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Specialized recently updated its range of Recon mountain bike shoes with the successor to the S-Works Recon and a new gravel-specific shoe called the Recon ADV.
The S-Works Recon and Recon ADV are flagship models in Specialised’s off-road range, with the former focused on cross-country racing and the latter on gravel riding.
Priced at £385, the S-Works Recon shares many features with Specialised’s S-Works Torch racing shoe, including a Boa routing system that replaces the previous model’s noseband.
Specialized claims the Boa routing system provides similar levels of assist to the previous model and allows for more pedal contact, resulting in a road-like pedaling platform.
The shoe features high-density studs that sit on either side of the cleat, with interchangeable plastic shims that can adjust the height of the lugs, allowing riders to customize the pedal and shoe interface.
Specialized says this feature provides a customizable pedal platform and makes for better pedal contact.
In addition, the carbon outsole has an internal I-beam for extra stiffness and strength, reducing the need for reinforcement.
Specialized has used 100,000 scans collected in its Retül fit database to offer the standard and wide versions of the shoe.
The upper of the shoe has perforations for breathability and a mottled finish that resembles a golf ball. Specialized claims the Recon ADV is designed to be comfortable off the bike, with a SlipNot rubber compound on the sole for extra grip when you’re off the bike.
The shoe also has more rubber on the toe and heel than the S-Works Recon.
The Recon ADV features a laser-perforated upper with a microfiber backing, which is said to promote breathability while also blocking road spray.
The Recon ADV is designed to flex just a little bit behind the toe box while still providing a stiff sole at the ball of the foot, for greater comfort when walking without compromising performance when pedaling.
Unlike the S-Works Recon, the Recon ADV has laces, priced at £200, and comes in black and grey.
The S-Works Recon and Recon ADV both feature insoles with a 1.5mm varus wedge, longitudinal arch support and a midfoot stud, which are claimed to promote comfort and power transfer.
The S-Works Recon is available in black or white, while the Recon ADV is designed with walkability and fashion in mind.
The S-Works Recon weighs 280g for a single shoe size 42, with a carbon sole that is mostly exposed, except for a rubber tread at the toe and heel for grip when you’re off the bike.
The Recon ADV is slightly heavier than the previous model, weighing in at 287g for the size 42.5, which is still close to the claimed figures.
For people with different leg lengths, Specialized has created a cleat shim that raises the pedal platform, which is available through the brand’s Rider Care team.
The S-Works Recon has a rubber strip on the instep to protect the sole when searching for the pedal, while also adding traction for those cut-out panic descents.
In conclusion, Specialized’s updated Recon range of mountain bike shoes offers something for both cross-country racing and gravel riding.
The S-Works Recon was designed to provide a customizable pedaling platform, while the Recon ADV was designed with walkability and fashion in mind. Both shoes have insoles that promote comfort and power transfer, and the S-Works Recon has a carbon outsole with an internal I-beam for added stiffness and strength.
The Recon ADV, on the other hand, has a SlipNot rubber compound on the sole for extra grip when you’re off the bike. Careless.
