Specialized was created in 1974 by a cyclist for cyclists and produces everything from pedal-powered bikes to electric bikes and a wide range of accessories from the helmets on your head  down to socks on your feet. The Torch 3.0 are specialist road shoes with the main goal being to produce a high end shoe full of features at a price that was reasonable. Well the price is probably going to still put a few people off, but these are definitely a top of the range shoe. We will start with probably the least important feature (but we all know it matters): the style.

These are truly beautiful shoes, available in either a black or black/white design with clean lines and a matte finish. Constructed with three strategically placed materials on the uppers that are welded together: TPU and mesh in the front and synthetic leather in the rear,  this makes the shoe comfortable straight out of the box with a strong support at the front of the shoe. The rear and heel cup have a stiff build to lock down your heel and ensure the power your legs output hits the pedals efficiently time after time. The refined upper uses Specialized FACT carbon fibre to further ensure an efficient power transfer thanks to the carbon composite sole and torsion box construction which is directionally rigid with a stiffness index of 8.5.

The two Boa S2-SV Snap dials for zonal closure allow you to obtain a precise and secure fit on the fly and are backed by the Boa Lifetime Guarantee. These shoes weigh approximately 248g per shoe (Size 42), the three-bolt cleat pattern fits all major road pedals, the synthetic layer uppers are placed in specific zones for comfort and lock-down and are thermobonded for a good fit. The Torch 3.0 have got the balance just right with these high performing, stylish and comfortable shoes, giving you power where you need it without being as overly strict as racing shoes. RRP £210

Current Cheapest Price

4 out of 5

Pros

Body geometry sole construction

Ergonomic footbeds

Attractive design

FACT carbon composite sole and torsion box construction

High performing road shoes

Stiffness Index 8.5.

Dual Boa S2-SV Snap dial closure

Comfortable fit

Cons

Pricey