Cyclist
Specialized introduces fast and airy Propero 4 helmet and revamped Torch shoes
Specialized has announced a high-performance update to its Propero helmet and updated its Torch shoe range.
The Propero 4 has a front end like the Evade aero helmet, rear vents like the Prevail lightweight helmet and includes internal micro-channelling designed to improve cooling. The price has increased from the Propero 3 it replaces.
At the same time, the brand has updated the Torch 3.0 and 2.0 shoes. Both use Boa Li2 dial closures and incorporate a carbon sole with three-bolt drilling and large rubber anti-slip pads. There are small price decreases from the previous models.
The Propero 4 helmet is priced at £165; the Torch 2.0 shoes are £165 and it’s £210 for the Torch 3.0.
- Buy yours now at specialized.com
Aero plus ventilation
Specialized promises aerodynamics as well as ventilation from the latest Propero 4 helmet, while keeping to a claimed weight of 290g for a size medium helmet. It says that the design melds the ventilation of the S-Works Prevail 3 lightweight vented helmet with the aerodynamics of the S-Works Evade 3 for a fast, lightweight helmet.
It says it’s achieved this by adopting a similar frontal design to the Evade, while adding extra rear venting adapted from the Prevail 3. It used CFD modelling and wind tunnel testing to develop a vent pattern that it says increases airflow and hence cooling.
Over a range of wind yaw angles, Specialized says that the new Propero 4 helmet is 4 watts more efficient than the Prevail 3 vented helmet at 45kph. It hasn’t released any comparisons to the Evade.
At the same time, the brand says that it has tweaked the Prevail 3’s vent design for the new Propero 4 by adding 2mm ‘micro-channels’ to increase cooling. It reckons these work like a tumble dryer, increasing turbulence in the air flowing through the helmet to augment the cooling effect.
As with almost all new helmets, Specialized has had the new Propero 4 crash tested by the independent Virginia Tech helmet lab, where it has earned a 5-star rating. The helmet design includes Mips Evolve, while the adjustment system is derived from that of the S-Works helmets.
New Torch 2.0 and 3.0 shoes
Also launched today are updated Torch 2.0 and 3.0 shoes. As with the Propero 4 helmet, Specialized says that it has trickled down tech from its S-Works Torch range into the new shoes.
That starts with Specialized’s long-standing Body Geometry features, which it first introduced 20 years ago and which it says help prevent foot collapse, misalignment in the leg joints and hot foot.
Body Geometry includes three specific design features: a 1.5mm Varus wedge, longitudinal arch support in the outsole and a metatarsal button, which splays the bones in the forefoot to help nerve and circulatory function. Custom footbeds allow you to fine-tune the fit if needed.
Opt for the Torch 3.0 shoes and you get two Li2 Boa dials with ratcheting tensioning and release as well as quick release by lifting the dial. There’s also a seam-free upper, which Specialized says mirrors that of the S-Works Torch shoes, provides a close, supportive fit and ensures foot security. The upper incorporates mesh and laser perforation for ventilation.
The unidirectional carbon sole unit includes rubber grips, which Specialized says will help you waddle into the coffee shop or put a foot down at a stop. Both the Torch 3.0 and Torch 2.0 are drilled for three-bolt cleats only.
Turning to the Torch 2.0, Specialized says that these shoes are aimed more at beginner cyclists and indoor spin bike users. They too incorporate Specialized’s Body Geometry features for foot and leg comfort.
Closure is a single Boa Li2 dial with a stretch-free Dyneema fabric lace and woven lace guides and a velcro strap. The upper is a single piece, seamless design, again with laser perforation, although without the mesh inserts.
As with the Torch 3.0, there’s a carbon sole unit, although in this case it’s woven rather than unidirectional. Specialized says that it saves weight relative to a nylon unit. Here too, you get rubber sole inserts to help you avoid slipping on a wet surface.
Sizes, weights and international pricing
Propero 4 helmet
The Propero 4 helmet is available in three sizes. In Europe, the size S has a claimed weight of 270g, the M 290g and the L 320g.
Weights differ depending on the certifying body, with US-spec helmets 20g heavier than those sold in the EU.
International prices for the Propero 4 helmet are £165 / $200 / €190 / AU$310. Five colours are available.
Torch shoes
Turning to the shoes, the Torch 3.0 has a claimed weight of 288g per shoe and the Torch 2.0 268g per shoe, both for a size 42.
Torch 2.0 shoes are priced at £165 / $180 / €200 / AU$270, with four colour options including black or white.
Torch 3.0 shoes are priced at £210 / $250 / €250 / AU$390 and come in four colour options, including purple as well as the statutory black or white.
Sizes available vary by colour, but are from 36 to 49 for black or white shoes, with half sizes between 38.5 and 46.5 for some shoe/colour combinations.
- Buy yours now at specialized.com
The post Specialized introduces fast and airy Propero 4 helmet and revamped Torch shoes appeared first on Cyclist.