Black body with a gum sole.
It really grabs you.
I'm not sure if it's nostalgia or something else, but for some reason, it really hits the spot.
With cycling shoes often sporting sporty designs, and these days specifically high-visibility, bright colors, this Giro Privateer is a manly pair that pays no heed to current trends.
What's more, it’s not even a new color; it’s been released continuously for the past few years.
In fact, it was featured in the 2013 domestic catalog alongside the BlackCat, which was also introduced in a recent blog post. (It appeared only there, and wasn't released domestically either.)
By the way, the rider is Todd, the builder of the BlackCat, and the photographer is Brian Vernor.
I’ll never forget the first time I saw these shoes: it was when Rick from Hunter Cycles visited Japan. (He participated in What A Beautiful Momentshow Vol.2 and the Nobeyama Cyclocross.)
While I was shocked at the size of Rick’s feet, I’ve been longing for them ever since I thought, "Aren't these shoes incredibly cool!?" And two years ago, when I traveled to the U.S. for NAHBS, I finally bought a pair.
They are still my go-to partners whenever I hop on my cyclocross or MTB, and now, they’ve arrived at Circles in a limited release!
Giro Privateer / Black x Gum ¥18,500_ (excl. tax)
Instead of the carbon soles found on higher-end models like the Code or Gauge, these feature a DuPont nylon sole.
It’s a sole that offers just the right amount of traction on the pedals—not too stiff, not too soft.
Also, because they are softer than carbon soles, I think they’re great for mountain trail rides that involve a lot of hiking, or even cyclocross races.
There isn't really anything else worth noting—no "this is like that" or "that is like this"—but, well, I’m just excited about how cool the “Giro / Privateer / Black x Gum” is! How about you pick up a pair for yourself?