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Long-Term Review: Specialized’s sturdy, stiff, and light S-Works Evo shoes

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When Specialized set us up with a pair of their then-new S-Works Evo shoes last fall, I was excited by the idea- but worried about being let down. After all, everyone seems to be seeking the holy grail of a race-weight and race-stiff shoe that has enough tread forefoot flex for off-the-bike sections and the durability do it all, day in and day out. That is the idea behind the Evo version of the big S’ range-topping shoe: after a year, have they delivered?

To build the S-Works Evo, Specialized started with a carbon fiber foundation that rates a 10 on the company’s “Stiffness Index.” Rather than leaving large expanses of the hard, slippery stuff exposed, they added racing stripes (a lovely black/cyan is now available) and covered those a dense translucent rubber. The raised tread is soft and grippy, providing plenty of confidence off the bike, and optional toe spikes round out the package.

Drawing on their extensive biomechanics research, the uppers begin with Specialized’s excellent (if only lightly supportive) BG+ insoles and wraps the foot in a lightweight Micromatix synthetic. The deep heel cup is is lined with the same smooth material as makes up the outer, which has proved comfortable and friction-free on long hike-a-bikes. Now that it has (or I have) broken in-a process that took several months–the tall heel no longer becomes irritates my Achilles’ tendon on long rides or hikes. Be sure to try on a pair of Specialized shoes before special ordering, though: they seem to run about 1/2 size larger than Shimano, Mavic, or Pearl Izumi.

The sole, while stiff and not quite as able to follow the ground as Pearl Izumi’s X-Project or Specialized’s Rime shoes, is perfectly comfortable off the bike. The grippy tread provides plenty of confidence when dabbing in dicey sections. It’s only the toe lugs that have left me wanting- toe studs would be too slippery on rock but the minimal lugs are wearing a bit faser than they should and don’t give as much purchase as they might on steep scrambles.

The most controversial feature- and the one that initially gave me the most pause- is the Boa S2 retention system. Though light and precise, the system has an Internet reputation for poor durability. I’m happy to report zero issues with the ratcheting dials.  Since realizing that the cables were meant to be detatched when removing the shoe they’ve also become a whole lot faster to use. As with any retention system, picking up a spare set for long or remote trips isn’t a bad idea (and they’re small and easy enough to bring along).

Despite the multi-piece construction, the entire package weighs in at 340g/shoe (actual, size 43)- the claimed size 42 weight. Despite that light weight, the S-Works Evos have weathered the past year extremely well. No fraying seams, no torn fabric, no real scars to speak of.

With the Achilles area broken in and my preferred BG++ insoles and varus wedges in place, the black Specializeds have become my go-to shoe. They’re more than stiff enough for racing or single speed use but comfortable enough for all-day rides and 24-hour racing. With the $370 S-Works Evos, Specialized promise a no-compromises XC/trail shoe. Apart from some quick-wearing toe lugs, I haven’t found any. In short, the S-Works Evos have exceeded my expectations, put my Boa-fear to rest and proved to be the best shoes I’ve ridden. That said, for the money they really ought to be.

marc

www.specialized.com

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Topmounter
Topmounter
11 years ago

I’ve never had much luck with Specialized MTB Shoes, but these are definitely intriguing.

My all-time favorite MTB shoes are a pair of the original (circa 1994) hand-made Vittorias with the single dial retention system. They made a newer, less expensive version (2000’ish), but they never seemed to fit right and fell apart pretty quickly.

Nicholas
Nicholas
11 years ago

I bought a pair in August and sent them back in September. After about a week I was having issues with the BOA system. Luckily Specialized has good customer service and took them back because I was in the 1 month window of purchase. Had I waited longer than I month to send them back I would have had to deal with Boa on replacing the non-durable boa system. Kind of a bummer to spend the $$$ and have issues. I ended up buying the cheaper velcro version because I really like the fit.

Andrew
Andrew
11 years ago

Hot spot ? Severe pain to the point that you cannot pedal anymore ? Specialized shoes got you covered. Do youself a favor : SIDI shoes,end of the story.

Matt
Matt
11 years ago

Don’t know what’s up with the BOA haters, I love it on my shoes. So fast, so easy, so reliable. I seriously have nothing but praise for the BOA system.

Levi
Levi
11 years ago

I have these shoes and love them. The boa system works perfectly and reliably. They are super stiff, keep my knees inline much better than previous shoes. I use these on my MTB and my Fixie and couldn’t ask for a better shoe. So stiff you really feel more power going into the pedals.

RC
RC
11 years ago

I have used Specialized shoes since 2009 and have had no issues. They do have to be fit because they are very customizable, but with proper bike fitter they are a treasure. I have used shoes with BOA even longer and still have never had a problem. Actually have a pair I gave to a friend and he is still using them and they have never been serviced. Specialized shoes are the best.

bigrider
bigrider
11 years ago

BOA has a lifetime warranty on their parts and great customer service. Let them know what broke and they’ll ship you replacement parts for free.

Tim Aah
Tim Aah
11 years ago

@bigrider- you can even order spares warranty replacements from their website. They land within a couple of days.

GERMAN
11 years ago

I have had many brands and there is none like Specialized S-Works. You can ride for many others and never notice any discomfort, they really are the best I’ve tried so far. They are very durable, except for the Boa system to be treated with care and not bring trouble, I assure you.

Andrew
Andrew
11 years ago

Ditto on the BOA. Besides being miserable shoes for both road or mtb the only thing I liked was the BOA

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