First Look: Gaerne G.Chrono

Although probably best known for their line of motorcycle boots, Gaerne’s cycling shoes carry no less prestige. A top choice for some WorldTour teams over the years, Gaerne’s Italian-made shoes have also served a wide gamut of recreational riders with performance-oriented shoes.

The Carbon G.Chrono has gotten a facelift in the last year with an all-new carbon sole and updated upper. Two Boa L6 dials close the microfiber upper evenly along your foot for a secure and comfort feel. There is also a new Tarsal Support System heel cup that helps maintain proper foot position in the shoe for better efficiency. The new carbon sole is stiff and offers 9mm more cleat adjustment than the previous version. When it comes to stiffness, Gaerne rates the G.Chrono at level 12 out of 12 on their own stiffness scale. In other words, maybe not the best all-day-in-the-saddle shoe for recreational riders who value comfort over sheer power-to-the-pedal performance.

The carbon sole features four large vents for airflow, while the upper is littered with ventilation. The G.Chrono is not their top-of-the-line shoe (yes, there is the more-expensive G.Stilo), but it does offer a slightly more spacious fit that the American market has been asking for. It’s offered in four subtle colorways and thirteen sizes.

PUNCH LINES

• Dual Boa

• Stiff and comfy

• Four colors

STATS

Price: $450

Weight: 586 grams

Sizes: 39–47 (including 41.5–44.5 half sizes) 

www.gaerne.com