Article by Sam Winebaum
Salomon S/Lab Spectur ($250)
Releasing May 2024, the Salomon S/Lab Spectur is positioned as a marathon racer (and trainer) for “the rest of us”; namely,3 hour and up marathoners seeking a stable and less prescriptive ride from their super shoe.
Salomon’s theme for the S/Lab Spectiur is the “Democratizing Speed” for the everyday runner and racer.
Article by Alexandra Zvezdin
Brooks Cascadia 17 GTX ($170)
Pros:
Protective ride even when sharp, random rocks pop out.
Solid and stable, even on rugged trails.
Wide toe box is comfortable right out of the box.
Good traction on mud and wet rocks.
Gore-Tex bootie keeps the splashes out for a bit longer than the regular version.
Cons:
Cascadia 17 fell a bit flat for me on hard surfaces perhaps due to the stiffer upper GTX fabric and increased stack height m usually a fan of shoes that don’t have a big stack height and are on the stiffer side. I never like the feeling of cushioning if I feel my stride being absorbed by the shoe instead of propelling me forward.
There was an initial break-in period after which this improved, but I wish this shoe was just a bit more springy and the ride more progressive.
Stats
Sample Weight: women's 11.05 oz / 314g (US10)
Stack Height: 36mm heel (measured) / 28 mm forefoot ( 8mm drop spec)
$170. Available now.
Article by Jeff Beck and Michael Ellenberger
GEL-Nimbus 26 ($160)
Introduction
Jeff: The Nimbus has been ASICS’ most cushioned trainer for more than a quarter of a decade. Last year’s Nimbus 25 was a big step forward for the shoe, taking it from one of the less remarkable of the big cushioned trainers to one of the biggest and instantly, one of the most popular among runners. A year later, what’s ASICS done for an encore? Subtle changes across the boards, with the sum of those changes being a solid improvement. Please read on for details.
Article by Jeff Valliere
Kahtoola NANOspikes
Sizes XS - XL (US W 5 - US M 13+)
$54.95
Introduction: Kahtoola is hands down the best traction company out there with a variety of traction devices to suit your specific needs. While visiting Flagstaff this year over Spring Break, I (along with my family) was invited for a tour of their headquarters. We were able to get a close behind the scenes look at their design lab and were really impressed with their practical and forward looking ideas on how to create the most effective traction solutions.
The newly improved generation 2 Kahtoola NANOspikes are a prime example of that forward thinking innovation, designed for running or walking on more moderate terrain such as icy roads, paths, and sidewalks. They have been completely redesigned from the ground up to significantly improve comfort, fit and traction over the previous model.
Article by Jeff Valliere
Suunto Race
$549 Sapphire Titanium (32gb)
$449 Stainless Steel (16gb)
Introduction:
Finnish brand Suunto drops a surprise on the GPS sports watch market with the release of the all new AMOLED Suunto Race. I was invited to attend a very small release event back in October, where I was fortunate enough to be provided with the sapphire titanium version for review.
After running with the Race every day for about a month and wearing it 24/7 alongside my Epix Gen 2 Pro 51mm, I have to say that I am quite impressed with the overall performance of the Race. Simply put (and despite a few limitations) the Race is the best GPS sports watch Suunto has produced to date with a lot to be excited about. Read on!
Article by Ben David
This would be my fifth time running the Philadelphia Marathon and my twenty-second marathon in total. At forty-six years old, I would be taking some twenty years of marathon running into this build-up and race experience and - of course - twenty years of accumulated wear and tear. While I was once a runner in my mid-twenties in graduate school, spry and eager, just married with no kids, life has gotten much more full and eventful.
As a devoted husband to Lisa, the senior rabbi of Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel and father to three, my days are certainly packed. For so many of us, the world is certainly a stressful place at present. To me, running has become more imperative of late, a needed release from the realities and complexities of life today.
A few hundred meters to go
Article by Markus Zinkl
New Balance FreshFoam X 1080v13 (190 €)
Einleitung
Der New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 präsentiert sich als Maximal-Dämpfungsschuh, der im Vergleich zum Vorgänger mit einer verbesserten Dämpfung aufwartet. Mit 4mm mehr in der Ferse und 6mm mehr im Vorfuß bietet er deutlich mehr Dämpfung. Der Einsatz des leichteren Fresh Foam X Schaums und einer etwas dünneren Außensohle hat zu einer Gewichtsreduktion von 28g im Vergleich zum Vorgänger geführt. Der Fokus geht also deutlich mehr in Richtung Komfort. Mal sehen wie sich der 1080v13 hier schlägt.
Article by Sam Winebaum
NNormal Kboix (Pricing TBD)
The Kboix is the third model from NNormal, Kilian Jornet's company. It is a modular midsole shoe with three CO2 infused supercritical processed EXXpure midsole options. We don't have all the details yet and will update the article as we do but here is what we know so far. The shoe combines easy to swap in and out versatility for terrain, type of run, and distance by swapping midsoles in and out and expected very long durability as midsole and upper can be changed out when you wish. Let's find out more.
Artikel von Marcel Krebs
Reboots Go Lite & Reboots One (jeweils 799 EUR)
links: Reboots Go Lite (mit Boots), rechts Reboots One (ebenfalls mit Boots); Fotos by Reebots
Einleitung
Sogenannte „Recovery Boots“ habe ich das erste Mal im Rahmen des letztjährigen UTMB Rennens in Nizza gesehen. Diese musste ich natürlich auch gleich persönlich ausprobieren, nachdem ich am Stand eines anderen Herstellers bei den anderen Testern in viele zufriedene und entspannte Gesichter schauen konnte.
Der Test verlief vielversprechend und die Druckkammern übten eine wohltuende Massage auf die geschundenen Beine aus. Lediglich der sogenannte Anpressdruck, also die Stärke der Massage, wenn man so will, war mir insbesondere an meinen teilweise stark verhärteten Oberschenkeln ein wenig gering. Mein Interesse an dieser Art an Recovery-Tools war jedoch auf jeden Fall geweckt.
Purchases through the links in this article help support Road Trail Run and are much appreciated!
Starting today, get 25% Off all full priced items through.Cyber Monday using code: HOLIDAYSALE at checkout.
Article by Sam Winebaum
SOAR Trail Top ($200), Trail Shorts ($185), Trail Rain Jacket ($330)
SOAR is a London based run brand whose singlets were the goto for several of RoadTrailRun’s marathoners this year for their supreme comfort. The care Soar takes in selecting the very best technical textiles, meticulous design and subtle classy colors has the brand standing out at the high end of run apparel so I was eager to put three pieces from their Trail collection to the test while Matt in Scotland tested road focused apparel (RTR Review)
And it is no accident as the founder Tim Soar is also the designer of every piece and personally tests multiple iterations starting with fit designs then moving to the fabrics (see his video presentations below).
Focused on fit, comfort, temperature and moisture regulation in all conditions, I can say the three products they sent us for review do just that. While at the very high end of run apparel pricing and beautifully crafted, two out of three clearly are worth their price of admission while the third, the Trail Shorts in my view need some storage tuning to make them more trail appropriate.
Article by Markus Zinkl
Komperdell Carbon Cloud Vario Team Green ($180)
Introduction
Markus: Introducing the Carbon Cloud Vario Team Green Trail Running Poles by Komperdell, a harmonious blend of innovation and functionality for trail enthusiasts seeking reliability and adaptability. These poles have been carefully engineered to redefine the trail running experience, offering a range of features designed to meet the demands of varied terrains.
The soft and lightweight Cork Grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, featuring an extended grip zone tailored for navigating steep slopes. The Click-In Trail Running Strap ensures a safe and hassle-free fit, thanks to the user-friendly click-in system.
In terms of construction, the 4-section design incorporates ultralight carbon with a 16mm diameter, striking a balance between strength and maneuverability. The Powerlock 3.0, a sturdy lock forged from aluminum, ensures stability during challenging trail conditions.
What sets the Carbon Cloud Vario Team Green poles apart is the FXP folding mechanism, an innovative self-deploying system.
This mechanism establishes a solid connection between individual segments through a mechanical link, enhancing overall reliability.
Additionally, the design achieves a 30% reduction in weight, reflecting Komperdell's commitment to advancing trail running gear.
Join us as we delve into the distinctive features of the Carbon Cloud Vario Team Green Trail Running Poles, exploring how Komperdell's thoughtful design enhances your trail running experience.
Artikel von Markus Zinkl
Silva Strive Ultralight (€60.00) Mountain Pack 23+3 (€90.00)
Einleitung
Vornehmlich durch ihre Stirnlampen bekannt, bietet Silva mit der Strive Linie nun auch Laufwesten und -rucksäcke an. Der Fokus liegt dabei auf einem leichten und minimalistischen Design. Silva hat mir die Ultralight Laufweste und den Mountain Pack Laufrucksack zum Test zur Verfügung gestellt. Lasst uns zusammen herausfinden, wie sich die beiden geschlagen haben.
Article by Jeff Valliere and Renee Krusemark
Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 Matryx ($210)
Introduction
Jeff V: The Merrell MTL Skyfire 2 Matryx is Merrell’s flagship lightweight race shoe with the MTL stands for Merrell Test Lab. It features a Matryx kevlar fibers upper, FloatPro dual density midsole foam, Flexplate and 5mm Vibram Megagrip high performance outsole. It weighs in at just 8.1oz / 230g in my US men’s sample size 10. The Skyfire 2 is a serious contender for any shorter, fast, technical trail races/PR attempts.
Pros:
Light, fast, stable, agile, secure, protection, traction: Jeff V/Renee
Cons:
Could use a touch more cushioning in the heel, but a VERY minor nitpick: Jeff V
Lack of cushion (not really a con; for its shorter faster purposes the cushion works): Renee
Articles by Dominique and Sam Winebaum, Sally Reiley, Jeff Valliere, Jeremy Marie, Ben David, Mike Postaski, Renee Krusemark, Marcel Krebs, & Markus Zinkl
Holiday Gift Guide for Runners Part 6: Poles, Lighting, Sunglasses
The RTR team went to town this holiday season to bring you this holiday gifts guide. The ideas kept on coming as we pondered great ideas for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, most tested over many miles in all conditions during 2023.
We ended up with well over 60 gift ideas (with mini reviews) across 12 categories for the runners in your life! See links to the other gift guides at the end of this article
Articles by Dominique and Sam Winebaum, Sally Reiley, Jeff Valliere, Jeremy Marie, Ben David, Mike Postaski, Renee Krusemark, Marcel Krebs, & Markus Zinkl
Holiday Gift Guide for Runners Part 5:
Packs, Race Vests, Hydration, Filtration, Nutrition, Non Alcoholic Beer
The RTR team went to town this holiday season to bring you this holiday gifts guide. The ideas kept on coming as we pondered great ideas for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, most tested over many miles in all conditions during 2023.
We ended up with well over 60 gift ideas (with mini reviews) across 12 categories for the runners in your life!
Articles by Dominique and Sam Winebaum, Sally Reiley, Jeff Valliere, Jeremy Marie, Ben David, Mike Postaski, Renee Krusemark, Marcel Krebs, & Markus Zinkl
Holiday Gift Guide for Runners Part 4: Run Jackets, Vests and Pants
The RTR team went to town this holiday season to bring you this holiday gifts guide. The ideas kept on coming as we pondered great ideas for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, most tested over many miles in all conditions during 2023.
We ended up with well over 60 gift ideas (with mini reviews) across 12 categories for the runners in your life!
Guide 4 : Run Jackets, Vests and Pants.
Articles by Dominique and Sam Winebaum, Sally Reiley, Jeff Valliere, Jeremy Marie, Ben David, Mike Postaski, Renee Krusemark, Marcel Krebs, & Markus Zinkl
Holiday Gift Guide for Runners Part 2: Books/Podcasts/Subscriptions, Recovery and Form Tools, Recovery Shoes, Insoles
The RTR team went to town this holiday season to bring you this holiday gifts guide. The ideas kept on coming as we pondered great ideas for runners, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, most tested over many miles in all conditions during 2023.
We ended up with well over 60 gift ideas (with mini reviews) across 12 categories for the runners in your life!
Guide 3: Books/Podcasts/Subscriptions, Recovery and Form Tools, Recovery Shoes, Insoles
