Specialized launches the S-Works Vent Evo as a £400 gravel shoe for warm-weather riding

By Jack Evans

Published: Thursday, 03 March 2022 at 12:00 am

Specialized has unveiled the S-Works Vent Evo, which is claimed to be its coolest high-performance gravel and cross-country shoe.

The manufacturer says the Vent Evo incorporates the S-Works Recon’s ultra-stiff carbon sole and the breathability of the S-Works Vent road shoe.

According to Specialized, the Vent Evo goes “watt for watt” with the S-Works Recon, adding improved temperature regulation from ventilated mesh panels.

"S-Works
The S-Works Vent road shoe and Recon gravel shoe are blended in the new Vent Evo.
Specialized

These are located on the toe box, tongue and upper of the shoe. The brand says they’re designed to keep your feet cool on long gravel rides or during hard cross-country efforts.

The S-Works Vent Evo features the brand’s “​​stiffest and lightest” carbon sole, which Specialized says maximises power transfer (though exactly how much difference a stiff sole makes to power transfer is debatable).

Despite promising lightweight firmness, the company says the S-Works Vent Evo will fit “more feet for more comfort across more surfaces”.

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Comfy on the feet, less so on the wallet.
Specialized

According to Specialized, this is because the shoe’s forgiving mesh panels and Dyneema upper do not restrict the foot while pedalling.

Specialized also claims its own Body Geometry technology boosts power efficiency while lowering injury risk by aligning ankles, knees and hips.

Unlike the lace-up Specialized S-Works Recon, the Vent Evo has two Boa dials and a single Velcro strap on the toe box, bearing a closer resemblance to the S-Works Vent road shoe.

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The shoe is better suited to dirt roads than boggy bridleways.
Specialized

The Vent Evo’s sole features non-replaceable rubber lugs, like the Recon. There are also two threaded mounts to fit studs at the toe,  improving grip in the muddiest conditions.

The S-Works Vent Evo comes in striking ruby red and stealthy black, costing £400 /$450 / AU$600 / €430. Specialized is yet to confirm the shoe’s weight, the available sizes or the release date.