Flat but grippy (to the ground) shoes recommendation.

[doctor-bond]

So, my trusty old New Balance minimus shoes have had their day, and the abundance of choice and tech means I’m struggling to zone in on a good replacement (the latest NB won’t cut it).

Any recommendations around the following requirements appreciated:

For everyday riding: on road, off road, even - well you know - those sort of gravelly ‘roads’? All roads really ……
Not SPD, clipless, etc.
- So ‘flat then’?
Yes, but the soles need to be able to grip the ground not the pedals. Five Ten type ones look great but the soles are too smooth.
Not plasticky: mostly leather or cloth.
Don’t have to be cycling specific, but not hefty walking shoes either.
- Picky Bastard ….

 

[highlandsflyer]

I immediately thought of 510s , I love them and my wife wears nothing else when riding. They are great for walking, but perhaps too smooth for ice, for example.

 

[pwebb]

although I too am a fan of FiveTen , Leatt and similar, I get it about grippy soles - have you looked at some of the general purpose street/ climbing 'approach' shoes - like Rafiki Monte approach - they have super grippy sole, durable and the rubber bits will stick to the pedals like the proverbial poo on a woolly blanket. climbing shoe brands are not cheap, but then neither are cycling brands :-(

 

[Markybeau]

I have a pair of Northwave shoes that are excellent. Good grippy flat sole - almost like a walking shoe. Comfortable for walking in and stiff enough for riding. I've had them for 6 years or so. They are similar to the Corsair or Crossland Plus.

 

[doctor-bond]

Thanks Chaps - excellent leads there. I’d been mulling over fell running shoes, but the climbing approach thing is new to me and looks v. promising.

 

[DesertRyder]

I've been using a pair of Specialized 2FO 1.0's foe a few years now. Flat bottom with a grippy blockish pattern on the bottom. Still holding up well for me. They have newer versions available.