THE NORTH FACE RUCKY CHUCKY
Named after the famous river crossing in the Western States 100-Miler, this new offering from The North Face is all about ultra performance. The big pores of the upper mesh are made to not only breathe but drain the moisture that comes from the inevitable submersion during many trail runs. This one is also big on support, as the Thrust Chassis is designed to gently guide against pronation, so poor form doesn’t have you aching as the finish line nears. $110.
KEEN WASATCH CREST
A long distance workhorse, the Wasatch Crest is built to take hit after hit on ultra slogs. The super-supportive midsole keeps feet stable, even when you’re scrambling your way through a rigorous rock garden, while the top of the trail shoe is vented to keep your dogs breathing in the later miles. $95.
MONTRAIL STREAK
If short distance or minimal impact trail running fits your stride, the Streak is a new fast and light shoe that’s ready to bring you an off-road PR. Just right for fire roads or short stints of pavement, it’s a transitional shoe that boasts a sticky sole for a variety of surfaces. The top, though, is soft, flexible, and breathable—good staying nimble but not recommended for punishing root rambles. $85.
BROOKS ADRENALINE ASR
A transition shoe that’s made to move from the road to the trail, the Adrenaline mixes the cushioning you want on the pavement with a rugged outsole that’s ready to grip rocks and roots. The shoe’s top is also water-repellent for moisture control on wet trails, while a dual density post helps pronators keep feet in line. $95.
LA SPORTIVA CROSSLITE
A new adaptation of La Sportiva’s popular Fireblade, the Crosslite feels feathery on the feet at just 10.85 ounces. But it’s ready for nimble maneuvering through rocky terrain with the new sole’s grip-hungry impact brake system. $85.
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ROAD
BROOKS TRANCE 7
This stellar road shoe is all about comfort—a result of a solid balance between cushion and stability that creates a maximum energy return during high-mile training. The Hydroflow heel takes the hard shock out of long run impact—a perfect relief during regular work for that upcoming spring marathon. $135.