Footwear
The Salewa Ultra Train is the shoe I hoped it would be, with one circumvent-able flaw. In the past month I have worn it on rugged backpacking trips in the Colorado Rockies, as well as on several trail runs and mild hikes to better understand its optimal range. Review: Salewa Ultra Train Some may find…
When I retired my Altra Lone Peak 2.5 shoes in June after surpassing 550 clicks (read my long-term review), a void was left in my closet: I had no generously cushioned shoe suitable for easy recovery runs on roads and non-technical trails. Fortuitously, the Altra Provision 2.5 recently arrived for review. (Altra also sent the Lone Peak…
For extended wear in 3-season conditions, I strongly discourage the use of “waterproof” footwear. When it’s dry, they trap excessive heat and perspiration. When it’s wet, the waterproofing will eventually fail. And after getting wet, the shoes will dry very slowly. For a more in-depth analysis of waterproof footwear performance, read this post. The paragraph…
My skepticism of waterproof-breathable fabrics (like Gore-Tex) and products that utilize them (like rain gear and “waterproof” footwear) is no secret. For a history, read: Why I’m hard on Gore-Tex, the King of Hype Breathability: an explanation of its importance, mechanisms, and limitations Core 13 Clothing: Rain Jacket & Rain Pants Occasionally, however, it’s healthy…
If my quiver of running shoes were limited to just one model, I would select the Salomon Sense Pro, no question. A long-term review is in order: I’m now onto my third pair, and recently picked up two more from REI at 50 percent off, with free shipping and a $20 gift card bonus (with…
Since sharing my early impressions about the Salewa Lite Train last month, I’ve logged many more miles in them, 140 and counting. For product specs, more photos, shoe comparisons, and less informed insight, refer to my first post. Now, though, it’s time for a full-on review. The Salewa Lite Train retails for $130. They are available…
Update (June 15, 2016): Also read my full review. Earlier this year Salewa launched its “Mountain Training” category with three distinct models for trail running and hiking. The Lite Train is the most minimal of the bunch, but most definitely still shares hallmarks of Salewa footwear, like robust design and impeccable construction. I will eventually write…
July 2016 update: The Lone Peak 3.0 has been released. Read my review. June 2016 update: After 556 miles of wear, I retired the Lone Peaks. Photos are at the bottom of this post. Last August I was sent the Altra Lone Peak 2.5 shoes for long-term review. I seldom used them in the first four…
When I discuss waterproof-breathable fabrics, a category that was invented and has been defined by GORE-TEX, I admittedly get worked up. In an early draft of yesterday’s post, for example, I called outright its marketing department know-nothings or liars, or both. And in multiple places I have forcefully explained the technological flaws of GORE-TEX and other…
Live recording Footwear and Foot-care from Sierra Designs on Vimeo. Pre-episode teaser During the next SD LIVE event, I will discuss Footwear and Footcare. Tune in tomorrow: Wednesday, July 22, 11:30am PDT. The program will run 30-45 minutes. Topics will include but are not limited to: Shoes Socks Gaiters Maceration Blisters Calluses This is intentionally a live…