Rab Phantom Waterproof Jacket: first impressions 

The best type of running jacket for trail runners is one that's so light and packable you never think twice about stuffing it into your hydration vest, and this jacket excels with its barely-there design.

Made using a 7D Pertex Shield 2.5-Layer construction, it's almost impossibly light and packs down into its own hood, so you can stash it in just about any pocket. The fabric is treated with a PFC-free DWR, and the jacket does a great job of repelling light rain and is very windproof. It won't hold up against torrential rain, however.

Rab has stripped away all the extras, such as pockets and toggles, and the only thing adding any weight at all is the full-length zip, which comes all the way up past your chin to provide extra protection from the elements and secure the hood. The hood is elasticated and has a toggle at the back so you can cinch it tight when the wind picks up.

The cuffs and hem are also elasticated to help find a snug fit, and the cut is slim enough to be functional while allowing for excellent freedom of movement.

Despite its light weight, it doesn't appear to be a particularly fragile jacket and has held up to months of testing without showing any signs of wear, never mind tear.

Is it pricey? For the occasional wet-weather runner, yes absolutely. But compared to jackets we've tested previously, it's somewhere in the middle, despite being one of the best, and if you go out in all conditions, then it's worth it.

Rab Phantom Waterproof Jacket: in the field 

I've spent the latter half of spring and the entire summer testing out Rab's newest trail running gear, on runs ranging from the Highlands of Scotland to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales National Park in England.

In addition to the Rab Talus 2-in-1 shorts, which I absolutely adore, and the Rab Veil 12L Lightweight Running Pack, I've worn this jacket a fair bit, and packed it away in my vest even when the forecast doesn't call for rain. Though Scotland has had an actual summer for once, I've still had plenty of occasion to test it out against mist, drizzle, and torrential rain.

Here's how it performed:

Sizing and fit

I tested the XS, which is a UK 8, and I'm glad I didn't try the small as I think that would be too big and flappy. It might just run the tiniest bit big, but on me this size leaves enough room for layers, which will be useful when winter arrives, and isn't too loose, thanks in part to partially elasticated cuffs and hem.

Weight and packability

The first thing that stood out was how unbelievably light this jacket is. It's exactly half the weight of my North Face Lightriser Futurelight running jacket and, unlike a lot of garments that claim to pack away inside their own pockets, this one really does fit into a pocket on the back of the hood.

I don't even notice it when I'm running, and it will basically always be in my hydration pack moving forward, no matter the weather or the season.

Weather protection and breathability

This jacket has a 2.5-layer construction, and it's made for running, so I didn't expect it to hold up against heavy rain, but regardless, I found myself wearing it in a downpour during my first outing in it back in the spring. I was running in rain and wind (but fortunately not severe cold) for about 90 minutes, and when I got back to my car, I was quite wet down my front around the zip and on my shoulders.

I wouldn't expect any running jacket to really repel that type of weather, and I wouldn't use this as a replacement for a proper 3-layer waterproof for hiking, but it really is excellent in light rain and holds up for quite a long time.

Despite that decent level of protection, this jacket is surprisingly breathable, and I'm amazed at how often I've simply kept it on for an entire run when the rain has stopped (or hasn't started) because it's perfectly comfortable.

You might think that would translate into a smelly jacket, but I've just given the pits a sniff and there's absolutely no odor at all, after months of use, which is another thing I can't say for my other running jacket.

Storage and hood

There are no pockets, but since I wear a vest (and the Rab Talus shorts) I really don't need them and personally wouldn't want something bouncing around in my running jacket pocket anyway.

The hood is just great, staying put thanks to a toggle at the back to tighten it and the high collar, which helps protect my face when it's blowing sideways.

For all its wear, it still looks absolutely brand new and I'm planning to wear this jacket for many years ahead.

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• How Advnture tests products

Brooks Cascadia 19: first impressions 

Over 20 years ago, the very first Cascadia trail running shoe was issued (and designed with ultra running legend Scott Jurek), and it allowed Brooks to position itself at the forefront of the trail scene. The shoe was such a success that it has since gone through multiple reiterations, and the original was re-issued last month.

With trail running tech constantly improving, Brooks keeps finding ways to upgrade the design of the Cascadia, and it calls number 19 the most versatile yet, with testers describing it as "the multitool for trail runners".

In addition to a lighter build and lower drop (down to 6mm), the main headline is the updated Trail Adapt System, which is the brand's proprietary system of cushioning, outsole, and rock plate that's designed to provide stability and protection on uneven surfaces.

This has been updated since the 18 to include "a co-molded Ballistic Rock Shield" which basically increases your comfort on rocky trails by protecting your feet and offers a balanced, boundy ride that almost stretches to tarmac. A healthy 35mm wedge of soft, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning allows for more flexibility underfoot without sacrificing control.

The outsole of this shoe is really worth mentioning, too. Even though the lugs aren't particularly aggressive looking, the chevron design and redesigned TrailTack Green technology really shine on a variety of trails, from rocky and dusty to bogs and wet grass.

The shoe has an impressive lockdown fit, which hugs the midfoot and leaves plenty of room for your toes, and while the upper is surprisingly thick, it's very breathable and dries pretty quickly. They're not as rugged as the 18, focusing more on an agile approach for both technical and fast runs, but there's enough protection for your toes.

Upgrades have also been made on the sustainability front. The outsole is now made with 25% recycled rubber, and overall, the 19 uses more recycled materials than its predecessors and is a CarbonNeutral certified product.

This is one of the more versatile trail shoes we've seen in a while. Available in wide sizing and waterproof versions, it performs well under technical conditions but is light and comfortable enough for a newer trail runner.

Brooks Cascadia 19: in the field 

Much to my shame, I haven't had much experience with Brooks trail runners over the years, despite the brand being an original purveyor of trail shoes. I thought they were a bit outdated, compared to Hoka and Merrell, which I've run in a lot, but in the name of nostalgia, I agreed to give the new model a test.

I've tested these in wet and dry conditions on gravel, grass, and a bit of mud and bog here in Scotland, and also wore them to Chamonix for this year's UTMB where I was following the race, but also squeezed in some running and hiking.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I always test a UK 4 (US 6), which is technically a half size up compared to my official size, but gives my feet room to swell and leaves room for thicker socks in the winter months. I don't have wide feet, but I do have high arches, and when I first put these on, I was a little concerned they weren't high volume enough, as the fit is extremely snug.

That, I think, is down to the tongue being really quite plush, particularly by modern trail runner standards. However, as soon as I got out on the trail, I realized these were going to be a win from the fit and comfort viewpoint.

I ran a hilly 10k in these for their first outing, and they felt absolutely great. The snugness I experienced didn't restrict my feet at all and instead just translates into a really secure lockdown fit for me. There's zero slippage of my foot inside the shoe, and my toes have plenty of room.

I was actually able to wear these for about 36 hours straight while I was following the UTMB and had no issues with comfort, and I've found them ideal for hiking too.

Breathability and protection

Because I've been testing these in the summer months, and as it's been a warm summer, I've had plenty of opportunity to assess their breathability, and I've never encountered sweaty feet (even during my 36-hour expedition).

It's a little surprising because the upper is quite thick and the tongue is very padded, but the porous mesh does exactly what it's meant to do, and when they get wet, they also seem to drain and dry quickly.

The upper isn't quite as tough as the shoe's predecessor, which is why it's lighter, but there are protective overlays around the toes and heel, and they kept my feet quite happy when I was scampering over the rocky trails of Chamonix.

Responsiveness, stability and grip

As soon as I got over the joy of the fit of these shoes, my mind went straight to that bouncy ride. These shoes might not have the massive stack of a pair of Hokas, and for that, you get a little more trail feel, but they're just as responsive, and that goes for soft grassy trails. I wouldn't wear them for road running, but when I do have to cross a little tarmac to get to the trail, they actually feel a lot cushier than my Speedgoat 6s.

They don't have a super wide geometry, but the overall design and fit do lend themselves to an extremely stable ride, even over quite unpredictable terrain.

Finally, the grip of these shoes really is something to write home about. The chevron lug pattern has proven itself a winner in other shoes, but I think the TrailTack Green outsole really is unusually sticky. I've never even slipped in these shoes, from steep, wet grassy descents and on dry, rocky trails. They don't look like they'd be a good match for mud season, but beyond the sloppiest conditions, these have some of the best traction I've tested.

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• How Advnture tests products

Hoka Mafate X: first impressions 

A big midsole on a Hoka trail running shoe is no big deal, but the sheer stack of the Mafate X shocked us with its towering 49mm under the heel. Add to that a carbon plate for propulsiveness, and we started to wonder what trail running's fastest-growing brand was thinking of.

If you think in imperial measurements, 49mm is nearly two inches tall, or four decks of playing cards stacked one on top of the other. In these shoes, you might actually want to consider wearing a helmet while you're running to protect your head from low-hanging branches on overgrown trails. That said, what you lose in the possibility of a concussion, you certainly gain in comfort.

There's almost no other way to describe the sensation of running in these shoes than to say it's like running with memory foam pillows strapped to your feet. The plushness of the EVA foam, known its durability and water-resistance, and PEBA foam (excellent energy return) is just al dente enough to give you an undeniable feeling of bounce, even on the softest grass trails, and your feet will remain happy for hours, even if you venture onto tarmac.

If you've never run on the trails in a Hoka shoe, the height of the midsole might reasonably make you feel a little nervous about the prospect of a sprained ankle, but in our field tests, we discovered a surprisingly stable ride, thanks to that carbon plate.

Beneath that staggering stack you'll find a Vibram Megagrip outsole with uniquely shaped 3.5mm lugs in a "tacos and pizza" design (yes, really) that's surprisingly effective on more slippery terrain.

There's also a new woven upper (ultralight to offset the added weight of the plate) that allows for easy drainage when you meet with waterlogged trails. This is the latest model from Hoka to feature its patent-pending "dynamic vamp" in the forefoot upper, which is designed to help your toes splay naturally as you run, and the result is a slightly higher volume fit than we're used to with Hoka shoes and a more generous toe box. For some, that might translate into having a bit of a harder time finding that all-important lockdown fit, but there is a woven sockliner and gusseted tongue to help, which also prevents debris from putting a hitch in your wagon.

In summation, the Mafate X handles a lot better than we expected in terms of grip and stability, whilst delivering on the promise of all-day comfort, but we can't help but be a little confused with this shoe. Set aside the fact that the jury is still out on whether carbon plates actually help trail runners, and you've got a pair of shoes that are priced and built for elite runners going the distance, but arguably on the heavy side for ultras.

They're billed as gravel shoes, and they're certainly a workhorse on that surface, so if you've got money burning a hole in your pocket and you're seeking comfort and responsiveness, they're worth a look.

Hoka Mafate X: in the field 

I won't lie, I was very curious to try out these shoes after spending the previous nine months running in the Hoka Speedgoat 6s. I've had a lot of success with the Speedgoats, but clearly, this was a completely different shoe and I had no idea how I'd handle that massive stack (and as the recipient of two knee surgeries, I'll admit I was a little nervous).

My first rodeo in them was a short 5k trail run on a straightforward trail in the UK's Lake District. When I got back to my car uninjured, I decided to immediately follow that up with an 8k run in steeper, hilly terrain with a mix of gravel, grass, and slate and make a day out of it. The following week, I decided to bring them with me to the Swiss Alps for a hiking and yoga retreat where I knew I'd have plenty of time to bookend our hut trip with a couple of trail runs in Verbier.

Since then, I've been testing them out on trails in the hills and mountains of Scotland to see how they handle different terrain.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I always test a UK 4 (US 6), which is technically a half size up but gives my feet room to swell and leaves room for thicker socks in the winter months. In the past, I've found Hoka shoes to be quite narrow – my old Clifton 8s rubbed my inner arches quite a bit, even though I don't have wide feet. So when I tested the Speedgoat 6s, I went for the wide sizing, and that seemed to be the solution.

For the Mafate Xs, however, no wide option exists, so I went with my usual size and was surprised to find that these shoes are much roomier than Hokas of days gone by. I have a high arch and found these to be high volume enough to handle my feet. In fact, I quickly learned that if I don't lace them tightly enough, my foot moves around just a little, but with proper lacing, I can achieve a nice snug fit around my midfoot, my heel is locked into place, and there's lots of room for my toes.

As for comfort, well I get that in supersized portions from these shoes. The initial sensation when I put them on was how plush they feel (and how tall I suddenly was). I'm not a 100-mile runner, so I honestly can't tell you how they perform over those types of distances, but on the days when I've run for hours in them, my feet have been nothing short of delighted.

The only caveat to that is that, because I didn't want to pay to check a bag for my trip to Switzerland, I also wore them for two long days of hiking, and I did find that I got foot fatigu,e which I suspect is down to the carbon plate, which provides zero flex. T

o caveat my caveat, Hoka does not advertise them as hiking shoes the way it does with some of its running shoes, so this isn't a design flaw, I just wanted to mention it in case you're looking for a shoe you can comfortably hike and run in. Since I tested these, Hoka has announced the Mafate X Hike, which may be what you're looking for, but it still has the carbon plate.

Breathability and protection

I can't say that these shoes offer the breezy breathability of my Merrell Long Sky Matryx 2s, but I've also worn them in some unseasonably hot weather in Switzerland (in the 80s) and had zero issues with hot, sweaty feet.

Like any good trail shoe, there's reinforcement around the areas where you're likely to hurt yourself on rocky trails. I'd say the protection against roots and rocks is medium, meaning you could certainly hurt yourself if you come up against a sharp rock, but you won't feel anything on gravel trails, which is what these shoes are built for.

While they're not meant to be waterproof, I've worn them through plenty of bogs in Scotland, and they drain quickl,y although they do take a little while to dry. This hasn't posed an issue as I've been running in the summer months, but it's more something I've noticed because I've washed them a few times.

Responsiveness, stability and grip

When you see a shoe with two inches of foam underfoot and a carbon plate, you expect it to be responsive. In the past, I've wondered if the sensation of energy return is just a placebo effect, but with these shoes, I can say with confidence that they feel like running on trampolines.

Because I've had a couple of knee surgeries, I can be a little timid about landing too heavily on my heel with my knees extended, but even on the downhills, I could feel these shoes soaking up all the shock and my knees were quite happy. They're actually even bouncy enough to handle tarmac with ease. Clearly, there's also absolutely no trail feel whatsoever.

Another potential worry for me with these shoes was stability. I've grown to love the trail feel and confidence I get from my Merrell Long Sky 2s, and wasn't sure about going back to a high stack. I started out quite gingerly on more technical trails in the Lake District and the Alps where I was looking at steep, rocky descents, but again, these shoes surprised me with their stability. I'm putting that down to the wide geometry and carbon plate, and while I wouldn't actually pick these for a technical trail in regular life, they really pose no problem on gravel and grass.

Grip is provided by lugs shaped like tacos and pizza, which let's be honest, feels like a gimmick. They're 3.5mm deep, which is ample for gravel, though not quite aggressive enough for mud, and I didn't expect much from them, but I have to admit, they really work. Having worn these for descending on slick slate and wet grass, I've never slid once, so I guess that lug design works.

Also consider

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• How Advnture tests products

The best trail running shoes stand up in the toughest conditions, keeping you comfortable and stable over the many miles of treacherous terrain you're likely to encounter off-road.

These cushioned shoes from Merrell aim to tick boxes and are now up to a whopping 45% off in Backcountry's big Labor Day sale. If you're quick, you can get your hands on the Agility Peak 5 shoes for as little as $104.96 in men's sizes, and $76.97 in women's sizes. The sale runs until September 1.

This trail-ready pair combines breathable mesh uppers, designed to maximize airflow, with tough toe-caps to protect your feet from debris as you run. Inside, Merrell's FloatPro midsoles aim to balance comfort and support, while Vibram outsoles provide stability beneath your feet.

Outdoors expert Julia Clarke got a hold of the Agility Peak 5 trail running shoes in Chamonix, in the French Alps, where she got to put them to the test over many miles of strenuous running.

"If you don’t know, trail running in the Alps is, though magical, a special breed of demanding," explains Julia, who was very impressed by the Agility Peak 5's cushioning and stability on the trails.

"What struck me immediately was how comfortable the shoes are right out of the box," she continues.

"You’d be forgiven if you think these will be too unstable for rough trails, but as we start to climb steeply up into the mountains on the northwest side of the river, I have no problem keeping my balance, and my running mates also comment on how stable they feel."

Not in the US? Look below for today's best Merrell Agility Peak 5 shoes deals where you are.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

It's been two months since Caleb Olson turned in one of the fastest times in Western States history, wearing what can only be described as a white fishnet running top, and now Nike has released details on what gives with its latest trail running technology.

With the planet turning hotter and long-distance trail races getting more popular, Nike identified a need for clothing that helps athletes stay cool. Nike Radical Airflow represents "a new era of breathable apparel," according to the brand, which is no surprise if you saw images of Olson, as his shirt appeared to have more space than substance.

“Wearing it is like stepping into a fridge," says Olsen, who ran the 100-mile race in 4 hours, 11 minutes, and 25 seconds despite battling temperatures in the 90s.

Couldn't he just take his shirt off, you might ask? Not according to Nike, which says fridge-effect isn't just about those gaping holes.

Nike Radical AirFlow technology

When your body starts to heat up while you're running on a warm day, your sweating mechanism works pretty much like an in-built air conditioning system, allowing heat to escape through moisture. But only if that sweat is allowed to evaporate off your skin, as we explain in our article on breathable fabrics.

According to Nike, Radical AriFlow doesn't just allow more sweat to escape through the giant holes in the mesh, thereby accelerating the body's natural cooling mechanism; it also speeds up airflow towards your skin while you run.

The holes, which Nike calls "airducts," expedite the flow of air while you're on the move, thanks to a "funnel-shaped" construction that goes from larger on the outside to smaller as they get closer to your body. In lab tests, engineers also discovered that placing dimples on the inside of the fabric (where it comes into contact with your skin) helps to improve the circulation of that air. And that's why the brand says it chose a long-sleeved top – to give athletes the maximum benefit possible.

Does it really work? According to Drew Holmen, who wore a prototype of the shirt for his win at the Lavaredo Ultra Trail 80 in Italy at the end of June, Olson's victory wasn't a mere fluke.

"I was shocked by the cool breeze I felt across my body," says Holmen.

Meanwhile, those large cut-outs under the arms offer mobility and also cut down on weight and chafing in high-friction and high-sweat areas, making it all the more interesting for ultra runners.

Nike says the technology has been tested over the last two years – one of the largest tests in Nike running history – in the field by Nike's All Conditions Racing Department, and in controlled research settings using thermal mannequins. Lab tests reveal that when compared to DriFit, Radical AirFlow prototypes absorb and retain 50 percent less sweat after prolonged running in hot conditions.

Athletes will continue to test the prototype throughout the 2025 elite season for release in 2026, so we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for more skin on display at this year's UTMB finals. No word yet on what your tan line will look like after a summer in the top.

• The best running tops: for training and races on all terrains
• The best women’s running tops: for cool and dry runs on the trails or roads

Look out, trail runners! Nike has unveiled its latest pair of trail running shoes to keep you comfy and propel you forward on the trails.

Nike describes the new ACG Ultrafly as "a trail-tuned super shoe purpose-built to move with the terrain, delivering ever-ready stability, traction, durability and comfort, even when the miles stop playing nice."

This pair won't be available to the public until the spring, but there's already plenty to be excited about.

Build

Nike went back to the drawing board to design its latest trail running shoes, gathering insight from testers all across the globe, who received prototype ACG Ultraflys to give feedback on.

After 13 rounds of testing, the final version features a redesigned upper and silhouette with a large toe-box, internal fit band, and gusseted tongue.

Nike hasn't specified which materials have been used, but claims that the new uppers are both fast-draining and breathable, so you can take on water crossings and rainy days with ease.

Nike says these new trail shoes were "built in the dirt, forged by every brutal mile, and is engineered for optimal performance and agility in the most demanding conditions."

Inside the shoes

Once inside, the ACG Ultraflys greet your feet with Nike's ZoomX foam midsoles and ZoomX sock liners. The American brand claims these midsoles are comprised of its "lightest, softest, and most responsive foam", to return energy and stop your feet from aching on the trails.

There's also a redesigned FlyPlate, which promises flexibility and vital support as you navigate varied terrain.

Outsoles

Grippy outsoles are essential for a good trail run, and Nike has gone with the experts. Vibram is trusted by brands across the globe for its stable and dependable outsoles, and is a common choice for hiking and trail running shoes.

The ACG Ultraflys feature Vibram's Litebase outsoles, which provide "superior grip, reduced weight and next-level control on rugged uphill and downhill terrain", according to Nike.

Price

Nike has yet to specify a price for its latest trail running shoes, but if previous models are anything to go off, you can expect to pay a pretty penny.

Its predecessors, the Nike Ultrafly, cost $270 and the ACG Ultrafly is likely to be similarly expensive.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The most comfortable trail running shoes: put your feet first with these lightweight, cushioned buys

Rab Veil 12L Lightweight Running Vest: first impressions 

There's a certain genius to this hydration pack from British outdoor brand Rab in that it's built to hold all your gear for long adventures and races, yet it works just as well when all you're carrying is a running jacket and some water.

What Rab calls the 'Mono Mesh Chassis' framework turns out to provide a really neat (and adjustable) fit that's so comfortable you forget you're wearing it, even when it's loaded up.

Speaking of loading up, you can certainly do that with ease here thanks to 12 pockets where you can stash two soft water bottles (included), extra layers, your phone, snacks, and whatever else you need to get the miles in and stay safe. Some of the pockets on the shoulder straps aren't as useful once you're carrying full bottles, but we've never run out of spaces to sneak in our gear.

In addition to all the small pockets, the main compartment is reasonably roomy and can handle a hydration bladder or lightweight jacket, rain pants, hat and gloves if you're getting up high. It's accessed via a U-shaped zip, which makes it easy to reach your gear, but be warned that gear in the top pocket does tend to fall out when you unzip the main pocket.

There are also pole attachments that provide a couple of different options for carrying running poles horizontally on your back or vertically on your front.

The ripstop fabric is tough, but also light and breathable, and it never seems to hang onto moisture, no matter how wet the weather or how sweaty your body, and the added stretch doesn't seem to affect the stability of the pack whatsoever.

The pack comes in three sizes that should work for all but the smallest bodies, and it fastens at the sternum with bungee cord hooks, which are a little fiddly.

The main addition we'd like to see is a waterproof pocket of some kind, to protect electronics in wet weather, and it is quite a pricey pack considering others in the market are the same price with more bells and whistles. But that said, if you need something extremely comfortable, robust, and versatile, this is the pack for you.

Rab Veil 12L Lightweight Running Vest: in the field 

British mountaineering brand Rab has been inching into the trail running scene over the past couple of years and this summer I've been trail running in a full Rab kit, including the Talus 2-in-1 shorts and this vest. That means I've put in around 100 miles wearing this vest, from hour-long lunchbreak jaunts in the hills near my home to longer days out in the Lake District and the Swiss Alps.

Here’s how it performed:

Sizing and fit

Sensibly, this vest comes in three sizes, and the stretchy material and bungee cord adjustability make it a functional unisex design.

I received a small size to test, and that should be perfect for me as I have a small build and am a small-chested woman. I do have to pull the bungee cords at the sternum as tight as they will go to properly secure this vest, so if you're an XS or smaller, I think this may not work for you. For the vast majority of bodies, however, I think you can find a size that works for you.

Once I have it secured, it fits neatly so I have the impression of wearing my kit rather than carrying it, and it sems to fit well whether I've loaded it up with extra layers, water, my phone, charger and snacks or I'm just bringing along my running jacket and sunglasses (yes, you need both in Scotland at all times). The kit stays stable, so there's just no bouncing around while I run.

Comfort and breathability

For me, the litmus test of comfort is whether I notice I'm wearing something, and I'm pleased to report that I can wear this pack all day and totally forget about it. It's one of the lightest hydration packs we've tested and doesn't rub or chafe anywhere, at least when I'm running over a few hours (though I can't speak to hundred-mile races).

Unusually, I've had lots of opportunities to test this in warm weather since we've had plenty of it this year, and while obviously I do get sweaty, this doesn't make me any sweatier than when I run without it. The mesh fabric seems to breathe really well and, crucially, it doesn't hold onto moisture, so it doesn't get heavy or uncomfortable in heavy rain or sweaty conditions.

Storage and hydration

So far, I've counted 12 pockets on this pack, though there may be more I've yet to uncover. There's the main compartment where you'd keep a bladder if you use one, and I can just manage to squeeze my first aid kit, jacket, rain pants, hat and gloves here. Above that is a smaller unzipped top pocket with an even smaller zipped pocket inside, where I tend to keep my car key and credit card for safety.

The pack comes with two soft bottles that fit into two harness pockets, and it's reasonably easy to pull these out while I'm on the move and have a chug, then get them back in. There are zipped pockets on top of these, which are easily big enough for any phone, although they're a little harder to use if you've got two full bottles of water. Never mind, though, because there are more pockets behind them and underarm mesh pockets which work for gels and snacks, and I tend to use the pockets on my Talus 2-in-1 shorts for my phone anyway.

I use running poles a lot, and when I'm not using them, I just carry them in one hand, but there are various options for attaching your poles for longer adventures; however, there's no pole quiver.

The main pocket that I think is missing is a waterproof pocket for my phone which would help protect it in wet weather.

Value

This hydration pack exceeds expectations when it comes to storage and comfort, and that goes a long way. It's also quite robust, and while the bungee cord fastenings are a little fiddly, I'm the first to admit that they're more durable than clip fastenings.

However, it's the same price as my Camelback Apex Pro, which has a waterproof pocket and a RECCO reflector. I'm not saying it's not worth the price, as it really is a versatile pack, but be aware that you could get more for the same price.

Also consider

Comparison table

• How Advnture tests products

Hoka might have made a name for itself in the trail running shoe department, but the brand's hiking boots have also become well-loved on trails worldwide. Those who love the blend of plush, sneaker-style comfort with technical clout are going to want to pay attention to the California-based brand's latest announcement.

Hot off the chunky heels of the Mafate X trail running shoe, which hit the stores back in March, Hoka has announced the impending release of the Hoka Mafate X Hike. In any Hoka shoe, that X marks the spot where there's a carbon plate, and 15 years after the brand released its first Mafate shoe, it wasn't hugely surprising they'd attempted a more propulsive version for runners, even if the evidence is mixed on whether carbon plates really help trail runners.

It's also no great surprise that they're launching a new hiker, what with the popularity of the Kaha 3 and Anacapa 2, but we'll be the first to admit that the Mafate X Hike is the most interesting boot we've seen from the brand (and possibly any brand).

Meet the Mafate X Hike

Like the trail shoe version, it looks to boast a nearly impossibly high stack (the trail shoes are veritable skyscrapers at 49mm in the heel) thanks to supercritical EVA foam midsole, which is known for its durability and water-resistance. Unusually for a hiker, it's also got a carbon plate, something we've found really helps with stability in our field tests of the running shoe, but may also increase foot fatigue due to lack of flex.

The upper is made of Haptic material, which usually means it's 3D printed to cut down on waste. It's a treatment that's applied to synthetic fabrics to improve abrasion resistance and performance.

Unlike the trail runner, there's an integrated neoprene collar that brings them up quite high on the ankle. The brand says it provides extra ankle support and should help keep both debris and water at bay. There are adjustable speed hooks for more adaptability in lacing, and it looks as though the boot might share the same wide toe box (by Hoka standards, anyway) as the shoe.

The Vibram Megagrip outsole features the brand's unique "pizza and tacos" lug design, which we've found delivers surprisingly good grip. They haven't disclosed how deep the lugs are, but they look reasonably toothy in press images, and the midsole is entirely covered up for durability.

The most interesting new feature with these shoes, however, is the built-in RECCO reflector for improved searchability. This isn't unheard of; we've seen it recently in Scarpa boots, but it is unusual, and we're more used to seeing it in ski backpacks and waterproof jackets (gear you're likely to use for years). It's certainly a sign that the brand intends these high-profile shoes to be suitable for backcountry use, and there's no doubt that the Citrus/Alabaster color scheme makes you more visible to mountain rescue.

No word yet on the release date or weight of these beefy boots, though we suspect they're lighter than they appear, and equally, there's no mention of price yet on Hoka's website, though the trail runners are on the premium end of the price scale. With the addition of a RECCO reflector, we can't help but wonder if these will be Hoka's priciest hikers yet?

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First impressions

The appearance of this shoe isn’t necessarily for everyone; the extra-large toebox gives them a slightly goofy – even clownish – look, if you stare at it for too long. However, I’m the owner of a pair of wide Bozo-style feet, so for me, this generous provision of space across the ball of the foot was a very welcome sight, and it’s not something you see in many of the best trail running shoes, where ‘performance-fit’ is often code for ‘will crush your toes like a vice’.

Simply looking at these shoes, I immediately knew I wouldn’t have to squeeze my poor pinkies into some restrictive chassis, like one of Cinderella’s ugly sisters trying to impress a prince. Consequently, I was confident the MTN Racer 4s would be pretty comfortable trail running shoe. But would the hold and fit be firm enough for the shoe to deliver?

Although this is the fourth generation of this family of footwear, the MTN Racer 4s are the first off-road runners from Topo Athletic I’ve had a chance to genuinely trail test. I have trialed Topo road running shoes a couple of times before, over quite short distances at outdoor industry events, and I was impressed with the look and feel of those models (which were also wide in the forefoot), so I was looking forward to hitting the dirt in the MTN Racers and properly putting them through their paces.

Design

The generously proportioned toebox is the signature feature of the Topo Athletic brand, so let’s start there. The MTN Racer 4s are actually available in a ‘wide’ option, but even the standard version is much more broad across the ball of the foot than the vast majority of running shoes, which is ideal for any with wide feet or bunions, and also works really well for runners who like to splay their toes to increase trail feel. It certainly increases comfort levels over longer runs, when feet often swell.

But, while having enough room to spread your toes and stay comfortable is a massive bonus, you don’t want your feet to be sliding around in the shoe, as this can lead to a loss of control and confidence on technical trails, and result in blisters and hotspots. To prevent this, the rest of the upper on the MTN Racer 4s is designed to achieve a nice firm fit, with a snug midsection and a supportive heel cup. There is also a pair of cord hoops on the tongue for the laces to pass through – Topo call this feature the ‘double-tongue stay’ and it’s intended to keep the tongue where it’s supposed to be (nice and central).

Materials

The emphasis of these shoes is on breathability and drainage, rather than waterproofing (as it should be on most trail running shoes in my opinion), and the upper is primarily constructed from an unspecified but tough-looking synthetic mesh material.

This mesh is supported by a small TPU-type frame, which supplies a little more rigidity around the heel, along the lace system and across the toes. (Sadly, there’s no mention of any recycled content having been used). The toe cap is very minimalist, but the heel cup is a bit more substantial, and cockpit sits quite deep, with a tab protruding from the rear to support and protect the Achillies.

Topo’s designers favor neutrality, but the MTN Racer 4 does have a modest drop of 5mm, supplying extra cushioning to the heel, while the profile of the bottom of the shoe reveals a rocker shape to promote good cadence and forward movement.

There is no surround rand on the MTN Racer 4s, and no rockplate, but the midsole is around 1-inch (3cm) thick, so not only does it supply suspension, it also delivers a degree of protection to the side and bottom of your foot. The ZipFoam used in the midsole of the new 4s offers more springiness than EVA employed in previous editions of the MTN Racer.

Also new is the specially shaped FKT Insole (worth $25 / £20 per pair if you buy them separately) which come included on the inside of each shoe. This insert is made with beaded, closed-cell (so water-resistant) foam, which adds extra cushioning and improves comfort levels.

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The MegaGrip outsole, made by tread specialists Vibram, features well-spaced out lugs that are at least 5mm deep, and provide excellent traction and speed control without being overly aggressive.

The tongue is fully integrated to the upper, to prevent the ingress of grit and other trail debris. There’s also a ‘zipfoam’ Velcro hook on the outside of the heel, and a corresponding plastic hoop at the bottom of the lace system, for affixing any design of gaiter, so you can wear them in dusty or sandy conditions, on trails with tangle hazards and/or aggressive flora and fauna and through winter when running in snow. All of these are features that speak to the versatility and year-round useability of the shoe.

On the trails

Along with some wider excursions, I have mostly been running on my local trails while testing the MTN Racer 4s, taking them on a variety of terrain – technical woodland trails, hillside paths, coastal cliff-edge tracks and a mixture of pebble and sand beaches – and wearing them for short and longer runs. Offering an incredibly comfortable ride, combined with good levels of control, I have found them to be a very versatile shoe, perfect for training and competing.

Have I mentioned that these shoes have an extra wide toebox? Well, they do, and I love it. This is partly because of the sorry, misshapen state of my much-abused and knobbly feet, which make running in more restrictive shoes very painful, but it’s also because I love it when my toes can splay while I trot, especially on longer run, something I think adds not only to comfort levels, but also improves stability, balance and trail feel. I really felt these shoes gave me plenty of confidence on technical trails and sketchy descents.

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The MTN Racer 4s feel almost like barefoot running shoes in terms of their next-to-neutral profile and the way they let your toes spread. But, at the same time, the funky ZipFoam stuff used the midsole provides responsive suspension, and the generous (by Topo’s standards) 5mm drop means there is ample underheel cushioning in these shoes.

Also, the hold you can achieve around the heel and across the arched section of the foot is nice and tight, so your flappers don’t swim around inside the shoe, and you can stay in control.

The mostly mesh upper makes this shoe nice and breathable, and it drains and dries quickly if you take it through stream crossings or go through wet terrain. The water-resistant foam insole is exceptionally comfortable, and it doesn’t absorb any water, so stays light and quiet (there’s nothing more annoying than a loudly squishing shoe).

The integrated tongue works well to prevent grit, gravel and other trail debris from entering the chassis of the shoe and causing discomfort, irritation and potentially injury, and the double-tongue stay means the cushioned part of the tongue stays in position during longer runs.

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As mentioned, there’s no rockplate in the shank, and there is a lot of flexibility in the MTN Racer 4s, both in a tortional sense and along the length of the shoe. This makes for a comfortable ride, but also means you need to run with a tactile appreciation of the terrain you’re scampering across, lest you twist an ankle.

The lugs are well spaced out, so they don’t collect mud when conditions are gloopy, and the designs means they’re extremely grippy on all sorts of terrain without being too aggressive, so they’re very comfortable (to the point of being unnoticeable) even when you are running on hard-packed or sealed surfaces.

Considering the depth of the midsole and the size of the lugs, I found I got a surprising amount of feedback from the trail, which I enjoy.

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Teva Aventrail Running Sandals: first impressions 

When Teva announced it was releasing its first-ever trail running sandal and that it would take its cues from maximalist shoes, we were intrigued. The best trail running shoes, after all, require stability and protection, and something about a bouncy sandal just felt a bit wrong.

Running sandals aren't exactly a new concept, though they're certainly niche, but past models have been of the minimalist variety, such as those designed by Xero Barefoot. But instead of a thin sole and thong upper, the Aventrails are a robust, chunky affair.

The key talking point is the beefy midsole, which looks more like one found on something like the Hoka Mafate X than any running or hiking sandal we've tested. It's composed of a responsive EVA foam on the bottom and a light supercritical foam underfoot, while a nylon plate sandwiched between the two is designed to add protection and stability.

When wearing them, the initial sensation is one of extreme plushness that I found stayed with me for up to two hours on the trail, and delivers quite a springy run. And despite how substantial they are, they’re really quite light.

For the upper, Teva has combined its W strap system, which offers three points of adjustability using hook-and-loop fastenings, with a stretchy knit bootie that means none of the strap touches your skin. The result is a surprisingly snug fit where your foot doesn’t move around as much as you might expect, though I found that it wasn't totally free of rubbing. Wearing these with trail running socks would probably help, but I couldn't help thinking that’s defeating the purpose of running in sandals in the first place.

The whole point of these sandals is to get off the beaten (or paved) path, and I found the lugs on the Spider Rubber outsole to be a good match for both gravel roads and a mix of grass and bog.

It seems a bit redundant to mention that these sandals are breathable, because of course they are, and for that reason, they’re obviously a boon for running in hot weather, and they drain quickly if you meet water. When things get a little more technical, such as on steep singletrack, they do show a little weakness, but overall, they handle straightforward trails with aplomb, and they’re a great solution for adventure travel where you want versatile footwear that can be use for running and as a water shoe.

Teva Aventrail Running Sandals: in the field

My first experience with Teva sandals was back in 2009. I’d just moved to the Rockies and got a pair for river trips and, because that's what everyone else was doing, open-toed summer hiking. The soles were stiff, the straps a little hard to adjust and not the most comfortable, and I wore them for years, though rarely for hiking. When I heard about the Aventrails, I was skeptical, but curious.

I decided to pick a trail that wasn’t hugely technical to test them out over a couple of runs. But I wanted to give them a proper run for their money, too, so I chose a trail system that has some steeper slopes mixed in with rolling terrain, lots of grass and bog, and a little gravel. The first time I wore them, I ran for about an hour, and the second time for two hours.

Here’s how they performed:

Sizing, fit and comfort

I tested a UK size 4 (US size 6), and found that they run true to size. That's a half size up for me, so it gives my feet a little room to swell, though I honestly wasn’t sure if that applies in sandals. Anyway, the upper is neither too tight nor too loose, and there’s little room at the end, but not so much that I trip over.

My first impression when I put these on was surprise at how comfortable they are. In fact, they feel a lot more like a cushy pair of Hokas (and I mean Bondi 8s) than what I usually associate with sandals, and they have a good deal of arch support, which is great for me. This meant ongoing comfort underfoot out on the trail, and after two hours of running, I didn’t have any foot fatigue and really enjoyed the barefoot sensation, even in boggy areas.

The only issue I’ve had with these sandals is that after about an hour, they start rubbing my outer pinkie toe, and I’m not totally sure why. It left me with a small blister and wasn’t too serious, but it made me nervous about wearing these for long days. In both cases, I wasn’t wearing socks with them, and I wonder if that would help, but I honestly can’t imagine the point of wearing running sandals with socks. Surely the appeal is the barefoot-and-free feeling?

Stability and responsiveness

Because I’ve never run in sandals before, I started out really gingerly and made a point of using my running poles for stability. I just couldn’t believe that the high stack would be that stable and thought my feet would be slipping around, but amazingly, these performed pretty well, and as the miles went by, I started to get more confident and run faster and more naturally, even on steeper downhill sections.

The only time I had any issues with my feet sliding around was when I reached a particularly narrow bit of singletrack.

No surprises, but that high stack and nylon plate translate into a really smooth, responsive ride, even when I had to cross a short section of tarmac, and gives you almost no trail feedback besides that of bouncing.

Protection and grip

Sandals and protection don’t exactly go hand-in-hand, but I haven’t had any problems with toe stubbing. I think it’s because the wide geometry essentially acts like the edge of a bumper car and deflects any rocks or roots. That said, I haven’t had these out on really rocky trails and the thought of it still makes me nervous.

I was fully expecting them to constantly trap small particles of dirt between my foot and the sandal (with my old Tevas I was constantly stopping to empty them out), but I had no such problems. It seems like the knit bootie works to keep grime out, or perhaps I'm just towering so high above the ground that no gravel reaches my feet.

The Spider Rubber outsoles have decent-sized tiered traction lugs and have sufficed perfectly well for the terrain I’ve used these in. I’ve never slipped, but the trails have been fairly straightforward and non-technical.

Should you buy?

If you’re a sandal fanatic, these shoes could be the ones you’ve been waiting for. They somehow manage to combine the bounce of a maximalist shoe with that fresh, open-toed feel, but the rubbing on the pinkie toes could pose a problem.

What these shoes do well is provide a solution to adventure vacations where you want to travel light. If I were going somewhere like Corsica or Gran Canaria where I was expecting warm weather and wanted to run, hike, and get in the water but didn’t want to check a bag in, I could realistically wear these shoes on the place and use them for all my activities.

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Eyes up, trail runners, there's a new kid on the block. Tracksmith might be familiar to road runners, but the American brand has never made a foray into the trail scene - until now.

The new Tracksmith Eliot Range trail running shoes are the brand's first pair built for rugged wilderness trails rather than smooth roads. They're designed to optimize agility and comfort on the trails, and feature aggressive outsoles to keep you upright as you run.

Features

Although they're new to the market, these lightweight trail shoes boast several features that will be familiar to trail running enthusiasts.

Their woven ripstop uppers feature soft Merino wool linings, designed to increase comfort as you run. Merino wool is a popular choice for outdoor brands due to its smooth, non-itchy finish, and temperature regulating performance in extreme conditions.

Sturdy Vibram outsoles will also catch the eye. Vibram is the go-to choice for many brands for tough outsoles and is used by the likes of The North Face, Merrell, and Hoka. Vibram outsoles typically feature an aggressive formation of rubber lugs, designed to dig into rough terrain and stop you from slipping and falling.

The Eliot Range shoes are also lightweight, allowing you to speed through the trails without feeling weighed down. A men's US size 9 weighs in at just 9.9 oz (281g) per show.

They're available in two colorways: Clay / Silver / Gray / Faded Myrtle or just Faded Myrtle.

Price

At $240 (US only), the Eliot Range shoes are among the most expensive pairs on the market.

In comparison, our favorite lightweight trail running pair, Merrell Skyfire 2, comes from a well-established trail running brand and is available for just $200 (£170).

The Saucony Endorphin Edge shoes, which we ranked as our overall favorite trail running pair, also cost only $200 (£200).

We're yet to find out whether the Eliot Range trail running shoes are worth the full $240, but there's a lot to live up to with such a hefty price tag.

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Now that the dust has well and truly settled on the Western States 100 course, new data has revealed that one shoe brand was far and away the most popular choice among the competitors: Hoka.

A survey of data that was collected by the running site iRunFar and analyzed by TrailRunningReview.com shows that a whopping 32.6 percent of runners at the race this past June were wearing Hoka shoes.

The data was collected via video from a point early on in the race, and found that of the 369 competitors, some 118 took to the course in Hokas. Of those runners, 7.4 percent ran in the versatile and grippy Speedgoat 6s, while six percent ran in the springy Hoka Mafate Speed 4s and another six percent the propulsive, carbon-plated Tecton X 3s.

The results put Hoka about as far ahead of next-placed brand as Courtney Dauwalter was ahead of Katie Schide in the 2023 edition of the race, which is a long and winding way of saying that, in comparison, Altra was seen on just 12.4 percent of runners’ feet.

The Denver-based running brand is known for its low-to-zero drop and wide toe box in models like the Mont Blanc BOA beloved by Appalachian Trail champ Tara Dower, who put up a good fight at this year's race but DNFd at the 73-mile mark.

Annecy-based Salomon takes 7.7 percent of the pie, and Nike, which hasn’t previously been known for paying much attention to trail, was in fourth place at 6.3 percent and on the feet of overall winner Caleb Olsen, who raced in the new Ultraflys. Brooks, an early pioneer of trail running shoes, has slipped down in favor, coming in sixth place after burgeoning Adidas Terrex.

What’s perhaps more interesting is that brand representation at the starting line doesn’t seem to translate to representation at the finish. While the data collected doesn’t reveal who was wearing what, we can say with some certainty that only one person on either podium was wearing Hokas, and that’s second-placed Fuzhao Xiang who was powered to the finish by the yet-to-be-released Rocket X Trail. Winner Abby Hall and third-placed Marianne Hogan were running in shoes from their sponsors at Adidas Terrex and Salomon.

On the men’s podium, Hoka runner Jim Walmsley looked a dead cert to grab another podium in his Tecton X 3s, but he dropped out of the starting line up a couple of months before the race, leaving Caleb Olsen, Chris Myers and Kilian Jornet to take home the three winning buckles in shoes from Nike, Brooks and NNormal respectively.

What can we learn from this? That Hoka is officially a household name and that there’s no such thing as the perfect running shoe, probably. Read all the results at iRunFar and check out our guide to which Hoka trail running shoes are best for you.

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First impressions

Helly Hansen is one of the world's oldest and most trusted outdoor brands.

The Norwegian stalwart was founded in 1877 by sea captain Helly Juell Hansen, who wanted a better way to protect himself from the harsh conditions at sea. Tired of toiling in soaking clothes, Hansen and his wife, Margarethe, created innovative waterproof jackets and pants to protect sailors from the wind and waves while they worked.

In the almost 150 years since, Helly Hansen has earned a stellar reputation for creating comfy and reliable outdoor apparel for people preparing to get out and take on the elements, gear such as the new Tech T-shirt 2.0.

This trail-ready top is made from breathable 100%-recycled polyester and is designed for repeated use on the trails. With comfort and moisture control the main priorities, the T features flatlock seams, and the material is moisture-wicking and quickly sheds sweat, so you can trek or run without irritating additional weight or moisture.

This Helly Hansen top, which is available in six different colorways, is bluesign approved, meaning it's been manufactured to the highest possible standards for environmental and worker protection.

Helly Hansen Tech T-shirt 2.0: on the trails

I was lucky enough to snag two Tech 2.0 T-shirts in June, when I joined the AQA hiking charity for their ascent of Ben Nevis, in Scotland.

Following my trip to the Highlands, I've put the Colbalt and Grey Fog colorways to the test over plenty of high-intensity treks and trail runs in the English countryside. I was treated to plenty of varied weather in testing, including several rainy days and a scorching heatwave.

Read on to see how the Helly Hansen Tech 2.0 T-shirt got on in the field.

Fit and comfort

There's little worse than an ill-fitting T-shirt on the trails. Too small and you can feel constrained, but too big and you can feel like you're drowning in excess material.

The Tech 2.0 T-shirt dodges these problems with a comfortable fit that feels snug in all the right places without getting too tight. True to size, it fit nicely around my stomach, chest, and shoulders without constraining my movements.

I'm often irritated by the sleeve lengths of outdoor tops, which can be unfashionably baggy or rise so high up my upper arms that they feel like a vest. The sleeves on the Tech 2.0 T-shirt strike a happy medium, falling a couple of inches above my elbow and exposing a little upper arm without riding onto my shoulders.

For reference, I'm 6ft 1in tall, and wore a size medium throughout testing.

The 100%-recycled polyester material was also comfortable and never caused any irritation or chaffing. I wouldn't describe it as soft, but it felt pleasant enough against my skin, and gets my seal of approval for its effective moisture-wicking and quick-drying performance on the trails.

The Tech 2.0 T-shirt obviously isn't waterproof or water-resistant in any way, but the fabric is hydrophobic and the garment sheds rain pretty quickly, and always dries off a few minutes after a downpour. I really appreciated this on long, hot treks, when more absorbant fabrics would've been weighed down by sweat.

The Tech 2.0 is still comfortable after multiple hours of testing and hasn't taken any significant damage. The fabric feels the same as it did when I first put it on, and design features, like the stylish printed Helly Hansen logo, look unblemished.

It's impossible to say what my Tech 2.0 will look like in a few months, but polyester offers excellent long-term durability.

Weight

At 6.7oz (190g), the Tech 2.0 T-shirt starts off lightweight, and it doesn't get soaked with sweat or rain. My T-shirts proved light and airy in all manner of weather conditions, and I never felt like it was weighing me down.

If you're looking for something uber lightweight to wear on the trails, you can find the 3.7oz (105g) Patagonia Ridge Flow running T-shirt, and others like it in our expert guides to the best running tops and the best hiking shirts.

Price

Along with its dependable quality and longevity in the wilderness, Helly Hansen gear is known for its hefty price tags. However, with a list price of $30 (£25), the Tech 2.0 T-shirt is actually comparatively cheap.

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• Like all good things, this deal has ended, but don't worry, you'll be the first to know if we spot any more great deals on running gear. You can browse all our deals here.

If you're moving over long distances, a running vest that can handle water, snacks, and extra layers without slowing you down is key. Right now, you can pick up the fully adjustable CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest for just $79.73 at REI. That's a massive 50% discount on this hydration vest that ensures you'll have everything you need for whatever challenge lies ahead.

Advnture contributor Claire Maxted took this vest out on the trail and called it "wonderfully designed" and suitable for larger bodies with a lot of great features. At 8.5oz, it’s light for its 11L capacity, and the easy-to-use side adjustment straps mean it’s one-size-fits-all.

The 3D mesh venting down the back and under the shoulder straps is specifically designed for the different sweat areas of male and female bodies, based on CamelBak’s own body mapping research.

Claire did wish it had more pockets, but the large, zipped back compartment is easily large enough for spare clothes, a first aid kit and food. On the outside of the back compartment are two stretch pockets, one across the middle and one at the base that will fit a lightweight waterproof jacket or rain pants, with silicone grippers at the edges of each pocket so kit doesn’t slide out. At the front is a water-resistant pocket that is ideal for electrolyte and salt tablets, jelly babies and other small sweet snacks.

This deal applies to the Pigeon/Blue Surf colorway, but hurry, because the sale ends today on August 4.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest where you are.

The pack is compatible with the two 500ml soft bottles that it comes with, or a hydration bladder (not included). Finally there’s an included trekking pole quiver secured by poppers diagonally behind the pack.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on the CamelBak Zephyr Pro Hydration Vest where you are:

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First impressions

A good cap can be a godsend in the wilderness. Whether you're racing through the trails or navigating the wild while you hike, you never know when the sun will make an appearance, and you'll need some portable shade.

Running and hiking caps come in all shapes and sizes, but my favorite models are lightweight and easily portable, so you can chuck them in a backpack without adding unnecessary bulk to your load.

The Helly Hansen Cascade Shield cap ticks both boxes, weighing just 1.8oz (50g) and featuring a minimalist combination of polyester and elastane materials. So you can fold up your cap and stuff it in your backpack or pocket without a second thought.

The breezy exterior offers a decent amount of protection from the elements. Along with its sizable brim, it's coated in Durable Water Repellency (DWR) treatment, designed to shield you from wet weather on the trails.

Inside, there's a moisture-wicking inner headband in place to deal with sweat from your head to avoid saturation and extra weight.

The Cascade Shield cap is available in one size, which can be adjusted using a back buckle.

Helly Hansen Cascade Cap: on the trails

I got my hands on the Cascade Shield Cap in June, when I accompanied the AQA community hiking charity on a Ben Nevis trek supported by Helly Hansen.

In the time since, I've taken it on plenty of hikes and runs, putting this lightweight cap to the test in the varied weather of an English summer, which included a scorching heatwave and several rainy days on the trails.

Here's how it performed:

Fit and comfort

The Cascade Shield cap is a comfortable choice for protecting yourself from the sun.

Its polyester and elastane materials are lightweight and stretchy enough to fit snugly without feeling too heavy, and the thicker moisture-wicking inner headband added a nice bit of additional support. The handy back buckle provides a simple and effective way to tighten the headband, which wrapped nicely around my skull and never felt like it would fly off when I ran into strong winds.

My cap remained snug throughout testing, and the back buckle didn't loosen after plenty of runs and lengthy hikes.

The polyester material inside the cap is soft to the touch and never felt uncomfortable on my head, but did get a little sweaty on particularly hot days.

Due to its lightweight build and a few handy ventilation holes, overheating was never too much of an issue, but the top of the cap certainly doesn't have the same effective sweat-wicking as the inner band, which kept sweat from dripping into my eyes.

Protection from the elements

You never know when the heavens are going to open, and the cap's water-resistant DWR coating did a good job of keeping my hair dry in light rainfall, and put up a decent fight when it got a little heavier.

This cap isn't waterproof, so it won't do much downpour, but it offers some useful extra protection if you're caught in an unexpected shower without a raincoat or waterproof cap.

Like all DWR products, its water-resistant coating will fade over time and needs to be reapplied if you want to keep benefiting from its protection in the rain.

Weight and portability

At 1.8oz (50g), the Cascade Shield cap isn't as airy as some models like the Sealskinz Runham cap, but can still be considered lightweight and feels almost unnoticeable on the trails. It also has a bit more protection than the Runham cap, which is slightly thinner and doesn't have a DWR coating.

For this reason, the Cascade Shield is a great option for trail runners and hikers who want to shave every gram, but still need a little protection from the elements.

Its polyester brim is a touch thicker and heavier than the rest of the cap, but still felt light and provided ample shade as I navigated some sweltering days on the trails.

The Cascade Shield cap is great for adventurers on the go. You can fold, roll, or even scrunch it up and throw it in a backpack without adding any noticeable weight. When I didn't fancy wearing it, I'd often keep my cap in my pocket, where it took up little space and again felt unnoticeable.

I found this really useful as I sometimes trek without a backpack, and don't want to hold my cap when I'm not wearing it.

Price

One of the few things holding the Cascade Shield cap back is its price tag.

While $55 (£32) isn't extortionate, it certainly puts the Cascade Shield cap on the higher end of the price range, and might put you off given the other, cheaper options on the market.

For example, you can get your hands on the Salomon XA, another high-quality cap with many of the same features as the Cascade Shield, for as little as $25 (£22).

It's a shame that this cap isn't similarly priced. Helly Hansen gear is often expensive, but the Cascade cap wouldstand out from the crowd more if it cost just a few dollars less.

Also consider

Comparison table

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• How Advnture tests products

First impressions

There are lots of good trail running socks out there, but in quite a crowded category, Buff – the Barcelona-based brand that specializes in ultralight and multifunctional head and neck tubes – are turning heads and heels with their new range of outdoor-active socks for runners and hikers.

After making their name with head tubes / neck gaiters (to the extent that Buff has become the generic name for such garments), in recent years, the Spanish specialists have branched out to produce garments including running caps and head bands, as well as warm beanies for winter, but this is their first foray into footwear.

And at first glance the socks look great, with the kind of funky colors and art-inspired designs that you’d expect to see on their vibrant and versatile face and head tubes. Unlike their iconic hiking headwear, however – a massive range which is famed for its versatility (the neck gaiters can be worn at least 7 different ways) – there is only one way to put your foot in these socks.

I’m sure you don’t need me to talk you through this, but you simply slide into these unisex socks toes first, before pairing them with some top-notch trail-running shoes, donning some shorts and a technical T-shirt, and hitting the trails. Which is exactly what I set out to do over the last few weeks, intrigued about whether the natural mint element used really could keep my floor slappers cool and stop the socks from getting pongy).

Style and design

Tailored to be left/right-foot specific, these truly crew-length socks (reaching halfway up the shin) are panelled to provide support where it’s really required, including across the all-important arch of the foot, where so many runners experience discomfort.

A sophisticated sock, as well as offering a nicely shaped heel and toe box, the CoolNets also have what Buff call ‘intelligent compression zones’, gently squeezing your feet in places where it helps the wearer in terms of comfort, support and stability during high-intensity activity, such as trail running.

Being a unisex sock with compression elements and ergonomic panelling, I do think Buff could have made these available in a wider range of sizes, so people could get them in a more precise fit for their feet.

Materials

Socks have to be tough, and while natural fibers such as merino wool and bamboo make very comfortable clothing, they often deteriorate over time. For the new CoolNet crew-length running socks, Buff have gone with a synthetic material mix that blends polyamide and polyester with a large helping of elastane, with the latter dynamic substance used to create the supportive qualities and zoned compression that help make this a great running sock.

The polyester content will help the socks wick moisture away from the foot, but polyamide is the largest ingredient in the yarn, and it's a shame that only 4% of it is from recycled sources. Buff proudly use 95% recycled polyester to make their signature neck gaiters, so hopefully the brand will increase the amount of second-life material used in their socks as they expand the range.

‘Polyamide’ is an umbrella term that can describe several fabrics, and we don’t know exactly what Buff have used here, but it’s likely nylon, which is very tough and pretty comfortable to wear, but is not as breathable as polyester (and certainly not as breathable as merino or bamboo). Nor can it deal with the accumulation of bacteria that leads to clothes collecting hard-to-shake nose-wrinkling bad odors over time.

To counter these issues (particularly pertinent in socks), Buff have done two things: firstly, the design includes mesh zones to help make the socks much more breathable. Secondly – and more interestingly – the ‘CoolNet’ design incorporates HeiQ Smart Mint Cooling and Odor Technology, a plant-based deodorizer that regenerates with each wash (up to at least 40 laundry cycles).

On the trails

A long-time fan of the brand’s multi-useful neck gaiters, I was pleased to discover that Buff had branched out into socks and excited to try them. Socks do a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to comfort during running and hiking adventures (although they get very little of the glory), and despite looking simple, they’re harder to get right than almost anyone really appreciates.

I’ve been running in the CoolNet Crew socks (over a wide range of terrain and across a variety of distances) for the last few weeks, to see whether Buff have nailed it at their first attempt.

And the short answer is yes, pretty much. These are excellent running socks, with a really smart design created from a clever material mix that allows your feet to breathe and wicks moisture away. The fabric is hardwearing, the fit is very good (although I think they should improve the size selection) and the combination of zoned compression, targeted support and careful fabric selection means your feet are comfortable, even during long-distance runs.

The weather has been extraordinarily hot during the testing period, but I have found the mesh zones adequate enough to stop my poor feet from overheating.

And does the much-lauded mint treatment stop them from stinking? So far so good (even for a notoriously salty sweater such as myself). But, in all honesty, I need to wear them for a longer period than I have so far to truly assess this – all socks pong after being worn (right?), but wash-resistant bad odor only starts accumulating after many months of wear, which makes me a bit concerned about the 40-washes reactivation caveat mentioned on the HeiQ website – but we shall see, and I will update you accordingly.

Also consider

First impressions

It's easy to take shorts for granted. The best trail running shorts should be almost invisible, providing comfort to your lower waist and upper legs without impeding your movements.

Some like to run in super-light, minimalist shorts, shaving nanoseconds off their PB with breezy fabrics and an absence of extras. Other runners prefer their shorts with a little more protection and a few handy pockets for storing the essentials. The Rab Talus 2-in-1 shorts fall into the latter camp, combining a protective inner lining with enough storage space for your phone, cap, and more.

They're made from a combination of Rab's Lightweight Matrix single-weave stretch and Flextile 100 fabrics, which ward off light rainfall thanks to a water-resistant DWR treatment. These stretchy materials are designed for unhindered motion, so you can race along the trails without feeling like your shorts are holding you back.

The Talus 2-in-1 shorts are held in place by an adjustable, body-hugging waistband, which aims to keep you secure over bumpy terrain without digging into your waist or causing discomfort.

Around the back, there are a few handy pockets where you can store the essentials, including a zippered space for your phone and two smaller mesh pockets where you can stash items like earbuds or a snack.

Rab Talus 2-in-1 shorts: on the trails

I got my hands on the Rab Talus 2-in-1 shorts a couple of months ago, and have plenty of thoughts.

I've worn my pair while running in all manner of weather conditions, from the scorching sun of a British heatwave to the pouring rain that you're more likely to associate with this country.

Here's how they performed:

Fit and comfort

The Talus 2-in-1 are a snug and comfortable pair of shorts that allowed me plenty of mobility without ever feeling too tight on the trails.

I've never been a huge fan of liners, but found the inner on these shorts surprisingly well-fitting and helpful as I ran. The idea behind integrated inner liners (where you don't need to wear running undies beneath your shorts) is that they provide extra support and moisture management to prevent discomfort and chaffing as you run. The Talus's sweat-wicking liner was comfortable on my thighs, even on the hot and sweaty days when I'd expect to overheat.

The outer shorts' Lightweight Matrix single-weave material proved itself to be both breathable and stretchy, maintaining airflow as I ran through temperatures approaching 86°F (30°C).

At 5.8oz (166g), these running shorts aren't as lightweight as truly minimalist running shorts like the original Talus, but still shave off unnecessary bulk to increase your feeling of freedom on the trails.

I'm afraid it's not all sunshine and roses in the fit department, as, despite being a very comfortable pair of shorts, there's one thing that really bugged me about the Talus 2-in-1s: the outer shorts are too close to the inner liner.

The inner liner / outer shorts design is a common choice for running shorts - the idea being that the inner liner fits closely around your thighs and lower waist, and the outer shorts are far baggier.

Frustratingly, this pair's outer shorts just weren't baggy enough. It's not a huge gripe, and didn't impact my physical comfort, but the Lightweight Matrix single-weave outer material fits just a little too closely to the inner liner for my liking.

Some might prefer a close-fitting look, but for a pair of men's running shorts, it felt a touch inappropriate, not only defeating the point of inner liner / outer shorts design, but exposing a little more than I felt comfortable with on the trails.

Pockets

The issue of pockets in running shorts comes down to personal preference. You might prefer an ultra-minimalist design without any, so you can shave every second off your PB and run without anything holding you back. You could also opt for a pair with plenty of pockets, so you can carry everything from your water bottle to your running cap while you race through the trails.

The Talus 2-in-1 shorts strike a happy medium, featuring enough pockets to carry all the essentials without going overboard.

Around the back, the integrated zipped back yolk pocket is large enough for a phone or folding running cap, and can be undone with ease. The two side mesh pockets can carry a little less but still have their uses as a handy place to store earbuds and gels. Although they don't have a zip, the tops of these pockets proved tight enough to keep my belongings secure, and I never feared that anything would slip out.

Lifting up the outer shorts reveals two handy stash pockets attached to the inner liner. These are also well-shaped to hold a phone and can even manage a small water bottle.

These pockets are attached to the body-hugging inner liner, so they didn't flap around while I ran, which is a complaint I often have with regular side pockets.

Price

The second issue with these running shorts comes when you reach the checkout.

The Rab Talus 2-in-1s are undoubtedly a top-end piece of kit, but $100 (£80) for running shorts is a really hefty price tag.

You can find many of the same excellent features in cheaper pairs like the Titan Ultra II shorts from Columbia, which typically retail for around $40 (£35) less, and received a similar four-star rating in our review.

Also consider

Comparison table

• The best trail running shorts: for taking on technical terrain
• The best hiking shorts: cool, comfy legs mean more miles on the trails
• How Advnture tests products

Merrell might be best known as a hiking shoe brand, but recent years have seen the Michigan-based outfit make massive strides in trail running shoes, and its new release is designed for anyone seeking a technical shoe that can handle everything from tarmac to trail.

Personally, Merrell trail running shoes have become my favorite to run in over the last four years. The Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx are unbelievably light, breathable, and sticky and have taken me from the volcanic trails of Gran Canaria to the rather soggier ones of Scotland without issue.

Last year, the Merrell Morphlite was released, offering the brand's first hybrid road-to-trail shoe that was built with enough cushion and responsiveness for hard roads and the stability and light grip for straightforward trails. I absolutely loved it, especially for vacations where I know I'm going to want to run, but am not sure what type of terrain I'm going to encounter. However, it wasn't built for technical or muddy trails.

Now, Merrell has taken what made that shoe so awesome and made it more technical for those who want to go further off-road but still travel routes that take them along roads.

Meet the Merrell ProMorph

The Merrell ProMorph, out now, shares DNA with the Morphlite, but it's designed to be more aggressive so you can take on rougher trails.

Since the biggest claim is that it provides better traction, let's start at the bottom and work our way up. Whereas the Morphlite left a fair amount of midsole exposed and has shallow lugs (3mm and 2mm) around the perimeter and under the heel and forefoot, the Vibram XS Trek rubber outsole of the ProMorph covers most of the bottom of the shoe and is absolutely peppered with small lugs. At 2.2mm, they're not super deep, but there are dozens (over 100?) of them, and the brand says this provides adaptable traction across a variety of terrain.

As for the midsole, the ProMorph has upgraded from FloatPro to FloatPro+, which uses the increasingly popular supercritical foam (that's nitrogen-injected) for lightweight responsiveness.

The stack has gone up, from 26.5 in the heel to 32.5, while the 6.5mm drop has remained the same, and here's hoping the synthetic and mesh upper is as breathable as the Morphlite because that's an absolute dream on warm days. The added tech has added a little weight, but at roughly 9oz (260g), these are still astonishingly light.

It's definitely true that gear that serves multiple functions sometimes does a decent job at everything without excelling at everything, but based on my experiences with the Morphlite, my hopes are high that these will be the Leatherman of running shoes.

The Merrell ProMorph is available now in men's and women's sizing for $160 / £150 at Merrell.

• The best road to trail running shoes: footwear for all terrains
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

The dust on the trail has barely settled after the massive Hoka Mafate X landed back in May, and already the brand is hyping the next release in the iconic Mafate line.

The original Mafate was the trail running shoe that put Hoka on the map back in 2010 when the brand first launched in Annecy. At the time, it looked a little out of place with its thick midsole, rocker geometry, and bright colors in a sea of minimalist shoes, but only 15 years on, we've come to expect nothing less.

Hoka has continued to try to improve on the original design as technology advances, and in 2022, the Mafate Speed 4 came along lighter (thanks to a jacquard mesh upper and Profly foam), springier and with some pretty aggressive 5mm lugs, making it best for mountain running out of all the brand's trail shoes.

A few months back, Hoka gave the Mafate the carbon plate makeover, and we could barely believe our eyes when we got our hands on the Mafate X and saw that towering 49mm stack. Now, with the UTMB finals looming, the brand has decided it's time for the next edition of the non-carbon plate variety, and the shoe comes with one really intriguing difference.

Meet the Hoka Mafate 5

Midsole matters, especially when you're going the distance, and like many newer models, Hoka has constructed the midsole of the Mafate 5 using two different foams, a technique that's believed to provide both cushion and responsiveness.

Typically, the softer foam goes closer to your foot to help with comfort over the miles, and the firmer foam goes at the bottom to improve responsiveness, but in this shoe, Hoka has turned the tables, literally.

The softer, impact-absorbing foam on the Mafate 5 is closer to the ground, which the designers say helps negotiate rough trails WITH more control and deliver a smoother ride, and for that reason, this shoe is built for "mileage chasers."

The stack might be slightly lower than the X, but it's still massive at 45mm under heel, with an 8mm drop. While the 4 had a gussetted tongue to protect from debris, the 5 has gone the extra mile and added an optional gaiter to save you from having to empty your shoe mid-run.

In place of the jacquard upper is a warp knit upper with anti-fray treatment for durability, but the Vibram outsole remains in place with 5mm lugs for muddy days.

The whole package weighs around 8oz (220g) per shoe, which is a couple of ounces cheaper than either the 4 or the X.

The Hoka Mafate 5 is out now in both men's and women's sizing for $185 at Hoka.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on teh trickiest terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

Compared to some heritage hiking brands, at just 22 years old, Keen is just a baby. But in that time, it's managed to make quite a mark on the world of hiking footwear and establish itself as a maker of reliable hiking boots, shoes and sandals from the Targhee IV to the Newport H2. Now it's taking its winning formula and applying it to shoes purpose-built for faster adventures.

The Keen Seek, available on July 25, is the first trail running shoe from the Portland-based brand, and according to Keen, it's been two years in the making.

“We started to wonder: if we have proven better-for-your-feet fit, out-of-the-box comfort, and best-in-class durability and protection, why couldn’t we make something for those fans who want to move a little faster?” says Will Schuh, director of product management at KEEN.

Years in the making

Because Keen is best known for hiking footwear, the development team started the process of designing a trail shoe by conducting in-depth interviews with runners to learn more about what they look for in a trail running shoe.

Next up, they started working with a team of testers around the US, which the brand says helped "fine-tune the geometry and design" through multiple prototypes. This saw one of the lead developers at Keen run 900 miles in 2024, trying out various prototypes.

The whole process took around two years, and now, Keen believes it has a winning formula in the Seek.

Meet the Keen Seek

The resulting trail shoe is built with a roomy toe box to help your toes splay naturally, while a pre-molded TPU heel counter and lockdown-knit fit hold your foot snugly in place. A breathable textile upper is designed for warm weather, and a padded tongue and stretchy knit collar provide comfort over longer days.

Underfoot, you're looking at a modest 6mm drop and a durable QuantumFoam midsole that Keens says delivers a responsive, comfortable, and stable ride. The men's model has a massive 38.5mm of foam under the heel, while the women's version boasts 36mm. Either way, this looks built for well-packed and gravel trails.

If you do encounter crumbly or slick conditions, 4mm rubber lugs that are rated by Heeluxe to last 925 miles until worn smooth help you keep your footing.

There are some other nice perks too, such as a lace garage, reflective laces for safety, and an Eco Anti-Odor treatment to cut down on stinky shoes, made with natural probiotics that are reportedly safe for the environment.

All of this comes in at a relatively light (if not superlight) 10.9oz (men’s) / 8.75oz (women’s).

The Keen Seek will be available on July 25 in men’s and women’s sizing and in multiple colorways from Keen. In line with the brand's announcement that it would not raise prices to cover tariffs, is priced at a reasonable $185. It will be released in the UK in September.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

With their roomy toe box and cushy stack, it's no surprise that the Altra Olympus series has won the hearts of those who want to go the distance on tough trails. With the newest edition of the popular trail running shoe, the Utah-based brand has gone all in on the latest tech to help you tackle challenging trails with (more) ease.

The new Altra Olympus 275, available now, boasts several key upgrades compared to the previous Olympus 6. Now geared definitively towards technical trails and long-distance pursuits, the new upper is crafted from ultra-tenacious Matryx fabric, and that's great news if you and your shoes like to take on rough ground.

Matryx is engineered in France by twisting threads of polyamide and ultra-tenacious Kevlar together. These threads are then coated in polyurethane, which enhances both abrasion resistance and breathability. You can learn more in our article on Matryx, but for now, what you need to know is that it's light, tough, great for sweaty feet, and we've loved it in shoes like the Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx.

What else is new?

Other upgrades include a built-in scree sleeve to keep debris out on gravelly and dusty trails and what Altra calls a "zonal fit lock" which it says is intended to provide a more secure fit, and that's a good thing when the shoe in question features the brand's roomiest toe box.

There's also a sock liner that's there to help improve the longevity of the midsole, meaning you'll hopefully be able to keep these shoes in rotation for longer.

Despite all that added tech, the shoe is ever so slightly lighter than the previous model, weighing in at a modest (if not featherlight) 11.9 oz / 338.8 g per shoe.

Underfoot, the brand has been smart enough to know what's working and remained true to the 33mm of compression-molded EVA foam in the midsole, so you can expect all-day comfort and stability, and (no surprises) they've taken a zero drop approach for a more natural trail feel.

Finally, they've stuck with the excellent Vibram Megagrip outsoles so you can stick to the trails whether they're wet or dry. Early reviews are highly positive, with runners praising the comfort, weight, and protection.

The Altra Olympus 275 is out now in both men's and women's sizing for $185 / £170 from Altra.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best running watches: tech to help you outpace your PB

Eying up the trails this summer? You'll need a comfy pair of running shoes to keep you stable and support your feet as you race through the wilderness. If your old ones are looking a little tired, check out this awesome deal on one of the comfiest pairs we've tested - the Nike Zegama 2s.

We rated these trail-ready shoes as the best pair for easy trails in our expert guide to the most comfortable trail running shoes, and they're now available for just $144.97 in men's sizes, and $151.97 in women's sizes at Nike.

On first glance, you're certain to notice this pair's impressively chunky 39mm stack. It's made from bouncy ZoomX foam, designed to cushion your feet and increase bounce as you sprint through the trails. Underneath, the Vibram Megagrip outsoles feature an aggressive formation of chevron lugs, which dig into the trails to keep you upright.

You're always going to lose a little stability with such a large stack height, but trail running expert Julia Clarke was pleasantly surprised by the outsoles' performance on the trails.

"I've made a point of running down steeper grassy sections where it wasn't super wet but there were still muddy patches and I didn't skid once, which was really a nice surprise," reads Julia's review for Advnture.

The Zegama 2s are a comfortable, lightweight pair suited to grassy and easier trails. If you're after something a little tougher for rocky terrain, check out our guide to the best trail running shoes.

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can still snag a great deal. Look below for today's best Nike Zegama 2 deals where you are.

• The best barefoot running shoes: feel the ground beneath your feet
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

At first glance, a collaboration between Rocky Mountain-born Altra and London's high-end running apparel brand Soar might not seem the most obvious. On second glance? It looks ready for those who want to hit the trails at speed and take their kit seriously.

The new Altra x Soar trail running capsule, out now, is a "complete racing system" – and by that they mean shoes, shorts, tops, and cap – that the brands say will "set a new benchmark" in trail racing.

Utah-based Altra is best known for its zero-to-low-drop approach to trail running shoes, and its wide toe boxes are loved by the likes of Appalachian Trail FKT holder Tara Dower.

Soar was founded by DJ and fashion label owner Tim Soar, and its sleek running clothes use cutting-edge technology and boast hefty price tags. Together, we're hoping the blend of trail-tested and precision-built means performance-ready, but a quick warning: you're going to need a big budget.

At the center of the capsule are the Altra X Soar Mont Blanc Carbon Trail Shoes in a distinctive Prism colourway featuring both brands' logos. Launched last year, the shoe has an updated full-length carbon plate, two types of foam in the midsole and a Vibram Litebase sole for grip on wet and dry surfaces, and even slippery scree. At $260, it's the same price as regular Mont Blanc Carbons. They're available in both men's and women's sizing.

Also in the capsule is a lightweight, pack-compliant running top that combines UPF 50 protection on the shoulders and upper arms for sun protection with abrasion-resistant panels and ultra-light breathable mesh across the torso. All that protection will set you back an eye-watering $200, but it sounds ideal for hot conditions, and it's less obscure-looking than the mesh shirt Caleb Olson wore to win Western States this year.

For your lower half, there's a space-age sounding pair of trail shorts (half tight) built around RHEON, which the brands say is a reactive superpolymer developed from NASA technology that "adapts to the impact of running, stiffening under force to absorb energy, then relaxing for freedom of movement." That's starting to sound cyborg-level, and at $285, it better work.

Finally, you can shade yourself from the sun with a lightweight running cap that looks, well, like a running cap, and at $65 is actually cheaper than the Arc'teryx Paltz. As we said, it all looks speed, serious and spendy.

The Altra x Soar trail running capsule is available now from Altra.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running shorts: for taking on technical terrain

If you're into trail running, you'll know that a good waterproof shell is essential all year round. There's little worse than getting caught in an early shower and having to endure water seeping through your clothes for the next few miles, so take our advice and invest in a quality model to protect you from the elements, like this awesome shell from Salomon.

The men's Bonatti Trail jacket, which is now available for just $172.50, was designed to stand the test of time. It's made from durable, waterproof Pertex fabric, to shield you from heavy rain and chilly winds as you race through the trails.

It's named after legendary Italian Alpinist Walter Bonatti, who made the first direct winter solo ascent of the Matterhorn's daunting North Face. In that spirit, the Bonatti jacket aims to emphasize freedom as you move, featuring a stretchy, non-restrictive fit, designed for dynamic movement.

To put it to the test, outdoors expert Alex Foxfield wore his Bonatti jacket over several months of trail running in all manner of British conditions. He was particularly impressed with its performance in the cold and described the Bonatti as "a magnificent yet breathable windbreaker and the ability to open up the front zip to dump heat," in his review for Advnture.

Alex ended up giving the Bonatti a rare four-and-a-half-star rating, and also put it to good use away from the trails.

"I found myself reaching for the Bonatti Trail time and time again for everyday use," he continued.

"As a softshell, it’s lighter, more comfortable and more packable than most other waterproof jackets, making it perfect for stuffing in my pack when heading for a local walk or to the shops."

Don't panic if you're not in the States. You can still get your hands on the Bonatti jacket at a great price. Just look below for today's best deals where you are.

• The best waterproof jackets: brave the elements with these top-rated hard and softshells
• The best lightweight running jackets: barely-there waterproofs

We're right in the middle of the Amazon Prime Day madness, but funnily enough, many of the best deals aren't on Amazon at all! Big savings are often elsewhere during the mega sales event, as other retailers and brands scramble to keep up.

This year, we've stumbled across an epic deal on one of our favorite pairs of trail running shoes. The Merrell Agility Peak 5 shoes received a rare four-and-a-half-star rating in our review, and are now available for just $74.99 on the Merrell website.

The offer applies to the Neon Multi, Red Oxide and fluro White/Hylalite colorways so you'll be sure to be seen on the trails too.

This sturdy pair combines well-ventilated mesh and TPU uppers with supportive EVA foam footbeds and FloatPro midsoles, so you can run in comfort and absorb blows from the trail without your feet overheating. Beneath lie grippy Vibram MegaGrip outsoles, which dig into slippery and uneven terrain to keep you from falling as you run.

Trail running expert Pat Kinsella took on all sorts of terrain to test his pair and found them to be exceptionally stable throughout.

"The 5mm lugs are super grippy," reads his review for Advnture.

"They’re intelligently arranged to supply traction while climbing and brilliant braking control during descents, while being sufficiently spaced so they don’t accumulate loads of mud."

Pat's experience with the Agility Peak 5 was an overwhelmingly positive one, prompting him to describe this Merrell model as: "a very good trail-running shoe that will serve you well, whether you’re intending to tackle technical alpine terrain or just jog around your local trails".

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can still pick up a great deal. Look below for today's best Merrell Agility Peak 5 deals where you are.

• The best barefoot running shoes: feel the ground beneath your feet
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Are you on the hunt for a dependable pair of trail running shoes this Amazon Prime Day? Then we've got the deal for you, as this comfortable Adidas Terrex pair is up to 69% off in the huge Amazon Prime Day sale.

The Women's Terrex Agravic Flow 2 trail running shoes were designed with harsh mountain trails in mind, and are now available for as little as $39.95 at Amazon, although prices vary per size.

Their abrasion-resistant mesh upper compliments limited but effective padding to shield your feet from damage as you run. Like most Adidas Terrex pairs, the Flow 2 shoes make use of a sturdy Continental rubber outsole which digs into wet and rocky terrain to keep you for falling.

Expert reviewer and former Advnture Editor Cat Ellis put her pair to the test over multiple tough lengthy runs in the wilderness, and was especially complimentary of their snug and cozy fit.

"I found the overall fit of the Adidas Terrex Agravic Flow 2 very comfortable; neither wide nor narrow, but with ample wiggle room in the toebox," reads Cat's review for Advnture.

"I prefer trail shoes with a relatively close fit, and the Agravic Flow 2's thin but strong upper felt reassuringly snug."

Cat was also fond of the pair's bouncy promoderator inserts, which lent "a good feeling of forward propulsion," and provided plenty of arch support.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for the best Adidas terrex Agravic Flow 2 deals where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

Whether you're racing along the trails or settling down for a cozy night of camping, it's important that you're kitted out in the right clothing. Decent outdoor apparel can be the difference between an enjoyable time in nature and a sweaty or damp excursion that you won't want to repeat.

If you're in the market for some new outdoor gear, then you're in luck, as there are loads of great items on offer in the huge REI Independence Day sale. This epic sale features loads of epic bargains on everything from socks to sun hats and runs until July 7.

If you're quick, you can get your hands on loads of items from top-notch outdoor brands like Injinji and Outdoor Research. The former produces sturdy outdoor toe socks, designed to help you navigate the trails in comfort and avoid blisters, while the latter boasts a wider array of shell jackets, hiking pants, and other essentials.

If you like the sound of that, you can scroll on for our favorite Injinji and Outdoor Research deals in the mega Independence Day sale. You can also check out the full sale for yourself.

Injinji deals

Outdoor Research deals

More epic deals

Got something else in mind? Look below for more epic Injinji and Outdoor Research deals from across the web.

Stick with Advnture for more handpicked deals during the upcoming Amazon Prime Day sale, which runs from July 8 to July 11.

• The best hiking shirts: choose one of these great-fitting active tops with bags of technical clout
• The best trail running shorts: for taking on technical terrain
• The best hiking socks: keep your feet comfy all year round

Running at altitude can be a tricky business. Along with reduced oxygen levels and unpredictable weather, you have to contend with the varied terrain of mountain trails. The right footwear is essential, and we've spotted a great deal on a mountain-ready pair to help you speed through the mountains with confidence this summer.

The Arc'teryx Norvan LD 4 men's trail running shoes were only released in February but have been knocked down to just $119 in anticipation of Amazon Prime Day. The upcoming sale begins on July 8 and is expected to offer huge savings on all sorts of outdoor equipment.

The Norvan LD 4 trail running shoes were designed with unpredictable mountain terrain in mind. Along with a PFAS-free, abrasion-resistant polyester upper and flexible TPU reinforcement, they boast a reduced stack height for added stability. Their Vibram Megagrip outsoles feature Arc'teryx's Litebase lugs to keep you on your feet as you take on the slippery rocks and soft mud of harsh alpine trails.

This deal only applies to men's sizes, but you can find women's Norvan LD 4s for their list price of $170 on the Arc'teryx website.

Despite their technical design, these Arc'teryx shoes include plenty of features aimed at increasing comfort. A new sock liner intends to improve their fit over long distances, and a softened toe box reduces pesky toe bashing as you descend.

Don't panic if you're not in the US. Take a look below at the best Arc'teryx Norvan deals available where you are right now.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

These days, a pair of Hoka shoes is never far from a major trail race podium, and this year's Western States was no different.

While the first placed runners sported the yet-to-be-released Nike Ultrafly 2 (Caleb Olson) and the revered Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra (Abby Hall), Fuzhao Xiang took second place in the women's race, sporting a Hoka prototype.

The Chinese runner was back for another shot at the legendary California race over the weekend after taking second place last year. Her time of 16:47:09 was slower than her 2024 performance, but placed her once again on the podium, only 10 minutes behind Hall as runner-up and sixth fastest woman ever at the race.

That achievement also made Xiang the leader of Hoka's team at the 100-mile race, and inquiring minds wanted to know what shoes she was wearing. Would it be the Hoka Tecton X 3s that have seen Jim Walmsley win the Western States and Vincent Bouillard take the UTMB title in 2024?

Hoka, the official sponsor of WSER, has confirmed to Advnture that Xiang wore the brand's yet-to-be released Rocket X Trail, a shoe designed specifically for the demands of gravel racing.

“Fuzhao brought her A-game to the most legendary American trail race, and we couldn’t be prouder to see her hitting these heights at this point in the season. Western States has long been a proving ground, and it’s really meaningful to see Hoka on the podium again," says Mike McManus, Director of NA Sports Marketing.

What we know so far about the Hoka Rocket Trail

Previous iterations of the Rocket series, such as the Rocket X 2 have been built for road running, and this will be the first Rocket designed for the trails.

The inclusion of the X in the name denotes it has a carbon plate, and the brand tells us the shoe is ultralight and features a new A-TPU superfoam and "targeted traction" for speed over a variety of distances.

There's no mention of the model on Hoka's website yet, but a runner posted in a Reddit thread devoted to running shoes claims to have a few more details:

"I ran in a prototype last winter, it was light and quite responsive! It has a fairly high stack height and the midsole is on the firmer side. I really liked running in it, although with the 3 mm lugs and the higher stack height you're not going to be running with them in more technical terrain."

The Hoka Rocket X Trail will be available in limited quantities in the fall of 2025. If you can't wait, the Hoka Mafate X is out now for long-haul efforts.

• The best Hoka trail running shoes for different types of terrain
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Choosing your next smartwatch can be a tricky job. Big-name brands like Garmin, Polar, and Apple have loads of models available across a varying price range. With so many options on offer, a great deal can really stand out, so take a look at this awesome bargain on one of Apple's best watches to date.

Right now, you can snag the Apple Watch Series 10 for just $329 on Amazon, as the retail giant slashes tech prices ahead of the highly anticipated Amazon Prime Day next week.

The Series 10 is a big and shiny smartwatch, designed to be just as suitable for the office as it is racing through the wilderness. Its 46mm wide-angle OLED screen delivers a crisp and colorful picture, built to be visible in even the brightest sunshine. It's encased in a tough combination of 100% recycled aluminium and 95% recycled titanium, so you can hit the trails without worrying about serious damage.

This adventure-ready GPS watch has plenty of sports modes and fitness trackers to help you up your game on the trails. The workout app offers training modes for everything from kickboxing to core strength, and advanced health metrics track your progress as you move.

The Series 10 watch also boasts high-tech GPS tracking, so you can monitor your location and navigate with a handy maps app.

Not in the US? Don't worry, plenty of retailers are holding big sales and slashing the prices of top-quality tech before Amazon Prime Day. Look below for today's best Apple Watch Series 10 deals where you are.

• Best budget GPS watches: track your progress without breaking the bank
• The best Garmin watches: across the price range

First impressions

A decent cap can make all the difference when running or hiking in stifling summer heat, providing essential shade and protection from the elements as you race around the wilderness.

The new Sealskinz Runham cap is an ultralight option for summer excursions, designed to keep you cool and cut all unnecessary weight as you chase that elusive PB.

It's made from a stretchy combination of nylon and spandex, which strives to deliver a snug fit and plenty of breathability when things get sweaty.

These UV protective fabrics aren't waterproof, as the Runham cap is built for lightweight performance in warm climates.

Sealskinz also claims that this cap is moisture-wicking, meaning it moves sweat from your head to the cap's exterior and dries quickly to avoid saturation and extra weight.

The plastic brim provides welcome shade on the trails and splits down the middle, so you can fold it in half and fit the cap into your pocket or backpack without it taking up too much space.

It's available in one size, which can be adjusted using a handy Velcro strap.

Sealskinz Runham Cap: on the trails

I was lucky enough to get my hands on this new Sealskinz cap in May at the Keswick Mountain festival.

In the month since, I've tested its mettle in the scorching temperatures of a British heatwave, wearing the Runham on plenty of sweaty trail runs and hikes. I've taken this cap all over the English countryside, and even up the odd mountain in Cumbria's Lake District National Park.

Here's how it performed:

Fit and comfort

The Runham cap has a comfortable, snug fit. The combination of nylon and spandex proved itself stretchy enough to wrap around my head and remain put, without ever feeling too tight.

The sticky Velcro strap remained effective after plenty of use and allowed me to adjust the cap to fit precisely around my skull.

It stuck to my head throughout testing and never threatened to blow away, even in strong winds.

The Runham cap performs particularly well when the sun comes out, thanks to its breathable exterior and moisture-wicking capabilities. Its airy fabrics kept me cool in temperatures where I would've been dripping with sweat in a less breathable cap.

Sweat is inevitable when exercising in the heat, but this cap does a great job of managing it by maximizing airflow and evaporating sweat with fast and effective moisture-wicking.

It's also quick-drying, shedding sweat or rainfall fast.

Weight and portability

Weighing just 1.5oz (43g), this cap is an ultralight option for speeding through the trails. Its minimal bulk was noticeable as I ran and it felt more like an extension of my head than an additional item of clothing.

Its foldable plastic brim, which provided effective protection from the sun, is also light and didn't snap or bend in testing.

With running shoes, a water bottle, and more, a cap is unlikely to be the heaviest thing you'll bring on the trails, but this one's minimal weight will be appreciated by those who want to save every available gram.

Its slim, lightweight nature is also useful when you're travelling, as it adds practically nothing to a backpack and is almost unnoticeable in your pocket. Simply fold the split brim in half and tuck it neatly into either one.

I found this very handy, as it minimized the need for extra storage I didn't have to hold my cap if I didn't fancy wearing it.

Price

The only thing holding this otherwise superb cap back is its price. There's no doubt that the Runham cap is an excellent choice for warm-weather running and hiking, but its $55 (£30) price tag may make you think twice.

The Salomon XA, another high-quality cap with many of the same features as the Runham, is available for as little as $25 (£22). It also tops our expert list of the best running hats and caps.

If it were similarly priced, the Runham cap would be my nailed-on favorite. As it is, this warm-weather sunshield loses marks for its excessive price tag.

Also consider

Comparison table

• The best running hats: tested for breathability and sun protection
• The best hiking hats: cozy beanies for mountains and sun hats for warmer days
• How Advnture tests products

Founded in 2009, Altra is an American brand that has long been championing zero- or low-drop trail running shoes. These kinds of shoes place the foot in a more natural position, leading to a more natural gait on the trails. On its website, it wryly asks: “Why run in heels?”

The brand has grown into a giant in the trail running world and is today owned by VF Corporation, the same umbrella that counts The North Face, Napapjiri, Icebreaker, Vans and Timberland among its subsidiaries.

The brand has also been an advocate of a roomy toe box, allowing toes to splay upon impact. These ideals were devised by founder Golden Harper and they still form part of Altra’s Natural Fit ethos today. Both the wide toe box and a zero-drop are present in the Timp 5 BOA.

We reviewed the standard Timp 5 back in spring 2024 and there was a lot we liked, though reviewer Julia Clarke pointed to the lacing potentially causing some discomfort. So, we were intrigued to get our hands on the BOA version and give them a run out to see if BOA’s innovative system would elevate the overall running experience.

First impressions

When I look at the Altra logo, I’m somehow put in mind of the advent of computer gaming and the early motorsport games. If you’re of a certain age, you’ll know the ones I mean, when the car was fixed at the bottom of the screen as the road and the scenery moved towards you. It might be that the logo bears a bit of a resemblance to Atari’s Fuji logo, or it might be that it has a whiff of Formula One about it. The Ferrari red swish disappearing into the distance like a bend in the track at Monza.

Well, the Timp 5 BOA looks like what would happen if you took the 1995 McLaren F1 car and melted it down to create a running shoe. And why not? La Sportiva and Scarpa have been designing trail running shoes that have a definite racing car vibe for years. If you’re gonna be entering trail races, you might as well wear something that looks race worthy. I was testing the White/Coral colorway, but the Timp 5 BOA is also available in an understated yet cool Black/Black version. Though, why Altra felt the need to name Black twice, I don’t know. It’s just Black.

Anyway, that’s enough about how they look. How do they feel to wear? The design of the BOA fit system means the upper is virtually all one piece, a bit like a sock liner, with an elasticated top, over which the lacing system sits. This means they're comfortable for casual wear, but you can dial in the fit around the midfoot as tight as you like when it comes to tackling the trails. To begin with, I noticed a little discomfort around the ankle at the padded part, where the BOA dial sits. However, once I’d worn the shoes in a little, this disappeared. As you’d expect from Altra, there was plenty of wiggle room for the toes.

The BOA system

The obvious feature that sets the Timp 5 BOA apart from the standard Timp 5 is the BOA fit system, in this case the PerformFit Wrap Configuration system, which wraps over and conforms to the shape of the midfoot. For the uninitiated, the BOA system replaces traditional lacing with a system of thin but durable cords. These cords are threaded through the upper and are tightened using a dial.

This has a few advantages. First, it makes putting on and taking off your shoes really quick and easy. To loosen the cords, all you have to do is pull the dial outwards. This is particularly handy for winter pursuits when you may be wearing gloves. I very much appreciated the ability to tighten and loosen the BOA fit on the La Sportiva Cyklon Cross GTX and the Scarpa Ribelle Run Kalibra G without exposing my digits to the chill.

Secondly, the system allows for a fine-tuned fit that can be further tightened very quickly while you're running. Plus, unlike standard laces, there’s next to no chance of the system coming undone. The downside is that it doesn’t provide the opportunity to tighten a specific region, as with standard laces. And, just as shoes with a Gore-Tex membrane are more expensive than those without, a shoe with a BOA fit system tends to be more pricey than the same shoe without it. The list price of the standard Timp 5 at time of writing is $155 (£135), as opposed to $175 (£155) with the BOA fit. I'd assert it's worth the markup though.

Other features

The mesh upper provides a little protection while delivering excellent breathability. Unlike with the standard Timp 5, there’s no Gore-Tex option with the BOA fit system. Instead, you get a super quick drying synthetic upper that won’t keep your socks dry if you gambol through puddles but will ensure there’s airflow to your feet. There are reinforced rands at the toes and the heel for additional protection against rock abrasion.

Much of the Timp 5 BOA’s 29mm stack height is to do with its EGO MAX midsole, which provides high levels of cushioning for a ride experience that Altra file under the Float category. If you’re after tonnes of trail feel, forget about it. If you want a propulsive, maximalist ride, you’ve come to the right place. This soft and stable platform provides comfort for those running long – think trail marathons and ultras.

Vibram provides the rubber for the outsole with its Megagrip, a compound found in many running shoes, hiking shoes, such as Aku’s Trekker Lite III and Danner’s Trail 2650 Campo GTX, and approach shoes, like Scarpa’s Crux. As well as being durable, Megagrip provides solid traction on both wet and dry rock, which is why it’s such a popular choice when footwear brands are designing shoes that can deal with the occasional bit of scrambling terrain.

Altra has opted for many little P-shaped lugs of 4mm depth, rather than big chunky ones. Fairly standard for summer trail running shoes, 4mm provides enough bite for the majority of trail conditions, though I’d need more aggressive, longer lugs for the soft ground of winter (in the UK at least). The lugs point backwards at the front of the shoe and forwards at the back of the shoe, providing decent braking power when lolloping downhill. Like the Salomon Speedcross, the lugs also curl up to the toe cap, like front points on crampons, providing additional traction when ascending steep ground.

At the heel there’s both a fabric loop and a Velcro tab. The fabric loop enables the wearer to clip the shoes into a carabiner or hang them up. The Velcro tab, Altra’s Gaiter Trap, makes the shoes compatible with Altra’s strapless Trail Gaiter – a nice touch. There are several reasons why you might want a gaiter for running, including keeping snow out or protection against the abrasive qualities of scrubland environments.

In the outdoor lab

I tested the Timp 5 BOAs on runs around my usual stomping ground, Bristol’s Henbury Gorge, as well as in Wales’ Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Runs in the gorge allowed me to compare them directly to my usual summer choice, Inov8’s TrailFly G 275 V2, as well as many other pairs I’ve tested here. The gorge’s blend of ups, downs, soft ground, rooty forest paths, rocky limestone sections and hard-packed trails are a great laboratory for putting trail shoes through their paces.

What was immediately obvious was the lack of trail feel you get with a 29mm stack height. It’s not non-existent, but it’s not ideal if you’re the barefoot runner sort. I personally enjoy the running experience with a bit more trail feel, though I’m aware that not everyone loves this, so I’ll try not to hold it against the shoes.

However, with plusher cushioning comes greater bounce. I was able to coax some decent speed out of the Timp 5 BOAs, notably clocking my fastest ever time on a particular mile-long Strava segment. Not only was it my own PB for this stretch, but I also even scraped into the top 10 of all time. Whether this was down to the shoes or other factors – I have cut out ultra-processed food, you know! – is hard to tell. However, it’s clear that the Timp 5 BOAs can go fast.

Having tested plenty of footwear featuring Vibram Megagrip soles, both on running shoes and approach shoes, it came as no surprise to find the Timp 5 BOAs coped well on both wet and dry rock.

As for fit and comfort, I can’t fault them. The BOA system enabled me to achieve a desired fit and my heel always felt locked in. I suffered from none of the claustrophobia around the toe region that I’ve experienced in some shoes and nor were my toes banging against the front of the shoe during long, sustained descents.

The levels of protection are moderate, which is to be expected for a running shoe with a mesh upper. However, I did value the additional shielding provided by the subtle rands at both the toes and the heel.

All said, the Timp 5 BOA trail running shoe is a versatile and comfortable operator. If you like a plush level of cushioning and aren’t too bothered about feeling the trail beneath your feet, they’ll see plenty of use. They’re grippy, fast and a pleasure to wear, while the BOA system is easy to use and provides a great fit.

Also consider

Comparison table

Seeking to dominate the trail this summer? We can't promise we can get you in Kilian Jornet condition, but we can help you save money on the kit that he swears by.

Right now, you can pick up the tough Nnormal Kjerag trail running shoes for as little as $136.50 in Backcountry's summer sale. That's a giant 30% off the regular list price for these high-quality shoes, which Jornet says he put 400k in between racing the UTMB, Hardrock 100, Zegama and Sierra Zinal.

"It was the best test, and the best outcome.”

Built for the toughest trails by the brand co-founded by the ultra running legend, the Kjerags boast a Vibram Litebase outsole with 3.5mm lugs, which not only provides sticky grip, it cuts down on weight (by 30%) and is 50% thinner for a better trail feel.

Durable Matryx uppers breathe well for summer runs and hold up against rocky terrain with an abrasion-resistant construction.

This deal to all colors and sizes, and the exact discount depends on your sizing, but the key thing is to hurry, because the sale ends July 6.

If you're not in the US, scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Nnormal trail shoes where you are.

A modest 6mm drop and specially engineered foam midsole sits directly against your feet, which the brand says provides the "best-possible propulsion and compression, less slippage, and way fewer blisters."

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Nnormal trail shoes where you are:

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Salomon is aiming to cut down on its environmental impact, despite a steady rise in emissions over the past five years.

The French brand, which specializes in running, hiking, and skiing equipment, has introduced multiple new sustainable products and production methods, designed to help you hit the trails without hurting the environment.

The Salomon Brigade Index skiing and snowboarding helmet, for example, can be recycled after use thanks to its use of polyolefin material. New fiber-to-fiber t-shirts are also 100% recyclable and created from recycled textile waste.

Its new S/LAB Phantasm 2 running shoes are produced locally in Ardèche (France), and combine carbon fiber production with locally sourced materials.

It's all part of Salomon's strategy to cut its absolute carbon emissions by 30% by 2030, compared to its output in 2019. This includes all emissions associated with the brand, including those produced by other companies supplying and delivering their products.

However, despite the ambitious target, Salomon's 2024 Impact Report reveals that the brand has actually increased its absolute emissions by almost 90,000 tons in the past five years - some 39%.

As of 2024, its operations created 315,768 tons of carbon emissions, compared to just 226,227 tons in 2019 and 212,698 tons in 2021.

The report says the increase is due to more products being produced, and points to an 18% decrease in its direct emissions since 2018 as evidence of progress.

These are emissions created directly by Salomon and do not account for the additional emissions associated with the brand, which fall under absolute emissions.

Although it's a long way from its total emissions target, Salomon says it remains committed to a sustainable future.

“We’re on a journey of transformation,” says global sustainability and impact director Marie-Laure Piednoir.

“It takes time, but we are fully committed to shaping better futures for our business, our industry, and our communities.”

The brand is taking multiple steps to cut down, increasing the amount of raw, non-harmful materials in its products, and producing more gear locally to avoid emissions caused by long-distance travel.

Salomon has also incorporated sustainable practices at its HQ to cut down on emissions in the design and production stages and continue decreasing its direct emissions.

• The best hiking shoes: capable summit-baggers and fast-paced walkers
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Swiss running brand On has taken another confident step off-road with the release of a new shoe engineered for elite runners it says "pushes the boundaries of trail running."

The On Cloudultra Pro is the first release from the Zurich-based brand's latest Ultra collection, and if you can't tell by the name, it's built for runners who want to go the distance.

According to On, the Cloudultra Pro is intended to optimize your performance in ultra distance races, with "enhanced running economy, energy return and overall comfort," the latter of which the brand is well known for. Let's break that down, shall we?

What's the story with the On Cloudultra Pro?

Following on from the On Running Cloudultra road to trail shoes, the Pro adds the brand's latest and most successful tech in a much lighter package – the Pro weighs just 275g per shoe, which is nearly half the weight of the Cloudultras.

For comfort and energy return, the shoe is equipped with a dual-layer Helion HF hyper foam midsole. This is the first time we've seen this foam in an On trail shoe, but they used it in the Cloudboom Strike, a prototype of which was on the feet of 2024 Boston marathon winner Hellen Obiri, so it's no surprise that they think they're on to a winner.

Standing tall at 39mm under the heel, there's no question it's intended to rival shoes like the Salomon S/Lab Ultra Glide and Hoka Mafate X, but the rocker sole is more subdued than what we're used to seeing from On, and you're looking at the same modest 6mm drop as other Cloudultra models.

For energy return over the miles, On has sandwiched its "Speedboard" plate between the layers of foam. This isn't carbon – and according to a recent Salomon analysis of carbon plates in trail shoes, that may not be a bad thing – but it's the same idea and according to On it "converts the kinetic energy of each landing into a powerful take-off," essentially letting you go faster without increasing effort.

Obviously when you're on the trails and going over long distance, it can be the terrain itself that slows you down rather than your fitness, so for the outsole, On has applied its new Missiongrip outsole, which it says was selected from a design process that started with over 200 initial options that were narrowed down to a few for "rigorous" field testing.

The lugs aren't deep enough to write home about at just 3.5mm, but On says the testing process helped engineers "determine the optimal lug shape, orientation and density." This sounds similar to the approach Hoka has taken with the Mafate X and in our field tests, the right lug shape and orientation seems to be able to make up for depth even on technical trails.

The On Cloudultra Pro is available now for $260 / £250 from On in both men's and women's sizing. It precedes the On Cloudultra 3 which shares many of the same traits but is intended for all-levels of runner and is out July 3.

• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

When you've been making sports shoes for over a century, you know when you're onto a good thing, and that's why Brooks keeps coming back to its near-legendary Cascadia trail running shoe.

The Seattle-based brand just dropped details of the next iteration of the popular line, the Brooks Cascadia 19, which it says is its most advanced trail shoe to date.

The very first Brooks Cascadia trail running shoe was designed with ultra running legend Scott Jurek, and released all the way back in 2004, only a year after the first UTMB race and before trail runners had their choice of shoes built specifically for rough terrain. It allowed the brand to position itself at the forefront of the trail scene and the shoe was such a success that it was re-issued last month.

Technology has come a long way in the last 24 years, and Brooks keeps finding ways to improve upon the design of the Cascadia. It's calling the 19 the most versatile yet, with testers describing it as "the multitool for trail runners."

What's new?

The main headline with the 19 seems to be the updated Trail Adapt System, which is the brand's proprietary system of cushioning, outsole, and rock plate that's designed to provide stability and protection on uneven surfaces. The Cascadia 18 featured the Trail Adapt System, but now the brand says it's been improved to include "a co-molded Ballistic Rock Shield" which basically increases your comfort on rocky trails by protecting your feet.

As far as cushioning goes, the official specs show a healthy 35mm wedge of softer, nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning, which allows for more flexibility underfoot without sacrificing control. The 19 has an added 2mm of height under the heel, but the total drop remains modest at just 6mm.

Upgrades have also been made on the sustainability front. The redesigned TrailTack Green outsole is now made with 25% recycled rubber and sports 4.5mm lugs to help with traction and control. Overall, the 19 uses more recycled materials than its predecessors and is a CarbonNeutral certified product.

In design, the brand is clearly going after runners who want to explore more technical terrain than they could do in a style like the lightweight Catamount, whether that's scree slopes or slick switchbacks, but don't need something as aggressive as the Caldera.

Despite the added tech, it's on the lighter end of trail shoes we've tested, with an average weight of just10.5oz (300g) for men's sizing and 9oz (256g) for women's.

The Brooks Cascadia 19 is out August 1 for $150 / £135 at Brooks with a Gore-Tex version available.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
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We’re no strangers to Inov8’s excellent TrailFly family. Inov8 is a British outdoor brand that specializes in creating trail running shoes forged in the English Lake District, the spiritual home of fell running. The fells’ mixture of boggy terrain, rocky ridges and wet climate demands footwear that’ll claw at mud while still holding firm on wet rock. Down the years, the brand's sponsored athletes have included the likes of Barkley Marathons legend Jasmin Paris, Damian Hall, Nicky Spinks and occasional Advnture contributor James Forrest.

The TrailFly family of shoes are some of Inov8's faster offerings, with more of a slant towards speed than the grippier Trailtalon and MudTalon shoes. The latter two are great for damp days on soft terrain in the wild hills and mountains, whereas TrailFly shoes are suited to harder-packed surfaces. However, don’t let this fool you into thinking the TrailFlys don’t cut it in the higher places. I took on a more challenging variation of the UK’s National Three Peaks Challenge wearing the superb TrailFly G 270 V2s and loved every minute.

So, when the lovely Cumbrians at Inov8 landed a message in my inbox with news of a new TrailFly, I was stoked to get hold of a pair and test them out on the trails.

First impressions

The first thing I noticed is that the Zeros have a more generous fit than the snugger, foot-hugging G 270 V2s. The wider toe box is immediately apparent, and I’d say the more relaxed fit makes them a few iotas more comfortable. I didn’t notice any issues due to this on my initial runs. My heel was locked in place and the Zeros felt nicely responsive, with a decent amount of trail feel. They were immediately comfortable.

They're attractive too, featuring the redesigned Inov8 logo that replaced the old one in 2024. I was testing the Blue/Orange version, which makes for a vivid aesthetic, particularly when set against damp, grey hills.

A feature evolution

The TrailFly Zero is, as its name suggests, a zero-drop running shoe. This means that the drop between the height of the heel and the forefoot is 0mm. This isn’t new, the TrailFly G 275 V2 was also a zero-drop shoe.

‘Standard’ running shoes tend to have a drop in the region of 6mm to 12mm, while some maximalist shoes have an even higher drop. As for the high heels worn by Anna De Armas’ Paloma in James Bond film No Time To Die, they clock in with an impressive 105mm drop. Needless to say, while these shoes are clearly ideal for espionage and gut-toting shenanigans, you wouldn’t want to run the UTMB in them…

A zero-drop shoe, like the Trailfly Zero provides something akin to the natural feel of a barefoot shoe, working with your foot towards achieving a more natural gait. The debate around the best amount of drop has raged for many years but, generally speaking, a smaller drop is better for those who strike with the forefoot or midfoot, while a drop of around 6mm or more is better for heel strikers. I personally prefer a lower drop and it’s certainly what I’m used to having worn the G 275 V2s for over a year now. The stack height is 12mm, notably less than the previous shoe, which brings the foot closer to the ground, enhancing the amount of trail feel.

Inov8 says that the new TrailFly Zero has an ‘improved anatomical fit’ thanks to a protective MET-CRADLE that locks the heel and midfoot in place when laced up, keeping everything nice and secure. Unlike the G 275 V2s, the tongue isn’t fully gusseted, so debris can invade the inner sanctum of the shoe.

As mentioned, the toe region is roomier, allowing plenty of space for splayed digits. I’d say the Zero feels less restrictive than its predecessor on the whole. I was testing the Standard version, as I have relatively narrow feet. Those with wider feet or those who value loads of toe space can also opt for the Wide version.

The Zeros deploy Inov8’s Boomerang footbed, a cushioned insole that uses compressible TPU beads to retain energy, The idea is that the footbed releases the energy, propelling the runner forward. Inov8 say that the design has been 'rigorously tested' for long lasting performance. The midsole utilizes the brand’s Flyspeed Pro foam to cushion the ride. Working in tandem with the footbed, it’s designed to maximize energy return while absorbing shocks from the ground beneath your feet.

Inov8 have spent a long time hammering home the message that the Graphene it uses in its outsoles is 'the world’s strongest material' and they’re at it again here. In my experience, Inov8’s trail shoes do last longer than much of the competition. I’ve been through several pairs of Salomon Speedcross shoes in my time. I've watched as their lugs have ground to nothing but imprints of where a proud gripper once stood. This hasn’t been the case with my Inov8 pairs, which have stood the test of time admirably well. Maybe there's something in this Graphene business after all...

And so, to the design of the outsole, which is substantially different to the previous iteration. The lugs are still 4mm deep, which suggests a good amount of traction on soft terrain but not as much as with the deep mud-gripping claws you get on some. However, the previous array of T-shaped lugs has been usurped by a more numerous, aggressive array of chevron-shaped lugs, with a much more obvious braking zone towards the back of the shoe. There are also flat-topped lugs at the front and back, which provide more surface area when in contact with bare rock.

Unlike the G 275 V2s, the Zeros feature a heel loop. This allows you to clip them into a carabiner or hang them off a hook, should you wish.

The shoes weigh somewhere in the region of 9.7oz (274g) per shoe (US 9 / UK 8). I say in the region of, as I weighed my brand-new pair and the right shoe came out as 9.9oz (282g) and the left shoe was 9.5oz (269g). Curious weight differences aside, this makes them a fairly light option, though even lighter trail running hooves exist if you’re obsessed with every ounce when it comes to race day.

Taking to the trails

I’ve been testing the TrailFly Zeros on my local Bristol trails and in the hills of the Bannau Brycheniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park during the late spring and early summer months. Britain enjoyed a prolonged dry spell during the test period, though towards the backend I was able to enjoy a few wetter runs on soft ground, both in Bristol and on the pens of South Wales. They performed well regardless of whether I was pounding rooty woodland trails, packed gravel, grassy hillsides, or rocky ridges.

Broadly speaking, I found the Zeros just as capable and fun to run in as the G 270 V2s. Fit wise, as alluded to, they feel roomier, which makes for greater comfort. Despite not fitting quite as snugly, I had no issues with the heel slipping and the fit felt secure throughout. Neither did I didn’t notice any issues with breathability, even when running in temperatures of between 70 and 86°F (20 and 30°C).

The cushioning is about right for me – I like to be able to feel and respond to the trail and I’m not so much of a fan of maximalist shoes. Inov8 say the Zero is 'perfect for everything from trail intervals and fartleks, though to ultramarathons', but I think, for really long distances, some may prefer the additional cushioning of the new TrailFly Max.

When it comes to the really rocky stuff, the Zero’s new features bring both improvements and ‘even better ifs’. I have no doubt that the outsole is far better suited to scrambling terrain. Towards the front, there are 9 flat-topped lugs, which provide a good deal of surface area for techniques like smearing when negotiating angled slabs.

There’s noticeably more flat rubber at the very tip of the shoe too. It’s not quite the ‘climbing zone’ you see on approach shoes, but it’s a step in that direction. This provides a little more security when edging across rock. Likewise, the back of the outsole features four flatter platforms, ensuring a decent hold whenever I struck with my heel while hopping from boulder to boulder.

The ‘even better if’ – and I’m really nit picking here – is that their fit feels slightly less precise than the previous iteration. It’s only a minor thing but the roomier toe box makes them feel slightly less secure on technical rock sections – though this is compensated for by the improved design of the outsole.

Off the rock and back on the sloppy stuff, I felt more confident when bounding downhill in the Zeros than in the G 270 V2s. The back half of the outsole has a more aggressive braking region, with 13 angular, chevron shaped lugs as opposed to the previous iteration’s nine T-shaped offerings. Although I’m yet to test the Zeros in winter, I’d imagine they’d grip better than previous iterations based on all of this – but I’d still prefer the aggressive lugs on something like the TrailTalon for this kind of thing.

However, for your standard sort of trail runs on hard-packed ground, Inov8 have done it again with the TrailFly Zero – a super, minimalist shoe that you'll get plenty of use out of.

With summer more or less in full swing, you might be looking for a lighter, more breathable pair of trail runners to hit the rough stuff with, and I've got the perfect deal for you. Right now, you can grab the super tough Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx trail running shoes for just $119.73 at REI. That's a great savings of 25% off the list price for these shoes, which I've taken all over the world in the last year.

When you think of Merrell, you might well think of an old school hiking brand, but since entering the trail running market a few years ago, they continue to impress me. The Long Sky 2 Matryx are my absolute favorite from the brand so far, whether I'm fell running on slate in the Lake District or taking on volcanic rock in Gran Canaria.

These lightweight trail running shoes grip to the steepest of slopes to give you confidence when the going gets tough, breathe extremely well during long hot runs and the tough Matrix upper is abrasion-resistant while protecting your toes on technical trails.

They're super light, so I always chuck them in my bag when I'm traveling and the FloatPro Foam midsole has great flex for an easy roll-through and gives excellent trail feel.

This deal applies to both men's and women's sizing, but it looks like they're selling fast, so I recommend you jump if you want this deal.

Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx trail running shoes if you're not in the US.

The traditional lacing system makes these easy to pull on and adjust for a snug fit around your heel and midfoot. The toe box leaves plenty of room for comfort over many hours, though we think these shoes excel best on technical runs rather than over long, rolling hills where you might want a slightly bouncier ride.

Not in the US? Here are today's best deals on the Merrell Long Sky 2 Matryx trail running shoes where you are:

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best trail running socks: comfort and support on uneven ground

Heads up, Garmin fans, the sports watch is here with a huge new screen and loads of features to help you race through the wilderness.

The brand-new Garmin Venu X1 is designed to be the ultimate all-rounder, combining a stylish, square design with plenty of exterior protection (built for use on the trails) and hundreds of health and fitness features.

"Venu X1 is the perfect blend of form, function and style," says Susan Lyman, Garmin's Vice President of Consumer Sales and Marketing.

"Not only does it pack all of Garmin’s most popular features into a slim profile, but the large display makes it easy to see everything from preloaded maps and workout stats to health insights and smart notifications with stunning clarity".

Price

Garmin's latest high-tech watch retails for $799.99 (£679.99) on the Garmin website, putting it among Garmin's premium top-end watches.

It's comparable in price to one of Garmin's other recent launches, the Forerunner 970, which you can get for $749.99 (£629.99) on the site.

This list price may come as something of a surprise to those awaiting the arrival of the new sports watch, considering the previous model, the Venu 3, cost $499 (£449) on release.

The X1 looks drastically different from the Venu 3, and Garmin has promised plenty of changes, but the sudden price hike could be enough to give some potential purchasers serious pause for thought.

Garmin has recently hinted at upping the prices of its watches after the American brand took a beating from President Trump's controversial tariff policy, which they say will cost them $100 million in the coming months.

Design

The Venu X1 features a rectangular Apple Watch-like design with Garmin's largest ever AMOLED display. The 2in (5.08cm) screen is protected by sturdy, scratch-resistant sapphire glass and a lightweight titanium case.

There are two standard buttons on the right side and a built-in LED flashlight to illuminate your surroundings.

The Venu X1 straps to your arm with a 24mm quick-release ComfortFit nylon band, and is available in the Black and Moss colorways.

Health and fitness

As with every top-end Garmin watch, the Venu X1 comes with myriad high-tech features to help you navigate the wilderness, plus multiple handy tools for negotiating everyday life.

Health trackers monitor everything from sleep cycle disturbances to jet lag, and provide useful round-ups via the Morning Report and Wellness Snapshot features.

When you're ready to hit the trails, you can track your progress with over 100 different activity profiles and training tools. The running dynamics, running power, and pacing strategies tools are designed to help you take your running game to the next level, with in-depth trackers and coaching advice.

Climbers will be particularly keen on the ClimbPro tool, which provides real-time data about your previous and upcoming ascents to help you climb with confidence.

Navigation

Navigation-wise, the X1 features full-color GPS mapping, dynamic round-trip routes, and plenty of sensors to keep you on the right track.

You can also subscribe to Garmin's new Outdoor Maps+ feature for $49 (£49) annually, or $4.99 (£4.99) monthly to access ultra-detailed, downloadable topographic maps.

Garmin has been experimenting with controversial paid subscription models in recent months, following the release of its AI coaching tool Garmin Connect+.

Smartwatch features

The Venu X1 isn't just for athletes, and it aims to be just as at home in the office as it is on the trails. You can make and take calls using the built-in speaker and microphone, and use a paired smartphone's voice assistant to dictate text messages.

It also boasts up to eight days of battery in Smartwatch Mode, and up to 11 days in Battery Save Smartwatch Mode.

The new Garmin Venu X1 is available to purchase on the Garmin website from June 18.

• The best Garmin watches: make the right choice for the sport you love
• The best GPS watches: feature-packed timepieces to keep you on course

I have a dog who loves to run. I mean, really loves to run. He doesn’t need a ball to chase, a frisbee to catch or a fox to pursue, he runs purely for the fun of it. And we’re not talking about gentle ambling here – we’re talking Usain Bolt levels of speed.

Show Finley – a greyhound-cockerspaniel cross – an Olympic 100m sprint final and I reckon he'd show Bolt a clean pair of heels on the way to smashing his world record in half. This little chap flies – and he does it all with pure joy etched all over his soppy little face.

His running prowess isn't confined to sprint distances, either. Finley has a tracker that allows us not only to follow his movements when he’s off the lead, galloping with abandon through the Great British countryside, but also to record the mileage he accumulates while doing so.

A few weeks ago I went on a 10-mile fell run with Finley. Well, I did 10 miles… During the two hours or so that this run took me, Finley had casually knocked out a 31 mile (50km) ultra marathon. Yes, my dog is either completely bonkers or a physiological freak of nature.

This got me thinking. Other than keeping us entertained with his unbridled zeal and predilection for a damn good snuggle on the couch, Finley’s character could be employed for a greater good – namely to make me the fastest runner in Berkshire. Yes, I would quite literally harness his power and use Finley as my own personal locomotive.

I am of course talking about canicross, a relatively new athletic endeavor in which dog and owner run together with a view to the canine in question giving his human a helpful tow.

Here’s what I learned when Finley and I embarked on this new adventure...

Equipment

I researched the equipment and canicross basics. Finley is quite a small dog so a snug well-fitting harness was required. There are a huge amount of these products to wade through but we eventually found a good robust item that wouldn’t cause any chafing while he was powering us along on our (hopefully) record-setting runs.

Next on the list was a stretchy bungee lead. In order to mitigate the chances of Finley and I herniating a disc, a good medium-sized lead – some 12ft (2m) under tension – is a really important piece of canicross equipment. It also allows your dog a slightly greater sense of freedom, with a bungee lead somewhat less restrictive than a standard one.

The last piece of kit on the list was a waist belt for myself. Again, there are a heap of options to choose from and the more you spend the better the longevity is likely to be and the more features you get. I’ll admit to scrimping slightly here – a Three Peaks belt with a secured zip pocket is big enough for my phone and keys, while an open pocket accommodates a handful of treats and the inevitable poop bags.

Getting started

The internet is awash with canicrossing social groups. It was amazing to find so many runners who had not only taken up running with their dogs, but had also gone as far as to enter organised races. While canicross exclusive events are still fairly scarce, there’s a big number of running races that will allow canicrossers to take part too. It’s also very common to see dogs at parkruns, although there’s often a stipulation that prevents owners from using belts and bungee leads.

Before joining any sanctioned events, though, I decided it wise to give my equipment – and my dog – a test ride. Finley was super keen to get into his new harness. In fact Finley is super keen to do anything – and the prospect of ‘walkies’ combined with a shiny new harness set his tail off on such as frenzied bout of wagging that he pretty much levitated out of the door.

I was equally excited. Finley’s energy would be the start of a new and improved me – we’d reach the dizzy heights of five minute miles. Today would be the day that I (well, we) would find out what it was like to run a sub-20 minute 5km. Hell, we might even beat the canicross 5km world record which before our run is believed to stand at 12 minutes 24 seconds (spoiler: it still does).

Where to run

Trails in the UK haven’t been at their best lately. Bridleways have been bashed up by horses and mountain bikes; footpaths have been damaged by a thousand wellington boots. We wouldn’t be staying upright on these, let alone breaking world records, so I drove us to an old quarry site with tracks comprising hardpacked gravel. This would be the perfect proving ground for me and my pet.

With the harness now clicked into place, the lead carabiners secured and the waist belt firmly strapped on, I braced myself: “Finley,” I said. “I feel the need. The need for speed.”

The quest for speed

I’d like to have said at this point we zoomed off into the horizon at breathtaking speeds. But this did not happen. We just stood there staring expectantly at one another.

I started to jog. Finley followed beside me at heel. This was literally the first time he’s ever trotted loyally by my side. Was there a power switch on the harness I hadn’t read about in the instructions? His lack of urgency and our lack of speed continued as we negotiated the network of gravel tracks two abreast. It was all rather disappointing. I’d gone from Mo Farah to Moe from The Simpsons in less than 60 seconds.

It was time to seek assistance and advice from someone with a little more experience in the sport. Brian Slack, who set up the North Downs Canicrossers, has been running with his dalmatian and German short-haired pointer for eight years and was happy to tell me why we hadn’t got off to the flying start I’d envisioned.

“I would say most dogs won't run with individuals, but as soon as they get into a pack they have that pack mentality and will become quite competitive,” Brian explained.

“They don't want to be left behind. And you'll find that with a lot of dogs that come out they tend to be a lot more focussed on the running when there's a group of dogs.”

This, then, made absolute sense. Finley had no incentive to run with his human. He either wants to be gallivanting around the woods seeking out smells or running in a pack with at least one other dog.

I fetched Luna, our eight-year-old labrador-lurcher cross and headed out for round two. Would the presence of Finley’s sister elicit a more dynamic outing?

I didn’t have to wait long for an answer. No sooner had we stepped out of the car door than Finley took off at breakneck speed – he simply wanted to run. Luna and I were now passengers on the Finley Express – a tumult of dust and rubble in our wake.

But regardless of the speed at which you travel, there’s little that can compare with a few hours on the trails with one’s hound. Dogs are great companions, they love being outside, and more than anything they love being with you.

As canicrosser Peter Graham says: “Canicross is more than just running with your dog – it’s a shared adventure that strengthens your bond, fuels your fitness, and brings pure joy to both dogs and people. All you need is a harness, a trail and a spirit for fun. Lace up, leash up, and let the journey begin!”

• Top tips for running with your dog
• 8 things I wish I knew before I started hiking with my dog

Trail running is a booming industry, and it seems Lululemon hasn't given up on the idea of carving out a piece of that pie for itself with news of the release of its third trail running shoe.

Though it's no longer accurate to describe Lululemon as a yoga brand – the Vancouver-based apparel company made a name for itself with yoga pants in the early 2000s, but has since expanded out into all types of athletic wear and lifestyle apparel – it's only recently that its started to experiment with trail running. Or footwear for that matter.

It was in 2022 that Lululemon first tried its hand at shoes, with a women's-only line intended for road running, cross-training and weightlifting. That was followed by the women's Blissfeel Trail in 2023, the brand's first trail running shoe, which was developed for easy trails. Then came the Beyondfeel in 2024, designed for both men's and women's feet, which took a leaf out of Hoka's chunky midsole book and added some very non-technical-looking lugs.

Unlike its unwavering command over yoga pants, running shorts and sports bras, Lululemon's entry into trail running hasn't exactly been seismic. Former Advnture editor Cat Ellis tested the Blissfeel Trail back in 2023 and noted that the uppers lacked the protection required for more rugged trails (where she ended up with a broken toe), the midsole wasn't firm enough and she was unable to get a good lockdown fit. They were also heavy.

But that was then, and now the Lululemon Wildfeel has landed, promising "rugged traction," a precise fit and better protection for those rocky trails.

What's the story with the Wildfeel?

Based on looks alone, the Wildfeel is pretty eye-catching, though the massive logo on the side is bound to divide the crowd. It eschews the wide geometry favored for improved stability and seen in many trail shoes like the Nike Zegama 2, and with a slim build looks more similar to something like the Hoka Zinal 2.

Traction is obviously one of the key differences between a road shoe and one built for trails and the Wildfeel sports Multi-directional 4mm lugs that look a great deal more aggressive than either of its predecessors, and the brand says the rubber outsole is made to resist abrasion.

To improve fit, Lululemon says the design is "tuned to support the unique morphology" of male and female feet, and images show that the shoe is equipped with an extra lace hole to help you get a more secure lockdown.

As for protection, Lululemon says the Wildfeel's knitted sock-like upper "flexes with your foot" which doesn't sound super promising if it's defense you're looking for, but it has added TPU overlays and a toe bumper, which, if effective will be a step up from the Blissfeel Trail. It also helps keep debris at bay, which does bode well for loose trails and gravel.

As we mentioned before, we thought the Blissfeel Trail was a little heavy, and thanks to those additional protective details, the Wildfeel looks to be even heavier at 11.6oz (328g) per shoe for a US Men's Size 9, making it heavier than almost every trail shoe we've tested except for the Saucony Xodus Ultra 2 and the Adidas Terrex Agravic Ultra. So it might not be your first pick for long runs. It's also reduced the drop down to a more neutral 7.5mm.

Till we get the Wildfeel out on the trail, we can't say if it's really got the chops, but if you can't wait, the Lululemon Wildfeel trail running shoe is available now in men's and women's sizing for $168 at Lululemon.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain
• The best women's running leggings: for getting out in the colder months

Do you love listening to music as you run, hike, or bike through nature? Then check out the latest earbud models from headphones brand Shokz.

The new OpenFit 2 and OpenFit 2+ earbuds sit around your ears so you can remain aware of your surroundings and listen as you move.

Price

The OpenFit 2 earbuds are available for $179.95 (£169) on the Shokz website and cost a similar amount to Shokz's other top-end devices, like the OpenSwim and OpenRun models.

They're also similar in price to earbuds from big-name brands like Apple, whose AirPods.

The OpenFit 2 earbuds aren't yet available, but are expected to sell for around $15 more.

Design

Rather than sitting in your ear canal like regular earbuds, Shokz models like the OpenFit 2 and OpenFit 2+ go just outside, using open ear technology to transmit sound without eliminating outside noise.

These Bluetooth earbuds come in a handy charging case, which provides two hours of charge in just ten minutes, according to Shokz. In total, both models can last for 11 hours of listening time with a single charge, and 48 hours with the charging case.

The OpenFit 2 and OpenFit 2+ are made from plastic, silicone, and stainless steel and weigh just 0.3oz (9.4g) per pair, so you can race through the trails without anything to weigh you down.

They also feature an IP55 rating for water resistance. It's not enough to safely go swimming, but it will protect your pair from sweat and rain while you exercise.

Audio

The main differences between the OpenFit2 and OpenFit 2+ become apparent in the audio experience.

The OpenFit 2 model has two individual speakers in each earbud. Shozk claims that this design delivers a deep, resonant base, with crisp, higher-pitched sounds.

"By separating and processing sounds in different frequency bands, it produces more refined music details," says the brand.

The OpenFit 2+ earbuds use a top-end Dolby Audio system, which "surrounds you with lifelike audio," while you run, hike, or just going about your day, according to Shokz.

• The best running headphones: tested on the roads and trails
• The best GPS watches: feature-packed timepieces to keep you on course

Trail running legend Courtney Dauwalter isn't just known for being one of the best trail runners on the planet – she's also renowned for her unusual sartorial choices while racking up podiums, opting for loose and colorful clothing. Now her sponsors at Salomon have announced new opportunities for you to mimic the runner's unique style, with an expansion of the Courtney Collection.

The Colorado-based runner's attempt at a 250-mile race was brought up short at the Cocodona 250 last month, but the trail star has already announced she's set her sights on 2026, and her sponsors clearly have her back.

In an Instagram post yesterday, the Annecy-based brand announced "more opportunities to channel your inner Courtney" with several new products that embrace Dauwalter's love of loose fits and colorful designs.

First up, there's the S/Lab Genesis Limited Courtney Edition 2 unisex trail running shoes, built for long days with tons of cushioning, an 8mm drop and aggressive 4.5mm lugs for gnarly terrain.

If you love to enjoy the breeze around your legs when you're out on the trail, there's a limited-edition Shortney available now. Those are the long and loose running shorts preferred by Dauwalter and the new model boasts a peace sign graphic Dauwalter says is inspired by a card her mom gave her before her first 100-mile finish, and an 8in inseam. Made with lightweight, breathable Aerotech fabric, these look just as comfortable for beach trips as they do long runs.

Also in performance wear, there's a limited-edition version of the Sense Aero Tee in (what else?) bright orange, that weighs only 93g and is built to help you manage sweat on hot trails this summer.

If you prefer to celebrate Dauwalter from the comfort of your own couch, there's no judgement here, but there is a limited-edition cotton tee in a cool green fade, and a cozy black hoodie for cool dawn dog walks or changing into after a sweaty run.

For more serious trail runners, a Sense Pro 6 limited Courtney edition running vest is coming soon, featuring a six-liter capacity with soft flasks included.

You can shop the full Courtney Collection directly from Salomon.

• The best trail running shorts: for taking on technical terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

Hoka might already be the fastest-growing trail running brand on the planet, but the California-based company is showing no signs of resting on its laurels as it hypes yet another release for those of us who love running on the rough stuff.

Hot on the heels of the Mafate X, which launched mid-May, and the re-release of the iconic Speedgoat 2 at the beginning of May, the Hoka Challenger 8 has rolled into town looking ready for whatever terrain you care to test it on.

The Challenger series is built for those who like to mix it up between road and trail, and when we asked the brainiacs behind the brand's designs which model is best for gravel and mixed terrain, they recommended the shoe's predecessor, the Challenger 7. Of course, that was before we knew the 8 was imminent.

What's new?

Like the bestselling Clifton 10, which recently dropped sporting some big upgrades, the Challenger 8 hasn't held back on the revamp front. Describing the new shoe as a "gravel-grinding workhorse loved for its hyper cushy ride," Hoka says it's added even more foam underfoot (the previous edition already boasted 31mm) and has improved the fit with a "minimal" upper, plush collar, and a 3D screen printed toe cap for added protection.

The drop on the 8 has increased from 5mm to 8mm but remains neutral with a symmetrical cushion bed.

Once again, the brand has reimagined the lug orientation on the outsole, with a 4mm multi-directional design that it says ensures the best all-terrain ride yet. If you are taking to the roads, the shoe also features reflective details for safety.

The Hoka Challenger 8 is available now in both men's and women's sizing for $155.

• The best road to trail running shoes: footwear for all terrains
• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on the trickiest terrain

Runners and hikers have a new option for tracking their fitness on the trails, as sports wearables brand Polar has launched its latest high-tech watch.

The all-new Polar Grit X2 aims to be the perfect companion for tough treks and speedy runs through the wilderness, boasting a sturdy exterior, GPS capabilities, and plenty of handy sports and fitness modes.

Price

This model retails for £399 in the UK, a price that puts it in competition with upper-end Garmin watches, like the Forerunner 955. This high-tech Garmin received heavy praise in our review, meaning the Grit X2 has a lot to live up to on the trails.

The new Polar Grit X2 is now available to users in the UK and Europe via the Polar website. A US launch is planned for the coming months.

Exterior

This rugged new sports watch is designed for heavy use in all conditions. Its colorful 1.28In (35.5mm) AMOLED display is protected by a stainless steel bezel and sapphire crystal glass, which remains visible in "sunlight, on the move, or in harsh outdoor conditions," according to its creator.

The Grit X2 is tested to the latest 810H standards for extreme temperatures, altitude, shock, and water immersion.

This watch aims to fit in at the office before you head onto the trails, and retains a sleek, minimalist look despite its tough exterior.

"Too often, designs are bulky or lack essential features," said Polar CEO Sam Werring.

"With the launch of Grit X2, we address this long-standing gap, delivering premium functionality in a streamlined design, built to move with a new generation of adventurers."

It's available in two colorways: Night Black and Brown Copper. Both come with a standard 0.9in (22mm) rubber wristband.

Features

The Polar Grit X2 features a range of handy health trackers to monitor your fitness and help you up your game on the trails.

A wrist-based ECG, blood oxygen saturation tracker, and skin temperature sensor are just a few of the health monitors Polar says are used to deliver insight into your performance, recovery, and overall health.

Data from these trackers is used in the Grit X2's training tools, which are designed to help you make informed decisions about your training, rest, and recovery.

Navigation is another key feature. The Grit X2 is built to keep you on track with full-color offline topographic maps, which are pre-loaded and ready to use regardless of your position in the wilderness.

GPS navigation is generally reliable on Polar watches. In her review of the recent Vantage M3 Polar watch, former editor Cat Ellis described its trustworthy GPS as "extremely impressive, even in difficult conditions."

The Grit X2 watch boasts up to 90 hours of use in Eco training mode, 30 in Performance mode, and around a week in Smartwatch mode.

• The best cheap GPS watches: log your adventures without depleting your savings
• The best GPS watches: feature-packed timepieces to keep you on course

Can't get enough Garmin gear? You're in luck, as the American brand's latest high-tech fitness monitor looks to be just around the corner.

After months of rumours, a new report from the usually reliable Fitness Tracker Test website has revealed loads of new details about Garmin's upcoming sleep tracker, including its name: the Index Sleep Monitor.

The report suggests that the new Whoop-style device attaches to your upper arm with an adjustable Velcro strap and uses an optical sensor to measure your sleep. Next to the sensor is an LED light and an 'integrated vibration module', which can be used to gently wake you from a long sleep.

According to the report, the new Sleep Index Monitor will feature an array of different health monitors, including a blood oxygen saturation monitor and sleep score tracker.

The rechargeable device is rumoured to boast around a week of battery life, and is expected to hit the market in the coming months for roughly $170.

Expected features for the new Garmin sleep monitor

• Sleep score
• Sleep stages
• Sleep duration
• Heart rate

• Blood oxygen saturation
• Respiration tracking
• Skin temperature
• Women's health trackers
• Body battery

Wearable fitness bands strap onto your upper arm and provide 24/7 information about your health and fitness. Popular models like the Whoop 4.0 paint a vivid picture of your sleep and recovery by measuring various health metrics.

You can also log activities, food, and alcohol consumption in the Whoop app to access a more in-depth analysis. The latest Garmin device will likely link to the Garmin Connect app, so you can see your sleep stats from your phone.

Unlike Garmin watches, Whoop uses a subscription model. You pay an annual subscription of $239 (£229), or a monthly fee of $30 (£27) to access its health tracking services.

Garmin has been experimenting with paywalls in recent months, and currently charges $6.99 (£6.99) monthly or $69 (£69.99) annually for access to its Active Intelligence AI, which sends personalised health insights and suggestions to your Garmin watch.

• The best Garmin watches: make the right choice for the sport you love
• The best GPS watches: feature-packed timepieces to keep you on course

If you’ve looked down in the last couple of years, you’re bound to have noticed a lot of Hoka shoes on a lot of feet.

Hoka shoes are everywhere, from town to trail and from street to summit, and while you might be accustomed to outlandish color schemes and midsoles thick enough to rival your favorite camping mattress these days, this brand’s distinctive shoes looked pretty far out when they first burst onto the trail-running scene.

The year was 2010. Instagram had just launched, Apple released the very first iPad and running shoes were having a minimalist moment. Barefoot shoes with zero drop were in, and the prevailing philosophy was that cushioning would destroy your body from the feet up. Some of us were even going so far as to hit the trail in Vibram Fivefingers shoes, designed with an individual pouch for each of your precious toes.

In Annecy, France, a revolution was quietly brewing. Two former Salomon employees named Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard had an idea for something different: an oversized shoe that would offer protection, cushioning, and bounce in a lightweight design.

Together, they formed Hoka and released the Hoka One One Mafate trail running shoe. It featured a thick midsole and rocker geometry that probably looked a little out of place next to the Brooks Cascadia 15 and Salomon XT Wings that came out the same year. But fast forward to today, and Hoka's influence over the trail running market is undeniable.

Now the fastest-growing running brand in the world, Hoka is the title sponsor of the world’s biggest ultra marathon, the UTMB, and an official heavyweight in the trail world. If you love hitting the dirt when you’re running, or are thinking of trying trail running this year, at some point you’ll want to test out some Hoka shoes to see if you vibe with them.

Now they've been making shoes for 15 years, there are plenty of different models to choose from, so we reached out to the brand to ask which Hoka trail running shoes are best for different types of run. Here’s what they told us.

Race day: Tecton X3

If your goal isn’t just to cruise through the hills but rather to set a PB at your next trail race, you might want to take a leaf out of ultra runner Jim Walmsley’s book. Recent years have seen the Arizonan establish himself as one of the fastest long-distance trail runners on the planet, and he’s laid down some impressive course records at the UTMB and Western States sporting the Hoka Tecton X 3s.

These shoes will have you race day ready if it’s long distances and rough terrain you’re looking at. They do look a little futuristic, but that’s down to the knit collar that extends up from the tongue like a gaiter to mitigate trail debris, and it’s a feature we’re seeing pop up in other trail shoes from brands like Salomon and even Arc’teryx.

With a 38.5mm stack, you’ll have plenty of padding as the miles go by, and the X in the title denotes a carbon plate for added propulsion, which has added wings for stability. The rocker sole is built for speed and grippy 4mm lugs help you keep up your pace like Walmsley on the downhills (well, probably not quite that fast). Despite the plate and added frills, these shoes aren’t super heavy either.

Mountain running: Mafate Speed 4

Not all trail running is mountain running, but when your fast-paced adventures include climbing and descending, you’ll want shoes designed for alpine conditions.

For mountain runners, the brand recommends the Mafate Speed 4. The Mafate family of shoes exhibits the brand’s pinnacle of technical shoes for negotiating tricky terrain, and this iteration took everything that was great about the EVO Mafate and Mafate Speed and made it more breathable, lighter and more responsive.

With deep 5mm lugs, you can confidently navigate scrabbly, slick and steep slopes while a relatively low stack (33mm) and 4mm drop keeps you stable when the ground beneath you is anything but.

There is, of course, plenty of reinforcement around the toe box to protect you from rocks on the trail, and a sturdier foam in the midsole better holds up against hard terrain.

Long runs: Speedgoat 6

For those long days when you’re putting in training miles at low speed, you need a few things from your shoes: comfort, durability and lightweight nimbleness.

Enter the Hoka Speedgoat 6, which demonstrates all of those characteristics in a technical shoe that can handle all kinds of terrain. These aren’t the cushiest shoes you’ll ever wear, but you can stay comfortable for hours thanks to 40mm of foam under the heel, a foot-hugging internal chassis and a breathable upper.

They’re also rugged. I’ve run hundreds of miles in my Speedgoat 6s and they still look nearly new (when I clean them anyway). The woven uppers are really robust and additional overlays add protection for your toes while the outsoles give loads of coverage.

They’re not featherlight, but they are a couple of ounces lighter than the other shoes on this list, so they won’t start to feel like lead weights by mile 10.

Easy runs: Torrent 4

Not every run is a race. In fact, most training happens during much easier runs – and it’s silly to beat up your pricey race day shoes for these outings. Get yourself a pair of Hoka Torrent 4s for shakeout days and short runs and enjoy a balanced ride.

Compared to a lot of other models (in Hoka’s catalog anyway), these shoes scream both moderation and 'in it for the long haul'. After all, these are the shoes you’ll wear most frequently, so you’ll likely appreciate that the stack isn’t too high (33mm) and the drop pretty neutral (5mm).

Without prescriptive technologies to help with stability, you can run more naturally but you’ll still be able to benefit from enough cushioning when you decide to go further, and a responsive toe-off if you want to pick up the pace. These versatile shoes wrap your foot in the Active Foot Frame and are robust enough to hit the trail time after time.

Gravel and mixed terrain: Challenger 7

If your local trails tend to involve more grit than slick rock, the Challenger 7 , with a grip pattern inspired by the tread on gravel tires, are a good choice. Just like on a truck's tires, the outsole on these shoes features smaller, tightly spaced lugs in the center, and larger, more aggressive lugs around the edges, a design that improves traction on uneven terrain and allows the shoes to shed debris easier.

If you’ve tried other Challengers and weren’t so keen, this seventh edition has been completely reimagined from the ground up. The mesh upper is simpler, the foam midsole lighter and plusher.

This shoe is designed to take you from the street all the way to the summit and therefore it’s also the model the brand recommends when your runs involve a mix of tarmac and trail.

Muddy trails: Speedgoat 6 GTX

Some of us love running on muddy trails (and some of us just don’t have a choice), but either way, sticky, slippery conditions require special hooves.

We’ve already mentioned the Speedgoat 6s as great for long runs due to their comfort, durability and light weight, but they have one other super power. The revised lug orientation on this edition is inspired by (what else?) the hoof of a goat, and it really does lend impressive traction during mud season.

For truly wet and muddy conditions, grab the Speedgoat 6 GTX and the Gore-Tex Invisible Fit waterproof membrane to protect your feet from blisters and swamp foot.

• The best trail running shoes: get a grip on teh trickiest terrain
• The best trail shoes for ultra runners: these robust and comfy rides are built for serious outdoor adventures

With the summer finally here, now is the perfect time to hit the trails for a long and enjoyable run through the wilderness. So, lace up your favorite trail running shoes, grab and water bottle, and take something insulating for when the wind picks up.

Wind chill can make temperatures considerably colder than first forecast, so it's important to wear the right clothing, especially if you're planning to run along an exposed hill or mountainside.

The best windbreaker jackets will keep you warm in high winds without overheating in the summer sun. If you're after a dependable jacket to take on the trails this season, check out this half-price Patagonia model.

The women's Patagonia Wind Shield jacket combines breathable materials with plenty of protection from strong winds and is now available for just $98.89 at REI in the Endless Blue colorway. It's also available for $138.93 in Black.

It's made from stretchy soft-shell and Capilene cool fabrics, which ward off the wind and provide a soft, next-to-skin feel while you're running, according to Patagonia. These materials are built to be quick-drying, so you can also shake off the rain swiftly after a downpour.

When the sun comes out, the Patagonia Wind Shield jacket is designed to dump heat using its breathable brushed-terry fabric sections, which aim to maximize airflow and keep you from overheating on the trails.

Not in the US? Don't worry, you can look below for today's best Patagonia jacket deals where you are.

• The best trail running sunglasses: clarity and protection
• The best windbreakers: beat the weather and stay warm outdoors

Ready to feel the burn and take on long-distance trails this summer? Then you might want to check out Ibex's new range of running gear.

The new Springbok range uses soft and stretchy Merino wool in combination with nylon and elastane in its lightweight shorts, t-shirts, and hoodies, which are designed for comfort over long distances in the wilderness.

Ibex says its Pro Tech Lite fabric is breathable on sticky summer days, and dries off quickly if you're caught in the rain. It also claims that the new range is naturally odor-resistant and wards off unwanted smells regardless of how much you sweat.

The new Springbok shorts feature a few handy hidden pockets, while the Springbok sport tees use a tag-free design to eliminate chaffing.

Perhaps the best thing about these garments is their UPF 35+ sun protection, which effectively blocks UV rays to stop sun damage to your skin.

Protection from the sun is essential on the trails, and while you'll still need to apply sunscreen to exposed areas, these clothes can act as a handy shield to reduce damage.

The Springbok line doesn't come cheap though. The shorts alone will set you back $100 (£92), while the tees retail for $80 (£74) and sun hoodies cost $145 (£133).

Great trail running clothes often make a dent in your pocket, but these prices put all four garments in the Springbok range at the upper end of the price range.

The entire Springbok range is available on the Ibex website.

What is Merino wool

Merino wool is a soft and durable fiber produced by the quirky Merino breed of sheep. These unique animals look a little different to most domestic breeds, and male Merino sheep have large Ibex-like horns.

Despite their unusual appearance, Merino sheep produce fantastic wool, used for all sorts of hiking, trail running, and climbing garments. Merino wool is loved for its odor-resistance, comfort, and suitability for all seasons.

You can learn more about Merino wool via our expert guide.

• The best hiking water bottles: stay hydrated at camp and on the trails
• The best running water bottles: convenient hydration for mid-length runs

First impressions

I have a love-hate relationship with Salomon shoes. I generally love the look, feel and reliably category-leading design of the fleet-footed French running brand’s trail running shoes, but often the last used on their more performance-orientated models squeezes my forefoot and I find the toebox too tight.

Painful bunions and the broad shape of my gnarled and trail-wizened floor slappers, means I often need to opt for boots and shoes designed specifically for wider feet, and I have struggled like Cinderella’s ugly sisters to try and make many Salomon shoes fit me in the past (especially the more technically advanced Slab versions, which prioritize performance-enhancingly tight foothold over comfort) usually to no avail.

Suffice to say I was over the moon to try the Ultra Glide 3 shoes on and discover that I could go straight out for a 6 mile (10k) run without suffering any pain whatsoever. Quite the opposite, in fact, these shoes felt like comfortable, grippy slippers. How exciting.

Look and availability

The Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is available for men and women now, for a comparatively reasonable list price and comes in a range of attractive colorways. Once again, the Salomon naming department has clearly been hitting the red sweets hard, and among the imaginatively named options are ‘Cosmic Sky’ and ‘Excalibur, Icicle and Neon Flame’. There is also a ‘Proto Pack’ option, which appears to be just another color choice.

Design and materials

The Hoka-led trend of trail-running shoes sporting spectacularly spongetastic maximist midsoles continues, and the Ultra Glide 3 boasts a whacking great stack that starts at 41mm above the heel, and drops to 35mm at the toe (not quite as insanely enormous as the recently re-released Hoka Mafate X, but big nonetheless). This cushiony midsole is made with impressively lightweight EVA-based ‘energy’ foam.

Continuing the lightweight design, the upper of the shoe is primarily comprised of a synthetic mesh, strengthened with a TPU skeleton (which forms a minimalist rand) and backed by an EndoFit internal sleeve.

There is generous amount of padding around the heel and across the top of the tongue, which is only partially integrated with the chassis, via a wide elasticated band.

The Ultra Glide 3 features a quicklace tightening set-up which is very speedy to use, and the Sensifit system ensures you can achieve a confidence-inspiring secure and firm fit.

This is the third generation of this shoe family, and the latest arrival has the same 6mm drop, but boasts very slightly deeper lugs than the Ultra Glide 2s. The design of the All Terrain Contagrip outsole is pretty funky – the arrow-shaped studs (some facing forward for traction, others pointing backward to help with braking) are well spaced out, to reduce the amount of mud and muck you might collect, and the face of the sole is wavy, with several deep dimples.

It's good to see some recycled content in the Ultra Glide mix with this model, although Salomon don’t divulge what percentage or which parts of the shoe have made using fabric spun from plastic bottles, but I’m going to assume it’s mainly the mesh in the chassis.

On the trails

I have been testing the Ultra Glide 3s over the last few months, while running on woodland trails, moorland and hillside tracks, pebbly beaches and rocky coastal paths, and can confirm that Salomon’s all-terrain claims about this model’s capability levels are legit. It really is a very versatile off-road shoe, which can handle just about any sort of landscape – and this really suits me.

The All Terrain Contagrip outsole isn’t just funky looking, it’s also highly functional, providing really good grip on everything from wet rocks to mucky trails covered in slippery tree roots. I love the fact you don’t end up running around with a heavy layer of mud on the underside of your shoes (thanks to the well-spaced lugs), and the all-ready substantial 4mm studs are made even more effective by the dimples in the design of the sole. Clever stuff.

And this shoe is super comfortable, no matter what sort of surface you’re running across. Obviously the midsole is massive, and that sumptuous degree of cushioning comes at the cost of any real feedback from the trail, but the energy rebound and sense of positive forward momentum while running in these shoes is extraordinary.

I like the level of connectivity and secure fit that is achieved with the Sensifit system and Quicklace tightening set-up. I didn’t experience any movement within the shoe (so I’ve no concerns about developing blisters), and not only does the Ultra Glide feel like it’s firmly clamped to my foot, I also don’t need to worry about laces coming undone. The padding and support around the heel is excellent too. I do wish the tongue was better integrated to the internal sock, however, as this would better protect against the ingress of grit and other trail debris.

There’s no rockplate in the mix here, the little rand doesn’t offer much in the way of protection against trail hazards, and the toecap is tiny, so the Ultra Glide 3 relies heavily on its monster midsole and giant stack depth to supply protection against sharp sticks and stones. I haven’t personally experienced any problems with this, but it’s worth noting if you habitually tackle more gnarly terrain or trails with lots of obstacles waiting to attack you.

The Ultra Glide 3s are not waterproof, and neither do they claim to be, but instead my sweaty feet have been enjoying the enormous degree of breathability offered by the mainly mesh upper. I found that these shoes also drain very well after you splash through water obstacles such as streams, but all that padding around the heel becomes sodden and heavy, and it takes ages to dry.

All things considered, though, the Salomon Ultra Glide 3 is a very well-designed, ridiculously comfortable and impressively versatile shoe, which serves regular trail runners extremely well and can cope with almost kind of terrain and distance.

• Get the most enjoyment from your adventures with the most comfortable trail running shoes
• Pair your shoes with the best trail running socks, shorts and tops

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