I was fortunate enough to be asked to give a pair of Vasque trail running shoes a try and post a review. I know, right? Pavement Runner is the name of the blog, but I am frequently found on trails around the Bay Area. There are so many beautiful ones with stunning views that it would be a waste for me not to experience them.
Vasque — Velocity 2.0 (Gargoyle/Lemon Chrome)
The shoes, besides looking wicked cool, mention several technologies that I was unfamiliar with, prior to giving them a try. One of them is called “Arc Tempo Last.” If you are wondering what that is, let’s see their website (or watch the video):
[from Vasque.com] Our Arc Tempo last creates an athletic fit that promotes quickness and agility over technical ground. The asymmetrical curve is ideal for people with higher arches and also places your foot in a more powerful position during toe off. This aggressive toe spring facilitates rapid obstacle clearance. The tapered toe box offers adequate room without wasted space. And the medium volume heel fits a wide range of shapes. Perfect for shorter distances on technical trails.
I run in a high stability shoe, so breaking away from my (insert other road shoe brand name here) had me a bit worried, but I was able to knock out an 8 mile trail run in the Vasque Velocity 2.0 on my first run without any problems, and still keep a steady pace. The shoes felt comfortable and the traction on the bottom was noticeable (compared to when I run in my road shoes on trails). I did notice that the shoes ran a bit big. I wear a half size bigger for my road running shoes, but I would be curious to see how a my normal shoe size would feel. I don’t see this as being an issue, but if you are thinking about purchasing a pair online, head down to your local store and try a pair on for sizing. There was no uncomfortable rubbing or problem issues with blisters which is great considering I ran a solid distance in a new pair of shoes for the first time.
One cool thing about running on trails is that you get the opportunity to take some cool photos.
Also, the Vasque Velocity 2.0’s brake for wild life — unofficial tag line.
Overall, I enjoyed running in my very first pair of trail running shoes. I can feel the difference the traction provides, especially on the steep downhills you find on challenging trail runs. My 8-mile run was up and down the side of a mountain, 4 going down and 4 coming back up. I definitely had more confidence to fly on the downhill portion. I guess that is the benefit of having those little shark teeth on the bottom of your shoes.
And just a fun fact about Vasque:
“Vasque and Vibram® have been making boots together for years — in fact, they’re our longest standing vendor partner. Vibram® soles are synonymous with quality and are known for their innovative designs.”
Betcha didn’t know that, did ya? Okay, maybe you did.
Have you ever run in a pair of trail running shoes? Have you ever considered a pair of Vasque?
I was given a pair of Vasque Velocity 2.0’s to try, review and keep, but the thoughts and opinions are 100% my own… and so are the miles I ran in them.
Great review & I’ve never heard of Vasque before. I do like that they have paired up with Vibrams for boots! I do own some trail running shoes but oddly I’ve never run the trails. I’m going to be crossing that off my to do list shortly though!
Thanks for reviewing those – they look cool. I love how hardcore trail shoes look due to all that tread. haha
oooh back in the DAY during gradschool I both trail ran and sold vasques.
please excuse me as I head for a brief jaunt down memory lane :-)
I LOVED MY VASQUES.
My first 10k that I am running in august is actually a trail run so I think I need to look into getting proper shoes for that, this post was quite helpful.. the little lizard didn’t hurt either ;)
Nice. I was sent a pair, but a different type. I agree about them feeling a tad big, but for me that’s a good thing because I am always complaining about the toe box scrunching my toes. I also noticed the improved traction, even over my other trail shoes.
I haven’t gone trail running but I bet a good pair of shoes would make all the difference! Great review :)
I love the wildlife photo!
it’s crazy how much technology goes into shoes these days!
Those shoes look fantastic! Almost as good as the amazing scenery you get to enjoy on your trail runs! Great review!!
Nope, I’ve never ran in a pair of trail running shoes! They sound great! Super review, very cool photos!
I am so happy to know that no animals in the wild were injured for the sake of your review!
I could use a pair of trail runners. Thanks for the info!
OOOH I like the look of those! I was looking at their shoes for my mud run/mountain race. Very nice
I am in desperate need of a good trail shoe so I can get back to the trails after the baby is born. I haven’t considered Vasque’s but I will definitely give them a try now!! Thanks for the awesome review =)
Great review! I’ve always wanted to try trail shoes :)
I was really impressed with Vasque shoes too – you’re right they seem to run a 1/2 size smaller than road shoes (I found this to be true of all my trail shoes so far, actually). Great review and great company!!
Great review– you’ve got me searching for nearby trails, if only so I too can brake for wildlife. :)
They look like they are a bit higher than most shoes (meaning like basketball shoes vs trainers) Did you have trouble with it or is it just how they look?
I didn’t notice (or have any “rubbing” issues with) them being any higher. I can still see my ankle socks, so I don’t think they are different from my road shoes. Although if you are used to a minimalst shoe (or trainers), there most likely is a difference.
KILLER shoes! Love the shark teeth!
I’ve never thought about trail shoes. There are very few trails around me, but I think if I did it would be key to have shoes with good traction. I have a weak ankle. Thanks for the insight.
“break for wild life” haha love that.
I need to look into trail shoes…. Great review!!! The shoes sound pretty legit
Those shoes looks awesome! So do all the picutres from your run and that coolio lizard. Ha ha. :)