Helly Hansen Trail Lizard Shoe : Run Like an Antelope

I used to run regularly. I ran five marathons and even qualified for the 100th anniversary of the Boston Marathon. But as I got more and more into kayaking my runs became shorter and shorter until, these days, a three mile jaunt feels makes me feel like a Greek messenger.

A few months ago I flew to a kayak race in Mauritius (an island east of Madagascar) with a copy of Born to Run by Christopher McDougall, and I got fired up about running all over again. While the book title makes me think of the Bruce Springsteen album I listened to way too many times in college, McDougall ventures deep into Mexico's remote Copper Canyon, home of the reclusive t Tarahumara Indians, reputedly the best distance runners in the world. A wonderful blend of sociology, anthropology, and plain old human's-are-endorphin-addicts stuff, I was amazed how these serene people were able to run hundreds of miles without rest, how they were able to chase down a deer and more. Long ultra marathon story short, I was eager to get dusty and try a bit of trail running.

Brooklyn's Prospect Park is a far cry from Mexico's Cooper Canyon, but there is an intricate network of trails to test the Trail Lizard Shoe by Helly Hansen. Featuring a breathable upper with LIFA Stay Dry Techology - billed as "the driest fiber on earth" - this sturdy shoe is designed to wick heat and sweat from your feet. And it does. But what I like most about the Lizard is its strength to weight ratio: while the toe is protected with a "Helly Wear" overlay that guards against rocks and roots, while the midsole and heel are fortified with layers of cushioning, the shoe is surprisingly light. In addition, Helly's grippy rubber sole provides terrific traction on a slick, sloppy track - an essential feature for trail runners, especially given the excessive amount of rain we've had back East this summer.

Available in men's sizes only; available in three colors.

Bottom LIne: Based in Moss, Norway, HH has been at the vanguard of technical apparel and footwear for over a century. Designed for trail running and light hiking, the Trail Lizard features LIFA technology and high-tech cushioning in the midsole, speed lacing (a valued feature when I don't feel like futzing with loose laces), and ample protection against roots and rocks should I run more like a kayaker than a fleet-footed Tarahumara.--J.G. (Aug. '09)

Price: $80.00; on sale for $63.96 at and at amazon.com

Manufacturer's Site: www.hellyhansen.com

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