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Today, Giro launched its most advanced road cycling shoe yet. The Prolight Techlace, it weighs just 150 grams and utilizes TeXtreme, some of the same carbon fiber that’s used in many Formula 1 cars. Along with using one of the lightest carbon fibers available, Giro trimmed weight everywhere that they could. Instead of using replaceable rubber sole pads, they opted for non-replaceable, glued-on pads, which saved upwards of 10 grams. They also stripped away as much material from the upper as they could while still providing the support the brand is known for; the traditional Teijin microfiber has been combined with an ultra-light and breathable techmesh.
Giro estimates, by some clever math (i.e., not in actual results), that if Richie Porte had worn the Prolight Techlace up the Alpe d’Huez instead of his Sidis, he would have saved 15 seconds. 15 seconds. The Tour de France is won and lost by much narrower margins than that. But even if you aren’t a pro cyclist, the Prolight Techlace offers impressive features and upsides. In practice, the shoe is incredibly comfortable. The Techlace system evenly distributes pressure along the top of your foot. As far as ideal shoes for summer riding, it doesn’t get much better — it’s unmatched in breathability. The one downside? The shoe will retail at $400. But if you’re serious about your cycling, there simply isn’t a better lightweight shoe.
Look for the Techlace Prolight to be worn by the likes of Taylor Phinney in this year’s Tour de France.
