Table of Contents
- 2012 Trail Running Shoe Review
- Altra Lone Peak, $110
- adidas adizero XT4, $100
- ASICS GT-2170 Trail, $110
- Brooks Pure Grit, $100
- Columbia Ravenous Lite, $80
- Hoka OneOne Stinson Evo, $170
- Merrell Lithe Glove, $125
- Montrail Bajada, $110
- New Balance Minimus Zero Trail, $110
- Puma Faas 250 Trail, $85
- Salomon XR Mission, $110
- Skechers GoTrail, $80
- Saucony Peregrine 2, $100
- NorthFace Singletrack Hayasa, $110
- La Sportiva Vertical K, $115
- Scarpa Spark, $115
- Tecnica Inferno X-Lite, $110
- TrekSta Edict, $135
New Balance Minimus Zero Trail, $110
Weight — M: 4.4 oz.; W: 3.5 oz.
FIT: These featherweight minimalists fit similar to ballet shoes in the heel and arch/midfoot—with a snug, wrap-like connectivity—but like open-toe sandals in the forefoot. The outsole and the upper are both extremely pliable, creating a dynamic fit that remains reliably snug as the foot flexes through various phases of a stride.
FEEL: This is the essence of modern minimalism in a nutshell: über-light and supremely flexible with low-to-the-ground construction. Although the durable outsole pods offer a bit of protection, there’s nothing to inhibit the natural movement of your foot or interfere with your stride whatsoever.
RIDE: The near-barefoot sensation promotes and demands an agile style of running and gait with soft landings. Even though its thin yet durable rubber outsole offers some protection against most trail clutter, you still have to run nimbly and avoid hard heel-striking and pointy rocks.