Looking for the perfect pair of mountain biking shoes that offer both comfort and performance? Enter the Giro Rincon MTB cycling shoes. Designed for trail riding, gravel adventures, and even daily commutes, these shoes boast features like a secure fit, a breathable upper, and a flexible sole. But do they live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll dive deep into the comfort, performance, and versatility of the Giro Rincon shoes to help you make an informed decision for your next ride.
Technical Specifications
Upper Material: Thermo-bonded Synchwire mesh
Closure System: Boa ratchet dial and Velcro strap
Outsole Material: Nylon composite
Cleat Compatibility: SPD pedal system
Weight (EU42): 702g (with Crankbrothers cleats fitted)
Toe Box: Reinforced with toughened toe bumper
Traction: Dual rubber tread with threaded inserts
Footbed: 3-D moulded EVA with medium arch support
Reflective Detailing: Zone on the heel for visibility
Comfort and Fit
Let’s talk about how these shoes feel on your feet. The Giro Rincon MTB shoes are all about keeping you comfortable, thanks to their soft and airy upper construction. With a mix of mesh-like material and a tough-toe bumper, they provide a snug fit without feeling too tight. Getting them on is a breeze, and adjusting the tension with the Boa ratchet dial and Velcro strap ensures a secure fit throughout your ride.
Plus, the padding around the heel and ankle cuff adds extra comfort and prevents slipping as you move. However, some users might find the toe box a bit narrow, which could affect how their toes feel during longer rides. Overall, though, these shoes are designed to keep you feeling good on the trails.
Performance on the Trails
Now, let’s talk about how these shoes handle when you hit the dirt. The Giro Rincon comes equipped with a nylon composite outsole that strikes a balance between stiffness for efficient pedalling and flexibility for walking comfort. The chunky tread blocks around the cleat pocket and heel provide traction off the bike, while the option for toe studs adds even more grip if needed. When you’re riding, you’ll appreciate the feedback from the pedals beneath your feet, thanks to the flex in the sole.
However, this flex might be a bit much for some riders during high-torque efforts, leading to temporary discomfort in the middle of the feet. It’s also worth noting that the shoes perform better with larger clipless pedals, as they can feel a bit flexy on smaller ones. Overall, though, the Rincon shoes offer a good balance of performance and walking comfort for your trail adventures.
Riding Experience
So, how do these shoes feel when you’re out on the trail? Well, the Giro Rincon offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. During long rides, their soft and flexible upper keeps your feet feeling good, especially on warm days. However, you might notice some slight discomfort during high-effort moments, as the sole flexes a bit too much for some riders.
Nevertheless, the secure fit and padded heel and ankle cuff ensures stability and support, reducing any slipping or discomfort as you move. Overall, while they may not be perfect for everyone, the Rincon shoes provide a pleasant and satisfying ride for most trail enthusiasts.
Versatility and Recommendations
Looking for a shoe that can handle more than just trail riding? These cycling shoes might be just what you need. With their comfortable fit and breathable design, they’re great for gravel adventures and even daily commutes.
However, if you prioritize power transfer and efficiency above all else, these shoes might not be the best fit for you. They perform better with larger clipless pedals and offer a good balance of comfort and performance on the trails. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile pair of mountain biking shoes that can handle different riding styles, the Rincon shoes are worth considering.
What I like about these shoes
- Comfortable and breathable upper construction.
- Secure fit with Boa ratchet dial and Velcro strap.
- The versatile design is suitable for trail riding, gravel adventures, and commuting.
- Lightweight for long rides and warm weather conditions.
- Good traction off the bike with chunky tread blocks and optional toe studs.
What I don’t like about these shoes
- A narrow toe box may cause discomfort for some users.
- Flexibility in the sole can lead to temporary discomfort during high-effort moments.
- Performs better with larger clipless pedals, but may feel flexy on smaller ones.
- Limited water resistance due to mesh-like panels in the upper construction.
- The toe box shape could be improved for a more comfortable fit.
Final Verdict
The Giro Rincon MTB cycling shoes offer a comfortable and versatile option for riders looking to tackle various terrains. With a breathable upper, secure fit, and lightweight design, they excel in keeping you comfortable during long rides and warm weather conditions. While they may not be the most efficient option for power transfer, their flexibility and traction off the bike make them suitable for trail riding, gravel adventures, and daily commutes. Despite some minor drawbacks like a narrow toe box and limited water resistance, the Rincon shoes provide a satisfying balance of comfort and performance for most riders. Overall, if you’re seeking a reliable pair of mountain biking shoes that can adapt to different riding styles, the Giro Rincon shoes are definitely worth considering.