Comparative review: Don't lose to distance. Don't be afraid of rough roads. Comparing trail running shoes for long distances
written by Outdoor Gearzine Editorial Department
On the previous page, we introduced a ranking of the models we compared, a list of ratings and specs, and recommendations based on them. From here, we will explain what criteria were used to evaluate the evaluation, and why it was evaluated in that way.
Detailed reviews of each item
Comfort
The Terraultra G 260 has a high balance of comfort . The outer sole has a vertical and horizontal slit, allowing for flexible driving, and the zero-drop combined with the ability to continue running comfortably, just like barefoot. Speed Goat 3 , Caldorado III , also has a good balance of hold and flexibility in the sole, providing high comfort without stress. Cardrado III was the best drainage when soaked in water , and showed how breathable it is.
weight
The Terraultra G 260 weighs 260g, making it very light in both actual weight and actual driving. This is a classification that is quite lightweight for long distance models. In actual driving, the Speed Goat 3 feels lighter than the actual weight. This is probably because the meta rocker geometry, which warps the foreside of the sole, making it easier to walk in. Momentus is 283g, but the actual measured value is quite different to 339g, and the actual driving feel is certainly this heavy.
grip
The Speedgoat 3 Momentus , which uses Vibram Megagrip , and the G-Grip Terraultra G 260 . The grips of these three pairs give you a sense of security. You can rest your feet safely even when you are downhill. However, Mega Grip is less durable than G-Grip, so although I chose one negative ★, both soles bite and grip firmly, whether dry or wet. The Ultra Raptor has good grip, but this test shows noticeable wear compared to other shoes, so I'm worried about its low durability.
From left to right, inov-8, Hoka one one, La Sportiva, Columbia Montrail, Merrell
cushion
Speed Goat 3 is overwhelming. It's just that they're called marshmallow shoes. Not only is it soft, but it also has moderate resilience, so the force does not escape and the sled on the sole makes it a propulsion force that will keep you moving forward. The damage reduction is particularly high on descents. The Ultra Raptor is also hard, but it has a firm cushioning process, reducing damage even on hard roads.
Each has its distinctive aspects. As expected, the cushions on Speedgoat and Ultra Raptor are voluminous.
The Speedgoat Ultra Raptor uses an insole from Ortholite, which is also used by Salomon and Nike. The Caldorado III uses a rather solid insole with arch support.
Insoles for each shoe. The Cardrado insole even comes with arch support.
Stability
In terms of stability, the Ultra Raptor wins by a landslide. The overall hold of the shoe and stability when grounded are excellent. It's hard to discard this stability, which trades off for lightness, such as the heel hold, strengthening the upper side, and protection of the toes. It may be overwhelmed on trails that are relatively easy to ride, but it really shows its true value on trails like scree areas with lots of thrusts. The Momentus Cardrado III also has a high hold on the heel, making it highly stable when contacting the ground.
The highly stable model has a voluminous heel side and is well-made.
summary
Unless you're a very top player, comfort is the key to running long distances. No matter how good the cushioning performance is, you will have to keep wearing it for a very long time, so it is important to keep it in place while reducing stress.
Among the reviews I have seen this time, the most comfortable ones were the inov-8 Terraultra G 260 and the Columbia Montrail Cardrado III These two models have very flexible upper and ventilated, making them extremely stressful even after a long period of time. If you choose these shoes, you won't be wrong.
However, in long-distance races, you can usually leave your luggage on the way (drop bags). If you consider the shoes mentioned earlier as standard shoes, and if you are in a bad situation where rocks are lying around, you can use a highly protective model like the Ultra Raptor, or if you want to rely on cushions, you the Hoka one one Speedgoat 3 , and a pair of shoes based on information such as the height difference and road surface of the course, this will also lead to your completion.
Shoes can make up for what you lack and are tools that will help you develop what you have. The best part of long-distance racing is choosing tools while getting lost for the race. If you look at yourself and face the tools on a regular basis, you will naturally find the perfect shoe for you!
