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The MAAP x QUOC Gran Tourer XC collaboration is more than just a colorway refresh—it’s a complete reimagining of QUOC’s popular gravel bike shoes. This limited-edition shoe, developed in partnership with Australian cycling apparel brand MAAP, introduces a fresh design ethos while maintaining the technical performance of the original Gran Tourer XC. The result is a gravel shoe with a bold aesthetic and refined functionality that caters to both style-conscious and performance-driven riders.
The Collaboration Story
The MAAP x QUOC Gran Tourer XC is designed to align with MAAP’s Fog colorway from their latest Alt_Road apparel range. However, this collaboration goes beyond a simple color swap. QUOC founder and designer Quoc Pham emphasizes that the project was about innovation and creating something special that resonates with the shared values of both brands. The collaboration reflects their mutual passion for pushing cycling boundaries, resulting in a shoe that stands out in both design and performance.
What’s New?
While the core features of the Gran Tourer XC remain intact, the MAAP edition introduces several notable updates to the shoe’s upper, sole, and protection design.
Upper Redesign
The upper is entirely reimagined, featuring a grid-textured microfiber surface with ventilation openings strategically placed on the toe, instep, and tongue. These perforations are fewer in number but larger in size compared to the standard Gran Tourer XC, offering a unique look and presumably enhanced airflow.
The tongue is also redesigned, made from a lightweight TPU material with vertical ribs that mold to the rider’s foot. Like the upper, it includes larger ventilation holes backed by mesh for breathability.
Sole Updates
The shoe retains the same stiff carbon composite sole for efficient power transfer but adds a new twist with TPU rubber tread lugs. These lugs are slightly translucent, allowing the sole’s colors to show through, giving the shoe a distinctive aesthetic.
Enhanced Protection
The original Gran Tourer XC featured a 360° wrap-around TPU protection layer, which provided excellent durability and water resistance. The MAAP version scales this back, focusing protection on the heel and toe areas—where it’s most needed. This change not only reduces weight but also gives the shoe a sleeker, more streamlined appearance.
New Details
Other updates include an accent-colored webbing pull tab at the heel, adding a touch of style and practicality. These small but thoughtful touches contribute to the shoe’s overall cohesive design.
Core Features That Carry Over
Despite the redesign, the MAAP x QUOC Gran Tourer XC retains the core features that made the original a standout choice for gravel and cross-country riders:
- Synthetic microfiber upper: Durable and easy to clean.
- Symmetric tongue design: Ensures a comfortable fit.
- Dual wire retention dials: Allows for precise, secure fit adjustments.
- Carbon composite sole: Stiff and efficient for power transfer.
Pricing, Availability, and Specs
The MAAP x QUOC Gran Tourer XC is available in a single Fog colorway and in EU sizes 38-47. Priced at $330, 295€, or $480 AUD, the shoes can be purchased directly from QUOC or MAAP’s websites or through their respective retailers. Each shoe weighs 327g (size 42), the same as the standard Gran Tourer XC.
What’s Next for QUOC?
In addition to this collaboration, QUOC is set to introduce new colorways for their gravel shoe lineup in the coming months. These updates will include fresh looks for the Gran Tourer XC and other models, catering to riders seeking both performance and style. QUOC has been teasing these updates on social media, so riders should stay tuned for more releases soon.
Final Thoughts
The MAAP x QUOC Gran Tourer XC is a testament to the power of collaboration in cycling. By blending MAAP’s bold design language with QUOC’s technical expertise, this shoe offers a unique and high-performing option for gravel riders. Whether you’re drawn to its aesthetic or its functionality, this limited-edition shoe is a standout choice for those looking to elevate their off-road cycling experience. With more collaborations hinted at for the future, it’s an exciting time for fans of both brands.
