Merlin Cycles have worked with Crono for a number of years now. We were impressed with the range and quality of their workmanship from the first day we saw them, and are proud to be the only retailer in the UK to purchase them from. A brand that is well known in Europe, Crono have been producing some of the best cycling shoes since 1973.
We catch up with Bengt from Crono to tell us a little bit more about the brand.
Tell us a bit about the history of Crono shoes? When did the company begin and where are you based?
We are based in Treviso, in the Veneto Region – the heartland of Italian Cycling. Rich in cycling history, famous climbs, great food and wine. The major part of the Italian cycling industry is based in the Veneto Region.
Italy must be a fantastic place to ride bikes. Do the people who work at Crono ride bikes themselves?
Some are, but all are experts in shoe making with long experience from shoe making.
How many shoes per year do you make?
We are proud to produce a limited quantity around 25.000pair annually. It’s a limited quantity, but that enables us to focus on the quality of the product for the upper part of the market.
What is the key selling point of Crono shoes versus the competition?
We produce our shoes ourselves in our own factory. We have full control of the development of the shoes and the production is run by experienced people of shoe making. We use the best materials only. We are proud of the MULTICONTACT CLOSURE SYSTEM which we developed together with BOA. The MULTICONTACT CLOSURE SYSTEM trickles down to the ARCH WRAP SYSTEM for more affordable models. Comfortable shoes for performance riding
Which discipline are you seeing is the most popular at the minute? How has the market changed for you?
Gravel is a nice addition to the existing road and MTB segments, which remain strong. We do expect further growth of quality shoes for segments like bike packing, for example. We have developed special shoes together with Vibram for the best riding experience.
Why did you choose Merlin as your exclusive UK partner?
Merlin is a serious partner, focused on the performance part of the market. Very responsive and quick to market with its internally integrated marketing team. Merlin has knowledgeable staff with performance riding experience.
What can we expect to see over the next few years from Crono?
Continuous development with improved production technology in collaboration with riders and partners. We are currently investing new and modern machinery, and you will notice interesting new solutions in future models to come. We will also continue to invest in methods that protect the environment, respecting human values, and prioritizes the well-being of our customers and employees.
Thanks for your time Bengt
See the full range of Crono Shoes available exclusively from Merlin Cycles here
