Inov-8 Trailfly Speed Review: 6 Comparisons

Article by Dom Layfield

Inov-8 Trailfly Speed ($160)

Introduction

Dom: In January 2024, Inov-8 took the bold step of updating the lasts on which their shoes are built, changing from a traditional ‘shoe-shaped’ last to a more modern ‘foot-shaped’ last that better reflects actual foot anatomy.  

Other prominent brands, like Altra and Topo Athletic, have always focused on a more anatomical, rather than aesthetic, shape to their shoes.  However, Inov-8 is the first brand that I’m aware of (certainly the first of any significant size) that have made such a transition long after they have established their place in the market.   This is an incredibly bold and risky strategy, as the brand risks alienating loyal customers who are upset that their favorite shoes have changed shape.

Dom: The first shoe to be released under this new strategy is the Trailfly Speed.  The shoe is available in both wide and regular variants, although both follow the new anatomical last.  This shoe follows in the footsteps of Inov8’s highly successful zero drop Trailfly G 270, which was hugely popular with RTR reviewers (RTR Review).   Before we get into the specifics of this particular shoe, the first question is ‘what is the new shape like?’

Unpause Halley Light Review: A Great Value in a High Performance Carbon Racer! 6 Comparisons

Article by Derek Li

Unpause Halley Light (THB4690, US$130)

Introduction

Unpause is a popular brand out of Thailand that has a very small line of product offerings. Currently, they have just two models: the Atlas and the Halley Light. When I first reviewed the Unpause Atlas back in 2022, it drew a lot of interest, because it was offering a PEBA foam trainer for a very affordable price. They subsequently let on that they were working on a racer and while there were some delays with the release, it seems like it has finally hit the market, in the form of the Unpause Halley Light.

The Halley Light continues to use a PEBA based foam and this time, they have gone with a full length spoon-shaped carbon plate. Another big change is the move from the pelletized PEBA foam of the Atlas to a more conventional continuous slab of foam.

Let’s start with the numbers.

Message Henning Mule & Mullen Slide Review

Article by Michael Ellenberger

Henning Mule ($175), Mullen Slide ($165)

Introduction

It goes without saying that, on a site dedicated to running shoes (and gear), the majority of what we review is, well, just that. But even on those big mileage weeks, churning out long hours on the roads, trails, track treadmill, whatever… you’re still spending much more time not running than running. This is all of course a big lead-up to - recovery shoes! Shoes for the other hours of the day, when you’re not choosing between high-stack trainer and carbon-plated racer. 

I was lucky enough to receive the Henning mule (clog) and Mullen slide from new startup brand Message. Message has been making moves, pushing these as post-run and post-workout recovery shoes, and for good reason - and I’ll explain below, they’re extremely comfortable and enjoyable to wear and (as I’ll also belabor, below) since clogs are an ideal post-run option, it’s sort of a no-brainer to market these to runners. There’s a lot to like here, and while this won’t follow our traditional running shoe review format, I will give my usual spoiler that - yeah, I love these, and have been wearing them basically non-stop since I got them (indoors and out!).

Komperdell Carbon Air Frame 25 & Peakmaster Pro Snowshoes, Carbon CXP Pro Poles, Snowshoe Accessories Reviews

Article by Jeff Valliere

Carbon Air Frame 25 Snowshoes 

1lb/8.6oz / 696 grams (half pair)

Sizes M, L

$499.95

Introduction: 

I’ll go ahead and get this out of the way first off, as it is the most prominent thought in my mind.  The Carbon Air Frame 25 Snowshoes are a work of art, so much so, I was somewhat reluctant to go tromp around snowy trails on them.  The hollow core carbon frame with integrated carbon decking is so exquisitely built, smooth, seamless, elegant and light. 

They are shockingly light for a well featured, 25” competent mountain snowshoe with removable insulated toe covers and a twist lock binding system (much like a BOA dial) and aggressive crampons.

Mount to Coast MTC-S1 Multi Tester Review

Article by John Tribbia and Derek Li

Mount to Coast MTC-S1 ($160)

Introduction

John: Fresh off the launchpad in 2024, Mount To Coast (MTC) is a brand new name in the footwear industry, specifically targeting the road ultramarathon scene. Their debut offering, the MTC-S1, sparked my curiosity for several reasons.

First, the shoe boasts a unique blend of technologies, including TunedCell, their proprietary supercritical foam promising both responsiveness and durability, and 3D Archrail, a dynamic support system designed to offer stability without sacrificing natural movement. These innovative features, unseen in other offerings, make the MTC-S1 an exciting prospect for testing.

Secondly, as a fairly high-mileage runner who spends time on the roads (and trails 🙂), I'm constantly seeking shoes that excel in comfort and stability over long distances. The MTC-S1, specifically designed for ultramarathon training and racing, aligns perfectly with my road needs, making it a prime candidate for me to dabble in a road review.

While MTC's new footwear holds promise, there are some uncertainties that accompany any new product launch. Let’s see what this shoe can do!

Testbericht: Rudy Project Astral Sonnebrille (German)

Artikel von Markus Zinkl

Rudy Project Astral (129,00 €)

Einleitung

Als jemand, der gerne Sport treibt, weiß ich, wie wichtig eine gute Sonnenbrille ist. Ich habe die Astral von Rudy Project ausprobiert. Diese Marke ist ziemlich bekannt für Sportbrillen.

Ich habe die Brille beim Laufen auf der Straße und auf Trails getestet. In diesem Bericht erzähle ich euch, wie die Brille abgeschnitten hat und ob sie ihr Geld wert ist.

Technische Details

• Gewicht: 26g

• Abmessungen: 

• Gläser: RP Optics

• Material: Rilsan Rahmen

• Kompatibel mit Korrektionsgläsern (Optical Insert)

Testbericht: Dynafit Alpine DNA 2 (German)

Artikel von Markus Zinkl

Dynafit - Alpine DNA 2 (200,00 €)

Einleitung

Trailrunning ist eine Sportart, die sowohl Ausdauer als auch technisches Geschick erfordert. Ein Schlüsselelement für eine erfolgreiche Performance ist die Wahl des richtigen Schuhs. Der Alpine DNA 2 Unisex Laufschuh ist ein Modell, das speziell für mittellange, technische Trailrunning-Rennen entwickelt wurde. Mit seinem einzigartigen Zwischensohlendesign und der X-förmigen Pebax Platte bietet er eine überragende Reaktionsfreudigkeit und Energierückgabe bei minimalem Gewicht, während gleichzeitig die nötige Stabilität für technisch anspruchsvolle Trails und rasante Downhills gewährleistet wird. Trotz der Reduzierung von Obermaterial und Polsterung auf ein Minimum, um Gewicht zu sparen, bietet der Schuh den notwendigen Schutz und Komfort. In diesem Testbericht werden wir uns genauer ansehen, wie der Alpine DNA 2 in der Praxis abschneidet.

Nike Pegasus 41 and Max Cushion Pegasus Premium (2025) Preview: New Life for the Venerable Peg?

Article by Sam Winebaum 

Nike Pegasus 41 ($130)

The Pegasus 41 gets the 43% lower carbon footprint ,13% more energy returning ReactX foam midsole first seen in the Infinity RN4 with here dual Air Zoom units front and back which should help with shoe response for what was a quite soft foam in the RN4.  I hope the ReactX foam and Air Zoom blend together well, and they migh,t as the former React foam and Air Zoom units were a responsive if old school firm riding combination.

We see a 4mm increase in stack height front and back with only a 8g increase in weigh,t so it's still sub 10 oz / 283g  in a US men's US9. T

The outsole still looks like characteristic all purpose and even light trails worthy, as is tradition in the Peg.

The upper will be a lighter, more breathable engineered mesh 

Weight: 297 grams (Men’s 10), 251 grams (Women’s 8)

Peg 40 was: 289 g (Men’s 10)

Stack Height: Forefront: 27mm, Heel: 37mm (Men’s 10)

Peg 40: Forefoot: 23mm Heel: 33mm

Nike Pegasus 41 is coming June 2024. 

Nike Pegasus Premium ($225)

Sorry just one picture so far highlighting the full length sculpted Air Zoom unit, a first for Nike as far as we know.

It is for sure a max cushion Peg at 45 mm heel /35mm forefoot (+ 8mm over Peg 40/41) to compete with the likes of the Superblast and Prime X Strung.

It will feature a ZoomX midsole with a ReactX heel and a new, sculpted, full length & visible Air Zoom unit. The Air unit is designed using finite element analysis of forces so is intended to engage with the foot, no matter your gait or strike pattern.  Prior Air Zoom units have been “flat”. 

The use of such a contoured Air unit in a max cushion shoe instead of a plate is a novel approach but it does appear to make the Premium quite heavy at about 11 oz / 311g US9. How it rides will tell how effective the tech combination is as much as the weight.

Spec. Weight US men’s 10: 330g/ 11.6 oz 

Avaialble Spring 2025

Inov-8 Trailyfly Multi Tester Review: 9 Comparisons

Article by Jeff Valliere and Mike Postaski

Inov-8 Trailyfly ($150)

Introduction

Jeff V:  The Inov-8 Trailfly is an all new model from Inov 8, with a new foot shape design for all day comfort, yet with great security and with soft yet stable cushioning on a full stack height of  29mm heel / 23mm forefoot which is enhanced by a Boomerang TPU footbed and very good traction. It is a great all around and versatile shoe, equally at home running door to trail, buffed trails and dirt roads, and all the way up the mountain into more technical terrain.  

They make for a great daily trainer that, while not the fastest shoe out there, can easily handle fast running on just about any trail.  In addition to having a more generous fit foot shape design, they come in 2 widths, standard and wide.

Testbericht: Salomon Spectur - Komfort mit S/Lab-Technologie für den Wettkampftag 5 Vergleiche

Artikel von Marcel Krebs 

Salomon S/LAB Spectur (220€)

Einleitung

Im Trailbereich steht Salomon bereits seit jeher für Innovation und Qualität. In den letzten Jahren hat Salomon jedoch auch zunehmend spannende und hochwertige Modelle für die Straße herausgebracht. Im vergangenen Jahr folgte dann der erste wirklich ernst zu nehmende Vorstoß im Bereich der “Superschuhe” für den Straßenwettkampf mit dem Salomon S/LAB Phantasm 2. Hierbei handelt es sich um eine der größten positiven Überraschungen im vergangenen Jahr im Bereich der Wettkampfschuhe. Der Phantasm 2 überzeugt mit einem weichen und reaktiven Mittelsohlenschaum, der in Kombination der in diesem Segment inzwischen obligatorischen Carbonplatte einen tollen Vortrieb generiert. Die Zehenbox ist zudem großzügig gestaltet und auch der Sitz ist exzellent. Zusammen mit der tollen Optik ist der S/Lab Phantasm 2 somit eine ernstzunehmende Option im Bereich der “Superschuhe” aus dem Hause Salomon. 

Mit dem brandneuen S/LAB Spectur bringt Salomon nunmehr in Kürze seinen zweiten Superschuh auf den Markt. Im Unterschied zu anderen Brands, die zwar ebenfalls zwei “Superschuhe” in der Produktpalette haben, diese jedoch oft nicht explizit voneinander hinsichtlich des Einsatzbereiches abgrenzen, ist Salomon hier sehr klar in der Kommunikation: Läufer mit einer Zielzeit von unter 3:00h über die Marathondistanz sollen zum S/LAB Phantasm 2 greifen, jene Läufer, die langsamer und damit länger unterwegs sind, hingegen zum S/LAB Spectur. 

Diese Unterscheidung fußt auf von Salomon in Auftrag gegebenen Studien, die besagen, dass moderne "Superschuh"- Designs nur einem kleinen Teil der Läuferschaft zugute kommen, nämlich jenen, die 14 Kilometer pro Stunde oder schneller laufen, was einer  Marathongeschwindigkeit von unter 3 Stunden entspricht. Weiterführende Informationen des Herstellers zur Entwicklung des Salomon S/LAB Spectur findet ihr hier: Youtube. 

Hieraus hat vor allem ein bekannter US-Youtuber gemeint, konstruieren zu müssen, dass Salomon hierdurch eine Zweiklassengesellschaft an Läufern schaffen wolle, was natürlich völlig Quatsch ist. Denn auch wenn man darüber streiten kann, ob die Zielzeit und damit die “time on feet” stets das treffende Differenzierungsmerkmal darstellt, ist sie auf jeden Fall eine einfache Daumenregel, die zur ersten Orientierung durchaus dienen kann, da ein 2:40h Marathoner in aller Regel in der Tat andere Anforderungen an seinen Laufschuh stellen wird, als jemand, der vielleicht seinen ersten Marathon läuft und hierbei dennoch das bestmögliche HighEnd-Equipment nutzen möchte. 

Auf all diese Punkte werde ich in den nächsten Abschnitten noch ausführlicher eingehen. Dort erfahrt ihr auch, was noch konkretere Kriterien sein können, um für sich persönlich das passende Modell zu identifizieren und für wen der neue Salomon Spectur besonders gut geeignet ist.

Diadora Running 2024 Collection Video Reviews: Gara Carbon, Frequenza, and Cellula

Video by Sam Winebaum

Diadora Gara Carbon ($300), Frequenza ($180) and Cellula ($170) 

In the video, I compare Diadora's all new 2024 line up of Gara Carbon a max stack carbon racer with PEBA foam, Frequenza a soft, lively and flexible uptempo trainer with supercritical EVA foam and the Cellula a near max cushion daily trainer with DD Anima EVA blend foam. 

It's one heck of a coherent 3 shoe rotation for all types of road runs. Written reviews and stats below.

Watch Sam's Diadora 2024 Line Up Review (15:42)

2024 Boston Marathon Pro Field Preview

Article by Benjamin David

2024 Boston Marathon Preview

The Boston Marathon is a harbinger of good and has been for decades. Patriots Day signals that spring is here in earnest, the racing season has arrived and the dread of dreary winter has passed. Perpetually set against the backdrop of domestic or international strife, the Boston Marathon comes along and reminds us that we indeed know how to unify and achieve a modicum of peace and humanity together. Let’s get to it.

The allure of Boston is different than other World Marathon Majors. It’s run on relatively modest roads. There aren’t any iconic bridges or wide avenues. Boston is about tradition and a course that tempts runners into a false sense of calm. The Newton Hills lie in wait for anyone who hasn’t brought their keenest and most patient race plan with them. 

This year’s race, which takes place on April 15, has particular intrigue as it comes just months prior to the Paris Olympic Games. Some will arrive in hopes of proving their worth to a selection committee back home. Some, especially a cadre of Americans, will come in hopes of redeeming themselves following disappointing results earlier in the year.

Diadora Cellula Review: 5 Comparisons

Article by Sam Winebaum

Diadora Cellula ($170)

Introduction

Sam: The Cellula is the easier paces daily training model in the 2024 Diadora line up. It joins the flexible, lower stack bouncy supercritical foam Frequenza uptempo “fun” shoe (RTR Review)  and the full on long race Gara Carbon (RTR Review). All three are distinct in ride characteristics and purpose making for what I think is a superb rotation.

Left to Right: Diadora Cellula, Diadora Frequenza, Diadora Gara Carbon

The Cellula is the big cushion trainer with a moderately high 33 mm heel and 28mm forefoot on a broad 90 mm heel / 75 mm midfoot / 110 mm forefoot platform so it doesn't reach the stratospheric heights and often stiffness and lumbering rides of shoes such as ASICS GEL-Nimbus, Saucony Kinvara Pro, New Balance SC Trainer, or max extreme Adizero Prime X Strung.  This is a good thing as far as I am concerned as the weight remains below 10 oz for a US9 and the ride is stable, smooth and quite flexible (more stack height leads to more stiffness and requirement for rockers)  with the excellent Anima cushioning, highly protective and very decently reactive.

Craft Xplor Hybrid Multi Tester Review 5 Comparisons

Article by Renee Krusemark, Jana Herzgova, and Sam Winebaum

Craft Xplor Hybrid ($140)

Introduction

Sam: The Xplor Hybrid is positioned by Craft as the “gravel bike” of running shoes. It even incorporates a stout radial design outsole from well known bike tire supplier Vittoria.  Underfoot we have a single density midsole of Craft’s always energetic Px supercritical expanded TPE beads foam. 

Due to the outsole and broad platform it is not the lightest of trail shoes, or even hybrid shoes, checking in at 10.3 oz  / 292g (US men’s 9). Taking into account the big max class 38.5 mm heel / 32.5 mm forefoot stack height and the outsole the weight is reasonable. By way of comparison the mountain trails focused Speedgoat is considerably lower at 32mm heel /29 mm forefoot  with a heel platform that is 10mm narrower and a mid foot 5 mm narrower yet weighing only 0.5 oz /14g less. All of this to say we have a lot of shoe underfoot at not much weight. 

 

Topped with Craft’s customary roomy and light upper I noted right away a beefed up rear hold which gave me hope it might have more terrain range than usual for a Craft.

I tested extensively on hard packed snow trails often bordering on ice, road, and non paved rail and golf cart paths in Utah and New Hampshire. Jana tested hers in Utah while Renee tested on gravel roads and trails in Nebraska.

Topo Athletic Pursuit 2 Multi Tester Review: 6 Comparisons

Article by Mike Postaski and Renee Krusemark

Topo Pursuit 2 ($145)

Introduction

Mike P: I was quite surprised when I tested the original Pursuit. My Pursuit V1 in size 10.0 weighed 11.1 oz, but I still found it quite agile and runnable, even in moderate techincal terrain. The zero drop platform was noticeable, not necessarily ideal for me, yet very comfortable underfoot for long miles. I found the toebox to be exceptionally wide, and at the time, wider than the Topos that I’d run in the past. It was essentially a direct Altra competitor. With many shoes in for test, the Pursuit V1 fell out of my running rotation, but it’s been my go-to post-race comfort shoe, to this day. The new Pursuit 2 has some noticeable changes, so will it get back into my running rotation? Please read on..