We loved the original Giro Chamber, but does the Giro Chamber II address the little issues and improved an almost perfect pair of shoes?

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The Chamber II is the latest version of Giro’s popular DH-orientated clip shoe. Aaron Gwin helped design it (hence this signature model), so the Chamber has the downhill champion’s rearward, offset cleat position for a more aggressive, heels down, riding stance. A deeper treaded Vibram sole offers increased bite hiking back up dodgy DH sections for another go too.

Secured by laces and a Velcro strap, the upper’s well ventilated with minimal seams and shrugs off splashes and downpours effectively. The sole and shank is moderately stiff, so there’s plenty punch at the pedal, but it’s still comfy all-day and flexible enough to walk or hike in without restricting movement.

Because the sole footprint is pretty wide, unclipped grip on studded platform style pedals is solid if you accidentally come unstuck, and the ramped edges on the cleat box make it really easier to snap back in fast if feet do get forced out of position.

This cleat box is also offset, which means you can adopt a wider stance more akin to flat pedals. It’s a foot position that feels great once you adapt and increases leverage to really drive the bike through turns, and it also gives increased clearance against rubbing heels on chainstays on wider Boost-axled frames.

£130 is twenty quid more expensive than last year’s model, but the durable Chamber II is worth it and highly recommended.