Giro

Empire XC Mountain Bike Shoe - Men's

What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying:

"I recommend this to riders who value both performance and fit nuance. The lace closure allows zone-specific tensioning, and the Easton® carbon sole feels incredibly direct under power. It’s lightweight, stiff, and race-ready."

The Empire XC Mountain Bike Shoe stands as a benchmark for riders seeking elite-level performance wrapped in a classic laced silhouette. Designed for cross-country racing and high-speed gravel competition, it combines premium materials with advanced carbon engineering to maximize efficiency and connection at the pedal interface.

The Teijin® Samo™ microfiber upper delivers a supple, breathable feel that conforms closely to the foot while resisting stretch, moisture, and discoloration. The seven-point laced closure system allows independent tensioning across multiple zones of the foot, offering near-infinite adjustability and a natural, pressure-free fit. Durable tubular woven laces maintain security without slipping, even under race intensity.

Underfoot, the Easton® EC90™ SLX2 carbon composite outsole is engineered with tuned stiffness zones across the toe, arch, and heel to optimize power transfer while maintaining pedaling comfort. At just 6.5mm of stack height, the platform positions the foot closer to the pedal axle for improved biomechanical efficiency and a more responsive ride feel. The SuperNatural Fit System includes interchangeable arch supports (low, medium, high) to fine-tune alignment and reduce hotspots or numbness over extended efforts.

With a claimed weight of 225g (size 42), the Empire XC delivers race-caliber stiffness, customizable support, and refined style—ideal for riders pushing the limits in cross-country competition or demanding endurance events.