Humble Running Newsletter #21
And yet more shoes in for test - SUPER ones !
Long delay in between newsletters.. apparently February is a pretty big month as far as Spring models getting out into the world for testing! I’ve been stringing together 90+ mile training weeks, so lots of miles in an array of different and exciting new models. Let’s dive in!
Arc’teryx Sylan 2
I was personally looking forward to this one - and the re-vamped Sylan 2 does not disappoint! I took this one out for a solid 17 miler through all kinds of terrain and it delivered on its promise of a propulsive and efficient mountain ride.
Aside from the new carbon fiber composite plate, the biggest change is the smoothing out of the rear rocker - giving a more balanced and stable feel.
Come along for a fun adventure run to find out about the rest!
Lowa Skyterra
German brand Lowa translates its alpine-driven design into a more “American-friendly” package: more cushioning, more energy, and a more accommodating fit.
But certainly not skimping on outsole! This one feels quite beefy underfoot - lots to break down and I’m waiting for the right terrain to open up. I loved the agile ride of the Amplux 2 GTX.. can the new Skyterra possibly adapt that ride to a much larger package?
Hoka Rocket X Trail
Hans Troyer crushed Black Canyon in this one. It’s been out for a while - a bit non-descript in the initial Black/Blue colorway. But this new lime colorway - WOW!
41/35mm of stack here - ATPU foam.. at a pretty insane 9.3 oz in my US 10 / EU 44. That is quite an explosive package!
Love the feel of that ATPU foam underfoot.. plate + ATPU.. a setup that I love in the Kipsummit Race. The foam feels even deeper in this model from Hoka.
INOV8 Trailfly V2
Ahead of the much-anticipated Trailfly Pro, I’ll be testing some updated models from INOV8. It’s been a little while since I’ve run in one of their shoes - they’re undergoing a bit of a brand refresh at the moment.
The Trailfly V2 gets a more secure midfoot fit, on top of sticker Graphine-Grip underfoot. This one has quite an interesting feel on foot - the flex groove along the ball of the foot allows almost a barefoot-type level of flex.
Of course, the OG beaded TPU Boomerang insole. I have to note that sizing seems to run pretty small here. I’ve got a US 10.5, yet they’re still not overly spacious. Definitely more to come here as I move through my testing queue.
Brooks Cascadia Elite
The iconic Cascadia - in perhaps its pinnacle form. I’ve got two pairs.. in two different sizes.. but why?
Find out here as I discuss potentially a new paradigm in super shoe fit and sizing
Mammut Aenergy Trail 2026
I round out my testing of Mammut’s all-new 2026 trail models. The Speed model is still my pick of the three, but there’s elements of the Endurance Ultra that work well as a super protective alpine shoe.
Although I did not run A/B in both shoes (they’re too different), expect the usual deep dive into all the details. These are Mammut’s first models - with more development on the way, keep an eye on this brand going forward.
UltrAspire Traverse
As you can see from the previous pic, I’ve started testing the new (20L!) UltrAspire Traverse pack. What better way than to carry around an extra pair of shoes on the run? I also have another segment in the Sylan 2 review checking out those super handy adjustable chest straps.
On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper
Another road super (or Hyper???) trainer in for test. I initially measured 45mm at the heel, so this one definitely qualifies for the category. 23 miles within just over 24 hours, with another 8 mile run, and a morning of skiing sandwiched in between.
Yea.. this Monster can handle some miles. Trying to see about getting a Lightspray model for comparison.. not sure how that upper would work out - I’d definitely need to size down - but it looks pretty radical!
RTIC 16 QT Road Trip Cooler
I’ve started to kit out my van for some summer RUN-ventures - cool drinks are a MUST! I saw the Road Trip Cooler pop up in my feed, and knew it would be perfect. The slim form factor is just the right size to stash in a smaller vehicle and has enough capacity for longer adventures.
Stay tuned for upcoming RUN-ventures on the channel! I’ve also got an Outback Jug in for test - cold drinks after long runs, and even refills mid-long run!
Tifosi Sanctum SL
We’ve been having more than a few t-shirt days throughout the winter.. perhaps a good time to think about some summer shades? The new Tifosi Sanctum SL removes the bottom rim from the stylish Sanctum for a fresh look.
For some reason (I can’t exactly figure out why) - the nosepiece on this SL model seems to hold more securely than the regular Sanctum. Perhaps better weight balance?
and MORE
As I was in the process of drafting this newsletter - even more awesome shoes and gear came in for test! Please make sure you’re signed up for the newsletter to see what’s coming up next!
Also consider a paid membership if you have ongoing running shoe and gear questions that you NEED answered on a regular basis!
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Cascadia Elite or Kipsummit Race ... if you had to pick one?
Are you planning on getting the Nnormal Cadi in for review? I would love to see a long run video review of them 🙌🏻