Specialized S-Works Ares road cycling shoes review

Specialized's new sprinter's shoe supplies unrivalled foot security and incredible comfort, making it perfect for all types of riding and not just for fast finishes – but your feet need to be the right shape

S-Works Ares
Cycling Weekly Verdict

The Specialized S-Works Ares is a truly revolutionary shoe that actually lives up to the hype – for comfort and power transfer it might be Spesh's best yet. But the shape and construction won't suit all feet, so at this price it's essential to try before you buy.

Reasons to buy
  • +

    Closure system

  • +

    Power transfer

  • +

    Super stiff sole

  • +

    Lightweight

Reasons to avoid
  • -

    Might not work for low arches

  • -

    Sock liner won't be for everyone

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Specialized designed these pro-level shoes around the feet of Tour de France green jersey winner Sam Bennett, claiming the S-Works Ares was one per cent faster than any shoe it has ever made.

Its stated aim was “to crack the code of locking in support without sacrificing comfort.”

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1