We Ride The New Trek Velocis Shoes

TREK have recently released a triple whammy of 2024 model cycling shoes. Here we ride their mid-level offerings, the latest Velocis.

Trek’s expansion of its performance road shoe line-up with three new models – RSL Knit, RSL Road, and Velocis – marks a significant move in the cycling footwear market. Developed in collaboration with Lidl-Trek professionals, these shoes introduce METNET, a proprietary technology aimed at enhancing comfort and performance.

Starting your cycling journey with budget cycling shoes can be a smart choice. These days even entry level shoes are offering more bang for the buck with many options offering a range of impressive features.

However, as you advance in the sport, you’ll likely find yourself outgrowing these entry-level options and seeking a quality mid-level shoe. Initially, a less direct and more comfortable sole may suffice for shorter rides of an hour or two but as your skills progress and you seek more efficiency the need for a stiffer, more advanced shoe becomes apparent. A midrange cycling shoe such as the impressive Trek Velocis is the logical next step.

“…More and more often these days we are seeing companies add value to their lower to mid level products and this is certainly the case…”

In the realm of midrange cycling shoes, competition abounds, but one standout performer is the Trek Velocis. Weighing in at a competitive 230 grams per shoe in the size 45.5 we tested, the Velocis actually rivals many top-tier cycling footwear options in the all important weight department. The inclusion of a dual BOA Li2 fastening system allows for both more precise adjustment of the upper and lower sections of the foot to ensure a custom and snug fit. This matt silver Boa’s also look pretty damn slick – quite pro, if we may say so.

In a bid to eliminate potential hotspots and discomfort, the Trek Velocis incorporates innovative features such as a thick foam tongue and the MetNet system. The foam tongue effectively distributes pressure across the top of the foot – a common area for pain, while the MetNet system, with its perforated synthetic outer, promotes flexibility and alleviates pain at the more common hotspots or pain points.

The sole looks like high quality full carbon but is actually constructed from a composite. Trek give the sole a stiffness rating of 10 out of 14. During testing we found ample toe flex for ease of walking, and good to excellent rigidity at the centre of the shoe. Notably, ventilation perforations throughout the base and a replaceable rear heel pad set the Trek Velocis apart from competitors in its price range. The mesh looking side panels assist with breathability and suppleness, both of these important aspects contributing to overall comfort.

Despite its many strengths, some minor distinctions set the Trek Velocis apart from pricier alternatives. The upper material may lack the premium feel of higher-end models, and the insole and heel cup may not offer the same level of refinement. Additionally, the absence of toe protection, while not a significant drawback, could be seen as a missed opportunity to enhance durability and aesthetics.

But overall, the Trek Velocis have proven to be comfortable shoes that offer impressive power transfer and feel very good on the feet.

More and more often these days we are seeing companies add value to their lower to mid level products and this is certainly the case with the latest Velocis shoes. Overall, they look great, perform well and stand out as an impressive midrange cycling shoe, offering exceptional comfort with only minor compromises.

Over the past few years a strong theme has emerged and that’s better quality, more feature packed cycling products at achievable price points. That’s certainly the case with these shoes from Trek.

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