I’d never, and have never worn them on a gravel ride that I know is gonna be wet and / or muddy – mostly for aesthetic reasons as mine are white, and I also use them indoors too. If you’re all weather kinda rider, you might wanna invest in waterproof trainers – trail ones usually work best for me and my off-road adventures.
Would I Buy Them Again?
100%. I wear them at least twice a week for rhythm spin, and they’ve held up over at least 2-3 years of riding so far. They’ve become a staple in my gravel cycling kit.
Getting The Right Fit & Size
Wide Feet? Here’s What You Need to Know
I started with my usual UK 5 when I originally bought these but I was kinda rushing and thought hey felt too tight. So I swapped for a 5.5, which fit better in width but in the end were too long overall. As I ended up wearing these, I had to sell them on Depop.
Eventually, I went back to the UK 5 in the patent / suede leather version, hoping they’d break in. Thankfully they did and now they fit me really, really well. So if you’ve got wide fit needs, leather is a safe bet, and staying true to size is probably best. Just expect a little bit of a break-in period.
On-Bike Performance
Secure, Stiff and Easy to Clip
They’re stable when clipped in, and I’ve never had issues with cleat engagement or unclipping. The stiff sole helps with efficient power transfer, especially during sprints and climbs. I use them for indoor cycling and gravel adventures, and they deliver every time.
Off-Bike Practicality
Do They Look Like Cycling Shoes?
Not at all and that’s the best bit. I’ve had so many people ask about them after class and they’re always surprised when they realise they’re actually cycling shoes. They look like a casual trainer, so you can go from bike to brunch without looking like you’re going OTT cyclist lol.
They pair well with gravel shorts (bibs with pockets), jeans, or even casual office wear. Ideal if you want to ride and not draw attention to your footwear.
Any Downsides?
Just a couple:
- The white ones get dirty fast (mine are now “cappuccino” coloured)
- The lace loop that holds the laces down has unstitched over time
Neither of those are deal-breakers for me though.
In Summary…
You’re gonna love these if… you want one shoe for on and off the bike, love looking stylist on the trails, want the walkability and / or youre an indoor cyclist who wants more support than a gym shoe.
Think twice if… you’re a roadie chasing weight and aero gains, looking for carbon shoes or exclusively use road cleats.
Let me know in the comments if you’re already a fan of the Velosambas or you’re gonna consider trying them out!
Elle
