Running Shoe Reviews
Spring 2011 Trail Shoe Guide
Runner's World wear-tests and reviews 9 trail running shoes built to take on whatever nature dishes out
By
Warren Greene and Martyn Shorten, PhD
Image: Jens Mortensen
Asics Gel-Trail Attack 7
For Rugged Terrain
Weight 11.5 oz (M) 9.6 oz (W)
Buy $85; 800-678-9435; asics.com
We Say The midsole and outsole of the latest Attack have not changed from the previous version, allowing the shoe to maintain its solid ride. What has changed is the fit, which is more snug thanks to an upper that uses independent lace loops and a two-layer mesh to lock the heel in place and tightly grip the instep. Note: A few of our testers had trouble keeping the new lacing system tied. Recommended as a versatile off-road trainer and a good value.
Find: Trail races in your neck of the woods
Wear-Tester Says "A great gripper, supersolid on rock and uneven surfaces, though I had trouble with snow and mud getting trapped in the treads." —Daniel Talhelm, 69, East Lansing
More: Squeeze in a 7-minute strength training session.