[New Arrival] QUOC Gran Tourer II

2022/4/27 Circles

The Gran Tourer Evolved

Since its release in 2018, the Gran Tourer has been a long-running favorite. Because of its exceptional comfort, it has transcended its classification as just a gravel shoe, gaining widespread support from cyclists for everything from town use to off-roading. Now, in 2022, the Gran Tourer is back, updated and rebranded as the Gran Tourer II.

What’s Been Updated?

There are two key changes: a redesigned heel cap and the adoption of a dial closure system.

A More Weather-Resistant Heel Cap

The heel cap now features padding in the upper section, adding thickness. This thickness improves the shoe's fit while also preventing water ingress. Furthermore, the increased rigidity of the heel itself gives you the feeling that your foot is "locked into" the shoe. When chasing down friends toward the peak during a group ride, you can pedal hard without your heel slipping.

The Benefits of Dial-Closure Shoes

The benefits of a dial closure system include:

Adjustable hold while riding
Easy to walk in
Won't come untied while riding
Quick to put on and take off

And so on.

Additionally, a niche benefit is that they hold up better in rainy weather compared to lace-up models.

The dials don't absorb water, reducing discomfort and avoiding the weight gain caused by waterlogged laces.

Of course, lace-up models have their own strengths, such as a unique level of hold, so there are trade-offs.

Recommended for These Cyclists

Given the strengths of dial-closure shoes, we recommend them for the following types of users:

・Those who walk frequently
・Those who don't want to spend time putting on/taking off shoes
・Serious racers and long-distance riders

The dial closure should make the Gran Tourer’s hallmark "walkability" even more comfortable. You can loosen the tension when pushing your bike up a steep slope to reduce strain on your ankles. It is also highly recommended for serious racers who want to make quick adjustments to their fit while riding. It is easy to understand why most modern race-spec shoes have switched to dial systems.

Color Variations

Available in 4 colors: the familiar Black, Black Gum, Pink, and the newly added Sand. QUOC has stated that for 2022 and beyond, they intend to continue incorporating nature-inspired colors, or "earth tones," into their models.

Practicality Meets Beauty

While creating cycling shoes, QUOC’s founder, Quoc Pham, realized that what cyclists really craved was a functional design. While they had previously focused on classic brogue-styled shoes, many users were calling for a model designed for "comfortable cycling."

The Gran Tourer II is a response to those voices.

They have released a shoe that balances practicality and beauty, maintaining their brand strengths while adapting to the modern gravel cycling scene. This shoe is the culmination of their experience crafting leather footwear.