If you thought the original Ares was a game-changer, buckle up—Specialized just dropped the all-new S-Works Ares 2, and it’s dialed for one thing: max power transfer with zero sacrifice in comfort. It’s also a significant departure from the previous model (read our review here). While the last iteration focused on a sock-like fit, this new version focuses on foot pressure and a locked-in feel.
The Specialized mantra for the Ares 2 was definitely “comfort is power,” and if you’ve ever had a hot spot on a long ride – you know precisely why thats true. That all comes at a cost; this new version of the S-Works Ares is also $175 more than the original. So, is it worth it?
What is it? Specialized S-Works Ares 2
In a nutshell, the Specialized S-Works Ares 2 is the new flagship road shoe from Specialized. It uses a new last and vastly improves on its predecessor’s shortcomings. It’s also a whopping $600, which is taken to near custom carbon territory for pricing.
Specialized has done its research with endless foot scan files, and riders are backing the new design. But as we all know, you can only trust a sponsored rider’s opinion lightly, and we have some impressions ourselves that you can read in the end.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
What’s New? Comfort and Efficiency
Specialized delved deep into efficiency with the Ares 2, fine-tuning every element to boost power and eliminate discomfort.
The result? A shoe that delivers a claimed 7-watt power gain while reducing forefoot pressure by 44%. (We’re guessing that the 7-watt gain comes from the comfort or efficacy in alignment with other contributing factors, but we’ll have to wait and see what Specialized says back.)
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
How? Through a complete overhaul of its Body Geometry Last, refined over 100,000+ RETÜL 3D footscans and pro feedback. It’s shaped by nature and backed by science, ensuring every pedal stroke is as effective as possible.
How does it compare to the previous last? Without having two entirely dissected shoes, it’s a little challenging. But we have a pair of the S-Works Torch lace-ups (very comfortable, in my opinion), and this shoe uses the most recent (until now) Specialized BG last. If you look at the toe box, you’ll notice the most difference.
Instead of a boxy cone-ish shape, the new last fades away as the toes descend from the largest to the pinky. Most, if not all, of the updates come applied from the midsole forward. The result is a roomier toe box with less pressure on any digits.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
No Foot Pressure
A race shoe needs to do two things: keep you connected and comfortable. The S-Works Ares 2 nails both. It has some lingering design features of the original, but only the good ones.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
Specialized worked hard to eliminate forefoot pressure, a thorn in the previous models of earlier S-Works shoes (I’m thinking mainly of the S-Works Recon and the S-Works 7).
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
In the updated Ares 2, the triangular closure system spreads pressure evenly across the foot. It’s a similar idea to the OG model, but it is much easier to get on. Plus – the BOA allows the floating triangle to shift slightly to get the best fit. The updated heel cup looks more traditional than the S-Works Torch model.
Specialized claims this new design should eliminate heel lift, and we haven’t had an issue yet. Honestly, it was never that big of a deal for my fit. It is interesting to see the move from an asymmetrical heel design to a symmetrical one again.
Refresh: Body Geometry Tech
If you’re in the Specialized ecosystem, you know Body Geometery. It’s the bio-mechanical side of “Big S,” where biomechanical tweaks through insoles and wedges can make you faster. The goal is to make your legs act like efficient pistons, with solid knee tracking and a platform to pedal. Specialized does a great job at marketing this effort, and I’ve used their insoles for years religiously — they work well and last long. Body Geometery’s goal for the Ares is stability, comfort, and power.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
How do you take a race-drive shoe and make it as comfortable as your joggers? This task led to a few innovations and updated some older ones.
Here’s what’s packed into the Ares 2:
- Varus Wedge (1.5mm): Aligns foot, knee, and hip for better stability and power.
- Metatarsal Button: Prevents nerve compression and dreaded “hot foot.”
- Longitudinal Arch Support: Stops arch collapse, turning your foot into a rigid power lever.
- Wider Toe Box: Allows natural toe splay for comfort without compromising performance.
No Watt Wasted
The idea of the Ares 2 isn’t just about power but seamless power delivery. The stiff carbon outsole, secure closure, and locked-in fit ensure that every ounce of effort translates directly into forward motion. I’d say they achieved that with the new design. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and takes zero time to break in. Heres what Primož Roglič thinks;
“I’ve never felt more connected to my bike. I push on the pedals, and my bike jumps. Plus, no hot spots or discomfort, even on long days.” – Primož Roglič—Red Bull–BORA–Hansgrohe’s race-winning powerhouse—backs it up:
“The S-Works Ares 2 provides a maximum connection between the rider and the bike. There’s no lag. If you sneeze, that power and movement will go straight to the pedals.”– Rob Cook, Specialized Design Director of Footwear
S-Works Ares 2 Specs & Pricing
- Sizes: 36–49 (with half sizes from 38.5–46.5)
- Weight: 247g (size 42.5, half pair)
- Colors: White (tested), Team White, Black, Green Gecko
- Price: $600
- Availability: Now
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
First Impressions: A Big Step Forward, But at a Cost
I’ve been a fan of the Specialized road footwear for some time now. I faded out when the S-Works 7 road shoe came out, though; I couldn’t get a fit where the forefoot wasn’t crushed under the load of the Boa. When the S-Works Torch lace-up came out, they eliminated that feeling, and I could finally enjoy the shoes. The fit of Specialized shoes has grown over the years, especially for those with wider feet. It seems every iteration of the shoe gets slightly wider year-to-year.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
We’ve only had time for two weeks on the Ares 2, but the message is clear—this is an incredibly comfortable, watt-coaxing, race-focused shoe.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
How Do They Fit?
Slipping on the S-Works Ares 2, I first noticed how much better the fit was than the original Ares. I didn’t have to fight with the shoe; they just went on. You know what I am talking about if you have ridden the OG Ares.
The toe box is roomier, the closure system feels more natural, and the heel cup is more refined—no lift, no pressure points, just locked-in comfort. You can move the triangle pad around lightly when cranking up the Boas, and it slides into place rather than ratcheting you into the shoe.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
For me and my feet, these shoes feel excellent. I’ve battled with the original S-Works Ares (mostly to get them on my foot), and this is the most comfortable Specialized shoe I’ve worn. The fit gives the same “free foot” sensation as the original model but has more substance and support. I have slightly wide feet, and shoes (like saddles) are very personal.
(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)
Ride Impressions
On the bike, the support is noticeable; the shoe feels like an extension of the foot, delivering smooth, efficient power with no wasted movement.
The shoe feels incredibly responsive on the road, but the most significant difference is the comfort. The shoe is more comfortable than any other Specialized shoe I’ve tried directly from the box. It usually takes me a bit to break in a set of shoes, including a ride in the rain. The Ares2, however, is very malleable and works with the rider’s foot rather than forcing it into a shape.
What’s Up With That Price?
But then there’s the elephant in the room: the price. Cycling gear isn’t getting any cheaper, but even in an industry where costs keep climbing, the Ares 2 pushes the limits of what most riders can justify spending on race shoes. It’s an outstanding piece of kit—no question—but one that few will experience simply because the price tag puts it out of reach for most riders.
Final Thoughts
The S-Works Ares 2 is a no-compromise race shoe built for those who demand the absolute best. If you’re looking for locked-in security, maximized power transfer, and a fit that feels molded to your foot, the S-Works Ares 2 will abide.
