Lace-up shoes are, despite the onward march of innovation, definitely here to stay, with the likes of Giro and now even Specialized offering a laced option. Beyond the obvious style reasons, laced cycling shoes are proving to – surprise – offer a highly adjustable fit that leads to great comfort.
Ratchet, Velcro and Boa closures deliver two or three points of adjustment, but laces offer up to seven. Giro set the benchmark with its Empire shoes, which became immediately popular among BikeRadar staff, with two models achieving top marks. While they share the same closure concept, Bontrager's Classiques are a distinctly different pair of shoes.
While keeping true to the old-skool look, Trek’s in house brand has a distinctive take on the lace-up aesthetic. The Classiques would be at home in a L’Eroica event among the down tube shifters, wool jerseys, and leather stack hats.
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Despite the retro exterior, the Classiques feature a 12k-weave carbon sole, synthetic microfibre upper and a non-slip heel lining, and weigh in at a respectable 459g a pair (EU44). Although lighter than the 504g Giro Empire ACC (EU44), they are hit out of the park somewhat by the more expensive Giro Empire SLX at 374g per pair (EU43.5) and all-new Specialized S-Works Sub6 at 340g (size unknown, claimed weight).
The first thing I noticed after slipping my feet into the Classiques were the gaping vents over the toes. Only covered with a very thin layer of chicken wire-style mesh, I could actually see my brightly coloured socks through the vent. As you'd expect, plenty of air made its way into the front of the shoe, while vents along the sides and within the soles allowed my feet to breathe nicely.
You can read more at BikeRadar.com
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