Giro Imperial Road Shoes
Exceptionally Light. Precisely Adjustable. Built for Road Performance.
The Giro Imperial Road Shoes are designed for performance-focused cyclists who want low weight, efficient power transfer and a close, highly adjustable fit. At approximately 215g per shoe in size 42, they are among Giro’s lightest road shoes and are particularly well suited to racing, climbing and fast summer riding.
A seamless Synchwire™ upper provides support while allowing plenty of airflow, while dual BOA® IP-1 dials independently adjust the forefoot and instep. Underneath, the Easton® EC90™ SLX2 carbon outsole creates the stiff and responsive pedalling platform expected from a premium road racing shoe.
Lightweight Without Losing Support
The Imperial weighs approximately 215g per shoe in size 42, making it an excellent option for riders looking to reduce weight without moving to a less supportive design.
Its light construction is especially noticeable during climbing and high-cadence efforts, while the structured upper keeps the foot securely connected to the sole under power.
Breathable Synchwire™ Upper
Giro’s Synchwire™ upper uses a single-layer, stitch-free construction to provide support without unnecessary seams or bulky overlapping materials.
Generous ventilation makes the Imperial particularly comfortable during warm-weather riding and sustained high-intensity efforts. The close-fitting upper conforms around the foot while retaining the structure needed for efficient pedalling.
Independent BOA® Adjustment
Two BOA® IP-1 dials allow the forefoot and instep to be adjusted separately. Each dial provides 1mm increments, making it easy to increase or reduce tension with precision.
Independent adjustment helps riders secure the heel and midfoot without applying unnecessary pressure across the toes. The fit can also be fine-tuned while riding as feet expand or conditions change.
Stiff Carbon Outsole
The Easton® EC90™ SLX2 high-modulus carbon outsole provides an excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio.
Its rigid platform helps minimise unwanted flex during sprints, climbing and sustained efforts, creating an immediate and efficient connection between the rider and the pedals.
Adjustable Arch Support
Giro’s SuperNatural Fit System includes low, medium and high arch-support inserts.
These interchangeable supports allow riders to better match the footbed to their arch profile. Correct support can improve foot stability and help reduce the concentrated pressure and fatigue that may develop during longer rides.
Key Features
• Ultra-lightweight road racing construction
• Approximate weight of 215g per shoe in size 42
• Seamless Synchwire™ upper
• Highly ventilated design for warm-weather riding
• Dual BOA® IP-1 closure system
• Independent forefoot and instep adjustment
• Precise 1mm micro-adjustment
• Easton® EC90™ SLX2 high-modulus carbon outsole
• Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio
• SuperNatural Fit System
• Low, medium and high arch-support inserts included
• Designed for racing, climbing and performance road cycling
Why Riders Love the Giro Imperial
• Exceptionally low weight
• Firm and responsive power transfer
• Precise adjustment across separate areas of the foot
• Close, supportive performance fit
• Excellent ventilation in warm conditions
• Adjustable arch support supplied with the shoes
• Minimal seams around the upper
• Clean, race-focused appearance
Who Are These Shoes For?
The Giro Imperial is designed for competitive and performance-focused road cyclists who place a high priority on weight, ventilation and sole stiffness.
It is particularly well suited to road racing, climbing, fast group rides and summer training. Riders wanting greater protection through colder conditions may find the Imperial II All Season more suitable.
Which Giro Imperial Is Right for You?
• Giro Imperial: The lighter and more highly ventilated option for racing, climbing and warm-weather riding
• Giro Imperial II All Season: Additional protection for cooler conditions while retaining a stiff carbon sole and race-focused fit
Perfect For
✔ Road racing
✔ Criterium racing
✔ Climbing and mountainous routes
✔ High-intensity training
✔ Fast group rides
✔ Warm-weather cycling
✔ Riders wanting minimum shoe weight
✔ Cyclists who prefer a stiff, responsive sole
✔ Riders wanting adjustable arch support
Our Thoughts on the Giro Imperial
The Imperial is the shoe we’d recommend to riders who prioritise low weight and ventilation but still want a properly secure race fit. At around 215g per shoe, it feels impressively light, particularly when climbing or riding at a higher cadence.
The two BOA® dials are useful because they let you adjust the forefoot separately from the instep. That makes it easier to hold the heel securely without overtightening the front of the shoe. We also like that Giro supplies three arch-support options, as choosing the correct insert can make a noticeable difference on longer rides.
The Synchwire™ upper is very breathable, so this is primarily a warm-weather performance shoe. Riders training through cooler months may prefer the Imperial II All Season or use suitable toe covers and overshoes. The Imperial also has a close race-oriented fit, so we recommend taking the time to confirm sizing and arch support rather than simply choosing your usual casual-shoe size.
Why Buy from Chain Reaction
✔ Expert cycling shoe sizing and fitting advice
✔ Help with cleat and pedal compatibility
✔ Cleat-positioning and setup support
✔ Finance options available
✔ Nationwide New Zealand delivery
✔ Ongoing support from our Christchurch team
Specifications
• Upper: Seamless Synchwire™ construction
• Closure: Dual BOA® IP-1 dials
• Adjustment: Independent forefoot and instep control
• Adjustment increments: 1mm
• Outsole: Easton® EC90™ SLX2 high-modulus carbon
• Footbed system: Giro SuperNatural Fit System
• Arch support: Interchangeable low, medium and high options
• Approximate weight: 215g per shoe, size 42
• Intended use: Road racing, climbing and performance road cycling
