Shoes: Spec. S-Works vs Shimano R220

xraymtb

Needing to replace my aging Northwaves and found both these models on sale.

I now have both and was hoping to decide which felt/fitted best but they feel the same to me so I need some advice from anyone who has used them? How do they feel when riding? Have they lasted ok? Is the Boa closure any better than a buckle/velcro?

Fat Head

I have used a pair of one of Shimano's top end models for 3 or 4 years. They are much smaller made than Specialized, you have to buy a size up. Northwaves, I'm pretty sure, are also made big so if you get on with them then the Spesh shoes might be the better bet.

I wouldn't buy Shimanos again as for my model there were design problems: the heel guard at the back of the sole came away early on meaning the carbon sole is wearing away from the back to the front. I see that the design has changed on more recent Shimano models.

Recently I tried on a pair of the Spesh S works (Boa) and they felt a better shoe.....

ajb72

Absolutely love my S-works. Picked the 2009 model up (relatively!) cheap off ebay and cannot recommend them highly enough. The Boa system does give you a lovely secure fit without needing to overtighten and is a doddle to use.

As you would expect at the price, they are also super stiff and light. Not too sure about the 2010 model styling, they look a bit like Dave Beckham might have designed them!

Only owned one pair of Shimano's before and that was years ago, so can't offer a comparison I'm afraid

sungod

i just got the s-works 2010 in the sales, lovely shoe, comfortable, light, and stiffer than a stiff thing that's stiff

as ajb72 says, the styling is a bit iffy, would prefer it to be a bit more restrained

compared to velcro etc., the dual boa closure is much better, fast to adjust on the fly too

i was a bit concerned about how tough the boa cable would be, but after going through the info on boa's site decided to stop worrying, plus it is user serviceable and they sell spare dials and cable at very reasonable prices

haven't tried the shimano, but certainly can recommend the s-works

yakk

I to have Spec S-works (2008?). Great fit and stiff/light. They do come up narrower than the Pro model, just make sure you're comfortable. The tongue padding isn't thick, but this isn't an issue for me.
Yak

dag_on_a_bike

Tried the BG Pro (1 down from the S-Works). Needed a 46, instead of my usual 44 (or 45 with my current Shimano's). It that typical? Or perhaps because they are narrower?

Apparently you can get 3 different width fittings in the States but not here in the UK.

Brindy

the s works are awesome, they are very comfortable ,stiff and light. They just feel very fast