Vibram Megagrip

But what really sets this shoe apart is the fact that it's actually built on a trail running last, so it has a nice sneaker like fit to it. On top of ...

It was a good generalist shoe that I liked for running, hiking, and backpacking. I did feel that the midsole flattened a bit with moderate use for running, but for hiking and backpacking I don’t have any complaints. I think this shoe could be an option for those who want a wider shoe where Altras do not work.

I've used the shoes 4x totalling ~50kms on mixed surfaces - pavement, grass, well gravel, hard pack, mud, rocky sections (although not as rocky as the Italian Dolomites). Yes theyre comfortable for long distances (furthest run was a 21km) and yes there is bounce and energy return (not as much as the Invincible X Flyknits. It's a bit firmer than that).

I've owned a few pairs of Salomon (which is pretty well-liked by many) and will say that Arc feels much more narrow in the toe box. I much prefer the Vibram Megagrip soles on my Arc shoes though, the Salomon Contagrip has awful grip.

Trails littered with wet rocks and roots, and then slick mud holding it all together. For tread lug depth and pattern I find a directional chevron style seems to work best, with a depth around 5-6mm. For compound, Vibram Megagrip seems to be the best you can get, followed by some of the brands own such as the Saucony Pwrtac.

The Aerios FL GTX uses the Vibram Megagrip sole which is very grippy, but it also wears quickly. That makes sense if you really need that grip, like when running on rough mountain trails, but not for paved walking. The Norvan LD3 uses the same sole material. So I mean, yeah it will work for walking the dog, but it's a waste to wear out that expensive sole on the pavement.

The roomier toebox accommodates splay, additional stack improves shock absorption, and the Vibram® Megagrip outsole’s 4mm lugs hold fast on soft trails. Smooth interior with dual-layer friction less construction works to minimize potential friction and the blisters it can cause, providing out-of-box comfort.