The tech behind the S-Works Torch Road Shoe

The new S-Works Torch road shoe is the latest iteration of cycling's most winningest shoe. Learn how we engineered the S-Works torch to disappear on your feet and off the front.

S-Works shoes are the winningest cycling footwear in history, racking up thousands of pro races (including five of the last seven Men’s UCI World Championships). The S-Works Torch is the latest evolution of this legacy. Using the Body Geometry method and data science, we crafted a shoe so thoughtfully that you’ll forget you’re wearing it.

The development of the S-Works Torch started over two decades ago with the question, “How can we improve the body-to-bike connection?” In 1997 we developed Body Geometry to identify a problem, solve it through design, and validate it with science. The result? Extra power, hold the pain.

Guided by more than 100,000 foot scans from our RETÜL fit data, we recognized that both a standard and a wide plate would best serve the spectrum of human foot shapes. So that’s what we did, reengineering two new carbon base plates that are 4mm and 7mm wider than the S-Works 7, respectively.

The plates’ new “pie crust” edging shape reduces flex and eliminates bulky material buildup around the perimeter of the plate for a streamlined construction. An internal I-Beam adds stiffness and strength, eliminating the need for additional bracing. The result is a 20-gram weight reduction, enhanced efficiency, and immediate power transfer.

Following RETÜL biomechanical data, we created an asymmetric heel cup that supports natural knee alignment and delivers the positive hold riders love while enhancing comfort by accommodating more room for the Achilles heel.

00:00 - Introducing the S-Works Torch
00:36 - How we engineered the new S-Works Torch
00:50 - Understanding Body Geometry shoe technology
01:24 - How the varus wedge works
01:49 - Longitudinal arch support, explained
02:07 - How the metatarsal button works
02:26 - The new molded upper on the S-Works Torch
02:51 - Materials and technology used in the S-Works Torch
03:21 - Why we made wide fit base plates
04:02 - Designing the asymmetric heel cup


Specialized University shares the design and technology stories behind your favorite bikes and cycling equipment. Our educational content creates a rich understanding of how our bikes actually work. We believe that when we know more, we all share the stoke. Subscribe for new videos about your favorite bikes and cycling equipment.

Please subscribe to our channel:    / specializeduniversity  

Follow Specialized University on Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamspeciali​zed_university
Subscribe to Specialized Bikes on Youtube:    / specialized411  
Like Specialized on Facebook: https://www.fb.com/specializedbicycles​
Follow Us on Twitter:   / iamspecialized​  
Follow Outride:   / outride