Privateer review on Gear Institute

The Giro Privateer shoes were reviewed on Gear Institute. Excellent rating!

" Personal note: The fit of these shoes was the best I've ever experienced in a cycling shoe, better, in fact, than my beloved Specialized Pros. Since these were the HV (high volume) edition of the Privateer, my D-width forefoot and toes had the perfect amount of room. I don't consider my feet to be high volume, so I was worried that the ratchet strap might bottom out before getting tight enough, but I was able to crank them down adequately with a few clicks still left. Though Giro's SuperNatural fit kit is not included with these more affordable shoes, I felt like the stock footbed gave my medium arch feet adequate support."

Giro Privateer shoes review on Bicycling

Here's the review of the all-new 2012 Giro Privateer MTB shoes. 

Available in White and Black or in Black and also in High Volume (HV) in Black.

" A comfortable, effective off-road shoe, the Privateer proved itself through a fall filled with trail riding and 'cross racing. The shoe was especially impressive on loose, muddy run-ups, where the nylon outsole, with aggressive lugs, gave the shoes impressive bite, helping keep our balance and run just a little quicker than the other guys. The sole is more flexible than other shoes we've ridden recently, but still rigid enough to keep us pedaling efficiently down the trail. The fit is on the narrow side, especially through the mid-foot and toe box. Even so, we never felt cramped, even on longer hike-a-bike sections. The microfiber upper, with just a few mesh panels, was perfect for cooler fall weather, and did an impressive job at keeping our feet dry when splashing through creek crossings—it's also easy to clean, an important consideration if you opt for the white-and-black color scheme. Like most shoes in this price range, the closure is a simple arrangement: three straps, one with a buckle and two with Velcro. They all worked effectively, while the heel cup did an impressive job of keep our foot secure.—Andrew J. Bernstein "

bicycling.com