Gaerne have sent us their new super-light flagship shoe, released to celebrate their 50th anniversary, to test.
The Gaerne G.Chrono, which retails for £299.99, is part of the Italian firm’s 2013 range and weighs a claimed 550g for the pair – 25 per cent lighter than Gaerne’s previous best.
The thin carbon fibre sole, dubbed the EPS Lightweight Full Carbon Sole by Gaerne, is designed to position the foot as close as possible to the pedal, which Gaerne say results in maximum power and efficiency.
The heel cup is also made from carbon fibre, with an anatomic design which Gaerne claim will not deform or weaken, while it has been given a non-slip treatment to improve foot stability. Reflective inserts on the outside of the heel cup improve low-light visibility.
The shoe is Gaerne’s first to use the BOA closure system. Two micro adjustable reels attach to a stainless steel cable which snakes up the tongue to provide a secure fit and reduce pressure points. We’ve been impressed by the fit offered by the BOA system in the past.
The microfibre upper has mesh inserts on either side of the shoe, and on the tongue, for ventilation. There are also two ventilation channels on the sole, and non-slip rubber inserts at the front and back of the sole for more grip when walking off the bike.
The Gaerne G.Chrono shoes come with a shoe bag and are available in sizes 39-48, in black, white/black, white/blue and white/red. We’ll be testing the white/black version in the weeks ahead.
