Gaerne is one of the very few Italian brands that not only designs its shoes in Italy, but also manufactures them in its own factory.
When you first look at them, you immediately notice the robust workmanship. When you slip them on, it becomes clear why, in addition to the outer surface, the shoe laces and the pull-on aid on the heel have also been designed to be sturdy. Putting on winter shoes is a topic in itself, and the Gaerne G.Winter Gore-Tex is no exception. Only when you pull firmly on the pull-on aid does the foot slip inside the shoe. Well, putting overshoes over the shoe is also annoying in the long run. The shoe is rather wide and leaves room for thick socks. The sole is stiff enough, and the neoprene cuff above the ankle keeps out the winter cold. Even in warmer temperatures, you won't sweat excessively in the Gaerne winter shoe. In Siberian weather conditions, however, the cold slowly creeps over the cleat to your feet after 1.5 hours.
Weight 931 grams (size 43)
Price 230 Euro
TIP for biking in winter from Ludwig Döhl, BIKE test editor
With overshoes and neoprene socks, you have to make a lot of compromises to keep your feet warm. A proper winter shoe is much more comfortable to handle and ride in.
You can find this article in BIKE 2/2019. You can read the entire digital edition in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or the print edition in the DK shop reorder - while stocks last:
