Shining a light on the Specialized Torch Road Shoes

The Specialized Torch Road shoes have taken the best bits, the performance and Body Geometry ergonomics of their high-end shoes and created a more affordable package.

Torch 1.0

To keep the shoe securely fitted, Specialized has gone for a single lightweight Boa L6 dial. It features tool-free snap replacement capability, while also providing simple, on-the-fly micro-adjustments. 

• Body Geometry sole construction and footbeds are ergonomically designed and scientifically tested to boost power, increase efficiency, and reduce the chance of injury by optimising hip, knee, and foot alignment. 

• With a 6.0 Stiffness index, the injection-moulded nylon composite sole is engineered to be moderately stiff and plenty light. 
• Lightweight Boa® L6 Fit System for on-the-fly micro-adjustment, backed by the Boa Guarantee. 
• Synthetic upper with for supple feel over the foot. 
• Reflective heel elements increase your visibility to motorists in low-light conditions. 
• Three-bolt cleat pattern fits all major road pedals. 

• Approximate weight: 290g (1/2 pair, Size 42) 

Torch 2.0

The Torch 2.0 Road shoes are all about comfort and performance, that is. Due to the materials, road shoes can often feel stiff and uncomfortable. Specialized implemented a 100% mesh and TPU construction on the Torch 2.0 that allows for more wiggle room in the toe box and a less constrictive, sock-like feel.  

The upper is then paired with their medium-stiffness FACT carbon sole and a rubber heel and toe that provide the perfect degree of off-the-bike traction. For the closure, a single lightweight Boa® IP1 dial has been added that features tool-free snap replacement capability, while also providing simple, on-the-fly micro-adjustments. 

• Body Geometry sole construction and footbeds are ergonomically designed and scientifically tested to boost power, increase efficiency, and reduce the chance of injury by optimising hip, knee, and foot alignment. 
• Carbon sole with a 7.0 Stiffness Index is engineered to be moderately stiff, yet light with a rubber heel and toe for off-the-bike traction. 
• Lightweight Boa® IP1 dial closure for on-the-fly micro-adjustment, backed by the Boa® Lifetime Guarantee. 
• Mesh and TPU upper for a supple fit. 
• Three-bolt cleat pattern fits all major road pedals. 

• Approximate weight: 235g (1/2 pair, Size 42) 

S-Works Torch

The S-Works Torch is the latest evolution of the winningest footwear in cycling. Using Body Geometry together with biomimicry, data science, and obsessive craftsmanship, Specialized has engineered a shoe so thoughtfully constructed that you will forget you are wearing it. 

Specialized has used all the tools and information at its disposal. Leveraging data science, they refined every detail of the S-Works Torch’s upper for improved fit and performance. The BOA® cable is shifted down and angled, preventing lifting on the ball of the foot, and delivering a power-enhancing structure while eliminating unwanted pressure or pinching. Adaptive materials allow natural movement of the foot where needed for comfort, while data-driven zonal reinforcement keeps the foot secured for crisp power delivery and optimal efficiency. 

Guided by more than 100,000-foot scans from their RETÜL fit data, they recognised that both a standard and a wide carbon base plate would best serve the spectrum of human foot shapes. An internal I-Beam adds stiffness and strength, eliminating the need for additional bracing. The result is a 20-gram weight reduction, enhanced efficiency, and immediate power transfer. 

Using RETÜL biomechanical data, they created an asymmetric heel cup that supports natural knee alignment and delivers the positive hold riders love while enhancing comfort by accommodating more room for the Achilles heel. 

The S-Works Torch is scientifically crafted to disappear on your feet and off the front. 

• New upper features reinforcement in key zones while also offering adaptive fit zones to create a disappearing fit on the foot. 
• Based on data gathered from Retül foot scans, the new base plate is 4mm wider at the ball than the previous generation of S-Works 7 shoe. 
• By optimising its construction, the new carbon plate is 20g lighter than the S-Works 7. An internal “I-Beam” ensures it maintains the same stiffness as the previous generation. 
• An updated last makes use of Retül data to better match the shape of riders’ feet, sloping more towards the lateral side to give a snug, close-to-foot fit. 

• An asymmetrical heel counter supports the medial side while removing material from the lateral side, allowing for a lower collar. 
• Updated BOA® cable routing improves lockdown while reducing pressure across anterior ankle ligaments. 
• Independent alloy BOA® S3-Snap Fit System for on-the-fly micro-adjustment, backed by the BOA® Guarantee. 
• Titanium alloy cleat nuts can rotate to position pedal/cleats 5mm rearward. Three-bolt cleat pattern fits all major road pedals. 
• Non-slip, replaceable heel tread with internally recessed screws for security. 
• *** IMPORTANT FOR WIDE FIT*** the new base plate is 4mm wider than the standard width (8mm wider than S-Works 7). 

Torch Road Shoes: Key Features

Varus Wedge

With a 1.5mm built-in Varus Wedge, Body Geometry shoes stabilise the natural movement of your forefoot and improve foot, knee, and hip alignment, which increases power output and adds an average of 10 seconds to your time to exhaustion during maximum efforts. 

Longitudinal Arch

The foot is built like a leaf spring. Great for running. Bad for riding. Body Geometry shoes are designed with patented, moulded arch support in the outsole to create a rigid structure, which is paired with customisable footbeds to prevent foot collapse and increase power. 

Metatarsal Button

Ready to banish hot spots and numbness from your ride? By lifting and separating the bones of the forefoot, our Metatarsal Button prevents impinging and compressing nearby nerves and arteries, so you can say goodbye to the foot issues that used to plague riders. 

Balfe’s Bikes Specialized Shoe Size Guide