Mrodaddy

This is a case where the star-system really doesn't make sense. For someone with feet like mine, this shoe should get zero stars. I have now given these shoes three different shots with three different sock/liner/footbed combinations - and each one of them has resulted in my heels being absolutely torn to shreds after less than three miles of running - a feature of the shoe that was definitely not evident when I initially tried them on or even ran around in them a bit. I know of at least one other trail runner who has had similar experiences. That said, I also know a guy who loves these things, who has had absolutely no heel rub and would readily give these shoes 5 stars. If not for the rampant destruction of my heel, I, too, would consider these shoes wonderful. They are light, have a very low profile and are very good on rough or damp terrain - especially given their weight. I would suggest just being very careful in determining the fit and whether heel rub might be an issue given the fact that the back of the shoe is not well-padded and does not come up as high as most other trail shoes (including most other inov-8 models).

Possibly the ugliest trail shoe I've ever owned (got the gold and white ones because of price), but also the best trail running shoe I've ever run in. After three runs in them, mine now have about 50 miles on them (the last run was a 20 mile trail race on difficult terrain involving stream crossings, soggy trails and tons of downed trees). They are supportive, stable and cushioned enough to remain comfortable for a fairly heavy (165 pounds) runner. They breath very well due to the stiff wire-like mesh on the sides and provide excellent traction. I own three other pairs of Salomon trail runners, two pairs of Adidas, a pair of Garmonts and a pair of Merrells. These are, hands-down, the best of the lot.

I bought this jacket as my new ice climbing softshell because (a) I've always been happy with Moonstone quality, (b) the fit is very snug, but the arms are cut longer to allow for overhead movement and (c) I wanted a stretch hood that would fit under, rather than over, my helmet. It has not let me down and is exactly what I was looking for. Highly recommended for relatively slim people who like a snug fit.