Lace up your shoes and hit the the trail or cross course! Wait. Lace up? Yes, Giro has been one of a small group of shoes companies that have worked to re-introduce laces to cycling shoes, and has actually executed the best road and mountain versions on the market. The Empire VR90 Mountain Shoe is the second generation of the offroad model, and while laces may not be for every rider, we know we will be seeing these beauties in every cross and XC race for years to come.

Giro's shoes employ Easton carbon soles, and the high-end VR90 features the super light, ultra-stiff EC90 UD carbon base. In order to make the lower more feasible for hike-a-bike, running stairs, etc, Giro worked with Vibram to build an effective, durable, but grippy and walkable rubber sole surface, to great success. The front and rear treads are well spaced and feel normal to walk-on, while the softer mid-foot scuffguard sticks to uneven and rocky surfaces. The 2-bolt SPD standard pedal interface has plenty of room for all cleats without modification. The molded rubber wraps up to the front of the toe for plenty of protection, without adding substantial weight. Giro supplies four metal studs- ideal for soft or muddy cyclocross racing and the wrench to install and remove the studs.

The incredibly supple, breathable, one piece Evofiber™synthetic upper is perforated, and has a subtle blend of stretch and support that feels incredibly light over the foot. Water nor temperature have a drastic effect on fit or stretch, though this highly technical microfiber can't control swollen feet (think- epic mountain bike racing). If there is a drawback to any pure lacing system, it is that you can't adjust mid-ride if you feel discomfort. There are advantages as well, as the lace spacing and width allow for a very customizable fit. You can easily replace laces locally, as opposed to breaking a ratchet closure, or snapping an integrated strap. If the laces are too long to be managed with the provided clip, you can always cut the laces to your favored length. The choice of laces over straps is a personal one, and as with any cycling shoe, the bells and whistles mean nothing if the shoes don't fit.

Many reviewers feel the Empire VR90 is best for low-volume foot types, with true medium width feet. Yes, the upper is supple, and the shoe may then fit feet with slightly wider metatarsal zones than most Giro shoes, but remember the sole won't give extended support, even if the upper will. Giro supplies their SuperNatural Fit footbed system that features X-Static antimicrobial material and Adjustable Arch Support options. This high quality footbed system ensures greater flexibility and more ideal fit for medium width, lower volume feet, regardless of arch type.

Giro has delivered a fantastic, competition worthy, lace-style offroad shoe with visual appeal that touches on classic, laced cycling shoes, but with technology and features that make it exceptionally contemporary. Did we mention that the Empire VR90 Mountain Shoes are light? How about 315 grams for pair of 42.5's? If you love the style and lacing system, and need a sweet pair of high quality shoes to race this season, Giro has a pair of shoes ready for you.