Weighing in at just 185g, Giro's newly updated Empire SLX cycling shoes breathe some pretty thin air.. Few shoes on the market weigh less than 100 grams from the iconic Empire but they are in no way inferior in terms of performance. New upper made from Synchwire , the same lightweight, low-elasticity and quick-drying material which is used in the top-of-the-line Imperial model. Actually The new Empire uses the same upper and outsole as the Imperial however, it replaces the BOA dials with laces which saves about 60 grams and offers an even more personalized fit and the ability to do some color customization.

The new version is highly breathable and features mesh windows for additional air flow. The lightweight upper does not suffer from a lack of rigidity and receives additional structural support from heat-welded Teijin TPU sections. It also delivers professional-grade performance and a comfortable fit right out of the box. If you haven't used lace-up cycling shoes yet, you should know that Giro uses special tubular laces which are specially designed to be tied and at the top of the tongue there is a compartment for laces so that they don't get tied. get tangled in the transmission.

The upper is attached to a refined Easton EC90 SLX2 carbon sole which is additionally coated with resin for increased durability. This outsole is amazingly stiff and, thanks to its unique design, has one of the lowest foot heights - just 6 5 mm. Low foot height means smoother pedaling greater efficiency and, of course, less weight. Stainless steel hardware and replaceable heel pads enhance durability.

Between the upper and the outsole is Giro's famous Super
Natural Fit
Kit - a long name for a user-customizable insole. These insoles have replaceable inserts that support the arch of the foot so you can fine-tune the fit of the shoe to suit your foot shape.