Monday, March 18, 2024

adidas Supernova Solution Review: A Modern and Light Approach to Support Road Trainers

Article by Sam Winebaum 

adidas Supernova Solution ($140)

The support focused Solution, and its more neutral and very similar Rise sibling, are all new trainers with state of the art supercritical Dreamstrike+  foam main midsoles, a lower Stability Support Rods layer made of the Lightstrike EVA blend, comfortable uppers and decently light weights. 


The Solution weighs 9.81 oz / 277g in my US8.5 sample so about 10 oz in a US9, very decent for its 35mm heel / 25mm platform and all the extensive rubber underfoot. 

Both new Supernovas and the more uptempo Supernova Stride replace adidas’s heavy, dated, and cumbersome recent Adistar, Ultraboost and various Solar Glide models delivering modern training rides that don’t go all the way to the “elite” focus of the Adizero line.  


We love the many new Adizero racers and trainers from the incredibly light world record setting EVO 1, the Adios Pro 3, the uptempo trainer Boston 12 and the max max cushion Prime X Strung. All are light, radical in design, and effective.  


This said, it was clearly time for adidas to deliver modern, more mainstream and practical trainers for the everyday runner, and even those elites for their “easier” basic mileage days. 


As a more neutral shoe runner, I often struggle with support shoes finding the medial support overdone. Here the support is really all concentrated closer to the road well below all the energetic soft Dreamstrike foam so I was intrigued. Do they deliver? Let’s find out as I review the Solution and compare it to the Rise.

Testbericht: Hylo Athletics Impact Nachhaltig ohne Kompromisse? (German)

Artikel von Markus Zinkl

Hylo Impact (170 €)


Einleitung


Diesmal schauen wir uns den brandneuen Impact von Hylo an, der trotz eines nachhaltigen Ansatzes nicht an Leistung einbüßen soll. Der Hersteller hat eine Reihe von Eigenschaften und Technologien für diesen Schuh angekündigt, die eine interessante Kombination aus maximaler Reaktionsfähigkeit und hoher Dämpfung versprechen. Die "Superkritische Sohle" des Impact soll durch die Injektion von Stickstoff eine verringerte Dichte, erhöhte Dämpfung und verbesserte Reaktionsfähigkeit bieten. Durch den Zusatz von Bio-EVA, wird bereits der Fokus auf Nachhaltigkeit sichtbar. Darüber hinaus wird die selbst entwickelte Geometrie des Schuhs als Mittel zur Erleichterung des Übergangs und zur Aufrechterhaltung der Stabilität im Mittelfußbereich beschrieben.

Neben diesen technischen Merkmalen betont der Hersteller Hylo auch sein Engagement für Nachhaltigkeit durch die Verwendung von erneuerbaren und biobasierten Materialien wie Rizinusbohnen.

In diesem Testbericht werden wir diese Merkmale eingehend untersuchen, um herauszufinden, ob der Impact tatsächlich die versprochene Leistung und Komfort bietet. 

Sunday, March 17, 2024

Brooks Catamount Agil Multi Tester Review Named Just Right! 6 Comparisons

Article by Renee Krusemark, Jeff Valliere, and John Tribbia

Brooks Catamount Agil ($180)


Introduction

The Catamount Agil is an all new trail runner from Brooks. It features the same  new DNA Flash v2 nitrogen infused supercritical foam as their top road racer the Hyperion Elite on a relatively low  27mm heel / 21mm full stack height. Above the 5mm lug Trail Tack outsole we have a PEBAX Speed Vault Trail plate. Clearly a speed trail shoe for technical terrain and weighing a mere 7.7 oz  / 218 g ( men’sUS9) let’s see how it performed.


Pros:

Lightweight and agile: Renee/Jeff V/John

Upper secure/ankle flex: Renee/Jeff V

Light, responsive and nimble:  Jeff V

Well executed ankle “gaiter”: Jeff V/John

Great cushion for a minimal shoe: Jeff V

Good traction for its class:  Jeff V/John

Secure lacing:  Jeff V


Cons:

Overlay placement across toe box: Renee

Terrain specific shoe: Renee/John

adidas TERREX Soulstride Ultra Review

Article by Sam Winebaum

adidas Terrex Soulstride Ultra ($180)

Introduction


The Soulstride Ultra is a max cushion trail running and hiking shoe with a dual foam midsole (Light Boost and Lightstrike), a Continental rubber outsole and a dense and highly supportive engineered mesh upper. At 11.3 oz / 320g it is not exactly “light” but when one considers its big 38 mm heel and 32 mm forefoot stack height, extensive rubber and stout upper its modern midsole foams clearly keep the weight reasonable.


I tested them both walking/hiking and running on snow and pavement in Park City as I am coming back from a broken knee cap in November. The geometry of an almost rigid and very effective rocker which follows a noticeable bouncy and dynamic heel landing in deep Light Boost had them as the fastest hiking/ walking shoe during my rehab but not nearly as effective a trail run shoe because of their rigid profile, and this, despite their Ultra naming.  That is.. unless your ultra efforts are at slow paces as quite frankly most are. 


They are top contenders for a multi day trek in the Alps coming this summer (with day packs) and I wish I had worn them for our Tuscany trek on mostly roads and gravel with packs.  Please read on for all the details.

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Brooks Catamount Agil Video Review with 7 Comparisons

Video by Mike Postaski

Brooks Catamount Agil ($180)


Mike P takes us on two test runs in the beautiful foothills above Boise, Idaho - sharing his on-the-run thoughts on the new Brooks Catamount Agil. Lots of weather, mixed terrain, snow, and ice! At 06:33 How does the Agil perform? 07:20 foam and trail feel . 

Stay tuned until the end 12:44 for an in-depth comparison against rival speedsters - Merrell Skyfire 2 and Long Sky 2, VJ Lightspeed and MAXx2, Salomon Pulsar, and of course the big brother Catamount 3. 

Mike's Catamount Agil Video Review (22:40)


Craft Pacer Review: 4 Comparisons

Article by Sam Winebaum


Craft Pacer ($150)


Introduction

The Pacer is called out by Craft as a shoe for “everyday runners seeking a fast nimble shoe that won’t weigh them down.”  True in my testing!


The star feature is the Px expanded bead TPE foam midsole. I can say star upfront as every Craft shoe with this foam has been a delight to run for me and the RTR team for its energetic, non mushy return and great vibration absorption with as a bonus very light weight.  Here we are at a 8.4oz  / 238g men’s US9 with a 36mm heel and 30mm forefoot on a broad and stable 100 mm heel / 85 mm midfoot / 100 mm forefoot platform. Lots of shoe at very light weight.


The uppers of every Craft shoe I have tested have been challenging. Always very light and breathable as well as comfortable, they often end up voluminous and hard to lock down to my narrower to medium feet. I was sure the ride would be great but could I make the upper work? Read on to find out.

Testbericht: Rab Equipment Mythic G und Mythic Alpine Light

Artikel von Markus Zinkl und Nils Scharff

Mythic G Daunenjacke (€550.00) Mythic Alpine Light Daunenjacke (€300.00)


Einleitung


Für Outdoor-Enthusiasten und Wanderer, die auf der Suche nach ultimativer Wärme bei minimalem Gewicht sind, könnte die Mythic Line von Rab genau das Richtige sein. Diese Produktlinie wurde speziell entwickelt, um das beste Wärme-Gewicht Verhältnis zu bieten und somit den Anforderungen von anspruchsvollen Abenteuern gerecht zu werden. Im Rahmen unseres Tests haben wir die Mythic G und die Mythic Alpine Light Jacke getestet. Erfahrt in unserem Testbericht, wie sich diese Daunenjacken in der Praxis bewährt haben und ob sie den hohen Erwartungen von Outdoor-Enthusiasten gerecht werden. Markus nimmt dabei die Mythic G und Nils die Mythic Alpine Light genauer unter die Lupe.

Monday, March 11, 2024

VJ Lightspeed Multi Tester Review: 6 Comparisons including new VJ MAXx2

Article by Mike Postaski and Renee Krusemark 

VJ Lightspeed ($200)


Pros:

Super light weight: Renee, Mike P

Great energy return: Renee, Mike P

Secure upper: Renee, Mike P

Excellent traction: Renee, Mike P

Excellent heel hold - slightly better than MAXx2 Mike P, Renee

Cons:

Sizing is tricky: Renee, Mike P

Thick upper - could be more breathable Mike P, Renee

Laces also seem unnecessarily thick Mike P

Unstable rear - need to be “on your toes” Mike P, Renee

Sunday, March 10, 2024

Salomon Aero Glide 2 Review: 4 Comparisons

Article by Jeff Beck

Salomon Aero Glide 2 ($160)



Introduction


The Aero Glide 2 is Salomon’s version of a high-stacked/maximum cushioned road shoe meant to be your primary daily trainer utilizing both a massive stack of cushioning as well as a rocker geometry. It’s outfitted with their Energy Foam midsole, and it seems to provide exceptional comfort while also barely tipping the scales - making this a truly exceptional max cushion trainer.

Inov-8 Mudtalon Speed Review: 4 Comparisons

Article by Jeff Valliere

Inov-8 Mudtalon Speed ($150)


Introduction


The Mudtalon Speed is Inov 8’s latest in a long line of specialized, lightweight, minimal, deep lugged running shoes specifically designed for trail and fell running. In 2024 INOV-8 launches new shoe lasting with the Speed available in Precision and Wide fits.


Combining features from both the X-Talon and Mudclaw lines, they feature a very minimal upper that is nearly see through, as to not hold water, a low to the ground platform for stability and an incredibly impressive outsole, featuring the most aggressive 8mm lugs that I have ever seen.  


Pros: Traction, lightweight, security, agility

Cons: Lack of versatility, not particularly comfortable, firm underfoot, tricky fit, heel rub



Stats

Approx. Weight: 8.75 oz / 248g US9

Sample: men’s 9.25oz /261g US10

Stack Height: men’s 26mm heel / 22mm forefoot ( 4mm drop spec) 

Platform Width: 75mm heel / 55mm midfoot / 107mm forefoot

$150  Available now 


First Impressions, Fit and Upper

I am admittedly a sucker for an aggressively lugged outsole and that is what first drew me to the Mudtalon Speed, with its crazy 8mm lugs (more on that later).  

The upper is made from a thin, breathable, but durable ripstop material that is essentially see-through, flexible and is just enough for foothold and to keep debris out, but porous enough to let water drain out easily.  

While the upper is suitable for short runs in tough, wet, muddy conditions, make no mistake, it is all business and no frills.  Fit is close to true to size, but in my normal size 10, my toes are closer to the front of the shoe than normal.  This has not been an issue, but if you normally find yourself between sizes, I would recommend sizing up a half size.  


The Mudtalon Speed comes in two widths, Precision and Wide fit and for my narrow, low volume foot, combined with the short, fast, technical intent of this shoe, Precision fit was the right choice.  


I find the foothold to be very good with great security no matter my speed or how technical, steep, tricky or off camber the terrain.  While I would not label the shoe as uncomfortable, it is not overly comfortable either, offering just enough to get one through a few hours of running and after that, I am happy to take them off.  


Comfort is very much dependent on how tight I snug up the laces.  If I crank them down for maximum hold, I experience some discomfort and pressure points over the top of the foot, but if I am more careful about not over tightening, I find them much more comfortable (slightly less secure, but still very good).  It just took me a few runs to get lace tension figured out.  


I also find myself getting a good bit of heel rub on steep ascents and while I did not get any actual blisters, my heels were pretty hot after 1,000 vertical feet of 30% grade (though luckily the steepness of my route relented and I was OK after that).  


Since my testing has been in February/March, I am not keen to get my feet wet, but it is clear that this minimal upper will not hold much, if any water (except for the padded tongue and laces) and will drain quite well.  Styling is a bit retro despite the modern materials, I find they do not win any style points.

The toe cap is very beefy, protective and will ward off just about any stubs that may occur.


The ripstop material is breathable, minimal and will shed mud and water well.  


The heel counter is flexible and minimal, but well held.  Padding is minimal though and there is definitely blister potential on steep ascents, at least for me.

Padding around the heel collar is also minimal, but holds the heel in place well.  The tongue is nicely gusseted and well padded.


Midsole & Platform

The PowerFlow Pro midsole is adequate for the intended purpose of the Mudtalon Speed, as it is reasonably responsive, cushioned enough for comfort and protection for several hours with a flexible rock plate in the mix to help protect from rocks and roots underfoot.  This is definitely not a long distance shoe, but its cushioning is surprisingly good for such a minimal high performance technical shoe.  

The Mudtalon Speed also features a Boomerang footbed (TPU beads embedded) that combines well with the PowerFlow Pro midsole to enhance underfoot comfort and propulsion.



Outsole

For me the highlight of the Mudtalon Speed is the outsole with the most aggressive, 8mm lugs that I have ever seen.  The rubber is Inov-8’s tried and true StickyGrip rubber, which has great traction on wet rock and slippery surfaces, while the 8mm lugs are sharp and biting, digging into mud, soft ground, loose dirt, off trail scruff, snow, etc….

Mud shedding depends on the type of mud.  I never had an issue in the more viscous mud, but no shoe I have ever tested has ever contended well with the thick clumpy clay mud I sometimes encounter.

The thick clay mud clumps, but the lugs are so deep, they often extend out of the mud and grip is still good.


In the more liquid mud, clumping is not a problem and traction here is the best I have experienced.


Traction in snow is also amazing, though the thin lightweight upper is not really conducive to winter use, but on warm days is reasonable.


The Mudtalon Speed also really excels in steep, loose, off trail terrain, where the lugs penetrate amazingly well into dirt, pine needles and duff.


Ride, Conclusions and Recommendations


The Mudtalon Speed provides a great blend of response, ground feel, stability, flexibility and protection underfoot.  They are light at about 8.75 oz / 248g US9 given their outsole , agile and quick in technical terrain and are purposely built for pushing the limits in muddy, loose, soft terrain and difficult conditions. They are not a plushly cushioned shoe, as they are designed for short, fast race or PR efforts on softer ground, but have just enough cushioning and protection to feel confident on just about any terrain for several hours. That said I would not choose to run them on really rocky terrain for too long, as they can feel a bit minimal and the 8mm lugs on rock can get a bit noticeable and awkward.

Score: 9.1/10 

Ride: 9  Fit: 9 Value: 9 Style: 8 Traction: 10 Rock Protection: 8.5


4 Comparisons

Index to all RTR reviews: HERE 


Salomon Speedcross 6 (RTR Review)

The Speedcross is much heavier, lugs are similarly effective, but not quite so.  The Mudtalon is much more agile, fast and nimble, low to the ground and stable.  I never adapted to the Speedcross’s big blocky heel for running and always felt tippy in them when trying to run in anything even moderately technical.  Speedcross is more of a hiking shoe.


VJ XTRM 2 (RTR Review)

I find the XTRM 2 to have a more comfortable and friendly upper that I can secure a bit better because it is more comfortable, but it does not shed water as well as the Mudtalon.  The XTRM 2 was probably my 1st pick for a fast PR effort on loose tech terrain, but the Mudtalon is lighter, with superior traction and a little better cushion/protection so likely will edge the XTRM 2 out of that top spot.


VJ MAXx 2 (RTR Review)

Close in weight, the MAX  is better for just about all runs except for the most loose, muddy, steep junk, as it is much more comfortable, better cushioned, has a more friendly upper, is more protected and an all around more versatile shoe for going fast on a wide variety of terrain.


Saucony Peregrine 13 (RTR Review)

The Peregrine weighs more, but is much more protective and versatile, a great well cushioned, comfortable all terrain shoe for tech terrain or more general trail running, whereas the Mudtalon is a more specialized tool for faster, shorter runs in more loose, extreme conditions.

The Mudtalon is available at Inov-8

&

AMAZON  


SPORTSSHOES.COM UK/EU
Use our code RTR235 for 5% off all products

Tester Profiles

Jeff Valliere loves to run and explore the mountains of Colorado, the steeper and more technical the better. He has summited all of the 14ers in the state and can be found on mountain trails daily, no matter the weather, season, conditions or whether there is daylight or not.  On the side he loves to ski (all forms) bike and hike, often with his family, as he introduces his 12 year old daughters to the outdoors. Jeff was born and raised in New Hampshire, but has called Colorado home for over 25 years. He is 5’9” and 145 lbs.


Samples were provided at no charge for review purposes. RoadTrail Run has affiliate partnerships and may earn commission on products purchased via shopping links in this article. These partnerships do not influence our editorial content. The opinions herein are entirely the authors'.

Comments and Questions Welcome Below! Please let us know mileage, paces, race distances, and current preferred shoes

RoadTrailRun Official Store Custom Fractel Caps and Bucket Hats
Cap:$39                                                             Bucket:$49
Limited Release! SHOP HERE

RUNNING WAREHOUSE US
Men's & Women's SHOP HERE
FREE 2 Day Shipping EASY No Sweat Returns

EUROPE Men's & Women's SHOP HERE

Europe only: use RTR code RTR5ALL for 5% off all products, even sale products 


AUSTRALIA Men's & Women's SHOP HERE

FLEET FEET
Men's & Women's SHOP HERE

REI 
Men's & Women's  SHOP HERE

BACKCOUNTRY
Men's & Women's  SHOP HERE

TOP4RUNNING EUROPE
Men's & Women's SHOP HERE
Use RTR code RTRTOP4 for 5% off all products, even sale products

MOOSEJAW
Men's & Women's  SHOP HERE

HOLABIRD SPORTS
Men's & Women's SHOP HERE
FREE Shipping on most orders over $40


WATCH OUR YOUTUBE REVIEWS ON THE ROADTRAILRUN CHANNEL


Find all RoadTrailRun reviews at our index page HERE 
Google "roadtrailrun Shoe Name" and you can be quite sure to find just about any run shoe over the last 10 years

Enjoyed this post? Never miss out on future posts by Following RoadTrailRun News Feed

Please Like and Follow RoadTrailRun
Facebook: RoadTrailRun.com  Instagram: @roadtrailrun
You Tube: @RoadTrailRun