There’s a new shoe in town and it’s not for climbing. For years, SCARPA has been known for creating some of the most innovative climbing shoes on the market, but this season they are being recognized for developing one of the best running shoes to hit the trails. The SCARPA Spin Ultra alpine running shoe debuted this Spring, and has already been named as a Trail Runner Magazine’s Editor’s Choice and awarded the highly sought after title of Outside Magazine’s Gear of the Year.

If you’ve never worn a SCARPA running shoe before and are curious about the fit, the Spin Ultra can be explained as having a medium volume heel and midfoot with a tapered toe. It is described by reviewers to “fit like a glove” from our unique sock-fit construction that reduces excess bulk, allowing the shoe to literally hug your foot like a sock. The upper is constructed from mesh and a welded PU film for an incredibly lightweight, flexible and breathable feel.

The midsole has a 6mm drop and is comprised of a high-density, molded EVA material with a TPU insert and toe cap for torsional stability and added protection. In laymen’s terms, that means it will feel soft from the cushioning, but also somewhat stiff and stable, thanks to the additional reinforcements.

These shoes are light, really light (9.3 oz for ½ pair, size 42)…in part, thanks to the Vibram Litebase/Megagrip rubber sole. The thickness of this rubber is 1mm less than the non Litebase compounds and still provides outstanding traction and sensitivity, all while reducing the overall weight of the shoe. The lugs on the Spin Ultra have been uniquely designed to contain the needed level of stickiness and tred depth based on the amount of force each specific section of the sole receives. Along with the meticulously designed sole, the Spin Ultra’s low profile silhouette has a rocker-style design which naturally leads the runner into an efficient toe-off with each stride.

So now you’re wondering if this shoe will hold up to your training and racing regimen…we think so. The Spin Ultra is the perfect choice for moderate to longer distances and is ideal for runners looking to have generous cushioning without sacrificing the protection needed to take on all types of terrain. The snow is melting and the weather is warming, which means it’s time to hit the trails. Do your feet a favor and take the SCARPA Spin Ultra out on your favorite route, you might find yourself wanting to extend it.