A new color has recently been added to the GIRO / Privateer Lace Japan Limited Color, a cycling shoe that debuted last year and exudes a retro vibe with its black upper and gum-colored sole. This new addition features the same gum-colored sole but introduces a gray upper.
While the slightly bluish gray offers a fresh impression, it is certainly versatile enough to pair with any color of cycling gear.
Along with this new color, let’s revisit the Privateer Lace Japan Limited Color.
【GIRO】
Privateer Lace Japan Limited Color
PRICE: ¥18,480 (tax incl.)
COLOR: Portaro Grey / Gum, Black / Gum
SIZE: 39–46
A Japan-exclusive color featuring an attractive gum sole
The hallmark of this Japan-exclusive Privateer Lace is, above all, its gum-colored sole. Inspired by natural rubber—the material used for sneaker soles long before the invention of petroleum-derived synthetic rubber—it carries a distinctively retro feel.
Yet, when combined with a cycling shoe engineered as cutting-edge equipment for riding, it conversely feels remarkably fresh.
That contrast—the retro aesthetic on such a high-performance shoe—is one of its charms. Another notable feature is the use of shoelaces for fitting.
Shoelaces as a major advantage for cycling shoes
Nowadays, traditional Velcro shoes are slowly disappearing, with dial-and-wire fitting systems like the Boa system becoming increasingly common. However, as seen with the Privateer Lace, GIRO’s iconic EMPIRE, and QUOC’s Night and Gran Tourer, cycling shoes featuring shoelaces have also been making a comeback over the past few years.
The fitting system used to integrate your foot with the shoe is a critical factor in achieving efficient pedaling. While shoelaces provide a classic look, they are used in select contemporary models precisely because they offer significant advantages to cyclists.
So why use shoelaces today?
The biggest advantage is the ability to adjust the fit to match the subtle contours of your foot. While tightening loose laces one by one can be tedious, by cinching them securely through each eyelet starting from the toe, you can achieve an optimal fit that follows the shape of your foot. They are often easier to wear for those with wide or high-arched feet, too.
Other benefits include being lightweight and easy to replace if they fray or snap. Despite the classic style, using shoelaces is a design choice that delivers superior functionality even in the modern era.
Includes three shoelaces in different colors
Just like the Black version, this Portaro Grey model comes with three different sets of laces. While the Black included black, red, and gray, this Portaro Grey comes with black, red, and orange. This allows you to customize your look, and you'll have replacements ready should one snap by accident.
Highly functional microfiber upper
The microfiber upper combines water resistance with the breathability provided by perforations, offering comfort in a wide variety of conditions. Furthermore, the more you wear them, the better they will conform to your feet, resulting in an even more precise fit.
Though the Privateer Lace exudes a casual vibe, it possesses high functionality that belies its appearance.
This makes it suitable for whatever riding style you prefer, whether it’s for trail rides, gravel rides, or as a daily cycling shoe for commuting to work or school.
Wide range of sizes available
At Circles, we carry a wide range of sizes from 39 to 46. Many people with larger feet often struggle to find a size that fits them anywhere. At Circles, we strive to keep as wide a size range as possible not just for the Privateer Lace, but for all our shoes and items, so please check with us if you’re having trouble.
We once had a tourist from overseas visit our shop. Their shoes had broken in Fukuoka, where they started their trip, and they had ridden all the way to Nagoya while searching for a pair that fit at various shops along the way. They were overjoyed to finally find a pair of shoes in their size at Circles.
We want to be the kind of shop that people can rely on when they are in a bind.
