After YEARS(!) of waiting (just like the original Ultrafly), the new ACG Ultrafly has arrived! Are you ALL-IN on Nike ACG? Are you just itching to have that big swoosh (and glaring bright orange) on your feet out on the trails?

Well, if you’re anywhere on the fence, or perhaps curious about fit and sizing, check out my first run video.

I focus on the feel straight out of the box in this 10 miler, and dig into the fit and sizing of this latest Ultrafly. Hint - it’s wide, spacious in the toebox, but not out of control like V1.

Specs are verified as well - I find an exact match on the stack height at the heel (which is a rarity).

My US 10.0 weighs in at 10.4 oz (296g), while Nike reports a spec weight of 10.1 oz (in the same US 10). Most brands fudge the spec weight a little bit.

10.4 is not light for a trail super shoe. In fact many (plated) trail “super shoe” models are hitting the sub 10 oz range in my sizing. If does feel like a “substantial” shoe underfoot.

Yes, this shoe did win on the fast track of Western States, but it also seems designed to handle “All Conditions”. They went with a dual/parallel carbon plate setup to help with handling.

There’s still quite a bit of stiffness to manage, but the fit and foot security should help with that. I get the sense that the shoe will break in a bit with more miles and hopefully allow a bit more flex underfoot.

Stay tuned for more testing and of course comparisons on the channel. Which shoe are you most interested in seeing the Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail matched up against?

Don’t miss GOREWEAR’s Final Mile ! Use my “HUMBLE15” discount code for an EXTRA 15% off sale items. I’ve definitely made some personal purchases!

Seen in this video ➡️ CONCURVE Windbreaker Anorak

Fit is perfect for me in a size Medium - that front zippered hand pocket is so handy on the run! It sits just below the panels of a running vest. Also great to keep your hands warm if you stop to have a chat on the trail!

AFFILIATE LINKS & PROMOS

You can easily support Humble Running via my affiliate links. Specific links can always be found in my articles and videos.

REI.com

Backcountry.com

TheFeed.com

10% off of every order with my referral link (click here)

Maybe just bookmark it for easy access? (https://rstr.co/the-feed/humblerunning)

Enter the ICEBUG Myr BUGrip - featuring 17 steel studs underneath each shoe. Btw, ICEBUG is a Swedish company - they know their way around snow and ice.

Yes, I know you can just screw sheet metal shoes into any old running shoe.. I’ve done it. Yes it works, but oftentimes you can feel the pressure from those screws pushing up into the bottom of your feet.

And they certainly don’t offer the same level of agility and grip that you get with slimmer, integrated steel studs. Especially when paired with a solidly cushioned, yet stable, eTPU midsole..

What’s not to like about a well padded ankle collar to keep the snow and cold out (and foot warmth in)?

The heel sits deep in there, giving a positive feel of lockdown in slippery conditions.

Nice, smooth flex lets those studs adapt and do their thing.

If you’re out their on the trails in winter, or even out on the roads - having a dedicated studded shoe can give you the confidence to log those year-round miles!

Check out my First Run Review to see them in action. All reviews on the run - even in winter!

Myr BUGrip on ICEBUG.com - the price is right at $150

ICEBUG Myr BUGrip provided at no cost for test and review by ICEBUG. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Paid Members had early access to this video!

Both Vibram Megagrip outsoles

Nike has the edge in platform width, but is it an advantage?

Which is the smoother climber?

Which feels more stable on the descents?

How about some wet testing in January???

Check out the full comparison on the channel!

Nike Terra Kiger 10 at REI ($170)

NNormal Kjerag 02 at REI ($195)

Products provided at no cost for test and review by the various brands. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Yea, that’s TNF’s signature Dream Foam. Yea, that’s a lot of it. Specs say 36/30mm, but I measure 41mm at the heel.. so there.

From 2025 and now into Spring 2026 (Altamesa scheduled release), I have not met a TNF upper that I haven’t liked. But they might have outdone themselves here. The 500 features a roomy toebox that just begs for long miles.

Only essential materials too, as the weight comes in at 10.3 oz (292g) in my US 10.0 (that’s not a lot for what’s going on underfoot here).

WIDE base. SURFACE CTRL. 4mm lugs

Not your standard Vectiv rocker here - more stability, less “roll-y”, with a very apparent rocker up front at the toes.

So, want to go for a run?

I will update this page with release date and pricing information as it becomes available. I’m also looking to 100% clarify whether or not there is any type of internal plate (there is none visible as in other current TNF models).

Altamesa 500 V2 provided at no cost for test and review by The North Face. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

I got the feeling they could be a potential longer ultra racing shoe (100 mile range, seriously!), so I was waiting for a good opportunity to put them to the test.

Luckily, I knew a familiar loop. And covered a lot of terrain..

Made some new friends..

But wait, is this a LEGIT trail super shoe?

✅ 37/32mm (5mm drop) *measured

✅ SC beaded TPU midsole

✅ Dual forked carbon fiber plate

✅ Dimesh upper w/ inline dual lacing system

✅ Vibram Megagrip / Litebase / Traction Lugs (4/6mm)

✅ 10.4 oz (294g) US 10.0

Specs seem to check all of the boxes! A second place finish at OCC (Christian Minoggio) is also not too shabby.

But.. I do spy a custom knit bootie setup here which is not in the production version (the one I have tested). Hmmm… That setup looks super sweet and probably even lighter ?!?!

Check out my FULL REVEW on the channel for all the details!

Use code 'FUGA10' at checkout for 10% OFF any EX Series shoes and Air running vests

➡️ Kailas FUGA EX PRO

➡️ Kailas FUGA Air 8 IV

And don’t forget to save yourself 10% at TheFeed.com!

FUGA EX PRO provided at no cost for test and review by the Kailas. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

I measure 34mm at the heel for a 34/28mm total stack. Weight is relatively light at 8.9 oz (252g) in my US 9.5. Dual Density Energy Foam+ / Energy Foam midsole.

Full Matryx upper with proven Quick Lace system. You can also see the midsole wings coming into play for a bit of stability.

But ah… the S/LAB badge - comparing this model against previous versions, especially the OG version 1, does show a stark contrast.

Or is it better to call it an “evolution”. You see, that shoe on the left there measured in at 26/20mm underfoot, and an incredible 6.5 oz (184g) on the scale!

Yes, those numbers are correct. And look at that ground platform! I did have some great runs in that Pulsar V1 - and I still have it. But I’m not so sure it would handle stuff like this so easily..

I definitely noticed much more versatility in this latest S/LAB Pulsar version. The added stack also makes them more of a mid-distance option for a wider range of runners.

Maybe even a lightweight everyday trainer for some?

Check out my full video review to hear my complete thoughts and analysis. This is a good one! The shoe, and the video =)

Wet testing too!

Salomon S/LAB Pulsar 4 @ salomon.com ($220)

S/LAB Pulsar 4 was provided at no cost for test and review by Salomon. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Many, many options to choose from..

I didn’t want to box myself into any kind of arbitrary categories so the emphasis here will be on MY top picks.

That being the case, there are SO MANY GOOD TRAIL RUNNING SHOES on the market right now, with many being released just this year.

Choosing just 5 is a tough ask, so I’m also throwing in some alternatives and comparable options.

Maybe some “potentials” that I just haven’t had the time to test as extensively as others.

Perhaps some future contenders or intriguing shoes that are in the testing pipeline..

Who knows?

Check out my picks!

I’ve been busy testing testing testing - and thought this would be a good spot to send this one out in lieu of the bi-weekly newsletter. Trying to keep my promise to you of only bi-weekly spam!

Please find my affiliate links below to all of the shoes in contention for “Best Trail Running Shoes of the first 2/3’s of 2025” list. Clicking though these links does help me out, so thank you!

My next newsletter will probably be more gear-focused, as I do have a pile of apparel and other stuff I’m testing along with all the shoes. Thank you for signing up and following along!

AFFILIATE LINKS & PROMOS

Arc’teryx Norvan LD 4 - REI ($170)

Arc’teryx Sylan Pro - REI ($161 - SALE!!!)

HOKA Mafate 5 - REI ($185)

La Sportiva Prodigio Pro - REI ($225)

La Sportiva Prodigio Max - Backcountry ($185)

norda 005 - Backcountry ($325)

norda 008 - Backcountry ($145)

On Cloudultra Pro - REI ($260)

S/LAB Pulsar 4 - Salomon ($220)

The North Face Vectiv Infinite 3 - REI ($160)

The North Face Vectiv Enduris 4 - REI ($160)

The North Face Vectiv Sky 2 - REI ($200)

The North Face Vectiv Pro 3 - REI ($250)

Products provided at no cost for test and review by the various brands. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Don’t miss my two part Arc’teryx test videos from my last trip up to the Sawtooths!

I covered 35 miles over the course of two separate runs within a 27 hour period. 7,592 feet of elevation was gained.. and I even went for a test swim!

I was also able to test out some fueling and hydration from Tailwind along the way, plus the Raide LF 2L belt.

The Raide belt was fantastic. I used it the first day, having never done such a long mountain run with anything other than a vest.

A bunch of supplies, mainly Tailwind for fuel, Garmin inReach, some camera stuff and one soft flask. It does help to have plentiful mountain water throughout the route.

Yes, both shoes passed their wet tests..

Both Arc’teryx models - the Norvan LD 4 and the Sylan Pro - were perfect for these runs. There were some slight differences between the two that I of course cover over the course of these runs.

Both handled the mountain terrain VERY WELL

Ran into some volunteers from the Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation. What an incredible job they’ve done clearing the routes after there was a significant wildfire just last year.

Please consider donating to support their efforts.

Pretty scenic out there. Sawtooths huh?

Both episodes are pretty long, but I had a hard time cutting such epic footage. There’s enough time for other short and quick shoe review videos.. I’d suggest maybe a run on the treadmill or a ride on the bike trainer, and why not come along with me?

AFFILIATE LINKS & PROMOS

Arc’teryx Norvan LD 4 - REI ($170)

Arc’teryx Sylan Pro - REI ($161 - SALE!!!)

Raide Research LF 2L Running Belt - Backcountry ($149)

Tailwind High Carb (tailwind.com)

Tailwind Endurance Fuel (tailwind.com)

Products provided at no cost for test and review by Arc’teryx, Raide Research, and Tailwind. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

This is just a primer for my full video review, including the main questions and comments that I’ve seen about this highly anticipated update. My Full Review is now LIVE!.

If in ain’t broke don’t fix it? Hoka is doubling the drop from 4 to 8mm. Will this drastically change the ride from the flatter, more “natural” feeling 4mm?

The Mafate line is no stranger to stack height.. but V5 dramatically goes up 10mm in stack at the heel. Now 43/35mm (spec) compared to 33/29mm for V4.

But Hoka already has the Mafate X - what’s the point of another “SUPER” max trail shoe? How does this shoe slot into Hoka’s model lineup?

Flipping the script on the midsole - apparently? It was my understanding that the firmness layers were being reversed, with the firmer layer closer to the foot, and the softer layer closer to the ground..

But is that really the case? Is there a noticeable difference?

What about stability? Can this shoe possibly be stable at 43/35mm underfoot?

And the weight? 11.72 oz (332g) spec. That’s a lot more than V4 right?

One element not in question - deep and rugged Vibram Megagrip outsole with Traction Lug technology.

HOKA Mafate 5 is now available at REI ($185)

HOKA Mafate 5 was provided at no cost for test and review by HOKA. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Listed at 36/30mm (6mm drop), I’m not sure if it can accurately be called “Max” in today’s market. I have some trail shoes north of 40mm at the heel, and road super trainers are even pushing 45mm+.

Nevertheless, I don’t have too many high stack road options so this one is new for me. Notice the Double Layer CloudTec Phase setup - the “pods” are offset into two levels.

It seems to smooth out the ride on the run - I notice a nice and smooth even compression that’s neither firm nor overly soft. It feels solid underfoot for the “Max” stack.

Of course I took them out on some dirt (still trying to keep it flat less than one week after racing 100k).

They’re pretty stable actually, and could be a solid shoe for light trails, gravel, and dirt. It has decent enough outsole coverage to handle the job.

Check out my first impressions here -

Next road option from On - the Cloudsurfer 2

This shoe has been out for a while, and it’s very close in look and design to the Cloudsurfer Trail (V1) that I previously tested-

I liked the CloudTec Phase design in that one - how the pods are somewhat angled like dominoes toppling over. I found that it did give a sense of “sequential” compression when landing - especially for heel strikers.

Different upper setup compared to the trail version I tested. I have a US 10 in the road Cloudsurfer 2 here - and I actually feel better heel lockdown compared to my Cloudsurfer Trail V1 in a smaller US 9.5.

That top “lace loop eyelet” seems to help pull the heel down into the pocket. They’ve also really bumped up the padding along the inner heel area. Again, feels great walking around so far and more secure even with the bigger size.

Outsole setup is similar to the Max - a little less coverage around the middle. The shoe is lighter (9.5 vs 10.0 oz) and does feel more nimble (although less stable).

I have not run them yet, but looking forward to getting some more road/dirt miles in and possibly and A/B comp?

BONUS - also in for test - Cloudultra 3 (regular version)

All black (?).. I wanted to try this one in a US 9.5 mainly for fit comparison. My Cloudultra Pros in US 10.0 are quite spacious (I like it), but I wanted to try out how my typical true to size would feel, mainly for giving sizing advice. Stay tuned for more on these and of course comparison to the Pro!

If you appreciate my content, please consider purchasing via my affiliate links. It does help support the channel, THANK YOU !

➡️ On Cloudsurfer Max at REI ($180)

➡️ On Cloudsurfer 2 at REI ($160)

➡️ On Cloudultra 3 at REI ($190)

➡️ On Cloudultra Pro at REI ($260)

Cloudsurfer Max, Cloudsurfer 2, Cloudultra 3, and Cloudultra Pro samples were provided at no cost for test and review by On. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Oh yea..

Perhaps a bit “much” for the streetwear crowd.

Let’s not forget.. the Tecton X 2 is all business on the trails. Between the X 2 and version 1, I ran a string of 100 milers in those two models.

When this shoe came on my radar.. I was all about it. The MAAP designed (more on them below) upper is so slick and understated, my mind immediately thought of the norda 005 - a shoe at home not just on the trails, but anywhere else life takes you.

And you know I dig a light colored trail shoe. Some copy about the collab..

HOKA’s latest collaboration with MAAP, the Australian-born cycling apparel brand celebrated for its vibrant colors and unique styles that have resonated with athletes and the fashion community alike. This partnership brings together the worlds of running and cycling, highlighting technical innovation designed for endurance sports while seamlessly transitioning into everyday streetwear.

Available in a signature “limeade” colorway, the shoe is built on HOKA’s acclaimed Tecton X 2 sole, featuring a parallel carbon plate that delivers a propulsive ride on varied terrain. Reflective detailing, inspired by MAAP’s technical cycling apparel, enhances visibility on and off the bike. Hot melt overlays and splatter paint details further elevate the shoe’s design, paying homage to MAAP’s instantly recognizable aesthetic.

Honestly, I almost forgot how good a shoe the Tecton X 2 was/is. I just got back from Beaverhead 100K and the X 2 never crossed my mind as a race option (I had not received this MAAP version before the race).

The good memories are coming back now, and perhaps this might have been the best pick for that race???

I seem to have bad timing with Hoka - last year I got the X 3’s a week after Palisades 100M, and now these a week late for Beaverhead.

Maybe it’s for the better.. I can keep them clean just a little bit longer and “test” out the streetwear aspect over the rest of the summer.

MAAP x HOKA Tecton X 2 is available on hoka.com and maap.cc ($230).

MAAP x HOKA Tecton X 2 was provided at no cost for test and review by HOKA. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

A performance, trail super shoe from On.. this may be the On you’ve been waiting for! And by you, I mean all of you out there!

The Cloudultra Pro is absolutely a trail super shoe, but certain aspects make it more accessible, runnable, and usable for a wider range of runners, not just elites.

Check out my in-depth full review, including race footage from the River of No Return 108K in Challis, Idaho. Yes, I did race the Cloudultra Pro almost straight out of the box! And yes, I did set up chapters so you can skip the race parts if you don’t want to listen to my ramblings at semi-high altitude, and as I’m totally wiped out during the last climb.

I covered a wide range of terrain in this 108K test run/race (15,000+ feet of elevation gain).

The majority of it was rocky, chunky, Idaho doubletrack.

Also quite a bit of stream crossings, maybe 10+, ankle deep, full submersion.

The open mesh is quite an advantage for breathability, drainability, and quick drying.

There are two main distinguishing factors I think that make this a more accessible trail SUPER SHOE. The first is the rear-foot stability.

The heel is not overly-rockered, and gives a solid landing platform - both on level ground and certainly on descents. They didn’t skimp in this areas as other super shoes have, and this leads to a more reliable and wider landing area which should work for a wider range of footstrike patterns.

The other factor is the smoother rocker and toe sweep up front. It’s not as steep and aggressive as most road/trail super shoes. This seems to give more feel and stability up front, and a smoother roll into your stride.

It’s not just designed for the most elite, super-fast ground contact times. I really think this setup should work really well for a lot of runners!

Go ahead and check out my full video review for all the details. There was so much to talk about, including the race footage, that I only focused on a couple of close comps at the end. Keep an eye out for a more in-depth separate comparison video.

➡️ On Cloudultra Pro is available now at REI ($260)

If you appreciate my content, and my rigorous testing (108K RACE test!!!), please consider purchasing via my affiliate links. It does help support the channel, THANK YOU !

Cloudultra Pro was provided at no cost for test and review by On. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

So let’s just get this out of the way - this is not the same TPEE foam in the 005.

Absolutely firmer in this variety, surely denser and more protective. I clearly get the sense that this is a shoe designed specifically for alpine terrain and ultra racing. But what are the benefits of the TPEE foam here..

Surely the weight is one - my US 10 (EU xx) test pair weighs in at 10.7 oz (302g). A very good weight considering the level or protection and durability you’re getting - both underfoot and throughout the upper.

This shoe looks and feels SOLID. No flimsy collars, paper thin uppers, missing overlays, or other weight shaving elements.

Vibram Megagrip also shows that Scarpa means business here. Stay tuned for more updates and testing - I definitely want to get this one out in higher ground and rougher terrain.

Scarpa Spin Ultra 2 is available now at scarpa.com ($179)

Spin Ultra 2 was provided at no cost for test and review by Scarpa. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

Somewhat experimental, I took my 005 insoles (TPEE) and swapped them into the 001s for this run. Both shoes are based on the same last (both US 10.0).

The 001’s in US 10.0 have a great fit, but slightly short (relative to other US 10s). So the idea was to swap in the thinner 005 insole to get some extra volume.

Conversely, I’ve added the eTPU insole into my larger 005 in order to fill up some volume, as the US 10.5 is quite spacious for me (although length is good). Keep in mind I have my eye on running 100K+ in this setup.

I weighed the 005 TPEE insole at 16g (32g pair) and the 002 eTPU insole at 22g (44g pair). So a little bit of a weight “swap” when switching the insoles.

Here’s the profile of my route (12.5M, 2:08, 4,027 ft. elevation)

I liked the feel of the 001s with the 005 insole - they did feel a bit more nimble, more ground feel, and I definitely got added volume inside. They felt like a slightly beefed up and more protective 002. The 002 to me feels quite flexible and minimal.

I’ll be racing in the Instinct Evolution 7L (with dual quiver). I’ve been testing the dual setup more after using a single in my last race. The dual does feel more comfortable and balanced when the poles are stowed. Less noticeable than the offset single quiver going across your back.

Hydrapak/UltrAspire soft flasks up front - tapered at the bottom, and I added the flip tops w/ short straws. This is my best setup for front flasks.

I’ll throw an extra bottle in the rear during the race. In this run I did 22.5 oz (655 ml) per hour. For carbs I hit 107g/hr.

I did a quick foot cool off in a creek at the very end, not a full wet test. I think the 001s do hold a bit of water though - there’s almost a full interior liner, tongue gussets, foot strap, plus the outer material which is denser than the 005.

Of course, 008 pre and post-run !

norda 008 is available now at nordarun.com ($145)

norda samples were provided at no cost for test and review by norda. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

They still feel great - as if they were fresh out of the box.

Of course there is some outsole wear - I have primarily been using these for my treadmill speed workouts. Occasionally a speed session on the road here or there.

So perhaps the outsole is lasting more than would be typical after pure road mileage. But my usage also exemplifies the durability of the midsole feel, as there have been very little if any “easy” miles in these.

Of course - the elephant in the room with the Mach X 2 is the heel design. Running Warehouse item description -

I absolutely did experience this issue - my Achilles got torn up right away over the first run or two. But the shoe just felt so good that I had to try to work with it..

Enter my cheap felt pad heel fix.

This has 100% solved the issue. Perhaps it looks a little weird, but I don’t think any runner would complain about getting 520 miles (and more to come!) out of a shoe.

I’ve been eying this shoe since the Satisfy version came out last year. I was too late to snag a pair back then, but finally I’ve got one!

I’ve been a Mafate fan since the start - from the originals that Jim wore at Western States - which were my first “big stack” trail shoe and certainly a revelation at the time.

I liked the feel of V4, but the weight did creep up a bit, and certain elements of the upper did strike me as being a bit generic and perhaps overdone.

But I’m not quite sure if there was a shoe on the market that rivalled the level of soft forefoot cushion that you got with the Mafate Speed 4 (pre-Tecton X 3).

Sure, they can feel a bit squirrely due to the softness, but managed correctly, that dual-layer Profly midsole feels so good!

My test pair of the MS4 Lite (US 10.0) weighs in at an even 10.0 oz (284g), which is significantly less than my “regular” MS4 which is 10.7 oz (302g) - in a smaller size US 9.5!

No weight was shaved from the outsole - Vibram Megagrip, with deep 5mm Traction Lugs!

In fact, with the midsole / outsole being the same, all of the weight drop comes from the new, super “lite” see-through upper. But does it provide enough security on top of this big, soft stack?

Some have expressed concern over the heel area, which is something I honed in on during my First Impressions test run. I also took a close look at look at a bunch of other shoes with similar interior heel padding setups.

MUCH more on the way with these - they’re just begging to chew up miles.. First Impressions LIVE →

Hoka Mafate Speed 4 Lite ($180)

Mafate Speed 4 Lite sample was provided at no cost for test and review by Hoka. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

I’ve been testing a lot of “trainers” recently, so why not throw this one into the mix? Yes, it does have “Pro” in the title, but that’s potentially a bit optimistic.

Specs are a bit fuzzy, but Under Armour’s website lists at an 8mm drop, and I measured 35mm at the heel.

Weight is up there at a hefty 12.1 oz (344g) in my US 10.0. I sized up from my typical true-to-size based on previously testing a UA road shoe that was pretty tight in my typical 9.5.

The toebox in this trail model is a bit roomier though, so I could potentially go with a US 9.5 and thin socks. But the 10.0 works well for me.

Vibram Megagrip with Traction lugs - pretty surprising for a somewhat unknown(?) trail shoe.

I posted a pic on IG, and a few commenters noted the similarity to the new/upcoming Satisfy Rocker’s lugs.

Just one test run in so far (11 miles) - they’re smooth and solid underfoot. I’ve been feeling pretty fit recently, so I actually didn’t notice the weight too much.

They also sent me some matching gear to try out -

UA Infinite Pro ($140)

UA Launch Trail jacket ($140)

UA Launch shorts ($48)

Check out the Full Review!

Under Armour Infinite Pro sample and apparel were provided at no cost for test and review by Under Armour. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

I pushed the mileage in this one and got close to 70 miles. That’s a good amount in a single shoe considering how many different shoes I have in testing rotation.

It’s not a problem though as the Ultra 3 is fun to run in, and I’m also ramping up mileage for upcoming races.

Took the VJs up a local hill called Cervidae. It’s a favorite for Boise-area trail runners looking to pile up some quick training vert.

Instinct Evolution 7L vest + Komperdell Erlkönig FXP poles (self-deploying!) for some steep pitches on the way up.

I did one round in the Ultra 3 - going over the top to test out some more rugged terrain.

Next round in the MAXx2 for comparison - it’s a more dialed fit, although the upper material is not as nice as the Ultra 3. Differences in the SuperFOAMance formulation as well.

Outsole comparison here -

Love the new foot-shaped last of the Ultra 3 - very comparable to something like the Topo MTN Racer 4.

Check out the full review on the channel! I appreciate you signing up for the newsletter - look out for the next one coming up on Monday.

Let me know which comparisons you’d like to see for this one. I know many have been asking about the La Sportiva Prodigio Pro. That’s a popular shoe huh?

VJ Ultra 3 ($190)

VJ Ultra 3 sample was provided at no cost for test and review by VJ Shoes. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.

What’s the difference between this model and the Enduris, you ask?

Slightly lower stack, slightly different plate, slightly narrower

5mm lugs too !!!

Did I mention this is a really, really good looking shoe? TNF is crushing it in the design department this season!

This shoe certainly can MOVE! I took some footage from my first run, which is now LIVE -

Full A/B comp against the Enduris 4 is also in the pipeline. Let me know what else you’d like to see.

The North Face models available at REI

Infinite 3

Enduris 4

Sky 2

Pro 3

NOTE: This is not a paid promotion. The links above, from which I receive a small standard commission, do help support my content. Infinite 3 test sample was provided at no cost for test and review by The North Face. Please see My Support page for full disclosures regarding my testing and review process.

So you want a shoe that will stand out from the crowd? Yes, this one will do the trick!

Getting down to business, Craft uppers have been a problem for me in every single Craft shoe I’ve tested up to this point.

Just a massive amount of upper material, making it near impossible to get a decent foothold. No, I don’t have a crazy narrow foot either. Compare the Craft Pure Trail above against just the regular ‘ol Brooks Divide 3.

Well, Craft has listened, and made some adjustments. I can actually fit my Stryd pods now!

Did someone say GRAVEL? Review is LIVE ! Now what about comps?

Craft Nordlite Ultra 2.0 ($160)

Nordlite Ultra 2.0 sample was provided at no cost for test and review by Craft via JAM COLLECTIVE. Please see my support page for disclaimers regarding my testing and review process.