Giro saw demand for an MTB version of its popular lace-up Empire shoe and today they introduced the VR90 - high tech meets old school in a beautiful package. The shoe feels very light and the fit for me works great. Listed weight for the Empire VR90 in size 42.5 is 315 grams.

This anodized orange color is a limited version of the Giro Empire VR90. Black and silver ones will be the initial offerings.

The foundation of the VR90 is an Easton EC90 full carbon sole with
a Vibram Mont molded tread.

Up close with the heel section of the Giro VR90 offroad shoe.

The VR90 is also ready for 2 spikes, should your offroad adventures require more traction on foot.

The upper is a beautiful as on the road version. The little tab in the middle allows the owner to stash away the extra bits of the laces.

I just got the shoes in my hands before leaving for Vegas and thus a ride was not in the cards. But unlike road shoes I was able to run with them quickly through the neighborhood woods.

The shoes will be available this fall and retail for $300

All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com