I really love my limited edition Giro Empire MTB shoes, but like all of my current shoes, when compared to the Vibram Terraduros, I wish they had more grip for walking over slippery rocks and loose roots.

Giro’s really going for it with the Vibram soles on their forthcoming shoe line and included in the bunch are the new Empire VR90 shoes. Shown here in a limited edition blaze orange.

I’ve been putting in some trail time with these and all I can really say is so far, so good. See a few more photos and more words below.

The bottom, showing the full Vibram and Easton EC90 Carbon Fiber integration.

Front of the bottom, with optional placement for cleats.

… and rear at the heel.

The biggest improvement to these shoes is the toe box. My limited edition camo Empires came unglued last summer, so I used two-ton epoxy to re-attach the soles. Since then, they’ve been good to go. Giro’s addressed those issues with a more secure sole integration.

Time will tell whether or not they’ll hold up as well as the Privateers, but I can already notice a difference.

With laces, they’ve got to be secure and the lace loops do just that.

Padding at the heel and Vibram’s slip-reducing sole make these one solid choice for mountain, cross and commuter bikes. While I love the orange, I can’t wait to get a pair of the black ones for a less flashy ride.

These shoes will be at select Giro dealers. Follow their Facebook for updates.

Keep at it, Giro. I’m always anxious to see what’s next!