SMOOTH OPERATOR
Don’t mistake the minimalist Streak for a beefed-up road shoe—it’s more like a big-mountain shoe that’s been eating mostly salad. Though it has the airy mesh upper of a pavement pounder, underneath is a pliable plastic rock guard and sticky dual-density outsole that can handle full-speed switchbacks. With best-in-class forefoot flexibility and a generously cushioned heel, the Streak dishes up one of the smoothest rides of any shoe we tried, especially on mellow surfaces and at lower speeds. Testers noted the midsole is too soft for moderate pronators. And take heed on rocky trails: The toe box is light on armor. 11.5 oz; montrail.com