MTB winter shoes on test: Giro Blaze - weatherproof racer with an exciting approach

With the Blaze, Giro has some pretty exciting MTB winter shoes in its programme. They have a completely different design to the classic models in the comparison. Their almost seamless outer shell, which looks more like a waterproof overshoe, conceals a more or less normal low shoe - but with a soft Primaloft lining. This should make the Blaze particularly comfortable and less bulky to wear. The outer membrane is equipped with a 10,000 water column to provide the necessary weather protection. An aluminium layer has been incorporated into the insole to prevent the cold from penetrating the toes from below. The Giro Blaze is closed using a quick-release fastener on the inside of the shoe, while a waterproof YKK zip seals the outside. You can tell from the sole profile that the Blaze is made more for sporty use on the bike and less for adventures off the beaten track.

We have collected even more hot tips for cold tours here:

>> Biking in winter: Clothing, lighting, buying advice - everything for the cold days

Giro Blaze MTB shoes: handling & fit

Ssssssippp, open the zip, open the quick-release fastener and grab the small eyelet on the heel, and your foot slips smoothly into the Giro Blaze. Getting into the MTB winter shoes is easy. The fit is also surprising: the Blaze actually feels more like a classic mountain bike shoe than a chunky winter boot. This promises good power transfer on the pedals. However, the fit is also designed more for athletic, slim feet than for wide shoes. The instep is also kept rather flat. In most cases, a size larger should fit better.

The fastening system of the MTB winter shoes is also a success: the speedlaces adapt beautifully to the foot and ensure a good hold. The waterproof zip runs smoothly. Caution: always position the hook correctly - i.e. downwards - otherwise the outer shell may open slightly when riding. Top: the membrane extends well over the ankle and should not leave any gaps when worn with long rain or winter trousers.

Giro MTB winter shoes - weather protection & insulation

The Blaze survives the first light shower without any problems and keeps your feet nice and dry. As expected, the high shaft disappears neatly under the rain trousers - there is no gap. In heavier water, some water penetrates the seam of the upper material and the toes get wet. Not the end of the world, but the Giro won't keep you dry.

The Blaze then scores again in the cold check. The Primaloft lining keeps your feet nice and warm. This means that even longer journeys below freezing should not be a problem.

More fun on your MTB tour in winter? Here are the most important tips for tours when it's cold and dark outside - and alternatively: MTB spots with guaranteed snow-free and dry trails.

On the trail

The Giro MTB winter shoes are also extremely comfortable off-road and come very close to the feel of a normal bike shoe. However, the expected good power transfer was not confirmed in practice. If you pedal hard, the shoe flexes noticeably and squirms under the pressure of your feet. The upper material in particular provides little traction and support on the foot. The stance on the pedals is also not very solid. If you have to get off your bike, you'll also have to contend with the hard sole, which has little grip. Especially on damp roots or rocks, the Giro Blaze feels like you're skidding on eggshells. Too bad, because otherwise we liked the cycling shoe.

Giro Blaze - Info and price

• Price 230 Euro >> available here
• Sizes 40 to 50
• Weight 929 grams per pair (size 46)
• Equipment (20 %) Speed-Laces; Primaloft lining; pull-on aid; reflex; integrated waterproof cover

Conclusion & evaluation

With the Blaze, Giro is completely rethinking winter shoes and combining a "normal" race shoe with a kind of waterproof cover. Primaloft lining and an insulated insole provide the necessary warmth. The wearing comfort is phenomenal for a winter shoe. The outer skin reliably blocks out dirt and water - but the Giro does leak in constant rain. Power transmission suffers under the extremely flexible upper material, and the tread with little grip is annoying when walking.