Review

First Look: The Giro Empire VR90 shoes at a glance

30.10.2014
by

Giro has been long known for its high quality and well thought out products. Now the Californians present us with an equally technological and stylish shoe: the Giro Empire VR90. What distinguishes the shoe and how do they perform on the trails? Find out more here.

Love it or hate it: the new Giro Empire VR 90.
Love it or hate it: the new Giro Empire VR 90.

There can be no question: the styling of the new Giro Empire VR90 polarizes opinion. Especially in the orange colour we tested, which unfortunately won’t make it into actual production. But there is one thing that is not open to discussion: the shoe bristles with high-end features such as an Easton full carbon-sole, Evofiber™- synthetic leather material and a Vibram-tread. At the same time at 315 g (size 42.5) the shoe is reassuringly light.

You can mount the cleats on the Easton Empire VR90 quite far back, which many riders find very positive for riding downhill.
You can mount the cleats on the Easton Empire VR90 quite far back, which many riders find very positive for riding downhill.
The one-piece uppers are made from a special synthetic leather material which shouldn’t stretch even after extensive use. The numerous openings create good air circulation but at a cost of reduced waterproofness.
The one-piece uppers are made from a special synthetic leather material which shouldn’t stretch even after extensive use. The numerous openings create good air circulation but at a cost of reduced waterproofness.
The stiff Easton carbon fibre sole offers maximum pedalling efficiency, the Vibram tread offers secure grip whilst walking.
The stiff Easton carbon fibre sole offers maximum pedalling efficiency, the Vibram tread offers secure grip whilst walking.
At the most critical positions such as the heel and toe box the shoe is reinforced with additional material.
At the most critical positions such as the heel and toe box the shoe is reinforced with additional material.
The Giro Empire VR90 has a classical lacing system
The Giro Empire VR90 has a classical lacing system

Facts:

Uppers:

  • One-piece construction
  • Highest quality, especially breathable Evofiber™ Microfibre-­ Teijin® material
  • Sport Laces-­special laces for secure knotting
  • Bonded rubber toe protection
  • Robust Rock Print heel cap

Outer sole:

  • Easton® EC90 full 100% Carbon
  • High traction Vibram® Mont-­rubber tread pattern with moulded lugs
  • Scuff Guard‐protective edging in the midfoot area

In-sole:

  • SuperNatural Fit Kit with individually fittable mid-foot support
  • Anti­‐bacterial X‐Static®­‐fibres
  • Weight: 315 gram (size 42.5)
  • Sizes: 39 bis 48 (in half sizes from 39.5 to 46.5)
  • Price: €250
Im Handel ist der Schuh in den Farben schwarz und silber erhältlich.
Im Handel ist der Schuh in den Farben schwarz und silber erhältlich.

Our first impressions:

After one month of continuous use we’ve already got quite a good impression from the new Giro Empire VR90. Even on the first outing the unique looks and lack of straps or ratchet mechanisms make it stand out. Because of this the laces must be carefully stowed under a rubber band to protect them from the cranks. The comfort level is very good and the shoes snuggle onto your feet exceptionally well. In use the combination of a stiff and very grippy sole really won us over. In-spite of the Vibram tread however the shoe is more at home on the pedal than on the ground.
Those looking for a light shoe that stands out, and who are aware of the pros-and-cons of a traditional lacing system will find a high quality, well conceived and polarizing shoe with the Giro Empire VR90.

More information can be found at: www.giro.com

Words & Pictures: Christoph Bayer

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