Plenty of trail running shoes have crossed my doorstep over the past year. Every pair has been good while some have been superior. Other shoes quietly do their job day-in and day-out without much of a fuss or attention whatsoever. These quiet types are often some of the best performers because they just plain work.
I tested the previous version of the Vasque Blur a couple of years ago and was pretty impressed overall, but there were a few small annoyances with the shoes that kept them from standing above he pack. Those quiet performers now sport completely re-designed uppers to increase breathability while maintaining excellent support. Lets see now the new design fares.
About the Vasque Blur SL Trail Runners
The workhorse model in the Vasque trail running line, the new Blur utilizes the same midsole and outsole but combines that with a completely re-designed upper. Sporting much more mesh than the previous version yet still providing the trademark Blur stability that people like so much, the new design looks smart and wears smart.
A few features of the 2009 Vasque Blur SL:
- Dual-density EVA footbed
- Heel strike zone
- Nylon woven plate for foot protection
- Aggressive tread for traction
- Same tread design as previous model
- Weight: 12.6 oz each
- MSRP: $100
Vasque Blur SL Shoe Review
I’ve been lucky enough to have these trail runners now for about five months, so I was able to run in them this Fall just before the snow came in earnest and have also been able to slip out in them inbetween snowstorms.
The new uppers on the Blur SL’s is greatly improved over the previous model. Breathability is now one of the strong points of this shoe whereas the previous design suffered a bit. While the uppers are now mostly mesh, the welded support system on either side of the shoe does an excellent job of keeping the foot in place without sacrificing breathability.
I’m glad they kept the old lowers (same midsole and outsole) because the tread pattern, foot protection and cushioning is one of the best on the market. These shoes are unassuming… they sport solid good looks for on-the-trail and around town and they just plain do their job well.
Some trail running shoes can’t transition from road to trail so well, but the new Blur SL’s are some of the most versatile trail runners I’ve tested. Smooth and comfortable on-road performance is also matched with amazing traction, stability and breathability for long-distance and difficult trail runs in varied terrain. Without question, these are some of the best journeyman trail runners on the market.
Good Blur SL
- Trail-grabbing traction
- Versatile off-road/road capabilities
- Very breathable
- Just the right support
- Excellent cushion
- Great lateral support due to fused support construction
- Excellent for distance running
- New lacing system pulls smooth and evenly
Bad Blur SL
- A little wide and tall in the toebox
- A bit chilly on cold days
The Bottom Line: 2009 Vasque Blur SL
Sturdy and comfortable companions on both the road and trail, the re-designed Vasque Blur SL is definitely a top choice for your next pair of everyday trail shoes. Excellent traction and support is combined with superb on-road performance to deliver a versatile and stylish new trail runner for Spring.
Buy Now: Find Vasque Trail Runners at REI.com
