New trail runner for hiking.

I’m currently totally enamoured with the Merrell All Out Peak. So much so that I bought a second pair when I found them at a hefty discount because we all know they quit making the things that you really like.  :)

I used Merrell Grassbow Airs for the Sierra High Route and some cross country hiking in the Trinity Alps this summer and loved them. The main thing I’d say about them is that they are not a very cushy shoe–I would personally prefer the feel of La Sportiva Wildkats or Cascadia 10s (not 11s–I hate those things) for mostly nontechnical trail hiking, but the Grassbows are much more durable than the other shoes I’ve used and have a better feel on technical terrain. The heel cup fits me very well and I felt very stable on them. They have a small amount of heal rise–which is what I favor for hiking (I run in minimalist shoes).

I have pretty wide, high volume, flat feet, with a serious protrusion on the outside of my pinkie toe, and they were a good but slim fit for me–take that as you will. Anyhow, thought it was worth the recommendation.

Honestly I think shoes are the hardest gear decision.

Shoes are personal but I have narrow feet and like the Salomon XA Pro 3d.

I have the Bushidos. Best match for me so far, but if you don’t specifically need the extra stability it might be too much shoe.

I really love my Saucony xodus 5.0’s. Really grippy sole with lots of support. Not for minimalists though.

No recommendation from anyone esle is worth anything if you do not know what size feet you have – and not just length but also the width. Get your feet measured with a Brannock Device, add at least half a size to what it tells you, and do not buy anything smaller.

Cheers

What Roger said…

Then you can go check out as many of the previous suggestions as interest you.

I have relied on La Sportiva Ultra Raptors in the past and really enjoyed them.

I have been considering the Bushido since it is of the La Sportiva lineage.

What about the Ultra Raptors make you want to switch them out?

The Bushido are quite a bit more narrow than the Ultra Raptors, which for me is great. They have quite an amazing amount of support on the bottom of the mid foot. If you are on a lot of trails with rocks and do lot of miles, this is awesome. I loved them at first, but suddenly they started giving me blisters around my achilles.

Bushido I would size up at least a whole size from the Ultra Raptors. If they fit you well I think they are awesome.

I now have the Wildcats and love them best for my feet of all three models.

Ito, I did pick up a pair of Bushidos but will have to return them.  As you mentioned, they are significantly narrower than the Ultra Raptors.

Nothing wrong with the Raptors, just wanted to try something different.

Hi John,

There are some new models coming out as well, but if you liked the Ultra Raptors and want to try something different I can highly recommend the Wildcat 3.0’s. I think the Ultra Raptors might last longer, but the Wildcats are more breathable, and have a nicer, softer fit.

Cheers