In the second half of our Spring 2008 running shoe reviews, we look at a primo collection of trail and road models produced by a mix of newcomers, classic running shoe companies, and contributions from the knowledgeable world of hiking and mountaineering.

 

ON AND OFF ROAD

Mizuno Wave Inspire 4 $95

For runners who need excellent cushioning with a moderate amount of stability, the Wave Inspire is now in its fourth successful edition. A double fan wave flows throughout the EVA midsole, supporting the shoe both with cushioning and anti-pronation features. The result is a smooth ride with a nice bit of snap. A built-in ventilation system helps to wick away heat, and Mizuno’s Dynamotion Fit technology aims to decrease “distortion” in the collar and the heel for those tired of shoes that slip. Mizunousa.com

 

Lowa Arete LO $90

Runners and triathletes may know little about Lowa, a company with
German roots and widely known in mountain climbing circles for more than 80 years. Extending this know-how into the realm of running, the Arete LO has been designed for trail and road, using a molded EVA midsole and integrated supination/pronation support system. An especially cozy upper uses two layers of foam. Lowaboots.com

 

Etonic Kendari SC $110

The Kendari SC features a two-density midsole bolstered by a medial stability post, producing a balanced mix of cushioning and stabilizing properties. This makes the Kendari SC a good choice for runners who need protection both from the pavement and from mild overpronation troubles. Etonic uses its Resilient Cushion system both under the forefoot and the heel, along with a stability plate to absorb and disperse shock. Etonic.com

HIT THE TRAIL

The North Face Rucky Chucky $110

Named after the famous Rucky Chucky river crossing at the Western States 100-mile trail run (the crossing that confronts runners deep within their journey for a belt buckle, at the 78-mile point), the Rucky Chucky is, indeed, a rugged, high-performance trail shoe for the ambitious off-roader. At 14.5 ounces, this abrasion-resistant, nubuck-uppered shoe is braced by TPU welding reinforcements to withstand both lateral and medial forces. A midfoot shank and medially posted rearfoot help stabilize foot motion, and a “Tenacious Grip” outsole digs in for traction. Thenorthface.com

 

Vasque Velocity VST $100

New this spring, Vasque introduces the VST, a trail runner streamlined down from the original Velocity. VST stands for Vasque Spine Technology, a heel-strike control system using a TPU top plate and integrated gel to center and cushion landing. The last of the VST provides support for high arches, and the Mako II outsole is designed to handle loose rock and gravel. Vasque.com

 

Inov-8 Roclite 295 $95

Engineered to be breathable and protective, the Inov-8 Roclite 295 blends nylon mesh and synthetic reinforcements for trail running on hot days. And wet days: the upper is treated to be water repellant. Arch support is provided by the Inov-8 Fascia-band, a technology element also meant to enhance push-off and overall heel-to-toe efficiency. Inov-8.com