Get Altitude: The Hi-Tec V-Lite Altitude Ultra API Hiking Boots

The modern-day hiking boot requires versatility. After all, people who go hiking also have access to technology  like cars and GPS – it’s easy to alter one’s chosen terrain on a whim. That’s why hiking boots have to follow suit and meet all demands…at least if the boot is going to be worth the cost. Does the V-Lite Altitude Ultra API hiking boot deliver on these demands, or is it simply another way of strapping your feet in?

First, we should evaluate the most important aspects of a hiking boot: keeping moisture out and keeping you upright. This means that both grip and strength of waterproofing are high priorities. The V-Lite Altitude succeeds with high grades on both of these fronts with a high grade of leather that covers your feet and ankles incredibly well. On the grip side, there are no complaints: the Vibram outsole is, of course, awesome Vibram rubber.  Enough said.

What’s great about the V-Lite series is that the shoes all come up high along your ankle without constricting your movement, thus providing extra protection from the elements without really messing with your stride.  This will actually make it tempting to place a little extra wear and tear on the boot, and depending on your perspective, that can either be a good or a bad thing.  For a hiking boot, they are light-weight but don’t worry, they don’t scrimp on durability.

Ultimately, this hiking boot is exactly what many people are looking for. At $150, it’s right about where you would expect a solid hiking boot for the season to cost. It provides great waterproofing and its high ankle support not only makes it durable, but comfortable. It would be great if this boot came in more colors than simply chocolate/light taupe, but chances are if that you’re buying one of these boots, you don’t need a ton of extra frills to get your thrills.

The What:

This hiking boot is called: V-lite Altitude Ultra WPI by Hi-Tec.
Color tested: Chocolate/Light Taupe.

The Why:
Buy them if: you like (thumbs-up) light-weight hiking boots.
Forget them if: you already have your “hydro-management” merit badge.
Tested on: Rocky Mountain trails.
Highest and best use: we say, take a hike!

Tip: The fit is true to size.  Hi-Tec has come along way, and these won’t take that long to break-in.  This hiking boot is not as rigid as the typical “waterproof” leather uppers.  They seem to mold easily to your feet and the boots have plenty of padding to protect your ankles.

*Disclosure: shoes provided by Hi-Tec (MSRP $150). If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Vasque’s Multisport “Rift”: Is this the Do-Everything Shoe?

The idea of a multisport shoe is not a new one: after all, versatility has always been a quality we demand of our shoes. But being confident enough in a shoe to take it canoeing, camping, hiking, bicycling, or simply walking means that you need to make an investment in a shoe ready to handle all of the challenges the elements bring in your local geography. Does Vasque’s Multisport shoe Rift handle these challenges?

The short answer: yes. The long answer: there’s actually a lot of detail and preparation work that go into building a shoe this versatile while keeping it light enough to not be a drain on your time and energy.

Slipping this shoe on and hopping in a canoe feels as natural as slipping it on and going for a long hike. In fact, the shoe’s shape is so conventional that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing multisport shoes.

The first quality we like is that the Rift is indeed light – less than two pounds. The laces are traditional and make it a snap to lace up and start enjoying whatever of the multisports you enjoy most. The caps on both ends also make it durable, providing a protection against wear and tear that too many “casual” shoes simply ignore.

There are also quite a few colors to choose from, and none of the color combinations lack pizzazz. You can try their “pesto/beluga,” for example, or their “Slate Black/Scuba Blue” if you’re feeling a little more aquatic. Some of the color combinations look positively 1990s, which is good if you just finished listening to Pearl Jam’s Ten.

At $120, these multisport shoes are reasonably priced and considering how much dirty work you might give them, can be considered quite the bargain indeed.

The What:
This multisport shoe is called: Rift by Vasque.  Coming spring 2012 to a store near you!
Color tested: Chili Pepper (with a hint of black pepper too)

The Why:
Buy them if: you want to be trail ready, ALWAYS!
Forget them if: you love your Velcro lacing system.
Tested on: red-rock, asphalt, concrete, lava rock, sand, motorcycle pegs, rock, gravel, bike peddles, carpet (still want more?)
Highest and best use: for everything….except  bowling – these shoes are way to sticky to slide.  And those bowling people work hard to keep their wood floors scuff-free and shiny.

Tip: This shoe is for you if you just cant decide between the trail shoes and hiking boots. If this is your first pair of Vasque shoes, you won’t be disapointed.  For us, these shoes offer out-of-the-box comfort and they delivered on all promises.

*Disclosure: shoes provided by Vasque MSRP $120). If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Trick or Sweet?  Newton’s Gravitas: The Running Shoe that Will Keep You Going!

If you ask me, running shoes often get a bad rap. They’re seen as one-hit wonders, as specialty shoes, and certainly not shoes you’ll want to take to formal occasions. But these are the shoes that we wear out the most often, provided we actually stick to those New Year’s resolutions, and they will certainly take the greatest beating. So why is a great pair of running shoes so low on the list of stylish or important clothing options?

Well, because they look like Newton’s Gravitas, a pair of running shoes that offers high-level functionality for the 2011-2020 decade but look like they’ve been plucked out of the 1980’s. Not that there’s anything wrong with a little retro-style, especially when it comes to the timeless exercise classics that came with the rise of brands like Nike.

If you’re a runner, of course, you couldn’t care less. Shoes like the gravitas are why you run – you want to customize your own level of endurance, and you need a shoe that can take you ten miles a day just as easily as it can take you a mile. That’s what the Gravitas provides with extended heel durability, excellent fit and plenty of flexibility. There are some shoes that would seek to change you with all that they do to your foot – the Gravitas is not one of those shoes.

At $175, these shoes do come down on the pricy side, which can be especially tricky if you’re a college student and need the exercise but also need the money. Die-hard runners might – forgive the pun – gravitate to a shoe like the Gravitas more readily, especially if those runners are the ones who have been around a while, have some money, and need a shoe that reduces stress on their feet and legs.  Looking to build your calf muscles?  These are the shoes.  These shoes will keep you on your toes – literally.  I asked a triathlon expert “what do you think about the newton shoe experience?  He responded, “I wont run in anything thing else.”  Take it from us and a tri-expert and try a pair for yourself.  No trick, they’re sweet!

Should you get a pair? It’s certainly worth a look if you want a quality running shoe. And, heck, if you were looking for stylish shoes in the first place, you wouldn’t have finished this article because you’d already be reading GQ.  Or, you’re still staring and the shorts and not the shoes.

The What:
This trail running shoe is called: Newton’s Gravitas.
Color tested: Blue. Orange. White. Sliver.

The Why:
Buy them if: your calves need some serious toning, and your running form needs honing.
Forget them if: you already have perfect running form.
Tested on: asphalt of the blackest pigment.
Highest and best use: for the shoes?  Running.  For the Shorts?  Halloween.

Tip: If this is your first pair of Newtons, work them in slowly to you run.  These shoes will keep you on your toes!  (The shorts probably will too.)

newtonrunning.com

(Model and shorts not included with the purchase!  However, both the shoes and model were used with permission)

*Disclosure: shoes provided by Newton Running MSRP $175).  If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Diablo MAX Ms: The Devil’s in the Details

There’s a certain personality type for which only one kind of shoe will do: the trail blazer. If you are the kind of person who likes to get in the outdoors and test the limits of their endurance, while also testing the integrity of the nature trails that play host to their scampering feet, this is your shoe.  It’s hot, and the name says it all.  The Diablo MAX Ms are the pair of shoes that look to support this kind of intrepid personality, supporting a trail running habit by keeping feet comfortable and offering the unique kind of support that an uncertain terrain requires. Quite simply, this is the shoe that delivers the goods.

Image used by permission from Tecnica

At a reasonable weight of only 360 grams, they stay out of the way in terms of weight, allowing you to build a natural flow to your trail running rhythm that you’ll quickly get used to. With a steady grip on the outsole (TRS Max Technigrip by Tecnica, if you can speak gibberish) and a nice synthetic mesh on the upside to keep things relatively clean, the shoe is versatile enough to handle trails in a variety of environments – and the variety of weather that you’ll likely want to subject them to.  A serious trail running habit does require a serious shoe, and that’s exactly what these MAX Ms provide.  This shoe also offers an over-sized rocker profile that has a 55% greater toe and heel rocker height that optimizes energy transfer and propulsion.

The price is $130, which is not unheard of for an upper-end shoe of this caliber. If you’ve ever heard the phrase “you get what you pay for,” then you’ll certainly see the wisdom in springing for a few extra bucks in order to get a shoe that lasts. And if it means that you’ll run the trails more, it could also be considered an investment in your psychological and biological health.

But try to buy these shoes if you’re serious about hitting the trails – don’t let them go to waste in your closet as you focus on exercising with ping pong and Nintendo Wii. However, if you feel like getting out on a regular basis, this is the pair of shoes for you.

This trail running shoe is called: Diablo MAX Ms by Tecnica.
Color tested: Anthracite.  Yes, we went ahead and found the definition for you so you don’t even have to leave the page  (Anthracite (Greek  (anthrakítes)  “coal-like” compact variety of mineral coal that has a high luster.”)
Buy them if: you are into more cow bell – like 30% more.  Yes, more is more as this shoe offers 30% larger footprint.  Remember, this is the shoe that delivers the goods.
Forget them if: you are into treading lightly or you are completely off your rocker.  Remember, this shoe offers an oversized rocker that may help keep you on yours.
Tested on: rocky, dirty, muddy and snowy trails.
Highest and best use: “all-your-feet-can-eat” trails.

Tip: These shoes like trails and my feet really liked these shoes.

http://www.tecnicausa.com

*Disclosure: shoes provided by Tecnica (MSRP $130).  If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Magicarpet from FreeWaters: Great Flip-Flops or Greatest Flip-Flops?

If you’re like me, you probably like to indulge your inner nerd every once in a while and give objective ranking assignments to art that can only be subjectively measured. Greatest symphony of all time? Beethoven’s Ninth. Greatest painting of all time? The Mona Lisa. Greatest flip-flops of all time? The FreeWaters Magic Carpet.

Image used by permission from freewaters.com

Of course, in order to be called the greatest of all time, you usually have to do a bit of genre-defying. Beethoven did it by bringing in a choir to sing on his symphony. The Magic Carpet accomplishes its own respective feat by making a flip-flop that looks like a flip-flop but is capable of the kind of performance you’ve never even thought of attempting in similar-looking shoes. In other words, this might be the rare instance that a pair of flip-flops is actually “running-ready.” Or, as FreeWaters puts it, “a running shoe disguised as a sandal.”

While the overall design might appear to be that of an ordinary flip-flop, there are some subtle things here that make this the kind of flip-flop that Bruce Wayne would keep around in the Bat Cave. Consider the reduced pinching of the neoprene flex panel, or an underbelly that not only splashes out water like a car tire, but keeps the foot cool for the summer excursions you’ll no doubt be enjoying in these things.

But the overall result of all the effort placed into the Magic Carpet is not only a great flip-flop, but a flip-flop that essentially transforms when you run: it fits well with your foot and even provides some nice spring-action for your steps, similar to the way a running shoe would. You know how they say don’t run around the pool? Well, you still shouldn’t, so be wary of the temptation to do it when you snap these sandals on.

How highly can we recommend these? Well, if the comparisons to the Mona Lisa and Beethoven’s Ninth were too subtle for you, we’ll just say that the Magic Carpet is probably as close to a perfect sandal as you’ll find in a generation – when, we’re assuming, they’ll actually be able to lift you out of Earth’s orbit and serve you lunch. Until that technology arrives, this flip-flop is the pair to own.

Fit Perfect.  Special Build.  Don’t Stink.  Quick Dry. Clean water for people who need it (for 1 year).  ‘Nuff said.

Magic Carpet on Moonlight Beach, Encinitias, CA

This sandal is called: Magic Carpet by Freewaters.
Color tested: “BKB” (Black, Blue, Grey)
Buy them if: you want to  provide clean drinking water for one individual for one entire year.  Or, you just want to own the most comfortable flip-flop on the planet – or in orbit.  We like to call this a “win-win.”
Forget them if: ….well, we say don’t forget ‘em – that would be a sad vacation.
Tested on: sand, dirt, asphalt, beach sidewalks, city sidewalks, busy sidewalks.
Highest and best use: Wherever, whenever.  (Well, in the winter you might consider a sweet pair of toe socks.)

Tip: Perfect recovery footwear after your long trail run.

http://www.freewaters.com

*Disclosure: Sandals provided by Freewaters (MSRP $60).  If you have a pair of shoes that need to be featured on shoesoftheday.com, contact us at reviews (at) shoesoftheday.com

Go Light on the Trails with a GoLite TaraLite Shoe

If there’s anything that people who enjoy hitting the trails love, it’s minimalism. Going out to hit the hiking trails gives them the scent of fresh air, maximum exercise, and most importantly – a chance to get out of the house. So it’s only fitting that this type of person also enjoy a minimalist shoe that’s able to combine simplicity in design with high-performing features. That’s what the GoLite TaraLite attempts to do. Does it succeed?

The simple answer is yes. The TaraLite is dubbed the “latest evolution in BareTech trail running shoes,” and with a name like “BareTech,” it better be good.  This shoe was inspired by sandals in the Tarahumara tribes in Mexico, and is a shoe that gives the greatest amount of leeway to your feet while also supplementing your foot’s natural abilities like any good minimal shoe would, could and should.

How is this accomplished? You have an internal thong (it’s not what you think it is) to add stability and consistency in the uncertain terrain, solid protection from the outside elements, and very little extraneous details that would otherwise get in the way of your foot and subsequently alter the way you exercise.

As stated, if you enjoy trail running in the first place, there’s a good chance you don’t need a shoe with 100 gadgets and features embedded therein.

At $115, this shoe will cost you what you might expect from other shoes across several markets, meaning it’s a fair price. But what if you’re a trail running enthusiast who wants a shoe with even more minimalism? Well, tie a sandal to your feet and start walkin’, but there’s no guarantee that your contraption will perform nearly as well as a shoe designed for both minimalism and unexpected terrain.  The outsole is sticky, holding on mightily to sandstone rock.  Check out the picture of the tread in the sand.  The GoLite TaraLite is designed to support and enhance without altering – and that’s all you should be asking out of your trail running shoe.

This trail shoe is called: TaraLite by Golite
Color tested: Orange/Black/Gray.
Buy them if: you want a no-lace, zero drop heel, natural feeling trail shoe.
Forget them if: you don’t have any toe socks that will accommodate the thong.
Tested on: sand, slick-rock, dirt and rocky trails.
Highest and best use: broad mix of trail terrain.
Tip - they fit exactly to your regular shoe size.  Don’t add – keep it minimal.

Disclosure: We received these shoes complementary from Golite.  If we didn’t like them, we wouldn’t have written about them.

Newton Running has jumped up on the barefoot running bandwagon. How does a shoe company join the barefoot revolution? By sticking to the principles of the movement – foot strength, forefoot strides, faster sprints, and more overall support – but perfecting them with the ideal shoe structure. The Newton Gravitas  is snazzy, effective and, unlike other minimalistic running shoe models, looks just like a regular shoe.

Gravitas are different from other minimalist running shoes trying to mimic and expand on barefoot running concepts because of the unique technology they employ. Instead of choosing chunky heels like running shoes used to have, Newton’s shoes feature slim heels rubber lugs protruding from the outsole, right under the ball of your foot. This design helps you run faster by propelling your forward each time you lift the toe of your foot for another stride. When bringing your foot down, you push the lugs into the midsole and when you begin pushing off the ground for your next stride, the lugs decompress and propel you forward.

This might seem like a complicated mechanism for something as natural and basic as running, but remember that your feet have been adapting to normal shoes since birth and never built up the right foot strength for running. Gravitas give a comfortable, stretchy fit that doesn’t cramp your feet and will never beat up your toes. Earlier Newton minimalistic running shoe models had even less heel, but the Gravitas are perfect for anyone whose feet are still getting used to minimalistic running shoes.

Nike Lunarglide+ 2 Shoe Review

The Nike Lunarglide is a shoe made just for runners with New Years running resolutions and who dig rocket science.  However, runners with different types of running style will benefit from this shoe too. Are you an overpronator, underpronator or a “don’t know” pronator? It mattereth not fellow earthling; the Nike Lunarglide will comfortably accommodate your feet!

The Nike Lunarglide+ 2 features an upper portion of mesh with a microfiber layer overlay, making the shoe breathable without compromising support. Lightweight and comfortable, the Nike Lunarglide has a sockliner beneath the left midsole where the Nike+ sensor is stored. The innersleeve of this running shoe wraps your foot in comfort and support.  The reflective markings on the shoe make the runner visible even in the darkest conditions – including your evening moonwalks.

The Nike Lunarglide is an amazing shoe with so many little “extras” that any runner would appreciate.  Searching for serious comfort and support for your daily jog, run, trot or lunar leaping?  Check out the Nike Lunarglide + 2. Reasonably priced, phenomenal and phast!  Phar-out.

image copyright shoesoftheday.com

Buy them if: you need another comfortable, everyday, light weight shoe because your moon boots are just about worn out.

Forget about them if: there is plenty of wear left in your Star Wars Adidas Shoes

Mizuno Wave® Rider™ 14 Running Shoe Review

This handsomely constructed  shoe is perfect for the athlete who needs everything in a running shoe. This running shoe is a winner in the technology, performance and style departments. The Mizuno Wave® running shoe outperforms other running shoes due to its unique construction of gender engineering.  Since men and women are quite different in size, shape and body mass, the Mizuno Wave® Rider™ 14 is one of the Mizuno running shoes that is constructed differently. For the men, this running shoe was made wider to increase their stability upon ground impact.

The Mizuno Wave® Rider™ 14 also features what they refer to as the Mizuno Intercool™ system. This offers ventilation to the entire foot, which encourages your foot to stay cool minimizing moisture to the foot. Good air-flow and ventilation in a running shoe is a relief and a must-have for the serious runner.

As with many well-constructed running shoes, the Mizuno Wave® Rider™ 14 features cushioning and the support that is essential when running. Other beneficial features of this running shoe are the SmoothRide™ Engineering, Dynamotion Fit technology, which reduces stress on the foot, extra cushioning for comfort and much, much more.

*Image courtesy of Zappos

For an awesome running shoe that is comfortable and has received great reviews amongst top runners, this is your running shoe for 2011: the AIRmesh™-Dynamotion Fit technology-Intercool™ -Wave® technology-VS-1™-heel-cushioning-SmoothRide™ X10™-carbon-rubber-outsole shoes of the day,  the Mizuno Wave® Rider™ 14 Running Shoe!

Buy them if: you want a shoe that doesn’t skimp on quality or technology.

Forget about them if: you’re still trying to figure out how pronounce the word Mizuno, and what all the ®’s and ™’s listed above really mean.

Terra Plana EVO Review

EVO!  That’s the name of my phone.  No, this is not a cell phone review.  The EVO is also the name of a new minimalist barefoot shoe by Terra Plana.   I hefted a pair tonight.  Initial thoughts: incredibly lightweight, and your toes won’t feel any separation anxiety – at least mine didn’t.  The “Vivobarefoot” technology, launched in 2003 and claimed the original getting back-to-the-basics barefoot shoe.  You’re almost barefoot with an ultra thin puncture resistant sole, and you will feel free but with plenty of protection.

Terra Plana EVO *image courtesy of vivobarefoot.com

• Lightweight? Check.  The EVO weighs about 8 oz.  (My phone is still lighter)
• Toe co-habitation in a barefoot world? Check.  No toe estrangement here.
• Expensive? Check.  These EVO’s will run you one Benjamin and three Jackson’s.  ($160)
• Vegan? Check.  I guess if you get really hungry….
• APPs? None here.  Check the Android Market.

What do you think about this whole barefoot minimalist “get- shoes-off-my-feet-but-don’t-make-it-hurt” movement?

Update: Terra Plana and VIVOBAREFOOT are going their separate ways.  More here.