Fizik release special Giro edition R1B Climb shoe

To the untrained eye those lines may look like a toddler has scribbled all over them; however we can reveal they are in fact the contours of the iconic Monte Grappa and Asiago climbs, which both appear in the penultimate stage 20 of what will be one of the toughest tests at the 100th edition Giro.  This special climber's shoe is finished with a leader's jersey-inspired pink on the outside heel and under the tongue.

Giro d'Italia: stage-by-stage preview

Fizik R1B Umo review

Fizik's offices are enviously located within viewing distance of the Monte Grappa and Asiago, partly the reason they were inspired to make the shoes according to Marketing Manager Sarah Colpo: "We know the iconic Mother Alpe well. It keeps us feeling close to the professional riders that we support and admire. As well as their skill and effort we appreciate their bravery and the danger they face. It feeds our passion for racing and inspires us in our work. The R1B Climb Edition brings all that together in its design."

The shoe has a number of impressive features, including Fizik's 'Volume Control' that changes the shape of the shoe to fit the rider.  The R1B’s outsole is fully uni-directional carbon fiber, with built-in ventilation to enhance both cooling for rider comfort and the aerodynamic properties of the shoe. They will be worn at the 100th Giro by Team Sky, including GC hopeful Geraint Thomas, and Team BMC, including former Hour Record holder Rohan Dennis. If you also want a pair of these strictly limited edition beauties (for the princely sum of £329.99) you’ll have to get in quick, as beyond the Fizik-sponsored pros at the Corsa Rosa wearing them, only 40 additional pairs will be available to buy. 

The 20th stage on the 27th May, 190km in length and which features the Monte Grappa and Asagio climbs, is followed by a 28km time trial through Milan on the final day (Sunday 28th May), after which the winner of the centenary edition Giro d'Italia will be crowned. Read interviews with all the main contenders here.