Don’t resign yourself to bad form. My clunky stride isn’t pretty, and the Radial’s boldly curved outsole helped my foot roll from heel to toe more smoothly than usual—and get quicker rebound. That smoothness, combined with a triple-density EVA midsole and cushy air pad in the heel, made this a soft ride on dirt roads and packed trails. When I did venture onto rockier stuff, a blown-rubber crash pad in the forefoot prevented stone bruising.
Bonus: The upper’s superthin mesh tightens easily on your instep.
Bummer: For slender heels, the roomy rear foot can be a bit sloppy. 13 oz; www.thenorthface.com