At Outdoor Retailer in January, I was shown some prototype trail running shoes from Vasque. The new kicks were the Vasque Aether Tech Softshell shoes. The standard Aether Tech shoes were released earlier this year, but the softshell versions will be out late in the summer–just in time for cool-weather trail running.
Not only are these shoes built for cool/cold-weather trail running, but I’ve also been told they are great for beach running since they don’t have any mesh. No mesh = no sand inbetween your toes. Another great feature of the Aether Tech Softshell shoe is the built-in Boa Lacing System, which is mounted on the top of the foot as opposed to on the back of the shoe–like most Boa trail shoes.
I just got my hands on a pair of prototypes and will be providing a review in the coming months. For now, here’s few cool features of the new Vasque Aether Tech Softshell trail shoes.
Cool features of the Vasque Aether Tech Softshell Shoes:
- Super-lightweight design
- Softshell fabric throughout to block wind and sand
- Boa lacing system with a dial on the top of the foot as opposed to the rear
- $120 MSRP
Read my full review of the Vasque Aether Tech SS trail shoes.
April 24, 2008 - 1:06 pm - posted by Ben
Done a review of these yet? I’m curious how they feel on technical trails and long runs.
April 26, 2008 - 8:49 am - posted by Jason Mitchell
Not yet… the trails are just now thawing out here in Utah. I’ve got my sights on some trails this next week now that we’re finally getting into real Springtime weather.
My thoughts thus far are: 1) these shoes are lightweight, 2) the BOA lacing system is pretty sweet, but does have some drawbacks, 3) they feel a little roomier than other Vasque trail runners I’ve used.
Look for a more detailed review of the shoes once I get a few miles on them other than pounding the pavement.