Salomon INDEX-03 Review

Article by Mike Postaski

Salomon INDEX.03 ($160)

Introduction

I received the INDEX.03 out of the blue recently - since I don’t test too many road shoes, I haven’t followed the iterations of the initial two versions. A quick once over (the shoe has a distinctive and striking look), and some quick internet research, and I was intrigued. 

As you may know, the running shoe market is inundated with claims about recycled materials, sustainable features, etc. Much of this is laudable, but sometimes you can get the sense that a lot of it may be just pure marketing.

Clearly, it’s up to you as the consumer - how much stock do you put into these claims? The Salomon INDEX.03 tackles sustainability from a different approach. Not only on the front-end production side, but one the back-end, end-if-life side. Salomon offers a unique process to return the shoes when you are done with them, so that they can be disassembled and recycled into other products including ski boot shells.

[Assuming the “splitting area” is for disassembly purposes]

This focus on the lifespan of a shoe and its materials is what sets the INDEX.03’s sustainability approach apart. Just knowing that your shoes won’t (with 99.9% probability) end up in a landfill clearly sets the intention. The mere fact that you scan the QR code, and Salomon sends you the shipping label, also does show that the company is putting their money where their mouth is.

I know, I know.. There are plenty of “yeah, buts…” to go around. I can even think of a few myself. But let’s just assume this process does work, and is a feasible life cycle for a running shoe.. What’s to stop that from being replicated in other models, or by other brands? I’d say that’s a positive step. YEAH BUT… the shoe does have to be a good running shoe… 

Test: Hylo Athletics Impact: La daily trainer vertueuse (French)

Article par Jérémy Marie

Hylo Impact ( €170)

Introduction

Hylo Athletics est une jeune marque anglaise (créée en 2020) qui s’est donné pour mission de proposer une gamme où l’aspect écologique, depuis la conception jusqu’au recyclage des modèles, pesait autant que l’aspect performance.

Le modèle qui nous intéresse aujourd’hui, l’Impact, parachève leurs travaux et ne lésine pas plus sur les marqueurs de performance (poids, mousse super-critique, semelle externe) que sur l’utilisation de matériaux verts. Ainsi, 40% de la chaussure (en poids) est composée de matériaux dits “bio”: utilisation de ricin dans la tige, de dérivé de maïs (tige), de caoutchouc naturel (semelle externe)...

Interview with Ryan Eiler: 3d American and 15th overall at the 2024 Boston Marathon

 

Long time RoadTrailRun contributor Ryan Eiler had a breakthrough performance at the 2024 Boston Marathon finishing 3d American and 15th overall in a time of 2:14:23. 

Interview with Ryan Eiler (20:39)

In the video  Ryan shares his run background, training philosophy to finally get to a marathon injury free and faster than ever at 38, balancing being a new dad and start up entrepreneur, training on an ancient Sears Roebuck treadmill in an unheated shed with shaky power and what it was like to line up with the elites, take off and follow his race plan which he did brilliantly.

HOKA Skyward X Review: Practical and Effective Mega Max Cushion Cruiser! 4 Comparisons

Article by Sam Winebaum

Hoka Skyward X ($225)

Introduction

Let’s get it out of the way right away. The Skyward X may be the most significant and innovative road shoe from Hoka since the Clifton 1. Hoka has been hugely successful in recent years with.. basically the same stuff year after year:  compression molded EVA midsoles, big cushion, friendly fits and especially market momentum as runners and walkers have gravitated to the OG max cushion brand. 

In performance running, they have lagged the competition being late to supercritical foams and then a firm flavor as found in the Carbon X and first Rocket.  In trail, it has been a different story as the Speedgoat and Tecton X have led their respective categories.

With Skyward X Hoka goes “big”. Here they have cracked the code of how to stack well beyond World Athletics’ 40mm  height limits for racing with a giant  48 mm heel / 43mm forefoot stack of two types supercritical foams (PEBA top layer, EVA bottom layer) and what I see as a far more sophisticated multi dimensional carbon plating than others which provides both propulsion and stability. 

All of this on a wide platform of  95 mm heel / 80 mm midfoot / 120 mm forefoot and at a “reasonable” weight for such a massive shoe of 10.7 oz / 303 g US9.

The upper is an engineered mesh with especially noted a stout heel counter construction. 

While this upper may contribute to the weight of the shoe it clearly keeps the foot locked down to the giant platform. 

It clearly competes with others in this emerging category of stratospheric stack heights with shoes such as the yet higher stacked Prime X from adidas, the SC Trainer from New Balance and the unplated considerably lighter ASICS Superblast 

At these stack heights, and to a certain extent weight, we are not looking at a “racing” shoe for the fast and light runner or an uptempo daily trainer. Are we looking at the most deeply cushioned and especially practical super max cushioned road trainer yet? How does this behemoth ride and feel? How does it compare to others to its competitors?  Let’s get into it in my initial review after two solid runs. 

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)