Facebook Twitter Instagram
    FeedTheHabit.com
    • Home
    • Gear Reviews
      • Mountain Biking
      • Road Biking
      • Bike Commuting
      • Trail Running
      • Skiing
      • Outdoors
      • Water Sports
      • Vehicles
    • News
    • Trip Reports
    • Videos
    FeedTheHabit.com
    Gear Reviews

    Asolo Dominator Trail Running Shoes Review

    Jason MitchellBy Jason MitchellSeptember 1, 20101 Comment3 Mins Read

    New this year, Asolo has invigorated their trail running lineup with two new designs: the Dominator and Predator. I first reported on these shoes last year at Outdoor Retailer and saw them as a great improvement over previous designs. The proof would come on the trail as I took these out for a little dirt time.

    Asolo Dominator Features:

    • Microfiber upper with nylon mesh for breathability.
    • Velveteen lining for added comfort.
    • Propulsion anatomic footbed.
    • Propulsion Plus™ technology offers controled flexibility, support and shock absorption.
    • TPU dual-density sole support.
    • Propulsion 1000 outsole.
    • 13.00 oz
    • MSRP: $124

    Asolo Dominator Trail Running Shoes Review

    With a slew of trail running shoes in the hopper this Summer, I was glad to add the Asolo Dominator’s into the mix. Having tested two previous Asolo trail running shoes, I was interested to see how the new Propulsion system improved their performance. Looking it over, Propulsion Plus looks very similar to Salomon’s AC Skeleton design with a supportive skeleton-style system that’s the hub of the midsole.

    Slipping these on, the uppers wrap comfortably around my feet for a snug fit. With my narrow feet, however, the lacing nearly maxes out when used with my typical ultralight socks. With a more midweight sock, this is mitigated. The overall profile is anatomically-correct for improved feel. I appreciate the non-overbuilt uppers that are supportive, but not bulky and thick to impede breathability. I do wish that the shoes had either gusseted tongues or a scree guard as trail debris made its way inside fairly regularly.

    On the trail, the traction provided by the Propulsion 1000 outsole is superb both up and downhill. I do wish they had a little better toe-off traction for a tad better forward motion, but I do run on loose and rock trails that give fits to even the best shoes.  Trail protection is good, but might be a little numb as trail feel is a bit compromised. I think the culprit is the extra-firm midsole which does deliver a fairly firm ride. If you need a more cushioned ride, you might want to look elsewhere, but if you are keen on support and traction, these shoes should fit the bill.

    At 13 oz, the Dominator’s are a tad on the heavy side for racing, but should be OK as trainers or even light hikers.

    Good Dominator

    • Smooth, even lacing pull
    • Comfortable out of the box
    • Maintains great breathability
    • Very supportive design overall
    • Excels as a light hiker

    Bad Dominator

    • Fairly firm cushioning
    • Toe-off traction is lacking
    • Needs a scree guard or gusseted tongue

    Bottom Line: Asolo Dominator Trail Running Shoes

    These are definitely the best trail runners I’ve tested from Asolo, but they do have a fair amount of improvements that should be made before I’m completely stoked. The Dominator’s offer a firm, but supportive ride with comfortable uppers that breathe well, so slip them on and give them a whirl for yourself and decide.

    Buy Now: Asolo Dominator Trail Runners at Zappos.com

    17
    SHARES
    ShareTweet
    asolo
    Previous ArticleThe North Face Klamath 8 Hydration Pack Review
    Next Article Giro to Launch High-end Road and MTB Shoes for 2011
    Jason Mitchell
    • Website
    • Twitter

    A native of the Pacific Northwest, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. That passion is channeled into every article or gear review he writes. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground.

    You Might Also Like

    Mountain Hardwear Basin Lined Pants Review

    February 1, 2023

    Polar Pacer Pro Multisport Watch Review

    January 30, 2023

    Küat Grip 4 Ski Rack Review

    January 26, 2023

    1 Comment

    1. Jeff Rikers on September 24, 2010 1:39 pm

      Nice looking pair of kicks, I especially like the hint of yellow, not in your face but adds some flavor.

      Reply

    Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

    Most Popular

    Montec Fawk Ski Jacket and Bib Review

    February 28, 2022

    Patagonia Downdrift Parka Review

    February 2, 2022
    8.9

    Zipp 303 S Carbon Wheelset Review

    November 4, 2021
    9.2

    SRAM Rival XPLR eTap AXS Groupset Review

    August 12, 2022
    8.5

    Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Review

    November 28, 2022

    Ultimate All-rounder? Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket Review

    February 2, 2021

    Patagonia Storm Shift Jacket and Pants Review, feat. Gore-Tex ePE membrane

    December 21, 2022

    SRAM Rival/GX AXS Mullet Gravel Kit Review

    September 17, 2021
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 TLR Wheelset Review

    September 9, 2021
    9.1

    Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 TLR Wheelset Review

    June 18, 2020
    Follow Us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
    Advertisement
    Our Latest Posts
    • Mountain Hardwear Basin Lined Pants Review
    • Polar Pacer Pro Multisport Watch Review
    • Küat Grip 4 Ski Rack Review
    • Ibis Exie Goes Global
    • Trek Circuit Thermal Long Sleeve Jersey Review
    • Mountain Hardwear Stretch Ozonic Insulated Jacket Review
    • Pearl Izumi PRO NeoShell WxB Jacket Review
    • Montane Anti-Freeze Down Hooded Jacket Review
    • Fresh Wheels: Fezzari Veyo is an Aero All-rounder
    • Mountain Hardwear Summit Grid Hoody Review
    About Us
    About Us

    Since 1999, we have delivered in-depth gear reviews, articles and content. We feature a small staff of savvy, experienced writers who love to review outdoor gear.

    External links to Amazon, REI, Backcountry and other retailers include affiliate codes that give us a small commission on each sale.

    To contact us or learn more, go to our About Us page.

    © FeedTheHabit.com 1999 - 2023. All rights reserved.

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.