{"id":2098759,"date":"2026-08-17T13:20:38","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T10:20:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2098759"},"modified":"2026-08-17T13:20:38","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T10:20:38","slug":"specializeds-s-works-recon-evo-are-great-shoes-but-they-come-at-a-great-expense","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2098759","title":{"rendered":"Specialized&#8217;s S-Works Recon Evo are great shoes, but they come at a great expense"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SqHNZe9eyWv2SXaWX4RXAm-2560-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nreview-article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"pretty-verdict\" data-component-name=\"pretty-verdict\">\n<div class=\"pretty-verdict__heading-container\">\n<h3>\nCyclingnews Verdict<br \/>\n<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pretty-verdict__verdict\">\n<p>A great pair of shoes that look nice, clean easily, and perform well, but the new last made no noticeable difference to my comfort, and the price is painful to swallow.<\/p>\n<aside data-article-category=\"cycling-kit-accessories\" data-model-name=\"Specialized S-Works Recon Evo\" data-name=\"TOP widget\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-show-widget-title=\"0\" data-widget-type=\"review\" class=\"ecom-root\">\n<div class=\"hawk-merchant-link-widget-widget-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-merchant-link-widget-main-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-merchant-link-widget-wrapper hawk-merchant-link-widget-left-alignment\">\n<div class=\"hawk-merchant-link-widget-item-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"hawk-merchant-link-widget-item-transparent\" data-product-type=\"200\"> Check Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pretty-verdict__pros\">\n<h4 class=\"pros__heading\">\nPros<br \/>\n<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><span>+<\/span>\n<p>Power transfer is excellent<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li><span>+<\/span>\n<p>They look great, and clean up easily<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li><span>+<\/span>\n<p>Replaceable pontoons add longevity<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li><span>+<\/span>\n<p>No issues with comfort<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pretty-verdict__cons\">\n<h4 class=\"cons__heading\">\nCons<br \/>\n<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><span>&#8211;<\/span>\n<p>Mega expensive<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li><span>&#8211;<\/span>\n<p>Not proportionally better than a \u00a3300 shoe<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"pretty-verdict\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" class=\"w-full mt-5 border-t border-[#ededed] border-solid\" data-nosnippet>\n<div class=\"mt-5 text-base font-bold text-black pb-2.5\">Best picks for you<\/div>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col pl-4 pr-2 bg-none \">\n<li class=\"w-full mb-2 list-disc list-outside -indent-0.5\" id=\"recirculation-related-pretty-verdict-1\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-1\">\n                    Best cycling shoes 2026: Our pick of the best shoes for road cyclists, tested and reviewed\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"w-full mb-2 list-disc list-outside -indent-0.5\" id=\"recirculation-related-pretty-verdict-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-2\">\n                    Best gravel shoes 2026: All the best options for every kind of gravel cycling\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"w-full mb-2 list-disc list-outside -indent-0.5\" id=\"recirculation-related-pretty-verdict-3\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-pretty-verdict-3\">\n                    Best indoor cycling shoes 2026: Fast and cool shoes for indoor cycling\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-xs leading-5 mb-2 text-left py-2 md:px-4\" id=\"how-we-test\"><span class=\"font-bold text-primary-500\">You can trust Cyclingnews<\/p>\n<p><\/span><span>Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto\">\n<p id=\"elk-88478794-97e8-11f1-a878-998bd772d7b5\">To put it into simple terms, the Specialized S-Works Recon Evo takes the platform of the Ares road shoe and pairs it with an off-road outsole. I&#8217;m sure it was a lot more complicated than that in reality, but as a potential buyer, that&#8217;s the TLDR.<\/p>\n<p>They are Specialized&#8217;s best gravel shoes, with a premium aesthetic, lofty performance caims, and a pretty lofty price tag to boot.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-88478794-97e8-11f1-a878-998bd772d7b5-2\">I have a lot of time for Specialized. I know a good number of their staff both here in the UK and over at its HQ in Morgan Hill; their approach to product design is thorough, and their thinking is often many steps ahead of the competition. But when the Ares launched, I was irrationally angered by the claim that it was seven watts better.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The claim was unsubstantiated, and a small asterisk clarified that it was compared to a non \u2018Body Geometry\u2019 shoe (Specialized\u2019s in-house ergonomics technology), which could be inferred as meaning it&#8217;s not seven watts better than <em>any<\/em> of its other shoes, since they all use the tech to some degree.<\/p>\n<p>It could also be inferred to mean that it was comparing to another brand\u2019s high end shoe, such as a pair of Giro Empire SLX or Bont Vaypor SL\u2026 or it could be in comparison to a pair of Birkenstocks. It didn\u2019t say.<\/p>\n<p>That same claim is being repeated here, and while I\u2019m sure these are better than some other shoes to an equivalent tune of seven watts, don\u2019t be expecting life-changing performance improvements. Especially ones that you can&#8217;t get for a significantly lower price than the \u00a3399.00 \/ $550.00 these will set you back.<\/p>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery inlinegallery inline-layout extended-layout full-width-layout first-slide-only\" data-component-name=\"Elk:Gallery:ImageGallery\" data-inline-gallery data-inline-gallery-progress-template=\"Image {currentSlide} of {totalSlides}\" data-inline-gallery-total-slides=\"7\" id=\"elk-88478802-97e8-11f1-975f-919707ae7c4c\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count counts\"><span class=\"slidecount current\" data-inline-gallery-count><br \/>\nImage 1 of 7<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items inlinegallery-wrap\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-track>\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"1\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"2\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"3\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"4\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"5\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"6\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-images\" data-inline-gallery-expanded hidden>\n<div class=\"expanded-images__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-track>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 1 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 2 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 3 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 4 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 5 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 6 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 7 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"design-and-aesthetics-3\">Design and aesthetics<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-884788c0-97e8-11f1-9a54-cbb5edee9686\">The S-Works Recon Evo is built on the new Body Geometry Natural Last, which Specialized claims reduces forefoot pressure by &#8220;up to 44%&#8221; compared to previous iterations. It\u2019s not quite as wide as the last used in many of Lake\u2019s shoes, but I&#8217;m told it&#8217;s 2.5mm wider than the Torch shoe, which itself was 4mm wider than the S-Works 7.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Support features include a Varus Wedge for forefoot stabilization, arch support to maintain foot shape under load, and a Metatarsal Button designed to reduce nerve compression and pressure points.<\/p>\n<p>The upper is largely the same as found on the Ares 2, including the patented &#8216;PowerHug&#8217; closure system which wraps across the upper to lock the midfoot and stabilise the heel. Specialized introduced a similar technology on the Ares 1, arguing it improves power transfer by increasing foot-to-upper contact in the back half of the pedal stroke, thus reducing energy loss to material flex.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8847891a-97e8-11f1-aef4-d537947f413a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The Boa S3 Li2 dials add a premium finish <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-8847897e-97e8-11f1-a0f0-09049c4bf66f\">BOA S3 dials are used for retention, with two dials per shoe for upper and forefoot adjustment, and it must be said, the machined aluminium dials add a real premium look to the shoes.<\/p>\n<p>For its gravelly intentions, the outsole includes rubber toe and heel lugs for traction, along with TPU &#8216;pontoons&#8217; \u2013 Specialized&#8217;s word, not mine \u2013 on either side of the cleat. Notably, these pontoons are interchangeable via two screws accessed from inside the shoe.<\/p>\n<p>There are two available mounting points for the cleats, and the mounting plate itself can slide back and forth. This means plenty of adjustment in cleat position, although I do find the whole setup is further back than I\u2019m used to. I have mine around 5mm from the furthest-forward adjustment, to get the pedal axle to line up where it usually sits. The sole itself is otherwise smooth, save for a small rubber plate that adds grip at the midfoot.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, these features combine to create a shoe that looks fantastic, and thankfully the white is pretty easy to keep clean. There&#8217;s no fabric that stains, unlike the Fizik Vento Proxy shoes I reviewed last year.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-884789d8-97e8-11f1-b89a-17e9cae32c6e\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">I&#8217;ve had no issues walking in these, from cafe stops to hike-a-bike scrambles where my talent gives in to the terrain. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"performance-3\">Performance<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478a8c-97e8-11f1-9643-313b5e4f1088\">I&#8217;ve ridden and raced in the Sub 6 (a long time ago), the S-Works 7, and the original Ares, and these are definitely wider, but on my feet, they don&#8217;t feel &#8216;better&#8217; (or worse) as a result. Just wider.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m a pretty textbook case for why this new wider last exists&#8230; my average-width feet are technically too wide for the majority of normal cycling shoes (according to a measurement by a Specialized bike fitter), but I have found these to be very comfortable. But then again I\u2019ve never found an issue with the narrower shapes of older S-Works shoes, nor indeed Trek, Giro, Northwave, Fizik, Sidi, and more.<\/p>\n<p>Overall though, these shoes are pretty good across the board. At \u00a3399, you won\u2019t be surprised to hear that, but they\u2019re comfy, stiff, secure, breathable, and reasonably lightweight at 764g (with the standard insoles that come with it).<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re also pretty easy to clean, as demonstrated by the gallery below&#8230;<\/p>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery inlinegallery inline-layout extended-layout full-width-layout first-slide-only\" data-component-name=\"Elk:Gallery:ImageGallery\" data-inline-gallery data-inline-gallery-progress-template=\"Image {currentSlide} of {totalSlides}\" data-inline-gallery-total-slides=\"3\" id=\"elk-88478ae6-97e8-11f1-93ab-f93e11151f97\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count counts\"><span class=\"slidecount current\" data-inline-gallery-count><br \/>\nImage 1 of 3<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items inlinegallery-wrap\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-track>\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Pre-clean, after a few months of riding in back-to-back British heatwaves<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"1\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">After a 10-minute scrub with a wet, soapy sponge<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"2\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">And thirdly, after a quick wipe down using &#8216;Pink Stuff&#8217; cleaning paste. This step isn&#8217;t neccesary, but takes them from scruffy to sparkly in a quarter of an hour.<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-images\" data-inline-gallery-expanded hidden>\n<div class=\"expanded-images__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-track>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 1 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 2 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 3 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-88478b40-97e8-11f1-ac5f-45d50995af00\">The Boa dials are excellent. They tighten in the opposite direction for each foot, which sounds wrong until you&#8217;ve tried it the other way. They pop open to loosen, or can be backed off if you just want to loosen them a couple of clicks. They can get stiff or gritty if you let muddy shoes dry (or ride on the beach), but rinse them under warm water while dialling them back and forth, and you&#8217;ll reinstate their butteriness once again (you can thank my colleague Tom for that tip).<\/p>\n<p>The wrap-over strap is nice and secure, but I find the heel cup a little slippier than I\u2019d like, meaning in hard sprint efforts, my heel isn\u2019t as locked in as I\u2019ve felt in other shoes.<\/p>\n<p>I buy into the notion that there are comfort benefits to be found for most people with a wider last, but in all honesty I didn\u2019t find much improvement here. As I mentioned above, though, I never have issues with narrower shoes, even though my feet are too wide for them.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe I\u2019d find a noticeable improvement by going wider again, and maybe someone who is uncomfortable in narrow shoes but not quite as wide as this Recon last, would notice the change more than me.<\/p>\n<p>Still, I didn\u2019t find any extra stability from the extra platform, and instead simply noticed more crank rub.<\/p>\n<p>Elsewhere, the grip when walking is pretty good. And the shoes don\u2019t pinch at the ankles when doing so. The pontoons are deep enough to bury the cleat and prevent it from fouling on the ground when walking. It does still foul on rougher surfaces, but the overall traction is decent on both hard and soft ground, and the lugs at the front are big enough to grip nicely.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-88478b9a-97e8-11f1-b121-0bb33ae29e37\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The two screw holes on either side let you remove the pontoons from either side of the cleat should you wear them out <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"value-3\">Value<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478c4e-97e8-11f1-b590-ffe03a11f720\">So they&#8217;re very good shoes, but the problem is I don\u2019t really think they\u2019re 25% better than any of the other high-end gravel race shoes that retail in that \u00a3300 \/ $400 ballpark. I certainly don\u2019t believe I&#8217;m suddenly seven watts better off when wearing them.<\/p>\n<p>As much as I really do like wearing these shoes, I can\u2019t in good conscience claim they are good value, nor really recommend them. The price is just too high and the performance delta just isn\u2019t high enough to represent the hike.<\/p>\n<p>Their one saving grace in the value stakes is that top-end Specialized shoes will happily take a beating. I&#8217;ve been using the last round of Recon Lace shoes since 2021 and save for being filthy, they&#8217;re in perfect working order.<\/p>\n<p>But I would still suggest you save some money, buy a \u00a3300 shoe \u2013 which is still a lot of money, but a fairer reflection of the cost of flagship performance \u2013 and buy yourself a new skinsuit if you\u2019re worried about those seven watts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-88478ca8-97e8-11f1-886f-2765717d5edf\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The shoes are great, but the price is a bit too spicy for my liking. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"verdict-3\">Verdict<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478d66-97e8-11f1-8e6d-57ec80f5ca00\">The Recon Evo shoe is good. Great even. But at \u00a3399 \/ $550 I think it needs to even be better than that.<\/p>\n<p>The new last is a definite improvement on paper, but at least for my feet, I don\u2019t feel it offers wholesale change. If you have nominally wide feet, there are plenty of high-end shoes at a much lower price, that either already offer a similarly wide last \u2013 Lake being the prominent brand \u2013 or that which come in a wide fit option, such as Fizik.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re at the pointy end of very big races and you want to squeeze out a modicum of extra performance no matter the cost, these will be the shoes for you, but for everyone else, they&#8217;re probably a little overkill.<\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container table-wrapper slice-container-table\" data-component-name=\"Slice:Table\" id=\"elk-88478db6-97e8-11f1-bf6f-a79d661c1c7b\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">\nSwipe to scroll horizontally<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<caption class=\"table__caption table__caption--top table__caption--left\">\nTesting scorecard and notes<br \/>\n<\/caption>\n<thead class=\"table__head\">\n<tr class=\"table__head__row\">\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Spec<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Note<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Rating<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Design \/ aesthetics<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>They do look excellent, and they&#8217;re easy to keep white. The last is designed to be more comfortable for more people, and the replaceable lugs improve longevity.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>9\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Performance<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>The power transfer is great, the dials are secure, they&#8217;re grippy to walk in and comfy to ride in. No complaints here. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>10\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Comfort and retention<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Very comfortable shoes, but despite the new last, I fail to see any major improvement here. The heel retention isn&#8217;t as locked in as I&#8217;d like. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Weight<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>764g (size EU46) &#8211; reasonably light, but very close to the Vento Proxy shoes I used last year, which are much cheaper.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Value<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>At \u00a3399 \/ $550, they&#8217;re not 25% better than shoes I&#8217;ve tried at \u00a3300 \/ $400. However, I&#8217;m certain they&#8217;ll last a decade if not more, so there&#8217;s value in their longevity. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>5\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Overall<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 5 &#8211; Cell 1 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>38\/50 = 76%<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside data-article-category=\"cycling-kit-accessories\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-model-name=\"Specialized S-Works Recon Evo\" data-name=\"BOT widget\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-widget-type=\"review\" class=\"ecom-root\">\n<div class=\"hawk-main-editorial-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-title-container\">Specialized S-Works Recon Evo: Price Comparison<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-items-container hawk-review-items-grid-items\" data-stacked=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-container hawk-review-items-grid-item\" data-expandable=\"0\" data-stacked=\"0\" data-load-more=\"false\" role=\"button\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-main-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-main\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\" data-expanded=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"image\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/search-api.fie.futurecdn.net\/img\/misc\/no-image-available.svg\" alt=\"View Similar Amazon US\" title=\"View Similar Amazon US\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-product-image\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"78\" height=\"70\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"merchant\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.fie.futurecdn.net\/logos\/merchants\/amazon-us-15006529670367-100-80.png.webp\" alt=\"Amazon\" title=\"Amazon\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-logo-image\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"80\" height=\"40\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"priceLink\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-main-price-container\">\n<div><span class=\"hawk-display-price-container\" data-type=\"buySimilar\"><span class=\"hawk-display-price-price\">No price information<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Check Amazon<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-footer-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-footer-description\">We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-inner-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-powered-by-container\">powered by <\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/search-api.fie.futurecdn.net\/img\/sites\/svg\/cyclingnews.svg\" alt=\"Cyclingnews\" title=\"Cyclingnews\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-site-logo-powered-by\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"60\" height=\"30\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Tech<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Josh Croxton<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Associate Editor (Tech)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Josh is Associate Editor of Cyclingnews \u2013 leading our content on the best bikes, kit and the latest breaking tech stories from the pro peloton. He has been with us since the summer of 2019 and throughout that time he&#8217;s covered everything from buyer&#8217;s guides and deals to the latest tech news and reviews. <\/p>\n<p>On the bike, Josh has been riding and racing for over 15 years. He started out racing cross country in his teens back when 26-inch wheels and triple chainsets were still mainstream, but he found favour in road racing in his early 20s, racing at a local and national level for Somerset-based Team Tor 2000. These days he rides indoors for convenience and fitness, and outdoors for fun on road, gravel, &#8216;cross and cross-country bikes, the latter usually with his two dogs in tow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHyQYfuVn6dhTFkBqamm2X-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHyQYfuVn6dhTFkBqamm2X-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHyQYfuVn6dhTFkBqamm2X-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHyQYfuVn6dhTFkBqamm2X-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SHyQYfuVn6dhTFkBqamm2X-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Kit &amp; Accessories<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Quoc M Pro Lace cycling shoes review: Same fantastic styling, but with improved foot retention and a lower price<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fxom7AWSsmCn9kbrcg2Jgd-600-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fxom7AWSsmCn9kbrcg2Jgd-600-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fxom7AWSsmCn9kbrcg2Jgd-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fxom7AWSsmCn9kbrcg2Jgd-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fxom7AWSsmCn9kbrcg2Jgd-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Best indoor cycling shoes 2026: Fast and cool shoes for indoor cycling<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/h8sAHrG8iGRTrJFYgdGXf-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/h8sAHrG8iGRTrJFYgdGXf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/h8sAHrG8iGRTrJFYgdGXf-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/h8sAHrG8iGRTrJFYgdGXf-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/h8sAHrG8iGRTrJFYgdGXf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Helmets<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Specialized S-Works Evade 4 review: No more aero, but cooler and comfier<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Zipp 202 NSW wheel review: Lively, light, but ever so expensive for what\u2019s on the table<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/S7AJG6Q5Lzt8F7H2sdETYb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Zipp\u2019s new wheels are allegedly faster than Scopes at a third of the price<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cSLRkDK3TjtDuUh7dZy2jB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cSLRkDK3TjtDuUh7dZy2jB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cSLRkDK3TjtDuUh7dZy2jB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cSLRkDK3TjtDuUh7dZy2jB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cSLRkDK3TjtDuUh7dZy2jB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">How to choose Halfords road cycling shoes for comfort, efficiency and performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yL4sPbtPKgYyhi4Z5vbWJ6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yL4sPbtPKgYyhi4Z5vbWJ6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yL4sPbtPKgYyhi4Z5vbWJ6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yL4sPbtPKgYyhi4Z5vbWJ6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yL4sPbtPKgYyhi4Z5vbWJ6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We are closely monitoring professional cycling&#8217; \u2013 Could former Tour de France sponsor Nike make a comeback to the sport?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vjzAmVdc4uKZzUWPVcQKoB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vjzAmVdc4uKZzUWPVcQKoB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vjzAmVdc4uKZzUWPVcQKoB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vjzAmVdc4uKZzUWPVcQKoB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vjzAmVdc4uKZzUWPVcQKoB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The Le Col Summer Sale has landed just in time for peak riding season \u2013 Grab up to 60% off premium cycling apparel and upgrade your summer kit for less<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oJaiMJEeVaHpDLaErA2yuE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oJaiMJEeVaHpDLaErA2yuE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oJaiMJEeVaHpDLaErA2yuE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oJaiMJEeVaHpDLaErA2yuE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/oJaiMJEeVaHpDLaErA2yuE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">What does it take to kit out a WorldTour cycling team? We go behind-the-scenes on EF Pro Cycling&#8217;s wind tunnel testing<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4ZcjUyVMvJLbCRS9mjiX5G-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Always wear your gloves&#8217; \u2013 Paul Seixas has some cycling advice, but why has hand protection gone out of fashion?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nNHKtL5caxHEDuqktExWHW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nNHKtL5caxHEDuqktExWHW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nNHKtL5caxHEDuqktExWHW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nNHKtL5caxHEDuqktExWHW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nNHKtL5caxHEDuqktExWHW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Clothing &amp; Shoes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Three prototypes and a win in odd shoes \u2013 Isaac del Toro has been experimenting with Sidi shoe setup for months<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Reviews<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GUM5zcMdnes9ZCRtxabFwb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GUM5zcMdnes9ZCRtxabFwb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GUM5zcMdnes9ZCRtxabFwb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GUM5zcMdnes9ZCRtxabFwb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/GUM5zcMdnes9ZCRtxabFwb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Fara Gr4 review: Norwegian sensibilities mate with an all-out race machine in perfect harmony<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/LzVRtVHiDuhNnJbBom4GR7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/LzVRtVHiDuhNnJbBom4GR7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/LzVRtVHiDuhNnJbBom4GR7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/LzVRtVHiDuhNnJbBom4GR7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/LzVRtVHiDuhNnJbBom4GR7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Roval Rapide CLX III wheel review: The road mullet approach delivers the goods<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bTVgefTfHa5GgBmjoFvsvk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bTVgefTfHa5GgBmjoFvsvk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bTVgefTfHa5GgBmjoFvsvk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bTVgefTfHa5GgBmjoFvsvk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bTVgefTfHa5GgBmjoFvsvk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">DT Swiss ARC 1100 65 wheel review: Excellent high-speed performance, but can they keep up with lighter competitors?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nUSLyA53FFhjAZn4xuzXkG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nUSLyA53FFhjAZn4xuzXkG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nUSLyA53FFhjAZn4xuzXkG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nUSLyA53FFhjAZn4xuzXkG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/nUSLyA53FFhjAZn4xuzXkG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Garmin HRM 600 review: A powerhouse of a heart rate monitor, but perhaps lost on just cyclists<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/atdHGQw8Kh7BiG9bGb99NR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Zipp 202 NSW wheel review: Lively, light, but ever so expensive for what\u2019s on the table<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tny4gyBHwhQY4RcTZaDoec-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tny4gyBHwhQY4RcTZaDoec-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tny4gyBHwhQY4RcTZaDoec-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tny4gyBHwhQY4RcTZaDoec-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tny4gyBHwhQY4RcTZaDoec-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Wheels &amp; Tyres<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Scope R4.G wheelset review: The budget gravel wheelset in Scope\u2019s lineup is the much better buy<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1280-80.png.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-720-80.png.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-640-80.png.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Leading sprinter and Classics specialist Arnaud De Lie confirms signing with Tudor until end of 2030<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Specialized&#8217;s S-Works Recon Evo are great shoes, but they come at a great expense<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Pinarello-Q36.5 sign deal with talented young American racer AJ August for 2027<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;I&#8217;m certainly not done with this season yet&#8217; \u2013 Demi Vollering sends warning to her rivals ahead of the World Championships<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto\">\n<p id=\"elk-88478794-97e8-11f1-a878-998bd772d7b5\">To put it into simple terms, the Specialized S-Works Recon Evo takes the platform of the Ares road shoe and pairs it with an off-road outsole. I&#8217;m sure it was a lot more complicated than that in reality, but as a potential buyer, that&#8217;s the TLDR.<\/p>\n<p>They are Specialized&#8217;s best gravel shoes, with a premium aesthetic, lofty performance caims, and a pretty lofty price tag to boot.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-88478794-97e8-11f1-a878-998bd772d7b5-2\">I have a lot of time for Specialized. I know a good number of their staff both here in the UK and over at its HQ in Morgan Hill; their approach to product design is thorough, and their thinking is often many steps ahead of the competition. But when the Ares launched, I was irrationally angered by the claim that it was seven watts better.<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The claim was unsubstantiated, and a small asterisk clarified that it was compared to a non \u2018Body Geometry\u2019 shoe (Specialized\u2019s in-house ergonomics technology), which could be inferred as meaning it&#8217;s not seven watts better than <em>any<\/em> of its other shoes, since they all use the tech to some degree.<\/p>\n<p>It could also be inferred to mean that it was comparing to another brand\u2019s high end shoe, such as a pair of Giro Empire SLX or Bont Vaypor SL\u2026 or it could be in comparison to a pair of Birkenstocks. It didn\u2019t say.<\/p>\n<p>That same claim is being repeated here, and while I\u2019m sure these are better than some other shoes to an equivalent tune of seven watts, don\u2019t be expecting life-changing performance improvements. Especially ones that you can&#8217;t get for a significantly lower price than the \u00a3399.00 \/ $550.00 these will set you back.<\/p>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery inlinegallery inline-layout extended-layout full-width-layout first-slide-only\" data-component-name=\"Elk:Gallery:ImageGallery\" data-inline-gallery data-inline-gallery-progress-template=\"Image {currentSlide} of {totalSlides}\" data-inline-gallery-total-slides=\"7\" id=\"elk-88478802-97e8-11f1-975f-919707ae7c4c\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count counts\"><span class=\"slidecount current\" data-inline-gallery-count><br \/>\nImage 1 of 7<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items inlinegallery-wrap\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-track>\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"1\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"2\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"3\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"4\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"5\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"6\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-images\" data-inline-gallery-expanded hidden>\n<div class=\"expanded-images__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-track>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 1 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qwuKMZRNK5fAi6tdHiTy5n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 2 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/a6ZHyNZS55iJKyxTBCYywm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 3 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/twaJLm3YUz6YKrJA2tBTvm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"3\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 4 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/i9Yx5Uc4uAkXPgN7wkyyrm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"4\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 5 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/etH4RGioirxHA82AVmPUtm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"5\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 6 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/odPGh84RX6MkKoCU4mNG3n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"6\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 7 of 7\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tkmwpMcZexwcRjvpGPGR4n-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"design-and-aesthetics-3\">Design and aesthetics<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-884788c0-97e8-11f1-9a54-cbb5edee9686\">The S-Works Recon Evo is built on the new Body Geometry Natural Last, which Specialized claims reduces forefoot pressure by &#8220;up to 44%&#8221; compared to previous iterations. It\u2019s not quite as wide as the last used in many of Lake\u2019s shoes, but I&#8217;m told it&#8217;s 2.5mm wider than the Torch shoe, which itself was 4mm wider than the S-Works 7.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-qkyRT9a9x8bNdvpdyarAGS slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Support features include a Varus Wedge for forefoot stabilization, arch support to maintain foot shape under load, and a Metatarsal Button designed to reduce nerve compression and pressure points.<\/p>\n<p>The upper is largely the same as found on the Ares 2, including the patented &#8216;PowerHug&#8217; closure system which wraps across the upper to lock the midfoot and stabilise the heel. Specialized introduced a similar technology on the Ares 1, arguing it improves power transfer by increasing foot-to-upper contact in the back half of the pedal stroke, thus reducing energy loss to material flex.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-8847891a-97e8-11f1-aef4-d537947f413a\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r6m42CSXT3xpzgcw3QkVim-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The Boa S3 Li2 dials add a premium finish <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-8847897e-97e8-11f1-a0f0-09049c4bf66f\">BOA S3 dials are used for retention, with two dials per shoe for upper and forefoot adjustment, and it must be said, the machined aluminium dials add a real premium look to the shoes.<\/p>\n<p>For its gravelly intentions, the outsole includes rubber toe and heel lugs for traction, along with TPU &#8216;pontoons&#8217; \u2013 Specialized&#8217;s word, not mine \u2013 on either side of the cleat. Notably, these pontoons are interchangeable via two screws accessed from inside the shoe.<\/p>\n<p>There are two available mounting points for the cleats, and the mounting plate itself can slide back and forth. This means plenty of adjustment in cleat position, although I do find the whole setup is further back than I\u2019m used to. I have mine around 5mm from the furthest-forward adjustment, to get the pedal axle to line up where it usually sits. The sole itself is otherwise smooth, save for a small rubber plate that adds grip at the midfoot.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, these features combine to create a shoe that looks fantastic, and thankfully the white is pretty easy to keep clean. There&#8217;s no fabric that stains, unlike the Fizik Vento Proxy shoes I reviewed last year.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-884789d8-97e8-11f1-b89a-17e9cae32c6e\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/72V3s9eyZimAnbuo9vf73n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">I&#8217;ve had no issues walking in these, from cafe stops to hike-a-bike scrambles where my talent gives in to the terrain. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"performance-3\">Performance<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478a8c-97e8-11f1-9643-313b5e4f1088\">I&#8217;ve ridden and raced in the Sub 6 (a long time ago), the S-Works 7, and the original Ares, and these are definitely wider, but on my feet, they don&#8217;t feel &#8216;better&#8217; (or worse) as a result. Just wider.<\/p>\n<p>I\u2019m a pretty textbook case for why this new wider last exists&#8230; my average-width feet are technically too wide for the majority of normal cycling shoes (according to a measurement by a Specialized bike fitter), but I have found these to be very comfortable. But then again I\u2019ve never found an issue with the narrower shapes of older S-Works shoes, nor indeed Trek, Giro, Northwave, Fizik, Sidi, and more.<\/p>\n<p>Overall though, these shoes are pretty good across the board. At \u00a3399, you won\u2019t be surprised to hear that, but they\u2019re comfy, stiff, secure, breathable, and reasonably lightweight at 764g (with the standard insoles that come with it).<\/p>\n<p>They&#8217;re also pretty easy to clean, as demonstrated by the gallery below&#8230;<\/p>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery inlinegallery inline-layout extended-layout full-width-layout first-slide-only\" data-component-name=\"Elk:Gallery:ImageGallery\" data-inline-gallery data-inline-gallery-progress-template=\"Image {currentSlide} of {totalSlides}\" data-inline-gallery-total-slides=\"3\" id=\"elk-88478ae6-97e8-11f1-93ab-f93e11151f97\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count counts\"><span class=\"slidecount current\" data-inline-gallery-count><br \/>\nImage 1 of 3<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items inlinegallery-wrap\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-track>\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Pre-clean, after a few months of riding in back-to-back British heatwaves<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"1\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">After a 10-minute scrub with a wet, soapy sponge<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\" data-inline-gallery-slide-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"items__item inlinegallery-item\" data-inline-gallery-slide data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding inlinegallery-item\" data-index=\"2\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">And thirdly, after a quick wipe down using &#8216;Pink Stuff&#8217; cleaning paste. This step isn&#8217;t neccesary, but takes them from scruffy to sparkly in a quarter of an hour.<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit credit\"><br \/>\n(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<br \/>\n<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-images\" data-inline-gallery-expanded hidden>\n<div class=\"expanded-images__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-track>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"0\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 1 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KbArVNZe4f9k8FKvpYiqrm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"1\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 2 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/65wjf3G6NHhjgm8MVN2jqm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__item\" data-inline-gallery-expanded-frame data-index=\"2\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__inner-wrap\">\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__surroundings show\">\n<div class=\"surroundings__expanded-count\">\nImage 3 of 3\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"view-original__text\">View Original<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"expanded-slide__image-wrap\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1600-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-768-80.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bzjyxsrNajg6SWVqzkV7qm-415-80.jpg.webp 415w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-88478b40-97e8-11f1-ac5f-45d50995af00\">The Boa dials are excellent. They tighten in the opposite direction for each foot, which sounds wrong until you&#8217;ve tried it the other way. They pop open to loosen, or can be backed off if you just want to loosen them a couple of clicks. They can get stiff or gritty if you let muddy shoes dry (or ride on the beach), but rinse them under warm water while dialling them back and forth, and you&#8217;ll reinstate their butteriness once again (you can thank my colleague Tom for that tip).<\/p>\n<p>The wrap-over strap is nice and secure, but I find the heel cup a little slippier than I\u2019d like, meaning in hard sprint efforts, my heel isn\u2019t as locked in as I\u2019ve felt in other shoes.<\/p>\n<p>I buy into the notion that there are comfort benefits to be found for most people with a wider last, but in all honesty I didn\u2019t find much improvement here. As I mentioned above, though, I never have issues with narrower shoes, even though my feet are too wide for them.<\/p>\n<p>Maybe I\u2019d find a noticeable improvement by going wider again, and maybe someone who is uncomfortable in narrow shoes but not quite as wide as this Recon last, would notice the change more than me.<\/p>\n<p>Still, I didn\u2019t find any extra stability from the extra platform, and instead simply noticed more crank rub.<\/p>\n<p>Elsewhere, the grip when walking is pretty good. And the shoes don\u2019t pinch at the ankles when doing so. The pontoons are deep enough to bury the cleat and prevent it from fouling on the ground when walking. It does still foul on rougher surfaces, but the overall traction is decent on both hard and soft ground, and the lugs at the front are big enough to grip nicely.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-88478b9a-97e8-11f1-b121-0bb33ae29e37\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NKvAnh26KS48q7Gp4Qszdm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The two screw holes on either side let you remove the pontoons from either side of the cleat should you wear them out <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"value-3\">Value<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478c4e-97e8-11f1-b590-ffe03a11f720\">So they&#8217;re very good shoes, but the problem is I don\u2019t really think they\u2019re 25% better than any of the other high-end gravel race shoes that retail in that \u00a3300 \/ $400 ballpark. I certainly don\u2019t believe I&#8217;m suddenly seven watts better off when wearing them.<\/p>\n<p>As much as I really do like wearing these shoes, I can\u2019t in good conscience claim they are good value, nor really recommend them. The price is just too high and the performance delta just isn\u2019t high enough to represent the hike.<\/p>\n<p>Their one saving grace in the value stakes is that top-end Specialized shoes will happily take a beating. I&#8217;ve been using the last round of Recon Lace shoes since 2021 and save for being filthy, they&#8217;re in perfect working order.<\/p>\n<p>But I would still suggest you save some money, buy a \u00a3300 shoe \u2013 which is still a lot of money, but a fairer reflection of the cost of flagship performance \u2013 and buy yourself a new skinsuit if you\u2019re worried about those seven watts.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-88478ca8-97e8-11f1-886f-2765717d5edf\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vVedJwBsRP7bdtBvUJfFdm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">The shoes are great, but the price is a bit too spicy for my liking. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Josh Croxton)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"verdict-3\">Verdict<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-88478d66-97e8-11f1-8e6d-57ec80f5ca00\">The Recon Evo shoe is good. Great even. But at \u00a3399 \/ $550 I think it needs to even be better than that.<\/p>\n<p>The new last is a definite improvement on paper, but at least for my feet, I don\u2019t feel it offers wholesale change. If you have nominally wide feet, there are plenty of high-end shoes at a much lower price, that either already offer a similarly wide last \u2013 Lake being the prominent brand \u2013 or that which come in a wide fit option, such as Fizik.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re at the pointy end of very big races and you want to squeeze out a modicum of extra performance no matter the cost, these will be the shoes for you, but for everyone else, they&#8217;re probably a little overkill.<\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container table-wrapper slice-container-table\" data-component-name=\"Slice:Table\" id=\"elk-88478db6-97e8-11f1-bf6f-a79d661c1c7b\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">\nSwipe to scroll horizontally<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<caption class=\"table__caption table__caption--top table__caption--left\">\nTesting scorecard and notes<br \/>\n<\/caption>\n<thead class=\"table__head\">\n<tr class=\"table__head__row\">\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Spec<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Note<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th class=\"table__head__heading table__head__heading--left\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Rating<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Design \/ aesthetics<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>They do look excellent, and they&#8217;re easy to keep white. The last is designed to be more comfortable for more people, and the replaceable lugs improve longevity.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>9\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Performance<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>The power transfer is great, the dials are secure, they&#8217;re grippy to walk in and comfy to ride in. No complaints here. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>10\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Comfort and retention<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Very comfortable shoes, but despite the new last, I fail to see any major improvement here. The heel retention isn&#8217;t as locked in as I&#8217;d like. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Weight<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>764g (size EU46) &#8211; reasonably light, but very close to the Vento Proxy shoes I used last year, which are much cheaper.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Value<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>At \u00a3399 \/ $550, they&#8217;re not 25% better than shoes I&#8217;ve tried at \u00a3300 \/ $400. However, I&#8217;m certain they&#8217;ll last a decade if not more, so there&#8217;s value in their longevity. <\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>5\/10<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Overall<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 5 &#8211; Cell 1 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>38\/50 = 76%<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<aside data-article-category=\"cycling-kit-accessories\" data-block-type=\"embed\" data-model-name=\"Specialized S-Works Recon Evo\" data-name=\"BOT widget\" data-render-type=\"fte\" data-widget-type=\"review\" class=\"ecom-root\">\n<div class=\"hawk-main-editorial-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-title-container\">Specialized S-Works Recon Evo: Price Comparison<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-items-container hawk-review-items-grid-items\" data-stacked=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-container hawk-review-items-grid-item\" data-expandable=\"0\" data-stacked=\"0\" data-load-more=\"false\" role=\"button\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-main-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-main\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\" data-expanded=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"image\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/search-api.fie.futurecdn.net\/img\/misc\/no-image-available.svg\" alt=\"View Similar Amazon US\" title=\"View Similar Amazon US\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-product-image\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"78\" height=\"70\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"merchant\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/images.fie.futurecdn.net\/logos\/merchants\/amazon-us-15006529670367-100-80.png.webp\" alt=\"Amazon\" title=\"Amazon\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-logo-image\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"80\" height=\"40\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-grid-item-block-container hawk-review-items-grid-item-block\" data-name=\"priceLink\" data-product-type=\"200\" data-button-type data-stacked=\"0\">\n<div class=\"hawk-main-price-container\">\n<div><span class=\"hawk-display-price-container\" data-type=\"buySimilar\"><span class=\"hawk-display-price-price\">No price information<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Check Amazon<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-footer-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-footer-description\">We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices<\/div>\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-inner-container\">\n<div class=\"hawk-powered-by-powered-by-container\">powered by <\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/search-api.fie.futurecdn.net\/img\/sites\/svg\/cyclingnews.svg\" alt=\"Cyclingnews\" title=\"Cyclingnews\" class=\"hawk-lazy-image-site-logo-powered-by\" loading=\"lazy\" width=\"60\" height=\"30\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/cycling-kit-accessories\/clothing-shoes\/specializeds-s-works-recon-evo-are-great-shoes-but-they-come-at-a-great-expense\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/SqHNZe9eyWv2SXaWX4RXAm-2560-80.jpg&#8221;] Cyclingnews Verdict A great pair of shoes that look nice, clean easily, and perform well, but the new last made no noticeable difference to my comfort, and the price is painful to swallow. Check Amazon Pros + Power transfer is excellent + They look great, and clean up easily + Replaceable pontoons [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2098759","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2098759","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2098759"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2098759\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2098759"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2098759"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2098759"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}