Like many of their name-brand Italian competitors, before they started making cycling shoes, Gaerne got its start making motorcycle boots back in the ’60s. In the years since, Gaerne’s designers have continued developing performance footwear for both sports and integrating designs from one into the other. Additionally, Gaerne shares another typical Italian tradition in that it continues to be a family-run company since founder Ernesto Gazzola first opened shop.

Given their pedigree in the forcibly high-tech world of motorcycle racing circles, Gaerne is a company with a firm grasp on utilizing sport-specific technical features. And there is no shortage of them to be found with the Mythos. Like other shoes in this price range, the Italian-made Mythos runs with many of the expected and obvious-to-the-eye features: carbon sole, injection-molded heel cup and a (sturdy) micro-adjust aluminum buckle. However, one of the most appreciated design features is their simple, but ingenious, “Safety Lock” ratcheting system used on the two lower straps. Similar to the system used by Sidi, the crucial difference is placement of the notched ratchets. By locating the system on the face of the shoe’s upper and the bottom of the strap, you can cinch the strap as tight as needed and it stays taut while you complete the closure. This, in effect, is a dual-level retention system, and it helps provide a super-snug fit.

Another unique feature is the AICS (Adjustable Instep Closure System), which—besides providing another acronym to the market—allows for an additional level of personalized fit via the sliding “G” plate over the top of the foot.

With the mesh-covered vent in the sole and perforated outer, the Mythos makes an attempt at ventilation. On hotter days there are definitely cooler shoes to be found, and test riders were split on how bad the heat buildup was. The abundance of details are quick to rise on the road. First off, it has a great, easy-to-use and efficient buckle. We also liked the buckle’s asymmetrical shape, which makes it that much easier to slip a finger under to ratchet it tighter while pedaling. The injection-molded heel cup is firm, and there was no sign of heel slippage (the $400 G.Mythos Plus has a special anti-slip insert for added grip).

For those of you not familiar with the marketplace of motocross boots, Gaerne remains among the more popular, as much for their style and performance as their renowned durability. And as with their motocross boots, the durability of the cycling shoe comes at a price: weight. Compared to many other shoes, it’s safe to say that the Gaerne Mythos, while beautifully made- is on the overbuilt side. Everything about the Mythos is heavyduty— there’s not a fragile thread to be found. For some, it makes no difference that Alessandro Petacchi wears Gaerne shoes, because they can easily find shoes that weigh over 200 grams less (per pair).

Still, if you can stand the idea of pushing circles with a heavier shoe, the Gaerne will provide great styling, performance and more likely than not, much better longevity. We also like the lighter $190 Altea, which shares many Mythos features, but it runs with three Velcro straps to get the job done.

• A lot of shoe for the price

• Too much shoe for some

• Full of cool features

Price: $350

Weight: 684 grams (size 42)

Sizes: 41-46

For more info: GAERNE