Specialized Rimb 2.0 /Hangten / Suplest offroad shoes OPENBOX Long Term Review

 Cycling Shoe Review: Specialized Rime 2.0 & Suplest Offroad Edge/3 Pro X.1

Update: Specialized Rime 2.0 Long-term Review (3 Years of Heavy Use)

After three years of consistent riding, the wear on the Vibram sole is reasonable. However, there has been some slight delamination (peeling), and the area around the cleat has started to make contact with the ground, which is acceptable given the age. I had to use heel repair patches, but the overall grip remains excellent.

I tried using cloth duct tape (recommended by skateboarders and bike mechanics) to fix the peeling, as my previous attempts with superglue always failed.

To date, the Rime 2.0 with Vibram soles remains the most satisfying and durable MTB clipless shoe I’ve owned. It’s a shame Specialized hasn't released a direct successor with the same form factor.

Additionally, I stumbled upon a "Hydroguard" waterproof version and a purple colorway. Which one would you choose?

Hydroguard version (Waterproof)

Standard version (Non-waterproof)

Rime 2.0: Long-term Performance

The comfort, grip, and overall experience scores are very high.

Cons: The sole stiffness is slightly low. During short sprints exceeding 500W, it doesn't feel as "snappy." (But honestly, I can only maintain 500W for a few pedal strokes anyway!)

Because it uses a Vibram sole, the "walkability" feels very solid—almost like wearing a hiking boot. The entire sole provides support while walking. Usually, the recessed cleat area in cycling shoes creates a gap that makes walking on metal cleats slippery, but the Vibram rubber compensates for this perfectly. Even as the sole wears down over time, I believe Vibram remains much safer than standard outsoles.

Sizing Note: These run about half a size larger than Suplest or Shimano. Perhaps due to this, I’ve found the tongue can be a bit "stiff" or intrusive against the top of my foot, no matter how I adjust it.

Specialized "Black Technology":

Many Specialized Gravel shoes use "Xpel Mesh." It’s breathable but designed to shed water quickly. I’ve ridden these in heavy rain (Amber and Red rain warnings), and water ingress through the uppers wasn't serious; my socks were only slightly damp. Even when the exterior is soaked, the mesh prevents water from pooling inside—another impressive water-related innovation alongside their Purist bottles.

Side Note: Hang Ten Shoes

Produced in the same factory as Tiebao. The craftsmanship and styles are decent. However, pay attention to the sizing—it’s best to go by CM measurements, as the EUR sizes run slightly large. Feel free to leave a comment or PM for the link.

After 4,000–5,000km (1 Year):

The soles are worn out. I’m currently using them for an experiment: repairing shoe soles with old tire rubber.

The New Purchase: Suplest Offroad Edge/3 Pro X.1 BOA Trail MTB Shoe

Recently, I made the bold decision to buy shoes online! I went with the Swiss brand Suplest.

BOA L6 System: This model features a centered BOA dial on the tongue, which effectively prevents it from getting knocked loose by obstacles or accidental pedal strikes.

Colorway: A bold mix of Coral/Orange and Army Green.

Heel Grip: A standout feature is the "shimmery" black material in the heel. It’s a grippy, anti-slip fabric that feels very secure—though I wonder if it might eventually wear down expensive cycling socks.

Walkability: Most of the outsole is rubber, making it a great companion for "bike-and-shop" trips or touring. According to international reviews, the forefoot stiffness is more than adequate.

Durability: The toe box features stitched reinforcement. Will this increase longevity? Let’s see.

Detailing: I love the subtle, "hidden" Suplest logo.

Manufacturing: These are made in Vietnam, a rising powerhouse in garment and footwear manufacturing. The craftsmanship is solid, though the stickers seem a bit prone to peeling.

English Review Reference:

For more technical details, you can check out the BikeRadar review here.