Specialized S-Works Recon Mountain Bike Shoe

S-Works Recon Mountain Bike Shoe delivers elite-level stiffness and precision for XC speed

What Our Gearhead® Experts Are Saying:

"The S-Works Recon is my go-to for race day and hard XC efforts. The carbon sole is insanely stiff, and the Dyneema upper fits like it’s molded to my foot. I love how dialed the BOA system feels, and it’s just as good for gravel when power transfer matters. Not made for hike-a-bike missions, but unbeatable between the tape."

When we’re chasing podiums or pushing max power through the flats, we want a shoe that responds instantly. The Specialized S-Works Recon Mountain Bike Shoe gives us uncompromising stiffness, next-level fit, and pro-level performance, all in a sleek, race-ready package. Designed with cross-country and gravel racers in mind, the Recon features Specialized’s lightest and stiffest FACT carbon sole, engineered to convert every watt into forward motion.

The Dyneema upper wraps the foot in a glove-like hold that won’t stretch over time, and the PadLock heel cups the back of the foot to prevent any slip during explosive sprints. Dual BOA S3-Snap dials offer micro-adjustments on the fly, while SlipNot rubber on the toe and heel gives us just enough traction for start lines and pit zones. Every element is Body Geometry optimized for efficiency and injury prevention, making this one of the most technically refined race shoes out there.

Details

Top-tier XC and gravel race shoe designed for elite-level performance
FACT carbon plate maximizes stiffness and pedaling efficiency
Dyneema-reinforced upper molds to foot without unwanted stretch
BOA S3-Snap dials offer secure, customizable micro-adjustments
PadLock heel design improves fit and acceleration power
Body Geometry technology supports joint alignment and reduces fatigue
SlipNot rubber toe and heel for minimal off-bike traction
2-bolt cleat compatibility for SPD-style pedal systems
Item #SCQ1WV3

Upper Material: Dyneema Mesh, [heel] PadLock
Closure: BOA® Fit System S3-Snap
Footbed: Body Geometry
Midsole: FACT Carbon
Sole: SlipNot Rubber
Cleat Compatibility: 2-bolt
Claimed Weight: [single] 10.5oz (300g)
Activity: cross-country, trail
Manufacturer Warranty: limited 2 year

Reviews

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Overall Rating

4.5 based on 4 ratings

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5 Stars - 3 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

October 11, 2025

Specialized Recon Mtn Shoe

Familiarity:: I've used it several times

Awesome New Shoe for Gravel racing ! super stiff carbon sole for direct line -energy transfer !

Originally reviewed on Competitivecyclist.com

5 out of 5 stars

September 29, 2025

Great cycling shoe with recessed cleats

Familiarity:: I've put it through the wringer

These cycling shoes are an excellent fit for my foot, which is rather narrow at the back by wider in the front. The ultra-stiff carbon sole makes for great power transfer from the shoe to pedal, and the recessed cleats make the shoe a great choice for bike touring where you'll be not only riding by walking around on the shoes.

bethr524

Originally reviewed on Competitivecyclist.com

5 out of 5 stars

August 6, 2025

Best XC shoes in the game

Familiarity:: I've put it through the wringer

These shoes do it all, XC and Gravel and everything in between. They are incredibly light, comfortable for all day wear and the platform interface on a set of SPD's is insane. I like the adjustable pontoons as well as a nice feature. These are not backcountry exploring shoes. A lot of people make that mistake and wonder why they are slipping on boulders and such. These are made for racing between the tape, everyday use and going fast. Get the 3.0's if you want a good hike a bike shoe that is not a heavy clunker. Tread wear has been appropriate with the use I have put through them. Highly recommend getting the Specialized arch support insoles to up the comfort.

Porter

Originally reviewed on Competitivecyclist.com

3 out of 5 stars

July 1, 2024

Too narrow

Familiarity:: I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions
Size Bought:: 40.5

These are really nice shoes but they were too narrow for me. My feet are not particularly wide but the shoes pressed on the sides of my feet and were painful.

Evan F