4. La Sportiva – Electron Another hyper-cushioned trail runner designed to provide a plush ride regardless of the surface, the Electron has a heel stabilizer for torsional rigidity and a host of cushioning layers that work together to minimize impact. La Sportiva’s MorphoDynamic technology combines PU and EVA midsole and outsole designed to mold to the shape of the surface, absorbing the shock of trail features. The company spent two years developing the technology, which enables La Sportiva to increase the cushioning of the shoe without increasing the weight. 12 ounces. $120; lasportiva.com
The Wringer
5. Hoka – Mafate While most running shoe companies are busy stripping every ounce of cushioning from their kicks to appease the new minimalist movement, the Hoka Mafate is stuffed with more cushioning than any other shoe on the market. Ultra-phenom Karl Meltzer finished the Pony Express Trail wearing nothing but the Mafate.
The Mafate looks awesome in the way that a Vegas theme hotel looks awesome: big, bright, and a little bit ridiculous. The shoe is practically twice the size of most other trail runners, but lighter at the same time. The shoes are super springy; you literally bounce with every step and the exaggerated rocker design makes transitioning to the toe-off fast and effortless. The shoe’s broad platform and uber-cushioning provides stability even on technical terrain, particularly when running downhill. Think full suspension bike as opposed to a hard tail.
With all this cushion, it’s natural to worry about durability. The company claims the shoes will last twice as long as typical trail runners, and Meltzer says he got 600 miles out of his first pair.
These shoes aren’t for everyone, though. The 36 inches of cushion and bright colors will turn plenty of runners off. And the company claims all the super-cushioned design actually recreates the natural stride that’s made minimalist shoes so popular. Natural or not, the stride is comfortable. It’s fun. And isn’t that what running is supposed to be? 10.9 ounces. $169.95; hokaoneone.com
