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Giro Trans shoes (Image credit: Future Publishing)
The Trans is very impressive, offering the features of the Giro Factor for considerably less outlay. The stylish uppers are neatly stitched from contrasting shiny microfibre panels that wipe clean easily, interspersed with hardwearing mesh.
The wide, shaped tongue has a padded centre and finely feathered edges to avoid discomfort from tightened straps, and it's perforated all over. The heel counter has a rigid base, rising to a cushioned and flexible upper half that comfortably envelops the heel, providing great support, with deep cutouts for the ankles.
Highs: Style, value, features, performance Lows: A bit narrow for the broader toed
Giro's SuperNatural Fit System footbed supplies you with three different inserts for low, average or high arch support. These form an integral part of the multi-density footbed, attaching with Velcro to its underside to keep the Aegis anti-microbial treated upper surface smooth. A subtle central ridge and pronounced heel cup further improve fit.
The Trans' Easton EC70 carbon composite sole sits beneath the Factor’s EC90 in Easton hierarchy, but features a low stack height of 6.5mm beneath the ball of the foot for excellent efficiency through the pedals. It also has a single toe vent, aligned with the footbed’s perforations, to channel some cooling air into the shoe.
With the highest arch support fitted, our size 45s weigh in at only 610g for the pair, which isn't heavy for a quality shoe. Two offset Velcro straps spread the load across the forefoot, and the perfectly positioned micro-adjust buckle ratchets closed for a very secure fit. The uppers easily resist the pull from the straps, while perfectly conforming to your foot for a comfortable fit, free of pressure points. The toe area isn't particularly broad, but for people with average or slightly above average width feet, these shoes are great.
Sole stiffness is excellent, too, with more than enough real world rigidity for almost anyone. They performed superbly in all situations, from Paris-Roubaix's Arenberg Forest to 20 per cent climbs, sprints and long days out. Thankfully, for a shoe that encourages performance, they are really well ventilated, to the point that you're likely to need extra protection outside of summer days.
