The Gripper
On the worst running surfaces of our test—loose dirt, rock slabs, and muddy sidehill traverses—the Rockridge excelled. Prominent lugs and sticky rubber combined for a gluelike grip on all surfaces, making these an “epic adventure partner,” as one tester put it. The mesh upper was supremely breathable, thanks to the thin overlays, which also kept the shoe feeling remarkably light for all that traction. Long-haulers appreÂciated the roomy toe box, which accommodated the natural foot swelling that happens during hour-plus runs, but that extra volume felt a bit sloppy to others. 11.5 oz;
Traction: 5
Stability: 4.1
Speed: 3.4