Giant continues to update and expand their footwear offerings, hitting more price points and further refining important features. For 2019, they’re rolling out a big improvement to the off-road side of things that covers everything from gravel and XC to huck-tastic enduro. We take a hands-on look at the new top end Charge Pro, and preview five other models.
Giant Bicycles 2019 off-road cycling shoes
While Giant isn’t the biggest name in footwear, they’re seeking to change that with six new or updated models for 2019. These include the Charge series (Pro and Elite models), along with the Shuttle Flat, Transmit, Line, and Flux.
We just got our hands on the Charge Pro, which is the top offering at $385.
The Charge Pro is an update of the original Charge shoe, using an improved version of the Motion Efficiency System, called MES 2.0. This uses something called ExoBeam, which is a stiffening bean on the bottom of the shoe – said to strategically use stiffness and flex in the right places for optimal power and reduced leg strain. New for this year, the beam is now rubber-coated in the mid-foot for better traction while walking.
The shoe’s upper uses their ExoWrap technology to fully enclose the foot, along with the BOA LP1 closure system.
The Charge Pro is available in blue (shown above) or black (shown below).
Overall, the fit and finish of the new Charge Pro is outstanding, and my size 45 test samples feel true-to-size. Check out the full specs below:
Sizes: EU 40-48 (Half Sizes 41.5-45.5), HV 40-48 (Half Sizes 41.5-45.5)
Weight: 338g (size 45)
Colors: Black, Blue
MSRP: $385
Giant Charge Elite XC & gravel shoe
The Charge Elite uses much of the same technology as its bigger brother, with a few changes. First, it uses a single BOA closure system, and a carbon/fiberglass blend for the ExoBeam, rather than ultralight carbon.
The Charge Elite is available now, with full specs below:
- Sizes: EU 40-48
- Weight: 356g (size 45)
- Olive or Gray
- MSRP $275
Giant Flux entry-level MTB shoe
The Flux is an entry-level shoe using the ExoBeam system combined with a three-strap Velcro closure system.
The Flux is a relative steal at $105, and is available now.
- EU 39-48 (full sizes only)
- 440g (size 43)
- MSRP: $105
Giant Shuttle Flat Enduro and DH flat-pedal shoe
The Shuttle Flat is all-new for 2019, and is Giant’s first shoe made specifically for flat pedal riding. Designed with input from Adam Craig, the Shuttle Flat has special GRIPR rubber on the pedal area and high-abrasion-resistant rubber in the heel and toe.
The Shuttle Flat also has a reinforced toe guard, extra heavy stitching, and quick-dry material in the upper.
- Sizes: EU 39-48
- Weight: 450g (size 45)
- MSRP: $110
Giant Line trail & enduro MTB shoe
The Line trail shoe has been around for a couple years, but has been updated for 2019 with an all-new closure system and new color options. It has a single ratchet buckle with two straps for faster adjustment. The Line also has an integrated ExoBeam for improved stiffness.
The Line has a reinforced toe box, similar to the Shuttle Flat, for extra protection.
- Sizes: EU 40-48
- Weight: 495g (size 42)
- Blue/black or gray/black
- MSRP: $150
Giant Transmit
The Transmit is another entry-level shoe, one step above the Flux – and adding a ratcheting buckle closure system.
The Transmit is available now, shipping in both blue and black versions.
- EU 39-48 (full sizes only)
- 460g (size 43)
- Blue or black
- MSRP $125
