Bont Vaypor S Li2 Shoes Review

With numerous size options (in length and width) and the possibility of heat molding to eliminate potential pressure points, the Bont Vaypor S are extremely rigid shoes while providing a very good level of comfort. The materials used and the level of finish also suggest very good durability. This is a test of a pair of shoes dedicated to performance, technically very advanced.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: ©3bikes.fr

In cycling, and much more than just clothing, shoes are considered equipment as important as the bike itself. A direct link between the cyclist and the pedals, the support and comfort of the shoes directly affect the ability to maintain effort over long distances in good conditions. As for rigidity, it limits power loss by preventing a portion of the power developed by the cyclist from dissipating with each pedal stroke. This phenomenon is not very noticeable during a steady effort at constant power, but much more pronounced during each acceleration or sprint.

With their extreme rigidity, the Bont Vaypor S are therefore clearly dedicated to performance. They are used by some professional riders and track cyclists, including Benjamin Thomas, winner of a Giro stage and Olympic omnium champion in 2024. The handmade unidirectional carbon fiber soles are obviously not the only rigid soles on the market, as there are competing shoe models in the same price range that are just as inflexible. However, the sensation here is even more pronounced because the sole is cup-shaped and extends up the sides – not just at the heel – with an upper also designed with a very firm material. The monocoque sole features markings for cleat placement (three-hole), and at the front of the foot, there’s a rigid rubber protection to limit the consequences of contact with the front wheel. A small (replaceable) heel pad is present at the back of the sole to prevent slipping when walking or damaging the underside of the shoes.

Bont shoes in general are distinguished by a very rounded shape at the front, which actually reproduces the true shape of the foot. Inside these shoes, the toes can spread out perfectly and take their natural place, promoting comfort and full power while pedaling.

A wide range of sizes

The Bont Vaypor S are available in 19 sizes (!), from 36 to 50 with half sizes, and in four widths (narrow, standard, wide, and extra wide). But beware, Bont runs small compared to most models on the market, and the correct choice is made using a very detailed chart on the Australian brand’s website. It is necessary to accurately measure the length and width of both feet to find the right fit. For my part, I had to opt for a 40.5 (as with the Nimbl Ultimate), for a 39 with Shimano or Specialized, for example.

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The upper is made of Durolite synthetic material, quite stiff to handle but very easy to clean, supported by an exclusive material as strong as Kevlar, according to the brand. These characteristics allow the Bont Vaypor S to maintain their support qualities even under high humidity conditions (in the rain or during an intense indoor trainer session), and to resist the test of time very well, both in terms of deformation and aesthetics. The sides of the upper feature golf ball-like patterns, a process initiated by Zipp on some of its rims to improve aerodynamics. We don’t know if it’s truly effective here, but it has the advantage of harmoniously dressing the shoe from our point of view.

Above the toes, the upper is perforated with a few holes for ventilation, as are the tongue and the upper part of the shaft just below the closure flap. Four small vents are also present at the toe protection.

The closure is provided by two easy-to-manipulate Boa Li2 dials, with micro-adjustments for tightening and loosening, and a full release of the system by pulling on the dial. Boa dials are also guaranteed for life. On the top of the upper, there is a padded tongue, over which the Boa wire closes in the middle and front of the foot, while the instep closure is ensured by a wide panel that perfectly distributes support without creating pressure points.

At the ankle collars, which are slightly less open than the Nimbl, a small layer of memory foam is placed to provide additional comfort and prevent injuries due to overly stiff contact with the heel.

A trip to the oven, really?

The curved sides of the sole’s cup shape can potentially cause discomfort if your feet rest on this part, but the shoes are heat-moldable to reduce pressure points. A process that may seem a little daunting at first, but which turns out to be relatively simple. You need to place the shoes in a kitchen oven for 20 minutes at 70°C, then take them out before putting them on and tightening them normally, so that the heat-moldable elements adapt as they cool and harden to the small irregularities of your foot shape. You can also modify the adjustment of sensitive areas using a sleeve or any tool to act on potential pressure points. You can repeat the process as many times as you wish, but in reality, the deformation can only occur over one or two millimeters, which confirms the need to choose the correct shoe size and width from the outset.

The EVA insoles are also heat-moldable, even if they initially appear relatively simple, with fairly neutral arch support. Bont sent me two pairs of optional insoles, designed in collaboration with another Australian brand specializing in the field, Cobra9. Designed to specifically adapt to the particular shape of Bont shoes, these insoles are made from a carbon body and lined with a thin EVA foam. They provide additional support and stability in the shoes, provided you choose the correct arch height. They come in three colors, for three types of height: black for flat feet or low arch height, red for intermediate support, and blue for maximum support. A quality product but sold at a high price of €99.95. At that price, it might be more useful to turn to insoles designed by an orthopedist, if truly necessary.

For my part, I use this latter type of insole, and I have slightly more pronounced support on my left foot, with a slightly higher insole as a result. I therefore felt slightly more cramped on that side in the Bont Vaypor S, and decided to go through the heat molding process, but only for the left shoe. As explained above, one should not expect to radically change the size and width of the shoes after this operation, but for me, it proved sufficient to slightly spread the edges of the cup-shaped carbon sole, and regain sensations comparable to my right foot.

A total connection with the bike

On the road, the rigidity demonstrated by the Bont Vaypor S is truly impressive, whether seated or out of the saddle. The feeling of connection with the bike is total. The low sole height promotes foot stability on the pedal, and the shoes have little arch, with a heel height only two millimeters greater than that of the Nimbl. This rigidity is not solely due to the carbon sole. Its cup shape, as well as the stiffness of the upper, offer absolute support, greatly limiting all foot movements inside the shoe. The heel is very firmly supported, but without causing the slightest discomfort during pedaling.

In terms of comfort, the Vaypor S also stand out, as this very strong support does not come with pressure points on the top of the foot. The material used for the upper is very stiff, but no seams or other forms of assembly come into contact with the foot. Only the tongue is sewn, but it is much softer and smoother to the touch, in addition to being lightly padded. When applying a strong tightening to a slender foot, it forms unsightly creases, but these prove to be completely imperceptible in terms of feel.

Paired with custom insoles, the Bont Vaypor S do not cause overheating or numb fingers/toes from cold depending on the outside temperature, as they promote very well-distributed support across the entire foot. The ventilation system is not exceptional in itself, but it proves sufficient in temperatures of 30°C. And conversely, in pouring rain, the holes on the upper and at the front of the shoe are sufficient to evacuate water. Once soaked, the Vaypor S retain a little more moisture than some competing models, but the thinness of the materials prevents excessive weight gain. And above all, even when wet, they continue to perfectly support the foot.

However, the rigidity and stability provided by the Vaypor S are not necessarily suitable for everyone, and it is important to be aware of this. Certain foot shapes may not feel very comfortable in Bont shoes, and in such cases, it will be necessary to communicate well with the brand to choose the right size and width, or even the right model. In the case of certain flaws in pedaling technique, irregularities in foot shape, or ankle movements, shoes with too much support can also cause discomfort while pedaling.

Ultimately, the Bont Vaypor S are very high-end shoes, designed with great precision and rare technicality. My only regret is the creases formed by the tongue when tightened to the maximum, but the inconvenience is purely aesthetic. The Vaypor S are very high-performance shoes, but also comfortable when you appreciate a total connection with the pedals. Sold at a price of €415, they are expensive, but comparable in price to all high-end shoes on the market.

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