I’m an Inov-8 fan, TrailFly G270 zero drop for mid-trail running needs, X-Talon 212 for deep mud. Both are a great fit for me, lightweight and I’ve run marathon distance in both with zero issues. Finally they are nearly indestructible so my previous pairs lasted 5 years and 4 years respectively.
I used to love Inov-8 (had two pairs of Terraultras and two pairs of Trailfly G270s), but when I tried new Inov-8 Trailflies (Speed and Wide), it felt that they've changed the heel so that it doesn't fit well to my feet (or I've simply forgot how the new Trailflys used to feel) and they are no longer 0mm drop shoes (Wide has 6mm and Speed has 4mm drop) :-(
nice video, with some weird choices. in the speed categorie, you put the slowest shoe of the adidias Terrex line up. the Agravic 3 is the training shoe (lightstrike 2.0), they have 2 race shoes, the agravic speed and the speed ultra both with some lighstrike pro in them, those are a lot faster feeling them the agravic 3. I have them all, all 3 are great, you chose the slowest one..:-) and Salomon has more great shoes the just the speedcross!
BOA: I’ve been using lace/cord locks for decades. It’s what we used in triathlons (my first in 1983). Cheap. Effective. Shoes don’t come untied. Quick adjustment.
Could I suggest you keep the shoe details on screen all the time you're discussing the shoe? Or at least give it a longer time before fading out? Or change to smaller font instead of fading? After all the pictures, while nice, aren't so vital that having the text in a corner loses anything. I keep having to stop and look back for those details, which interrupts what you're saying...
@@adamfeerst2575 but if I pause it, I'm not hearing what they're saying? I'm afraid I haven't the brainpower to memorise all the numbers unless I pause it for ages - so it would be a really disjointed viewing. I suppose I could pause it, write down all the numbers, wind forward to the next set of numbers, write them down, etc. and finally go back and watch from the beginning with my notes... Whereas if they keep the numbers up, when someone says "these lugs are really deep" or "these shoes are on the expensive side", I could just glance at the corner of the screen and see whether they're 4mm or 5mm, or 200 or 240 pounds, without anyone else being the worse off for it.
@ I don’t run in lots of different shoes, so my experience is limited. But I will say that the Speedgoat are super comfortable and had that disappearing on the foot that makes running almost easy. They look after my feet and legs and stick to the trails that I run on.
Great review! So many shoes out there it’s hard to try them all. I’m running in Saucony Peregrine 11, I typically buy them on sale when the new model comes out… I guess it’s been awhile if the 14s are out. Interested in the Brooks Cascadia (have the Glycerine & Ghosts as well as the Catamount with 6mi on them from 2022 before I got Achilles issues) so would love a review from TRC.
Honestly i find a lot of the common brands just don't stand up to the wet British weather. I moved from Altra to inov8 Roclite g275 and they are phenomenal, you just feel so secure on any terrain for trail or fellrunning. I'd rather carry my trail shoes in a pack and swap on the other end, then leave my road shoes by the start of the trail.
Agreed! Bought the Calderas on a whim, because they were on sale. They are brilliant! Pretty light, super grippy and oh so plush. They come with integrated hook and loop in the back and a loop in the front to attach gaiters. The toe box is roomy and it's true to size. I usually run in Hokas, but I'm a big fan of these Brooks Calderas!
I have a number of trail running shoes, but the one I keep reaching for are the HOKA Mafate Speed 4. Much like Sarah, these are the shoes that I feel can handle everything, and they are the shoes I ran my first Ultra Marathon in. Mine have over 500Kms on them now and show no signs of issues with the mid sole and are still very grippy. The Vibram out sole is fantastic and the 5mm lugs provide sure footing in any conditions. I just wish HOKA made them in 2EE wide
Loved James' story about being overtaken. :-) Such hard advice to follow on slithery, gravelly downhills... Need another pair of shoes so will be checking out some of these. But, why so many whites? My shoes aren't properly broken in till they've had a dousing in seawater and sand, plus a muddy field run (preferably (?) with cows...). Nothing white looks stylish after that!
Looove my Asics Gel Trabuco, have been running in them for years, they never disappoint. 🏆 Also, can recommend an Aussie shoe, Tarkine Trail Devil. Nice wide toe box, grippy, comfy and you can fit orthotics in them. Definitely worth a look.
Funny you missed the best allround/technical terrain shoe worn by none other than Courtney Dauwalter herself. The Salomon S/Lab Genesis. The non S/Lab version is top notch as well. And if you know how to correctly use the speed lacing system it's not tricky whatsoever......
With winter coming now with snowy and icy conditions on the roads which shoes would you recommend for preparing for my marathon in April? I now have Brooks Divide 4, but I have to replace them by now.
I ran a lot in the snow and ice last winter in the Hoka Torrent 2 and never so much as even slipped, grip was absolutely amazing and I found them very comfy (they are more on the narrow side I believe)
The Hoka Challenger 7 ATR comes in a wide fit and is super comfy. I don't run more extreme trails but have run on mud, grass, beach and rocky surfaces with them without major incident. I am normally a UK size 10 and have the UK size 11 shoe. I also run in the cheaper NNormal trail shoes whatever they are called. Again UK 11 size. They are less foamy and have more grip IMO.
The ‘spoilers’ on the New Balance shoes are there for muddy downhill parts of your trail. Because of your foot placement while going downhill, this would increase your contact surface of your shoe and would decrease the amount of slipping and sliding. That’s what I’ve been told by a New Balance shopkeeper. Now you know 😊
Nice - just been looking for trail shoes because of the nasty weather. Normally I use "standard" running shoes even on forest paths but once it gets wet and slippery, they are no good.
There are specific stability trail shoes available, but it's less of an issue with trail shoes because a) they tend to be more structured in the first place, and running on uneven terrain reduces the need to guide your foot roll. It might not be something you need to be concerned with. If you have the opportunity to try shoes with a good return policy, or try before buying or something like that, I would go that way and see if a specific shoe works, stability or not.
Nnormal Tomir needs to be mentioned and the fact Nike is so heavily represented in this is shocking given their poor reputation for trail running shoes
I can't do waterproof shoes or socks as my feet get so hot and sweat. I love my Inov-8 arctic claw because of the huge lugs and metal spikes, which are perfect for early/late winter in Canada. During mid-winter I have to switch to crampons for the additional grip. PS, love my Cascadia
@runningchannel Asics Trabuco max 3 was on my radar, and you guys just reinforced my decision. Although the Novablast 4 TR caught my eye though,👀 because I do use the road version. That Dab was beautiful 😂
I also have the Salomon Sense Ride 5. Surprisingly good work horse of a shoe. They feel refreshingly "normal" in today's market. I immediately ditched those laces btw, they fit so much better without them.
Ill also add, Ive run in a previous version of those Asics (not much had changed) The grip is phenomenal, actually too good, creates a tripping hazard. The midsole is too firm and too stiff to work for me on trails. Every body is different but I find the Zegamas to be more comfortable, faster and better in technical terrain than the Asics.
Speed shoes generally prioritise lighter weight, a carbon plate and are designed for shorter efforts. Adding larger amounts of foam will increase the comfort but also increase the weight
I would love to buy some new trail shoes, but after buying a 965. Telling my wife that I want to spend £150 on a pair of running shoes. Chances are I may not survive my next night's sleep. :) Only kidding. I love you honey. (Just incase she sees this)
8:58 lmao what? Why are you creating artificial barriers to entry? Most people can do trail running without any extra kit, with the shoes they wear for their normal runs, let alone all the other stuff you mentioned. Case in point, recently did my first trails half - barely anyone was in dedicated trails shoes, no sign of waterproofs, no wanky vests...
I noticed this also, I often run with a group of older runners - in summer we explore local woods, road shoes are fine, in winter we stick to roads and the buffed out trails, some have road shoes, other trail shoes (no alphaflys though!). 'trail' running was the first type of running I did, to me it was just running. I'm always amazed how much kit people have for shorter trail runs. Mind you if it gives them confidence I don't knock it, but agree it's a shame if anyone feels they need to have lots of kit.
I guess it depends on the type of trails you run and how often. Grippy trail shoes and gaiters are a must where I run. And in Australia I carry water on every run, and a snake kit, so easier to use a vest. None of it is a necessity, but I'd rather be safe and comfortable on the trails.
BOA: I’ve been using lace/cord locks for decades. It’s what we used in triathlons (my first in 1983). Cheap. Effective. Shoes don’t come untied. Quick adjustment.
INOV8 TrailFly no discussion needed. But of courser I’ll listen to your wrong answers 😂 Love the show.
I’m an Inov-8 fan, TrailFly G270 zero drop for mid-trail running needs, X-Talon 212 for deep mud. Both are a great fit for me, lightweight and I’ve run marathon distance in both with zero issues. Finally they are nearly indestructible so my previous pairs lasted 5 years and 4 years respectively.
I used to love Inov-8 (had two pairs of Terraultras and two pairs of Trailfly G270s), but when I tried new Inov-8 Trailflies (Speed and Wide), it felt that they've changed the heel so that it doesn't fit well to my feet (or I've simply forgot how the new Trailflys used to feel) and they are no longer 0mm drop shoes (Wide has 6mm and Speed has 4mm drop) :-(
nice video, with some weird choices. in the speed categorie, you put the slowest shoe of the adidias Terrex line up. the Agravic 3 is the training shoe (lightstrike 2.0), they have 2 race shoes, the agravic speed and the speed ultra both with some lighstrike pro in them, those are a lot faster feeling them the agravic 3. I have them all, all 3 are great, you chose the slowest one..:-) and Salomon has more great shoes the just the speedcross!
BOA: I’ve been using lace/cord locks for decades. It’s what we used in triathlons (my first in 1983). Cheap. Effective. Shoes don’t come untied. Quick adjustment.
Salomon S/Lab Genesis - I ran a very comfortable 105km Trail in them recently and my feet were still fresh afterwards.
BOA is also great for adjusting your fit as your feet swell over longer distances.
I use the Merrel Agility Peak 5 for grip in muddy trails (autumn to spring), it's nice you pointed it out. The grip is unreal.
Could I suggest you keep the shoe details on screen all the time you're discussing the shoe? Or at least give it a longer time before fading out? Or change to smaller font instead of fading?
After all the pictures, while nice, aren't so vital that having the text in a corner loses anything. I keep having to stop and look back for those details, which interrupts what you're saying...
Thanks for the great feedback! We'll see what we can do next time
@runningchannel wow, can't ask for faster reply than that! Thanks for considering looking into it.
And thanks to all the team for all the videos.
Yes, but you can pause it.
@@adamfeerst2575 but if I pause it, I'm not hearing what they're saying? I'm afraid I haven't the brainpower to memorise all the numbers unless I pause it for ages - so it would be a really disjointed viewing. I suppose I could pause it, write down all the numbers, wind forward to the next set of numbers, write them down, etc. and finally go back and watch from the beginning with my notes...
Whereas if they keep the numbers up, when someone says "these lugs are really deep" or "these shoes are on the expensive side", I could just glance at the corner of the screen and see whether they're 4mm or 5mm, or 200 or 240 pounds, without anyone else being the worse off for it.
I’m surprised that the Hoka Speedgoat didn’t make the list.
Are they your favourite?
@ I don’t run in lots of different shoes, so my experience is limited. But I will say that the Speedgoat are super comfortable and had that disappearing on the foot that makes running almost easy. They look after my feet and legs and stick to the trails that I run on.
And you may find the version 5 at a great discount. They are great!
No Speedgoat 🤯
Love the Hoka Speedgoat! And they come in a wide version as well, which I need 😅. I also have the Brooks cascadia, but prefer the Hoka.
Great review! So many shoes out there it’s hard to try them all. I’m running in Saucony Peregrine 11, I typically buy them on sale when the new model comes out… I guess it’s been awhile if the 14s are out. Interested in the Brooks Cascadia (have the Glycerine & Ghosts as well as the Catamount with 6mi on them from 2022 before I got Achilles issues) so would love a review from TRC.
Honestly i find a lot of the common brands just don't stand up to the wet British weather. I moved from Altra to inov8 Roclite g275 and they are phenomenal, you just feel so secure on any terrain for trail or fellrunning.
I'd rather carry my trail shoes in a pack and swap on the other end, then leave my road shoes by the start of the trail.
I’m a heavier runner (~200 lbs) with wide feet that runs trails and the Brooks Caldera 7 has been a game changer for me.
So glad you've found what works well for you 💪
Did you see what Brooks are coming out with next year on the trails? They looks great. Check out the TRE 2024 coverage.
Agreed! Bought the Calderas on a whim, because they were on sale. They are brilliant! Pretty light, super grippy and oh so plush. They come with integrated hook and loop in the back and a loop in the front to attach gaiters. The toe box is roomy and it's true to size. I usually run in Hokas, but I'm a big fan of these Brooks Calderas!
I'm a bit disappointed Mizuno wasn't mentioned! 💔
I have a number of trail running shoes, but the one I keep reaching for are the HOKA Mafate Speed 4. Much like Sarah, these are the shoes that I feel can handle everything, and they are the shoes I ran my first Ultra Marathon in. Mine have over 500Kms on them now and show no signs of issues with the mid sole and are still very grippy. The Vibram out sole is fantastic and the 5mm lugs provide sure footing in any conditions. I just wish HOKA made them in 2EE wide
La Sportiva Mutant II - Great shoes for my very muddy local parkrun (Mole Valley) and the surrounding trails.
I have the ASICS trabuco max shoes, and love them! Super comfortable
Got to have a pair of Saucony on the list! My favorite are the Xodus Ultra and Endorphin Edge!
Loved James' story about being overtaken. :-) Such hard advice to follow on slithery, gravelly downhills...
Need another pair of shoes so will be checking out some of these. But, why so many whites? My shoes aren't properly broken in till they've had a dousing in seawater and sand, plus a muddy field run (preferably (?) with cows...). Nothing white looks stylish after that!
Looove my Asics Gel Trabuco, have been running in them for years, they never disappoint. 🏆
Also, can recommend an Aussie shoe, Tarkine Trail Devil. Nice wide toe box, grippy, comfy and you can fit orthotics in them. Definitely worth a look.
Funny you missed the best allround/technical terrain shoe worn by none other than Courtney Dauwalter herself. The Salomon S/Lab Genesis. The non S/Lab version is top notch as well. And if you know how to correctly use the speed lacing system it's not tricky whatsoever......
Love the altra shoes for road and light trail and vj irock for deep mud.
Salomon ultra glide best for me works in every condition I need it for.
Great one!
With winter coming now with snowy and icy conditions on the roads which shoes would you recommend for preparing for my marathon in April? I now have Brooks Divide 4, but I have to replace them by now.
I ran a lot in the snow and ice last winter in the Hoka Torrent 2 and never so much as even slipped, grip was absolutely amazing and I found them very comfy (they are more on the narrow side I believe)
@ I’m looking for shoes with a wide toe box
The Hoka Challenger 7 ATR comes in a wide fit and is super comfy. I don't run more extreme trails but have run on mud, grass, beach and rocky surfaces with them without major incident. I am normally a UK size 10 and have the UK size 11 shoe.
I also run in the cheaper NNormal trail shoes whatever they are called. Again UK 11 size. They are less foamy and have more grip IMO.
@@robiniddon7582 Thanks! 👊
The ‘spoilers’ on the New Balance shoes are there for muddy downhill parts of your trail. Because of your foot placement while going downhill, this would increase your contact surface of your shoe and would decrease the amount of slipping and sliding. That’s what I’ve been told by a New Balance shopkeeper. Now you know 😊
Excited to watch, got my first 24 hour event next summer so trail training starts soon!
Good luck!! Which one are you taking on?
Sandringham 24
Nice - just been looking for trail shoes because of the nasty weather. Normally I use "standard" running shoes even on forest paths but once it gets wet and slippery, they are no good.
Norda for life.
Just picked up some altra timp 5. Returns at rei for half price. Couldn’t resist.
Where are the Lonepeaks? Goated trail shoes
How do you go about choosing a trail shoe when you are a pronator and use stability shoes for road running?
There are specific stability trail shoes available, but it's less of an issue with trail shoes because a) they tend to be more structured in the first place, and running on uneven terrain reduces the need to guide your foot roll. It might not be something you need to be concerned with. If you have the opportunity to try shoes with a good return policy, or try before buying or something like that, I would go that way and see if a specific shoe works, stability or not.
I am enjoying my Saucony Peregrine 13 trail shoes. I chose them because I have other Saucony shoes, and these are available in wide.
Salomon ultra glide for me! On my third pair now
I need to give Salomon a try. Never used one but I'm looking for a good trail shoe for the nasty weather.
Asics trabuco max 3. Though I just got a black toenail running 36k on a fairly easy trail.....
Nnormal Tomir needs to be mentioned and the fact Nike is so heavily represented in this is shocking given their poor reputation for trail running shoes
I can't do waterproof shoes or socks as my feet get so hot and sweat. I love my Inov-8 arctic claw because of the huge lugs and metal spikes, which are perfect for early/late winter in Canada. During mid-winter I have to switch to crampons for the additional grip.
PS, love my Cascadia
Norda should be on this list
No mention of the Speedgoats? Wowsers
Inov8 trailfly g 270 v2 for sand dunes, towpaths and forest trails for me.
Just in time! Looking to get some new shoes. Now go to Touch some grass 😅!
Great! Which ones have caught your eye? 👀
@runningchannel Asics Trabuco max 3 was on my radar, and you guys just reinforced my decision. Although the Novablast 4 TR caught my eye though,👀 because I do use the road version.
That Dab was beautiful 😂
re Gortex - No way, embrace the wet!
Norda 001 best shoe on the market- durable, ergonomic, comfortable and damn sexy
Nike Zegama 2, havent even watched the video yet.
I also have the Salomon Sense Ride 5. Surprisingly good work horse of a shoe. They feel refreshingly "normal" in today's market. I immediately ditched those laces btw, they fit so much better without them.
Ill also add, Ive run in a previous version of those Asics (not much had changed) The grip is phenomenal, actually too good, creates a tripping hazard. The midsole is too firm and too stiff to work for me on trails. Every body is different but I find the Zegamas to be more comfortable, faster and better in technical terrain than the Asics.
Speed: Why no weights; matters for speed. Missing Brooks Agil, 218g. Speed does matter on trails when racing an hour or so.
La Sportiva Akasha 2 👌
The toe mesh on the hoka mafates is the only downfall for me! My toes keep wanting to poke out of it :(
Well, interesting to see no nnormal shoes in your lineup. Salomon also with just one pair, where's it's one of the most popular trial brands.
I use neither waterproof shoes or socks. I prefer well draining shoes and merino socks.
No Topos?
Perplexed how you can have a “speed” category. Surely running speed is determined by the runner feeling comfortable & confident in their chosen shoe.
Speed shoes generally prioritise lighter weight, a carbon plate and are designed for shorter efforts. Adding larger amounts of foam will increase the comfort but also increase the weight
Speed goat?
I would love to buy some new trail shoes, but after buying a 965. Telling my wife that I want to spend £150 on a pair of running shoes. Chances are I may not survive my next night's sleep. :) Only kidding. I love you honey. (Just incase she sees this)
You criticize Nike grip, but Saucony is even worse.
Salomon(Speedcross) . Which you and many others spell incorrectly
We have spelt it the same way you have
Check this header. Solomon Shoe Review and Speed Lacing System
Loved the content. Thank you
8:58 lmao what? Why are you creating artificial barriers to entry? Most people can do trail running without any extra kit, with the shoes they wear for their normal runs, let alone all the other stuff you mentioned. Case in point, recently did my first trails half - barely anyone was in dedicated trails shoes, no sign of waterproofs, no wanky vests...
I noticed this also, I often run with a group of older runners - in summer we explore local woods, road shoes are fine, in winter we stick to roads and the buffed out trails, some have road shoes, other trail shoes (no alphaflys though!). 'trail' running was the first type of running I did, to me it was just running. I'm always amazed how much kit people have for shorter trail runs. Mind you if it gives them confidence I don't knock it, but agree it's a shame if anyone feels they need to have lots of kit.
I guess it depends on the type of trails you run and how often. Grippy trail shoes and gaiters are a must where I run. And in Australia I carry water on every run, and a snake kit, so easier to use a vest.
None of it is a necessity, but I'd rather be safe and comfortable on the trails.
Are the vests wanky or are you?
BOA lace system isn’t new at all, pretty sketchy and un informed review of trail shoes
BOA: I’ve been using lace/cord locks for decades. It’s what we used in triathlons (my first in 1983). Cheap. Effective. Shoes don’t come untied. Quick adjustment.