Dynafit Feline trail running shoes review

Every now and then I come across a piece of gear that I think is so good I can't help talking incessantly about it and recommending it to everyone I come across!  Therefore on my blog I will be reviewing the odd piece of outdoor equipment that I really like.  These shoes fit the bill perfectly.

Trail running in Snowdonia

What trail running shoes did I use before?

When I first started trail running I just used some Saucony road trainers, then I bought some Salomon Speedcross which meant I could actually run (and not slip over) on grass and mud.  After a couple of pairs of these I switched to the Inov-8 Roclite which increased my grip on rocky terrain in addition to having a good enough tread to cope with grass and mud.

Winter running with Kahtoola crampons on

Why did I buy these shoes?

If you've never heard of Dynafit, don't worry, unless you are a ski tourer I'll forgive you!  They are relatively new to the running world, particularly in the UK.  However their ski equipment and clothing is highly functional and well regarded, especially in the ski mountaineering racing world.  So, when I saw they were making trail running shoes I had to have a look.

Loving these shoes

Highlights

1: The Sole

The sole (and their reputation as a gear company) was the sole (excuse the pun!) reason I bought my first pair of Dynafit Feline running shoes.  They were made of Vibram rubber and had a tread in a similar pattern to that of the Salomon Speedcross.  Therefore I expected them to race down muddy hillsides but also stick to rocky scrambles.  Just what you need when the UK mountains are your trail running playground.

Dynafit Feline Vibram sole

2: Fit

The fit feels snug, stable and precise.  This has allowed me to take the shoe on graded scrambles in addition to running over uneven terrain with ease.  I have also worn them for multi-day backpacking trips without any problems.

Enjoying the shoes in the Scottish Highlands

Lowlights

To be honest I struggled to find any real lowlights, the ones below are me being a bit picky.

1: Price

They are pricey, as are most high end trail running shoes, currently £110.  

2: Lacing system

It works, is quick and easy to use but not quite as good as Salomon's, as the pocket for the laces is on the side not in the middle of the tongue.

Cold feet in the snow, these aren't really made for winter runs

Click here to view them on the Dynafit website