Specialized Torch 2.0 Shoe Review

The new Torch 2.0 is the third shoe in Specialized’s road range, described as “the perfect intersection of high performance and comfort”.

It has been redesigned for 2024, using a new hoof shape and uppers designed for a better fit, with an asymmetrical cutout on the outside of the tongue. What’s more, there’s a full carbon sole – a rare feature at this price point (£165 / $180 / €200 / AU$270).

Although it lacks some of the bells and whistles of its more expensive siblings, if you get down to it, I’d be hard-pressed to think of a better option at this price point.

In testing, I found the Torch 2.0 to be a solid performer, although the relatively stiff uppers mean it wouldn’t be the shoe I’d choose for my longest rides.

Specialized Torch 2.0 shoe construction

In terms of fit, the Torch 2.0 is said to be inspired by the S-Works Torch and uses a slightly wider last (the model foot that the shoe is built around) than the previous design.

There’s an all-new “fully perforated, single-layer synthetic and seamless upper” that improves fit and ventilation. They are not as luxurious as the uppers on the Torch 3.0 with their heavier construction.

The asymmetrical heel found on the S-Works Torch flows down to this shoe, which Specialized says provides more instep support.

Unfortunately, however, the cleat screw holes are fixed on the Torch 2.0 shoes, limiting the range of adjustment for cleat positions.

Specialized admitted they did this to maintain the gap between their shoes.

For comparison, compared to their placement on the S-Works torch, the clip holes are at the front.

At the bottom of the shoe is a single Boa Li2 dial with a Velcro strap. The Boa dial is a smart choice that allows for fine tension adjustments in either direction as well as the ability to fully release the tension of the shoe by lifting.

Less impressive is the velcro strap, which Specialized says serves no function for attachment – ​​it’s simply there to give newer riders confidence that their foot is locked down.

A pair of EU42 Torch 2.0 shoes is said to weigh 536g. My EU45 shoes weighed 628g per pair.

The shoes are available in four colors – Black, White, White Sage and Deep Marine / Terra Cotta and from sizes 36 to 49 with the option of half sizes from 38.5 to 45.5.

Size and fit of Specialized Torch 2.0 shoes

It’s been a while since I last wore a Specialized shoe, with my dearly departed S-Works 6 kicks holding a special place in my heart for their slim heel but roomy toe box.

Not everyone took to the S-Works 6, and since then Specialized has been constantly expanding their shoes.

I opted for the EU45 which is identical to what I get in most brands other than Sidi. FYI, my feet are quite wide with a narrow heel.

Out of the box, the Torch 2.0s fit me reasonably well, although the length felt a little out of proportion – they are on the longer side for their width compared to other brands.

Specialized Torch 2.0 Boot Performance

I tested the Torch 2.0 over 1,000 km in a variety of weather conditions with ambient temperatures ranging from 5°C to 26°C.

It’s worth noting that I tested two pairs of shoes – the first pair had a manufacturing defect where I found on the right shoe that there was a slight bump on the inside of the upper that was pressing uncomfortably on my big toe.

I found this out after having to sit off my bike for the best part of a week with an inflamed big toe after using this pair.

In Specialized’s defense, this is the first time I’ve ever seen a problem of this nature with one of their shoes (and that includes the best part of seven years at a Specialized dealer).

The brand quickly sent a replacement pair and stated that a rider experiencing such a problem would be entitled to a replacement set of boots under the two-year warranty.

Because of the tight screw holes, I found that I had to set the stops way back to suit me.

For those who prefer a cleat position further behind the ball of the foot, the limited range of adjustment may be a hindrance.

Slipping the shoe on is easy, with a wide entry, while the Boa Li2 dial and Velcro strap combination is easy to use. While Specialized says the velcro is a redundant feature, I’d rather have it than not, as it can help increase or relieve toe pressure.

Out on the road, the shoes are an efficient platform for pedaling, with no unwanted flex on the woven carbon sole. Perhaps to be expected, the soles are not as stiff as my older S-Works 6 shoes.

While I had no issues with discomfort in the left shoe, the upper on the right started to feel a little uncomfortable after three hours.

I felt that the shoe could have been a little wider, but if I had opted for a larger size, the extra length would have been too much. Given that, EU45 was the best compromise for me.

For comparison, the shoes measured 98mm at their widest point.

The upper material itself isn’t as forgiving as some other shoes, especially on the forefoot side, and that may also explain why I didn’t get a full grip.

A thinner, more flexible upper would probably be more forgiving of fit consistency, like the latest Trek Velocis, which has a softer, more perforated upper. At £229.99 / $249.99 / €249.99, these shoes are significantly more expensive.

Adding more perforations would also further boost ventilation, which I found to be good in the front of the Torch 2.0, but less so in the thicker heel and sole.

My feet weren’t uncomfortable during one particularly hot and long ride in Spain, but I still would have appreciated a bit more ventilation in such a scenario.

This means I’ve had to wear sleeves for colder rides (below 10°C) as the airflow over the front of the shoe is noticeable.

Although the shoes are not light at 628g for a pair, it is quite competitive for their price. They are lighter than the Van Rysel RCR boots (£169.99 / €169.99 / $162.94), which weigh 626g in the same EU45 size.

However, the Fizik Vento Omna (£170 / $170 / €165 / AU$273) beats the Torch 2.0 at 574g (also in EU45), although it forgoes the full carbon sole.

Apart from a few scratches on the sole, which can be expected, the shoes show no signs of wear after several months of testing.

Finally, the Torch 2.0s are competitively priced. The Van Rysel RCRs are 5 pounds more, and Senior Technical Writer Simon von Bromley found they have a stiffer carbon sole but a narrower fit in the forefoot.

Digital writer Jack Evans raved about the Fizik Vento Omnas. He found mediocre ventilation to be their only real flaw, but didn’t find the composite sole to be too much of a compromise.

Bottom Line Specialized Torch 2.0

The Specialized Torch 2.0 is a solid offering, with just about everything you’d reasonably expect from a road cycling shoe at this price point – a carbon sole and Boa Li2 dial – without sacrificing too much weight.

Ventilation could be better and it is a shame that the holes for the clips are fixed only to maintain the gap between the elements.

However, if you’re comfortable with it, the Torch 2.0 is a competitive choice at this price.