La Sportiva Imogene Trail Running Shoe - Men's - 2008 BCS

Well, I loved these shoes...until I tried putting 25 trail miles on them one day. Then, I returned with aching knees that took nearly a week to heal. They're great for shorter trail runs, but if you're packing my 185lbs, and you want to run for 6 or 7 hours, I'd pick anothe shoe.

This is a very well vented shoe. That is the first thing I noticed when I put these on. Lots of mesh, so if your run has a lot of sand it’s going to get in your shoe, but if your run has lots or stream crossings these things are going to drain well. Very aggressive tread on the bottom. Large lugs that dig in well. Lots of cushioning too that feels good, but not overly mushy. Lastly as stated above a large toe box that lets your toes wiggle.

I am an avid trail runner who has owned atleast 15 different trail runners in my life and these are definitely a solid trail runner that will get the job done.
Pro's: Solid cushion, comfortable, very good traction. Cons: knowing that personally I like the Fireblade and Crosslite a bit better.
In my history of trail runners I will look back and say 'They were pretty good trail runners'.

I've been running in a pair of La Sportiva Imogenes for about 6 months - training, racing, you name it. These shoes have a stiffer sole that some, which is great for rocky conditions but make them feel a tad clunky at times. Deep lugs dig well in soft stuff too. Excellent cushioning for extended runs - absorbs shock very well but doesn't mush and let the ankle roll. Lots of mesh keeps things cool and airy. Long break-in period. Be prepared for that. The shoes break in slowly but take longer to wear out. I have a few hundred miles on them and they are going strong. Toebox is roomy and supportive. Visibly bland; you don't buy these to get girls attention. I bought a pair to keep in the closet for the day when I retire my current pair. This is a comfortable, durable shoe with great support. Get a pair before La Sportiva phases them out for something trendier.

I have a narrow foot and the Imogene fits it well. When I ran on the treadmill it felt fantastic. However, when I took it up the Mountain I got blisters on both big toes. The trail was very steep coming down but I had high hopes for the Imogene and was a bit disappointed. The traction was terrific and I felt very few rocks.

I ran the Silver Rush with these things and they rocked! Large toebox, good cushioning, and works well with my overpronation.