Chipps reviews Specialized Recon 3.0 clip-in shoes. Can they be stiff AND comfortable at the same time?
These seem to be version 2 of Recon 3 shoes - and first version is still widely available online. Soles are quite different and opening is more diagonal on new ones.
Specialized really loves reusing model names, buyers beware.
Yes, and having used the original Recon 3 and this model of Recon 3, I can say that Specialized have tweaked the shape and fit. I prefer the roomier toe-box of the original version, although that version also tends to go a bit baggy around the heelcup and uses the "one-way" Boa dials. I prefer the stiffer feel and adjustability of the "3" over the lower spec models. Oh, and I always change the footbed to one of Specialized's BG models with more arch support (Green).
Great shoes imho.
Had a pair of the original Recon 3, and if you baulk at the cost of the new version (I know I did) than Fizik Terra Atlas are a pretty good facsimile for half the price
So basically an xc/cross/gravel race shoe. Nice looking shoes but after killing my current carbon shoes on a Deeside hike-a-bike weekend, I'll be looking for a fully treaded sole on my next pair.
I recently wanted to replace my old and tired previous model Recon 2’s, and tried the new version 2, the 3, then the Recon 1. I found the 2 and 3 both a bit narrow in the toe box, the 1 was fine.
Ended up with Lake 239’s and Rapha Explore Poweweave, both of which fit so well I kept them both.. 😁
