Having ridden in a pair of Shimano R320s for many years I decided it was time for a new pair of road shoes. A positive experience with a pair of Giro Techlace mountain bike shoes informed my choice here. I went with a size 44 the same as my other Giro shoes and they are perfect. I have been told by ski boot fitters that I've got a very average foot, in size width and arch and typically wear a U.S. men's 10 in athletic shoes. The Empire SLX II's lace system is excellent for dialing in a comfortable fit and the middle sized arch supports (orange) that come pre installed are perfect for me. The shoe is very well ventilated and great for Southern California. I've got several hundred miles on them and haven't had any issues. My only critique is that I would like to see black laces on the white shoe, just for stain resistance.