Specialized releases all-new Search helmet and updated Recon shoes

Specialized has released a new vented 'adventure-focused' helmet, along with an update to the brand's Recon gravel shoe range.

All-new adventure helmet

The Specialized Search helmet claims to boast the “biggest vents in class for maximum ventilation". The US brand has designed this helmet for use beyond racing, understanding that aero is not necessarily everything to everyone.

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Specialized has used trickle-down technology from its premium Prevail 3 and Evade 3 road helmets in the design of the Search. It features the 4D Brow cooling solution first used on these helmets, which creates a gap between the front of the helmet and the rider's forehead to help draw air into the internal cooling channels of the helmet.

© Specialized

The Search focuses on ventilation, comfort and functionality above aerodynamics

The Search is marketed as a helmet for riders looking for a well-ventilated helmet with the added safety features that the MIPS Evolve Core impact rotation system provides.

The Search received a five-star Virginia Tech® helmet rating from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. Specialized claims this “combines confidence-inspiring features, functionality, and S-Works-derived ventilation".

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The new helmet has been designed to be functional as well as cool, with Specialized reducing the thickness of straps to increase comfort as well as placing the vents in strategic locations to facilitate the storage of sunglasses when not in use. Inside the vents are small rubber flaps that aim to keep sunglasses secure and rattle-free.

© Specialized

The Search is available in a range of colours

Sizing and Price

The Search helmet is available in three sizes, small, medium and large with a medium weighing in at 300 grams. Available directly from Specialized or from a Specialized stockist the Search retails for £125.

Updated Recon shoes

The Recon shoe collection has been part of Specilaized’s off-road range for a few years now being the go-to shoe from the brand for gravel and adventure riding. Across the collection, the updates aim to make the shoe more comfortable to wear off the bike.

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Using Specialized’s ‘Stride’ technology, the shoe is said to provide "a flexible outsole and upper around the toe box combined with a stiff cleat pocket, enabling the shoe to easily flex when walking and remain stiff and efficient when pedalling.

Specialized also says it has "simplified" the tread "for a stable, comfortable feel off the bike".

© Specialized

The update to the Recon collection aims to make them more user friendly off the bike

Specialized has incorporated its Body Geometry design in the Recon collection. This aims to ergonomically optimise the position of the foot for the movement of pedalling.

The inclusion of the Body Geometry design keeps the alignment between the ankle and the hip which the brand claims can increase power output. Arch support and Metatarsal button also aim to increase comfort whilst riding by promoting a natural foot position.

Pricing and specs

The Recon collection is available directly from Specialized or from a Specialized stockist.

Recon 1.0

© Specialized

• £100 / $120
• 291 grams (size 42)
• Singular L6 Boa Closure
• Injected nylon plate

Recon 2.0

© Specialized

• £165 / $180
• 307 grams (size 42)
• Singular Li2 Boa Closure
• Injected nylon plate

Recon 3.0

© Specialized

• £210 / $250
• 345 grams (size 42)
• Dual Li2 Boa Closure
• Weaved carbon fibre plate

What do you make of the new products from Specialized? Let us know in the comments below. To keep up to date with all the latest product launches and news from the world of bike tech head over to our dedicated tech news section of the website.

Specialized

Specialized is a bike manufacturer based in California, USA. The company produces bicycles and components for a wide variety of cycling disciplines. Specialized also sells a range of premium products under its S-works brand.