Inov-8 Race Ultra 270[1][4][2][2][2][2][2]

Inov-8 Ultra 270, 270g
RRP: £110
Far and away the quickest shoe in our collection. Inov-8 have opted for a more minimal design with their latest race ultra™ product, and it pays dividends come race day. Although they’re relatively light for a trail shoe, the 4mm drop, combined with a deceptive amount of cushioning, is the main attraction. Ample traction on the outsole prevents slippery trails from being an issue, meaning the Ultra 270 is a unique blend of speed and stability. Inov-8 claim it’s the perfect shoe for long distance trails, but it’s also much more than that: coping just fine on the harder stuff. A jack-of-all-trades and a master of one.
Rating: 9/10
inov-8.com

 Hoka Challenger ATR - Mens

 

Hoka Challenger ATR, 260g
RRP: £100
For a trail shoe, the Challenger ATR is very lightweight and, given the level of cushioning, surprisingly agile. Relatively moderate outsole tread means that it’s not best suited to experimental trails, but the maximum cushioning makes it a good choice for longer distances and more forgiving terrain. The Speedframe upper is minimalist in design and offers a very comfortable, unrestrictive feel. However, slightly excessive spacing in the toe box can have a tendency to hamper movement. Overall, Hoka’s latest release is tailor-made for those with a natural mid/forefoot strike, seeking a cushioned, yet lightweight shoe for high mileage. If you value ground feel and speed, however, it’s not the shoe for you.
Rating: 7/10
hokaone.com

 Vivo Trail Freak_Lime Orange_Side

Vivo Barefoot Trail Freak, 260g
RRP: £90
Masters of minimalism, Vivo Barefoot score highly again with the Trail Freak. Flat and flexible, but with a surprising amount of protection underfoot, they’re a great choice for the runner looking to move fast over the trails. A zero-drop shoe, they provide an authentically ‘barefoot’ feel and are comfier than your favourite pair of slippers. On wet rock, these lack the traction of some of their competitors and, at £90, they don’t come cheap. Still, as minimalist off-road offerings go, these are up there with the best of them.
Rating: 8/10
vivobarefoot.com