Gaerne has carved out an enviable reputation for its flaghsip G Chrono shoe, previously tested by RCUK, and the choice of Bakelants, Cancellara, and Ciolek.
With my trusted Nike carbon road shoes expired after 10 years of great service, and having tried, with varying degrees of enthusiasm on my part, to replace them for the last couple of years (tempered by discomfort from my high arches every time a contender hoved into view) new hope has arrived in the shape of Gaerne’s Carbon G Platinum road slippers.
These are a three-strap affair, with the lower two straps closed with a Velcro fastening and a ratcheted third strap equipped with Gaerne’s very neat Adjustable Instep Closure System that allows a very accurate fit at the instep. It also provides a greater range of strap length adjustment. This ratcheted third strap is gripped by an aluminium fixing, likely to be longer lasting than plastic, in our experience.
The carbon composite sole has a plastic outer section with a carbon insert running along the centre of the shoe . Carbon has become de rigueur for manufacturers (and riders) seeking to maximise power transfer and we’re not expecting to lose any of our output to unnecessary flex.
Gaerne’s neat Adjustable Instep Closure System allows a very accurate fit at the instep and provides a greater range of strap length adjustment
The upper consists of an injection moulded heel cup which we hope will provide stability, with a microfibre and mesh fabric combination elsewhere. This is perforated and vented so should be nice and cool.
The tongue is nicely padded and vented while also being sufficiently broad to support the range of adjustment offered by the straps mentioned above. A couple of reflective details are in evidence above the heel cup. The soles are drilled for LOOK and Shimano’s SPD-SL cleats.
We weighed the Gaerne Carbon G Platinum at 680 grams for the pair in the size 43 of our test sample; not the lightest on the market, but impressive considering the features.
Our test sample has arrived in white and lime green. White with red or black detailing is also available. It’s fair to say we’re impressed by their appearance, but aesthetics can be as much about personal preference as fit. The ‘try before you buy’ mantra is applicable here.
We’ll conduct the remainder of our summer riding in these offerings from Gaerne and will report back soon on their comfort and ride quality.
Website: Gaerne
UK distributor: Hotlines
Sizes: 39 to 48
Price: £219.99
