The North Face Ultra 105 CTX XCR Shoe : Run or Walk and Walk and Walk

Men and women looking for a lighter trail shoe or a more substantial running shoe might want to take a look at The North Face's Ultra 105 CTX XCR shoe.

I love this shoe. It reminds me of the shoes I ran in back in the late 80s. Not that the 105's are heavy -- but they are substantial. They're supportive, which is great for people like me who pronate. They've got serious treads, which is essential for wet trails (as well as wet roads and sidewalks). Plus, they have a shank plate -- so they have the stability and forefoot protection I want. It's as if The North Face have blended a hiking shoe and trail running into one hard core shoe.

The 105's feel great on my feet, too. The soles feel thick and even - as in, I feel like my feet are in their natural positions. Too many shoes focus so much on heel protection that the heel ends up thicker (and higher) than the forefoot. Not these shoes. I have pretty wide feet and wear a hefty full-length custom insole so I tested a pair of 105's that are a 1/2 size bigger than usual -- and found an excellent fit.

I like the front toe bumpers and the GoreTex lining; both help me keep my feet dry no matter what the weather.

Available in men's and women's sizes.

Bottom Line: My current favorite running shoe that's also substantial enough for walking long distances, too.--E .D. (Dec 09)

BUY ONLINE : $114.95, click to shop for men's shoes at altrec.com , click here for women's shoes at altrec.com , shop at backcountry.com , men's 105's on sale at REI

Manufacturer's Site: www.thenorthface.com

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