Features

• XTS Cradle
• Angled, insulated holster
• 22 oz. (650 mL) fluid bottle
• 5 oz. (150 mL) nutrition flask
• Dimensional zippered pocket
• Airmesh moisture-wicking backing
• Shock Cord with one-pull tension lock
• Limited-stretch waistbelt
• Weight 8oz.
• Fits 26” to 42” waists

Nathan Elite 1 Plus Review

To angle or not to angle?  That’s the first question to consider with waist-mounted bottle carriers.  Upright bottles can be reached with either hand, but tend to have a bouncy ride.  Angled carriers are generally more comfortable, but obviously favor one arm’s reach more than the other.

“Angling” seems to be the predominant design nowadays, and Nathan angles their Elite packs with two highly effective ergonomic features.  First, a 70/30 positioning system places 70% of the bottle below the waistline, minimizing bounce quite well.   Second, the holster is made with Nathan’s XTS cradle system that flexes to the contours of your waist, with a wide-mouth opening that facilitates quick access and replacement even at full speed.

Anlged holster with XTS cradle

Pack stability is further enhanced by a limited stretch belt, which expands just enough – 20% of its original size – for abdominal comfort and relaxed breathing while keeping the load snug against your body.  Excess belt length is easily managed by Velcro strap closures so they’re not flapping around on the run.

One of Nathan’s strengths is bottle design, and the 22-oz bottle that accompanies the Elite 1 Plus has several noteworthy features.  Soft polyethylene plastic is nicely textured for a secure grip.  A wide screwtop mouth allows easy filling and cleaning, and the silicone nozzle stays secure to prevent leakage.  There’s a handy QuickClip with finger loop for use outside a waist pack – for example, attached to a belt or backpack.

22-oz bottle and 5-oz flask

Atop the bottle holster sits a dimensional zippered pocket with internal key clasp.  It’s adequate for storing bare essentials, but neither my small flip phone nor my ultra-compact (Black Diamond Spot) headlamp fit in there when the bottle was in place.  About the only practical thing you can carry is a pack of gel … but you’ve already got a holster for that.

The nutrition flask is a separate holster accessed by the left hand, and holds 5 oz of energy gels.  Since most gel packets are just over one ounce, there’s room for four packs of gel in the flask – more than enough calories to outlast your 22-oz fluid supply.  An ideal setting for this pack is during an ultra where you want to make sure you have your favorite gel on board, and you’ll have aid stations every several miles to refill the fluid bottle as needed.

If you’re not carrying gel, the holster area of the pack goes un-utilized – ideally, a larger pocket in this area would increase overall storage capacity.

Good Elite 1 Plus

• Angled bottle holder for rapid access
• Limited stretch waistband very comfortable and stable
• Ergonomic bottle positioning

Bad Elite 1 Plus

• Very minimal storage space
• Gel holster space is wasted if flask is unused

Bottom Line: Nathan Elite 1 Plus Waist pack

If you’re a frequent consumer of energy gels, the Elite 1 Plus is a great way to make sure you have all the calories you need on the trail.  If you’re looking for stowaway space alongside your fluids, take an additional means of storage with you.

Buy Now: Search for Nathan Packs

To my dismay, Outdoor Research doesn’t make their trail shoe-friendly FlexTex Gaiters in neon yellow, so the full 80’s redux will have to wait, but in the end these black beauties are well worth their weight in gold… err… make that stretchy nylon.

Features of the Flex-Tex Gaiters:

• Durable, stretch-woven nylon fabric
• 1-inch wide hook/loop front closure
• Hook/loop shear tabs at top and bottom of front closure prevent separation
• Double-riveted boot lace hook
• Urethane-coated nylon instep strap
• Sizes: S/M, L/XL
• MSRP: $35

Outdoor Research Flex-Tex Gaiters Review

Just in the nick of time, the Flex-Tex gaiters came in for my winter trail running adventures. With the meager Utah snowpack this season, I’ve been trail running much more than I typically do. On my usual routes, the snowshoe traffic packs down the trail fairly quickly, thus allowing me to run on firm, snow-covered trails.

Where the Flex-Tex gatiers have been worth their weight in gold has been after a few inches of new snow has fallen on the packed trail. Their ability to keep snow out of my shoes has been superb. I really appreciate the 2-way stretch of the gaiters (fabric stretches fore/aft for a snug fit) and the streamlined cut. these are not meant to be worn with pants, so I typically ran with shorts or running tights and their svelte fit didn’t add any bulk or get in the way of my lightning-fast stride (well, on the downhill).

I found the instep strap to fit well with a variety of shoes including: New Balance MT910, Montrail Mountain Masochist GTX and Lafuma Sky Race OT. With each of them, I was able to get a snug fit and excellent coverage for running in 3-5 inches of new snow.

The Velcro lock tabs keep things in place should you get a little more aggressive on the trail and the simple lace hook keeps you covered. Not once did I get any snow intrusion while wearing these. The snug, 4-way stretch fabric maintains an excellent barrier.

My only real feedback on these gaiters is that the hook should be on the opposite side so you can hook it to your lace, then attach the Velcro from the other side to the top. As it is right now, you place the hook on your laces and then have to slip the attaching piece to the underside. It’s not a huge deal, but did cause me to mismatch them on occasion.

After posting the initial review, I have since used these snowshoe running with the Atlas Run snowshoes. The nature of snowshoe running flips a ton of snow all over the place and snow tended to enter into the gaiter from the top. Perhaps a more elastic upper cuff could eliminate this.

Good Flex-Tex

• Streamlined fit… perfect for winter running
• Stretch fabric moves with you
• Stays secure with instep loop and Velcro closures
• Easy on-off
• Works with a variety of trail running shoes

Bad Flex-Tex

• Lace hook should be switched to other end for easier Velcro attachment
• An elastic upper-cuff closure could reduce snow intrusion while shoeshoe running (lots of snow flying around)
• If your shoes don’t lace far down the forefoot (Inov-8 Roclite 312 GTX), you may not be able to attach the hook–just choose your shoes wisely
• Unavailable in flashy 80’s neon yellow… sorry

Bottom Line: Outdoor Research Flex-Tex Gaiters

For winter running or wet-weather bushwacking, these gaiters are comfortable, durable and affordable. You can’t ask much more from a running-friendly gaiter.

Buy Now: Search for Outdoor Research Gaiters

About the Lafuma Sky Race OT Trail Runners

Because the Sky Race OT’s are built using Outdry membrane, they are an all-weather training shoe. Added on top of that is a solid and supportive Vibram outsole and unique Twin Lace system (isolates upper and lower lace tension separately). The result is a capable foul-weather trail runner.

More features of the Sky Race OT:

• Use: High-performance trail running in all seasons – Waterproof and breathable.
• Upper materials: 3D mesh upper – Front TPU stone guard – Tongue with gusset.
• Lining material: OUTDRY® membrane.
• Footbed: Removable PES/EVA. Sole: VIBRAM® XRUN rubber/ Phylon tri-density midsole.
• Twin Lace System: dual toggles made to secure the lower and upper foot separately
• Size 8.5= 430g each (14.8 oz)
• MSRP: $139.95

Lafuma Sky Race OT Trail Running Shoe Review

The Sky Race’s arrived just in time to compare head-to-head with Gore-Tex trail running shoe designs (Montrail Mountain Masochist GTX, Inov-8 Roclite 312 GTX and New Balance MT910) and the weather soon cooperated with rain and snowy trails beckoning me.

From the outset, the Lafuma’s were intriguing with their use of Outdry waterproof/breathable membrane, Vibram outsole and the Twin Lace system. The result is a technologically-packed shoe, but still a bit rough around the edges. Starting with styling (though always subjective), the test shoes were black and bright yellow–a combination that wasn’t so pleasing on the eyes. These are best relegated to trail-only duty where Mother Nature doesn’t care. I’ll be much more forgiving of poor looks if the performance is nails, so lets move on.

The Twin Lace system is an awesome concept and works pretty well (but still needs some refinement). I really liked the ability to cinch down the forefoot and uppers separately. Many lacing systems require you to slowly cinch down the entire shoe from the toebox to the uppers, inch-by-inch. These are cinched with a quick pull and locking toggle–providing cinched forefoot and upper. I had some small issues (hence my refinement suggestion) with one of the upper toggles wiggling loose during the course of a run. It was a small annoyance that required adjustment every 15-20 minutes on one shoe. The other issue is that the rubber “bridge” piece slips fore and aft instead of being firmly anchored to the laces.

I really liked the Vibram outsole on these as it provided superb traction and support. Snow-covered trails were little match for these shoes, which is pretty impressive in my mind. As mentioned, support is good and so was trail protection. I was running in pretty cold temperatures, so the midsole was likely a little less cushioning, but these shoes felt a bit harsh with minimal cushioning. In the heat, they may soften, but these shoes aren’t really meant for warm-weather, so take that into consideration.

Now onto the Outdry membrane. I subjected it to the same 30-second stream submersion test that I have done with all Gore-Tex shoes I’ve tested to date. I carefully step into the moving stream just deep enough to cover the entire forefoot, but not overrun the cuff. I was pleasantly surprised when the Outdry membrane performed as well as any Gore-Tex shoes I’ve tried. I stuck it out even a little longer and the shoe’s interior remained impenetrable.

In the end, breathability is slightly better than Gore-Tex and the membrane is quieter and more “one” with the footwear instead of feeling like it is just another layer.

Good Sky Race OT

• Outdry technology breathes a bit better than Gore-Tex
• Vibram outsole provides great traction in all conditions–including snow packed trails
• Cantilever lacing system isolates upper and lower laces
• Kept my feet dry and warm in fresh snow, slush and creek crossings

Bad Sky Race OT

• Twin Lace system is good concept, but still needs some refinement
• Pretty chunky… not for lightweight pursuits
• Questionable looks
• Relatively unknown brand in USA

Bottom Line: Lafuma Sky Race OT

These shoes are my first foray into Lafuma trail runners and Outdry technology. While the shoe’s looks are questionable, the solid Outdry technology combined with the Vibram outsole make these shoes an option for wet-weather trail-specific duty.

Buy Now: Search for Lafuma Shoes

Features of the RS Zero Vest:

• Firewall 220 material for maximal weather protection
• MidZero fabric in back for insulation and moisture management
• Full separating zip with guard
• Center back zip pocket with 2 adjacent slant pockets
• Signature hem grip
• 3M Scotchlite reflective accents
• MSRP $150

Sugoi RS Zero Vest

Sugoi RS Zero Vest Review

On its website, Sugoi categorizes the RS Zero vest with its cycling apparel – an acknowledgment that it is basically an adaptation of the company’s popular RS Zero jacket, an essential piece for many cold-weather riders.  But when you strip the arms off the jacket for more freedom of movement while maintaining the same weather-resistant material construction through the core, you’ve got yourself a vest that trail runners will love as well.

Vest interior: Firewall material in white, MidZero in black, gripper hem with Sugoi logo

The majority of the vest features Firewall 220, a multi-layer fabric that is Sugoi’s top of the line offering for insulation and weather resistance.  Its exterior surface is a soft shell with outstanding water and wind protection, and the inside is a softly-brushed honeycombed finish that feels very comfortable against a baselayer.  The back side of the vest also incorporates Sugoi’s sleek MidZero material, which is highly effective for both insulation and moisture-wicking. MidZero material traps body warmth next to the skin while allowing adequate air flow to prevent overheating – but it is used over a relatively small surface area here, so the RS Zero vest scores much higher for overall insulation than for breathability.

Insulation is further enhanced by the fitted cut of the vest, which prevents pockets of cold air from intruding, as well as a gripper waistband that keeps the hemline in place. Both of these features are generally considered cycling-specific, but have great performance benefits for runners who enjoy a slender profile and top layers that don’t bounce around at high speeds.  The waistband rides low in back to provide coverage when you’re leaning over the handlebars, but it’s not too low to use a waist hydration pack while running.

Rear view: center zip pocket, adjacent elastic side pockets, low hemline

Storage on the RS Zero vest is cycling-style as well, with one center zip pocket and two angled elastic pockets on either side of it, and no front storage areas.  The only noticeable omission is any sort of key clasp on the front or back of the vest.

Good RS Zero

• Outstanding core weather resistance
• Fitted cut for enhanced insulation
• Hem grip keeps vest securely in place

Bad RS Zero

• Limited breathability, especially in front of vest
• No front pockets (if that’s your preference)
• No key clasp

Bottom Line: Sugoi RS Zero Vest

The RS Zero Vest keeps your body warm.  It combines Sugoi’s highest-quality fabrics to ensure optimal core protection in harsh conditions, and its versatile styling can pull double duty for both mountain biking and trail running.  It’s an attractive choice to keep the engine room working comfortably for a variety of early spring/late winter outdoor adventures.

Buy Now: Search for Sugoi Gear

Anyway, the “Made in America” story is a great one, but only if the shoes keep up with their well-known running heritage. As is typical during the Winter, I still manage to slip out for a few snowy trail runs. This season has been filled with more running than skiing because of Utah’s poor snowpack, so the New Balance MT910 Gore-Tex trail runners have seen many miles in rain, slush, snow and mud. All-in-all they have come out victorious, but not without some bumps in the road.

Features of the New Balance MT910:

• Synthetic/mesh upper
• GORE_TEX® XCR® waterproof lining
• Rock Stop foot protection
• ABZORB® material in heel and forefoot offers excellent cushioning and compression
• Ortholite Insert
• Gussetted Tongue
• Sure Lace
• Toe Protect toe cap
• Ndurance® rubber compound heel for maximum durability in high-wear areas
• NLOCK® integrated lacing and webbing system delivers optimal fit, support and security
• MSRP: $129.99

New Balance MT910 Review

Upon arrival, these shoes felt a bit stiff in the uppers. Sometimes Gore-Tex shoes are a tad stiffer due to increased materials, so that’s not out of the norm. The only annoyance off-the-bat was that the corners of the uppers at the point of the uppermost lace eyelet tended to dig into the tops of my feet. This was quickly alleviated by switching to a slightly thicker sock. Be aware that this may be the case with thinner socks, so keep that in mind.

Once broken in, these shoes have been solid performers in mud, snow and loose trails. Overall traction is superb without so much of a slip–even on snowpacked terrain. I suspect this is partly due to the durometer of the outsole as it seems quite firm. That firmness, combined with a dense midsole, tends to create a somewhat-harsh ride on pavement. I feel they are adequate on the hard stuff, but they are definitely more suited to off-road pursuits.

Stability has been top-notch with excellent support from the uppers as well as the midsole. The shoe cradles the foot well and overall protection from rock intrusion in the forefoot (Rock Stop insert) and toebox (Toe Protect cap) is second-to-none. If you have sensitive feet or need extra toebox protection, these shoes will not disappoint. I ran with Sole Dean Karnazes insoles in these out-the-chute and have found them to be an excellent match for these shoes and my flat feet.

Breathability is acceptable for a Gore-Tex shoe, but I wouldn’t recommend these for summertime use or temps north of 60-degrees. I have appreciated the wind protection on cold runs as these have maintained their warmth well. But, on a few warmer Fall days, they did get a little toasty.

These shoes have also passed the mandatory 30-second stream submersion test, so the Gore-Tex lining does its job.

Good MT910

• Very stylish on/off trail
• Excellent traction
• Excellent toebox protection
• Secure lacing system provides a comfortable fit
• Smooth stride
• Ribbed laces keep things tight

Bad MT910

• Cushioning is pretty firm… race car-esque
• A bit firm for road endeavors
• Cuff digs into tops of feet with thin socks
• Gore-Tex liner sounds crinkly

Bottom Line: New Balance MT910 Trail Runners

Really a solid choice for foul-weather running. The Gore-Tex lining keeps your feet warm and dry down to extremely-cold conditions (15-degrees F) and the overall traction and support will help you move right along on any trail.

Buy Now: Search for New Balance MT910

About the Salomon SpeedCross 2

The SpeedCross2 is Salomon’s leanest and lightest trail shoe, but it’s rough and tough enough to use as an everyday trainer.  Lean and mean … it’s a great combination, isn’t it?  Let’s take a closer look.

Features

• Upper: anti-debris nylon mesh with synthetic leather overlays
• Lining: Ortholite sockliner
• Midsole: dual-density EVA with medial posting
• Midsole height: 24mm in heel, 12mm in forefoot
• Outsole: Winter Contragrip
• Reflective accents on all sides
• Weight: 290g (10.23 oz)
• MSRP: $120

Salomon SpeedCross2

Salomon SpeedCross 2 Review

This shoe was designed for two purposes: 1) to help you run fast, and 2) to prevent any excuses due to external conditions.  It’s built with a low profile for freedom of movement, but boasts some protective and stability features to help you handle all kinds of terrain.

Protection starts from the top: the SpeedCross2’s tightly-woven mesh upper is nearly impenetrable to trail debris, and provides outstanding water resistance.  After submersion, the upper is somewhat slow to dry, but on the whole this shoe is far more breathable than Gore-Tex or other waterproof materials.

Top view: debris-resistant upper, Quicklace system, Ortholite sockliner, reflective toe accents

The uppers are further bolstered by a wraparound mudguard at the base, and a protective synthetic toe cap.  They also feature Salomon’s trademark Quicklace system – similar to the speed laces that triathletes love – which secures the upper in a uniform fashion and allows you to customize your ideal level of tightness.  After you lock down the clasp, just tuck the laces into the tongue pocket, and you’re off.  Fit and comfort of the upper are enhanced by a Sensifit design that cradles the foot and minimizes slippage, as well as an Ortholite sockliner for cushioning and shock absorption underfoot.

Through the midsole is dual-density EVA with the Salomon Cushioning System, which diminishes 25% of heel strike impact, reduces pronation in the arch area, and has an elastic forefoot design to transfer energy more effectively from impact to push-off.  The midsole also has medial posting for further pronation control, and forefoot plates to stabilize and protect your feet on uneven terrain.

Aggressive outsole lugs

For my money, the most compelling aspect of the SpeedCross2 is the outsole: big, aggressive rubber lugs that almost scream for mud and rocks to devour.  The height of the lugs enhances shock absorption, and the multidirectional Contragrip design provides excellent traction on sloppy slopes or slick rock faces.  Wide spacing of the lugs allows quick sloughing of dirt clumps and prevents rocks from getting stuck below.  The entire outsole is soft-flexing to allow some degree of natural foot grip on varied terrain.

Good SpeedCross2

• Comfortable, snug upper
• Outstanding traction in sloppy conditions
• Great debris resistance in upper
• One-pull lace system for easy on/off and equal tension

Bad SpeedCross2

• Diminished ground feel compared to other low-profile racers
• Uppers slightly slow to dry after immersion

No problems after a muddy 15-miler!

Bottom Line: Salomon SpeedCross 2 Trail Running Shoes

No matter what conditions you face, the SpeedCross 2 will help you power through them quickly and nimbly.  It’s a great choice for everyday use and fast training days, as well as races where you’re gunning for a 50K PR.

Buy Now: Search for Salomon SpeedCross 2 Shoes

Features

• Full windproof stretch polyester on front panels
• 5.7-oz Polartec® Power Dry® 95% polyester (65% recycled)/5% spandex moisture-wicking fleece on back of jacket and under arm panels
• Full zip-through collar with brushed fleece next to skin, full wind flap and zipper garage
• Deluge DWR (durable water repellent) finish on front torso, arms, and collar face.
• Zippered chest pockets for storage or ventilation
• Left bicep pocket with interior MP3 cord pass-through
• Reflective logo on left chest
• Drop tail
• 340 g (12 oz)
• Colors: Real Red or Black
• MSRP: $150

Patagonia Men's Wind Shield Jacket, in Red

inside jacket: brushed polyester in gray, Polartec fleece in black

Patagonia Wind Shield Jacket Review

The Patagonia Wind Shield is clearly a product of smart design: it’s built to resist harsh conditions in the places that are most vulnerable, and provide ventilation in areas where excess material would cause overheating.  Its construction is both comfortable and durable, and quite stylish to boot.  For the hardcore winter athlete, that’s a pretty impressive trifecta.

Up front, the Wind Shield utilizes 3-ply, 6-oz 100% laminated polyester panels on the front torso and arms to provide full windproof protection where you need it most.  True to its eco-friendly reputation, Patagonia’s recycled polyester material is made in part from empty soda bottles and unusable second quality fabrics. The outside of this material is a smooth durable face, while the inside is a smoothly brushed moisture-wicking grid for maximal comfort.

Polartec’s Power Dry single-sided fleece makes up the back of the jacket, as well as the underarm panels and the inside collar.  This thin 95% polyester/5% spandex fabric (with 65% post-consumer material) is highly breathable, quick-drying, and wicks moisture very effectively.  It also has a plush, comfortable feel against your skin when using the forearm or collar areas to wipe sweat off your face.

front polyester panel; fleece underarm panel below seam

This combination of fabrics – windproof polyester in front, lightweight high performance fleece behind – is an ideal arrangement for running in cold temperatures.  The Deluge DWR finish in high-impact areas provides decent water resistance, but this isn’t a true rain blocking jacket.  However, the resistance is effective enough to get you home through the last few miles if you get caught in a quick-moving storm.

The Wind Shield is a slim fit garment, so there’s enough room for a base layer underneath, but might get confining with thick or multiple layers.  I wear the jacket comfortably through temps in the low 30s with a short-sleeve base layer underneath, and in the mid-20s with a long-sleeve midweight base layer.

Slim fit on model; photo from Patagonia website

Good Wind Shield

• Excellent wind resistance
• Ideal balance of insulation and breathability from Polartec fleece
• Extremely comfortable overall fit
• Strategic location of chest pockets for storage or ventilation

Bad Wind Shield

• Less effective for water resistance
• Difficult to wear over multiple layers

Bottom Line: Patagonia Wind Shield Jacket

With deluxe comfort and premium cold-weather protection, Patagonia’s Wind Shield jacket eliminates any justification for hitting the snooze button on dark frosty mornings.  Whether that’s good news or bad is up to you.

Buy Now: Search for Patagonia Wind Shield Jacket

About the La Sportiva Wildcat GTX

The Wildcat is La Sportiva’s recommended shoe for race distances of 50 miles or more – or, if ultras aren’t your style, for a high-mileage trainer that can handle all variety of terrain.  This is the most highly-cushioned La Sportiva model, which strives to balance stability and freedom of movement.

From the midsole down, the GTX version is identical to the original Wildcat; the primary differences in this model lay in the upper, which uses Gore-Tex technology for improved resistance to the elements.

Features

• Last: Tempo
• Upper: Airmesh/ Trail Cage/ TPU Transkinetic heel stabilizer
• Lining: Gore-Tex extended comfort footwear
• Midsole: single density MEMlex 2.4mm EVA/ Nylon molded flex transfer shank
• Midsole height: 28mm at heel, 16mm in forefoot
• Outsole: FriXion AT/ Impact Brake System X-Axis
• Weight: 13.40 oz (380g)
• MSRP: Wildcat GTX: $125  Hobnail Kit: $45

La Sportiva Wildcat GTX Review

One of my favorite aspects of La Sportiva shoes is how comfortable they feel right out of the box; they latch onto your shoe like a snug slipper, and you feel like you can head out your door for a 50K.

The Gore-Tex version of the Wildcat adds a little bit of weight – 13.4 oz compared to 12.0 for the non-GTX style – which makes the shoe feel more bulky than most other La Sportiva offerings.  But this is a foul-weather trainer, not a racer that you’ll use when gunning for a PR.

Fortunately, most other features of the Wildcat are consistent: a low profile around the ankle, a snug forefoot fit aided by an even-tension lacing system, and and a thin, breathable sockliner.  La Sportiva’s AirMesh upper material is still utilized, although the moisture-resistant TPU film decreases the ventilation (and conversely, improves the insulation) of the GTX model.

The submersion test for stream crossings

The Gore-Tex upper is highly effective at both keeping water out, and pushing water away once it finally gets in.  It kept the cold chill off of my feet during winter rainstorms, and moved water away from my feet (in combination with Drymax socks) very efficiently after being submerged in multiple river crossings.  However, when taking the shoes off after a wet run, they’re slower to completely dry than a traditional upper. 

Thankfully, the GTX Wildcat maintains all the overall toughness of the original.  The Transkinetic Heel Stabilizer for lateral stability; a midsole transfer shank for support and energy transfer, and reinforcement in all the right places allow you to run with abandon across all terrain.

Wildcat outsole: FriXion rubber and Impact Brake System

LaSportiva is known for its outstanding outsole traction, with FriXion AT rubber that is softer and stickier than typical outsoles, and the Impact Brake System with die-cut lugs angled in various directions to enhance braking and minimize slippage.  For the most extreme winter conditions, La Sportiva offers removable hobnails that are easily screwed in or out of the outsole for enhanced traction; they’re the same kind of corrosion resistant metal studs that are used in the auto industry for hand studding rally car tires.  Ice and snow are no match for your metal-studded Wildcat.

screw-in hobnails for super traction

Good Wildcat GTX

• Great water resistance in rain and rapid drying time after submersion
• Nice cold-weather insulation from GTX upper
• Outstanding baseline traction further optimized by optional hobnail studs
• Impact reinforcements in all the right places

Bad Wildcat GTX

• Noticeably heavier than non-GTX Wildcat
• Diminished ventilation from TPU coating on upper
• Somewhat slow to completely dry after immersion

Bottom Line: La Sportiva Wildcat GTX

The underside of the Wildcat was always built for muddy, slippery terrain, and the GTX version provides an upper that is equally suited for such conditions.  This is a worthy foul-weather version of an already well-built trail model.

Buy Now: La Sportiva Wildcat GTX

About the Newton Sir Isaac

The Sir Isaac is a neutral guidance trainer built to accommodate a wide range of foot types.  It combines Newton’s distinctive features for midfoot/forefoot runners with some design tweaks for improved traction and durability to go off the beaten path.

Sir Isaac Features

• Upper: Fast drying mesh with synthetic leather accents
• Lining: Energy-return sock liner
• Midsole: Single-density, high rebound EVA, with midfoot chassis shank for stability
• Outsole: High-wear carbon rubber with traction tread
• Weight: 10.9 oz
• MSRP: $149

Newton Sir Isaac Review

In a nutshell, the Sir Isaac is a slightly more rugged, more durable version of Newton’s preexisting models, featuring all the unique innovations for committed forefoot runners, along with a few noticeable changes to the outsole and the upper.

Sir Isaac outsole

Sir Isaac’s outsole is a high-durability carbon rubber with traction treading for increased grip on dirt or other loose surfaces.  This material also covers the actuator lugs, which are the most prominent feature of all Newton running shoes.  The outsole isn’t as knobby or sticky as offerings from dedicated trail running brands, but it’s adequate for basic off-road use.

Actuator lugs on outsole

Newton’s actuators extend almost a half-inch from the remainder of the outsole, and serve as the main impact zone for forefoot-striking runners.  They compress into the midsole of the shoe upon impact, then act as a lever to propel you into your next stride (Newton calls this its Action/Reaction technology).  It’s an energy-return design, and since each of the four actuators function independently, it allows all the joints and small muscles of the foot to flex and shift as they would if barefoot.

The midsole is also designed to promote forefoot running, with a rockered heel area, and Met-flex grooves for forefoot flexibility.  However, if you’ve previously used Newton’s Gravity shoe, you’ll notice the forefoot flexibility in the Sir Isaac is significantly less.  The forefoot area is nice and wide to allow for metatarsal spreading during the forefoot impact phase.

Closed mesh upper

Another trail-inspired modification is the closed mesh upper, which is very effective at keeping out debris and small rocks.  The mesh retains good ventilation, however, and is quite comfortable overall.  Newton shoes also feature slip-proof laces, made of 100% recycled content, which help dial in your preferred degree of snugness.

Good Sir Isaac

• Great debris resistance from closed mesh upper
• Improved traction from high-wear carbon rubber outsole
• Comfortably wide forefoot toebox
• Good overall durability across varied terrain

Bad Sir Isaac

• Traction slightly unsteady on technical footing
• High retail price
• Long adaptation period for longtime heel strikers, although Newton provides instructional brochures and videos for guidance

Bottom Line: Newton Sir Isaac Shoes

The Sir Isaac succeeds in translating all the innovations of Newton’s footwear to a road trainer with good off-road capability.  If you already like Newtons and want a more durable, rugged version, rejoice!  However, if you’re not comfortable with forefoot running or uninterested in transitioning your running style, this probably isn’t the shoe for you.

More Info: Visit NewtonRunning.com

The GoLite Vermillion Thermal top is a great option for a lightweight, versatile and affordable fleece top. With a 1/3 zip top, athletic fit and a small rear pocket wrapped up in Cocona Minerale™ blended fleece.

GoLite Vermillion Thermal Features

• Fabric Content: 35% Cocona Minerale / 65% Polyester Brushed Fleece
• Auto-locking 1/3 zip front
• Small stash pocket on right hip
• Soft brushed fleece interior
• Colors: Twilight Blue/Charcoal, Red Rock/Charcoal (tested), Charcoial, Black/Charcoal
• Weight: 10 oz.
• MSRP: $90
• More Info: Visit GoLite.com

GoLite Vermillion Thermal 1/3-zip Fleece Jacket Review

The Vermillion is a simple, yet effective mid or outer layer jacket for many activities. The natural performance of the Cocona Minerale fleece-blend is excellent. The outer face is tightly-woven for excellent wind protection while the inside is brushed to wick away moisture quickly and efficiently. With Cocona, you get natural moisture wicking kick-buttedness combined with anti-microbial qualities as well. Translation: it wears well under pressure and doesn’t get smelly after repeated use.

Another nicety is that the Minerale fabric is baked-into the fabric content. So, its natural performance won’t wash out or wear with time.

The fit of the size Large was excellent (5′11″ and 175 lbs) as a mid or outer layer. Had I wanted to use this primarily as a base layer, I could have sized down to the Medium for a more svelte fit. On a related note, when putting the Vermillion on top of another long-sleeve base layer, it can be a bit difficult due to the brushed lining. If your base layers have thumb holes, you’ll be fine, otherwise it’s quite a chore. Once situated, you’re golden… just a few moments of frustration. The only other negative I found was the lack of a zipper pull, which made it difficult for my glove-laden mitts to zip or unzip the front.

I really appreciated the moisture-wicking capabilities of the Vermillion during sunny-but-cold (30-35 degrees) trail runs. The jacket maintains warmth when wet and doesn’t feel cold next to the skin. The fit is comfortable and the overall package is stylish enough to wear around town or to the office without looking out of place.

Stiff winds will penetrate the fabric, but 5-10 mph breezes are kept completely at bay. There seems to be no DWR (Durable Water Resistance) treatment to the exterior, so moisture just soaks right in–keep that in mind if you intend to use it as an outer layer.

Good Vermillion

• Perfect cut and fit for mid or outer layer… size down for base/mid layer use
• Excellent wind resistance
• Excels at moisture management
• Back zipper pocket is perfect stash for keys or Polar G3 GPS unit
• Flatlock stitching for extra comfort
• Smooth styling

Bad Vermillion

• Front zipper is nearly impossible to grab with gloves on
• Good luck putting it on top of a loose-fitting long-sleeve base layer–almost an exercise in futility unless they have thumb holes
• Minimal water resistance

Bottom Line: GoLite Vermillion Thermal Fleece Jacket

A simple fleece jacket to have on-hand for a base layer for backcountry skiing or outer layer while trail running or mountain biking. The price is right and the GoLite brand ensures you’re keeping things light on the planet.

Buy Now: Search for GoLite Vermillion