Hookless Wheels for Gravel: What Are They and Should You Use Them?

Hookless wheels are rims that do not have the traditional “bead hook” inside the rim wall. Instead, they rely on a straight sidewall and tubeless-compatible tires that lock into place with air pressure. Originally popularised in mountain biking, hookless rims are now widely used in road and gravel cycling due to their strength, simplicity, and improved ride characteristics.

Are Hookless Wheels Safe for Gravel?

Yes, when used correctly. Hookless rims are designed for tubeless setups and require hookless-approved tires. On gravel, where lower pressures and wider tires are standard, hookless wheels perform exceptionally well. The key is ensuring that your tires are compatible and meet the minimum labelled size (typically 28mm or wider).

Key Safety Tips:

• Always use tubeless-ready, hookless-approved tires
• Stick to the recommended tire pressure limits
• Avoid tubes unless your tire manufacturer explicitly supports it

What Are the Advantages of Hookless Wheels for Gravel?

Gravel riding pushes gear to its limits. Hookless rims offer several key benefits:

• Wider internal widths support broader tires and increase stability
• Lower tire pressures improve comfort and grip on loose or rough surfaces
• Stronger rim sidewalls handle rock strikes and hard impacts better
• Tubeless optimisation reduces flats and rolling resistance

What Are the Downsides?

While hookless rims are ideal for modern gravel riding, there are a few considerations:

• Limited tire compatibility: Not all tires are hookless-approved
• Tubeless-only performance: Hookless is designed around tubeless setups—using tubes reduces performance
• Pressure limitations: Running too high of a pressure increases risk of tire blowoff

For most gravel riders running tubeless tires at 30–50 PSI, these concerns are minimal.

What Tires Can I Use with Hookless Gravel Wheels?

You’ll want:

• Tubeless-ready tires
• Marked as hookless-compatible by the manufacturer
• Labeled width no less than 28mm, ideally 33–45mm for gravel and wider

What’s the Best Hookless Wheelset for Gravel?

If you're looking for a hookless wheelset built specifically for gravel and all-road conditions, the Venture 38:38 is a top-tier option.

Why the Venture 38:38?

The Venture combines carbon precision, hookless design, and a 38mm profile that’s light enough for climbs and tough enough for rugged trails.

Specs at a Glance:

• Depth: 38mm front & rear
• Internal Width: 25mm
• External Width: 32mm
• Weight: 1428g (with SRAM XDR body)
• Rider Weight Limit: 130kg
• Tire Compatibility: Hookless, min. labelled size 28mm

Whether you're rolling on fast gravel, exploring forest paths, or linking road sections, the Venture 38:38 offers confident handling, smooth comfort, and lasting durability.

Final Verdict: Should You Ride Hookless Wheels on Gravel?

Yes, if you're riding tubeless and value comfort, control, and performance.

Hookless rims make a lot of sense for gravel because they allow for lower pressures, more volume, and increased durability without sacrificing speed.

If you're ready to make the switch, the Venture 38:38 from Polymer Workshop is a proven, rider-developed hookless wheelset that delivers on all fronts.