New shoes: Merrell Octane
Posted on 22. Jan, 2007 by Brad in Gear, Training
With some balance on a gift card and a desire to have fresh trail shoes before my next race, I ventured over to REI tonight to check out their selection of trail shoes. I went with the intention to try on the Vasque Velocity, but they were no longer in stock. Actually, they did have a few pairs, but they were on the clearance rack. I guess Vasque is coming out with a new model for the Velocity.
Having already tried on The North Face Ultra 103, I knew I didn’t like its fit. I also passed over my existing shoe, the Montrail Hardrock. I spotted the Merrell Octane and decided to try it on. Bingo, the fit was perfect. I had just enough room in the toe box without the shoe feeling too big. The fit was really comfortable and the shoe feels lightweight. Putting it on, the sides seem stiff and protecting.
The shoe has some interesting features including Vibram® outsoles, a D-hook near the bottom lace for gaiters, and a padded bellows tongue for reduced lacing pressure. It is also vegan-friendly!
I will be giving the shoes a few test runs later in the week and then a trail test this weekend at Cedar Ridge. Hopefully I will continue to like them as much as I did tonight in the store.
