Altra
Lone Peak 6 – We are loving the latest version of Altra’s lightweight, agile trail shoe. If you are a fan of a balanced foot beat – aka “Zero Drop” – check out the Lone Peak 6. The roomy toe box accommodates various foot widths and can take on the Dipsea, Double-Dipsea or Quad-Dipsea.
Mont Blanc – If you’re looking for a little more cushion underfoot but aren’t willing to compromise on weight, we present the Mont Blanc. It weighs in at 9.6 oz and has the maximum cushioning available for a lightweight racer.
Craft
CTM Ultra Carbon 2 – If you’ve been to the shop lately, you know how excited we are about the CTM Ultra Carbon 2. In addition to having an eye-catching design, the midsole is the perfect blend between cushion and energy return.
HOKA
Zinal – Named after the Sierre-Zinal race in Switzerland that includes climbing the Matterhorn, the Zinal is great at taking on quick climbs, just like the Dipsea stairs. Underfoot it has the signature HOKA cushion but without the bulkiness of their other trail shoes.
Tecton X – HOKA is bringing carbon fiber to trail in a new way with the Tecton X. Instead of using a single or forked plate, this springy shoe uses two full-length parallel carbon fiber blades and mimics riding in a 4×4 rig. The ProFly+ midsole is shock-absorbing, plush and surprisingly responsive. We’ve heard someone call it a “Speedgoat killer.”
Nike
Terra Kiger 8 – This is a stellar update to Nike’s lightweight trail racer. It’s been a go-to Dipsea shoe for several versions and we feel version 9 holds up. Look for improved heel cushioning underfoot and around the ankle.
Salomon
S/Lab Ultra 3 – Slim, light and agile are three words that best describe the Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3. Its bootie upper is secure on top of your foot and the speed-laces ensure you won’t lose time futzing with getting the right lockdown.
S/Lab Pulsar Soft Ground – Another great lightweight racing shoe from Salomon! The new Salomon Pulsar SG is a nice upgrade to its predecessor. This is an insanely lightweight racing shoe with a surprisingly amount of shock absorption for running up and down the Dipsea.