Under Armour Gemini 2.1 Night Record-Equipped
Men’s 294 g (10.4 oz.); Women’s 255 g (9 oz.)
Drop ratio: 8 mm
$180
The Gemini 2 .1 Night Record-Equipped is an impressive
release from Under Armour, who have relaunched their entire
running shoe line in the last year or so with much acclaim.
The Gemini is their f lagship everyday trainer, best for neutral
runners. What sets the Gemini apart from the field is its novel
technology embedded within the midsole. When paired with
a smartphone via Bluetooth, the Gemini provides data on your
run, just like a running watch. This new winterized version has
added ref lectivity and a water-resistant upper.Saucony Razor Ice+
Men’s 300 g (10.6 oz.); Women’s 255 g (9 oz.)
Drop ratio: 4 mm
$220
The Razor Ice+ is one serious winter running shoe. It’s designed
for extreme environments, including ice-covered surfaces and
terrain with lots of snow, slush and water. The upper booty
covers the shoe hidden underneath, with a built-in gaiter so
that snow and other debris won’t fall in. Inside it looks like
Saucony has embedded a cushioned road trainer, perhaps the
guts of their Triumph or Ride. The most exciting feature is
under the shoe. The outsole uses Vibram’s new Arctic Grip,
which feels like sandpaper and is truly remarkable, sticking to
pure ice. The Razor Ice+ delivers the first ever ice-proof run.Merrell All Out Crush Shield
Men’s 262 g (9.24 oz.); Women’s 198 g (7 oz.)
Drop ratio: 7 mm
$150
For those familiar with Merrell ’s trail lineup, the All Out Crush
Shield carries that same f lexibility and aggressive lugging. The
only main upgrade with the Crush Shield is the water-repellent
upper coating. The thin layer of tpu will keep water and snow
out. Merrell ’s Unif ly midsole is super-f lexible and firm. The
upper also has a more ref lective detailing on the upper than
Merrell ’s other trail shoes.
The TrailP rotect rock plate will protect your feet from frozen
rocks and sticks as you cut through the winter trails. The All
Out Crush Shield is a nimble trail running shoe for late fall,
winter and early spring.Asics Cumulus 18 GTX
Men’s 343 g (12.1 oz.); Women’s 292 g (10.3 oz.)
Drop ratio: 10 mm
$180
Asics’s everyday neutral trainer has always been a reliable pick
for runners needing a touch of sport and cushioning. Over the
course of 18 iterations, Asics have mastered the design for this
durable shoe, which is bound to get you maximum mileage
for your buck. The Fluidride midsole is soft and substantial,
for above-average cushioning, making it an ideal long run or
everyday mileage shoe. Where The Cumulus 18 gtx really
shines is in its exceptional upper. It’s been given the full
Gore-Tex liner treatment, and the mesh and fabric overlays
keep your feet dry and surprisingly warm on even the coldest
days. A great road shoe for foul weather running. It comes in an
assortment of interesting colourways.
runningmagazine.ca Canadian Running 57
gear
winter shoes