Article by Nico Wagner
Craft Pure Trail X ($170/ 160 €)
Introduction
A revised version of the popular Pure Trail (RTR Review), the Pure Trail X is described as a premium trail running shoe for experienced runners. According to Craft, the shoe offers cushioning, stability and explosive energy return with reduced weight thanks to the CR Foam midsole. Read more in the review translated from my original German.
Pro & Cons
Pro
Fit, good foot hold Direct and reactive cushioning Outsole grips very well on all surfaces Robust design, durability
Cons
Not lightweight
Stats
Weight: 320g / 11.29 oz (Men's US 9, Source Craft)
Test Sample: 340g / 12 oz (Men's US 11)
Stack Height: 36mm Heel / 30mm Forefoot, 6mm drop
First impression, fit and upper material
The upper material, made of durable ripstop polyamide, merges seamlessly into a reinforced heel cup and offers the foot a secure hold without causing uncomfortable pressure points - even without marathon lacing. Strategically placed overlays provide additional protection and stability. I would classify the upper material in the middle between Matryx such as in many Salomon and the upper material of the NNormal Tomir 2.
The workmanship leaves a high-quality impression and conveys durability. My wide forefoot has plenty of room, while the heel and midfoot area fit snugly. The shoe fitted very well in my regular size (US 11).
If you are wavering between two sizes, you should go for the larger version. The shoe is also available in a slightly less conspicuous black.
Midsole
The midsole of the Pure Trail X scores with a balanced combination of directness and reactivity. Thanks to the innovative Cr Foam material, a particularly lightweight and sustainable foam, the shoe offers a surprisingly comfortable ride that adapts to a wide variety of terrains. While the shoe is less impressive on leisurely runs on gravel paths, it really comes into its own on challenging terrain. Here, the direct response combined with high agility and stability ensures a dynamic running experience. An integrated stone protection plate under the midfoot and forefoot ensures additional protection and support, even on technical trails.
Outsole
The outsole of the Pure Trail X impresses with its versatility and reliable performance on a wide variety of surfaces. Whether dry or damp terrain, forest trails or even snow - the shoe always offered me secure grip and stability. The outsole shows its strength particularly on rocky terrain and fast downhills: the grip remains reliable and is in no way inferior to the industry leaders.
Ride
The Pure Trail X impresses with its lightweight running feel, which makes it stand out especially on demanding trails. Despite its actual weight, it feels surprisingly light while running. The direct, firm and reactive cushioning supports dynamic running behavior, but you shouldn't expect a soft level of comfort, such as that offered by a Hoka Speedgoat.
Summary and recommendation
The Pure Trail X is a successful further development that impresses with its harmonious interplay of fit, upper material, midsole and outsole. Despite its actual weight, the shoe feels surprisingly light and shows its strengths on trails, especially in technical terrain. As a trail all-rounder, it offers precise support, stability and dynamism. After 70 kilometers in test, the shoe showed hardly any signs of wear, which points to an impressive longevity. However, it is less suitable for use as a door-to-trail shoe, as the firm cushioning is less comfortable for longer sections on asphalt.
Score: 8.95/10
Ride: 8,5 (30%), Fit: 9 (30%), Grip: 9 (15%), Protection: 10 (10%), Price/Performance 9,5 (10%) Style: 8 (5%)
4 Comparisons
North Face Vectiv Infinite (RTR Review)
Compared to the Vectiv Infinite, the Pure Trail X offers more direct cushioning and more stability in technical terrain, while the Vectiv Infinite is designed more for propulsion and efficiency at longer distances.
Brooks Catamount 2 (RTR Review)
While the Pure Trail X scores with a more robust construction and better protection on demanding trails, the Catamount 2 is characterized by its light, fast construction and softer cushioning.
Salomon Genesis (RTR Review)
The Salomon Genesis offers a balanced mix of comfort and protection, but is particularly suitable for longer distances and varied terrain. The Pure Trail X, on the other hand, is more direct and stable, making it a better choice for technical and demanding terrain.
Hoka Speedgoat 6 (RTR Review)
Compared to the Pure Trail X, the Speedgoat 6 offers a softer ride and more comfort over long distances, while the Pure Trail X impresses with more direct feedback and better control on technical terrain.
Nico Wagner (29, Innsbruck). My running career started in the classic way with road running. To make my training more varied, I occasionally explored the trails around the Kahlenberg in the north of Vienna. After moving to Innsbruck in 2020 and my enthusiasm for the mountains, I now mainly run on the trails of the Innsbruck Nordkette and have taken part in various events such as the Grossglockner Ultra Trail or the Innsbruck Alpine at different distances (20-85 km). In the off-season and in winter, I also like to spend my time ski touring, mountaineering or climbing.
Translated from Nico's original German review with the help of Deepl.com
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