Review – GripGrab Explorer Waterproof Gravel Shoe Covers

By popular demand, and after countless hours of testing, GripGrab has launched the new Explorer Waterproof Gravel Shoe Covers. Based on the popular Flandrien Road Shoe Covers, this off-road cousin brings style and waterproof functionality to off-road riding

Following the launch and popularity of the Flandrien—which combines the retro style of the 'Belgian bootie' with modern waterproof technology—riders asked for a more robust off-road version that could put up with the demands of gravel riding. Now, with the launch of the GripGrab Explorer Waterproof Gravel Shoe Covers, that time has come. Hours of design work and in-the-field testing, through several generations of prototypes, have led to this new release from the Danish brand.

Design and function

The design, functionality and features of the Explorer Shoe Covers were meticulously developed in cooperation with enthusiast gravel riders (myself included)—providing feedback from numerous test rides in varying conditions.

The mission with the Explorer was to create a pair of versatile shoe covers specifically designed for gravel riding in cold and wet conditions. The result uses cutting-edge waterproof membrane technology to create shoe covers that look great and perform faultlessly.

A three-layer composition consists of an insulating inside knitted layer, a fully waterproof membrane and a robust outer knitted layer. The choice of materials combines fully waterproof functionality with a modern take on a retro design.

The high-stretch fabric provides a form-fitting profile, while the zipperless cuff reduces irritation and extends product life compared to standard zip designs. These overshoes look and feel great.

The TPU toe caps on the Explorer protect the front of the shoe covers from wear and impacts. Made from injection moulded TPU, they protect areas of the shoe covers that are repeatedly exposed to abrasion during your rides and when getting on and off the bike. Then, the strategically placed TPU underside wear patches further enhance durability—positioned between the forefoot and heel treads—an area that receives notable impacts from rough surfaces when walking off-road, and an area that can come into contact with the pedal if the pedal is missed when trying to clip in.

Svelte and stylish in design, but robust and durable in function, and a fantastic performer in the cold and wet conditions of the Northern European winter—the GripGrab Explorer has fast become my go-to shoe cover for winter gravel riding.

For now, the GripGrab Explorer Waterproof Gravel Shoe Covers are available exclusively on gripgrab.com but they will made available through selected retail partners in the near future.