New Balance MT 910 GTX Gore-Tex Trail Running Shoes Review

New Balance is a household name and a staple in the running market for years. Their quality shoes have trod millions of miles on pavement and dirt, but did you know that they are still committed to designing, manufacturing and assembling their shoes right here in America? Well, not 100%, but they do say that 25% of their shoes are made or assembled right here in the good ol’ US of A. Learn more here.

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.

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