LONG-DISTANCE TRAVELER
Like a full-suspension mountain bike, the Arnuva can barrel over rocky, undulating trails with utmost comfort. The upper is armored against trail debris, and the ultrarunners on our crew deemed it an excellent choice for even the harshest high-alpine trails in Colorado’s Indian Peaks. A Gore-Tex liner keeps out the wet without giving the Arnuva a stiff (and stuffy) feel, as happens with many waterproof shoes. 12.2 oz; thenorthface.com
Bonus: The soft, gusseted tongue is both snug and comfortable.
Bummer: Runners who prefer fast, smooth trails found the Arnuva slow and heavy.