Trek RSL Knit Road Shoe FAQ

What is METNET?

Hot foot, numbness and tingling are not new issues for cyclists. Many of us trade off pedalling efficiency for comfort, it’s just a part of the sport. But it doesn’t have to be that way. METNET is a new technology, proprietary to Trek, engineered specifically to alleviate those issues. Through a responsive design that allows the shoe to stretch and compress around the forefoot, METNET helps to bring relief to those common cycling-related foot discomforts. When you feel better, you perform better.

How does METNET work?

METNET provides stretch in areas of the shoe that most commonly cause foot-related discomfort or pain, specifically around the 1st and 5th metatarsal heads and the 5th metatarsal tuberosity. Stretch is achieved in two ways. In Trek RSL Knit, the engineered knit fabric naturally stretches and relief is provided directly to problematic areas of the foot through placement of METNET exoskeleton. In Trek RSL Road and Trek Velocis, stretch is created by laminating a uniquely perforated synthetic upper with a stretchy backer.

What is the Pro last?

Trek RSL Knit and Trek RSL Road feature the updated Trek Pro Last, which has been redesigned using 3D foot scan data to better match the average rider’s foot shape. Just as before, the Pro Last provides an ergonomically optimised, high-performance fit for serious riders.

How do these shoes fit?

The RSL Knit provides a snug, sock-like fit that conforms to your foot, providing a high-level of comfort yet maintaining the highest level of power transfer thanks to the METNET exoskeleton, which consists of straps anchored to the outsole of the shoe. If the snug fit of the RSL Knit makes getting the shoe on challenging, an old fashioned shoe horn will work well. Please note, the shoe will become easier to put on after a few times of use.

What is the upper material?

The upper material is an engineered knit made from a polyester yarn. This material was chosen as its properties allow it to stretch and conform to the rider’s foot, providing a snug, sock-like fit.

What type of BOA dial is used in these shoes?

The RSL Knit features BOA's Li2 dial platform, which has a sleek, low-profile design, provides unprecedented durability. The Li2 delivers micro-adjustable precision fit engineered to perform in the toughest conditions.

What type of lace is used with these BOA dials?

The RSL Knit uses TX6 L-Series textile lace from BOA. The TX6 utilises recycled polyester material for improved sustainability and features an improved construction that includes a core and sheath for enhanced durability and longer lifecycle.

Are replacement BOA dials and laces available?

In the event that your BOA dials or laces need to be replaced, replacement parts are available for sale on trekbikes.com.

What is a BLOOM sock liner?

Trek RSL Knit features a custom sock liner produced for Trek by BLOOM® Materials. This sock liner is made from RISE, an algae-blended EVA that contains 45% recycled bio content. In the manufacturing of this sock liner, 22.5 litres of water were cleaned and restored to the environment and 23.4 cubic metres of air were cleaned of carbon dioxide.

Are these shoes vented?

The Trek RSL Knit features 4 vents located on the bottom of the shoe, providing excellent ventilation to the foot. In addition, the engineered performance knit upper provides even more ventilation to create a shoe with unparalleled breathability.

What is the sole plate material?

The plate of the shoe is made of 100% OCLV carbon, the same carbon used in Trek’s bike frames.

What is the stiffness rating of the sole plate?

The plate of the Trek RSL Knit Shoe has a stiffness rating of 14/14. This is the stiffest plate that Trek offers, providing the ultimate in power transfer.

Are cleats included with the shoes?

Cleats are not included with these shoes as different types of pedals require different types of cleats. If you need to purchase cleats, you can find them on Trekbikes.com.

See the cleats

What cleats are compatible with the shoes?

These shoes feature a 3-bolt system and are compatible with 3-bolt cleat sets.

How heavy are these shoes?

One RSL Knit shoe (1/2 pair), in size 42 and without the sock liner, weighs 225 grams. With the sock liner, the shoe weighs 244 grams.

What colours are available?

Trek RSL Knit shoes are available in two colourways: black with gold, and white with grey and silver.

What is the warranty for the shoes?

All Trek and Bontrager shoes are warrantied for 2 years and are covered by our 30-Day Unconditional Guarantee. Please visit Trekbikes.com to see our warranty policy.

Warranty policy

Can I return the shoes if they don’t fit?

Yes, you can absolutely return your shoes if they don’t fit – or for any other reason, for that matter. All Trek and Bontrager purchases come with a 30-Day Unconditional Guarantee. Give your shoes a 30-day test ride and if you don’t love your purchase, you can return them to us.

Warranty policy

What is the 30-day unconditional guarantee?

We want you to love your shoes and any other product you buy from Trek or Bontrager. If you don’t love your purchase, you can return it to us within 30 days with no questions asked. Simply return the item, along with the original sales receipt to the original place of purchase for an exchange or full refund. Think of it as a 30-day test ride.

Warranty policy

How should I care for these shoes?

In the event your shoes get dirty, we recommend gently washing them with warm water, mild soap and a soft bristled brush. To keep your shoes clean in poor conditions, we recommend using covers or booties.