While trail running shoes are undeniably the best way to go if you’re looking for a lightweight alternative to your heavy-duty hiking boots, they’re not without their compromises. For despite all that you gain in terms of breathability, versatility, and traction, there’s something to be said for the added stability and ankle protection you get from a high-top.
However, with Columbia’s latest trail shoe — dubbed the ‘Escape Summit OutDry’ — you can have the best of both worlds. That’s because it was designed to offer the ideal combination of speedy-yet-stable performance, with a Navic Fit System for support through the midfoot, some 3D-printed overlays for low-profile reinforcement, and a Techlite+ midsole for an ultra-responsive ride. And that’s not all; the Escape Summit also comes with its fair share of trail-tested protection — including a TPU heel counter and toe cap, a 4mm-lugged Adapt Trax outsole, as well as a waterproof OutDry upper — to keep your feet safe and dry. It’s also worth noting that in spite of their high-cut construction, they still manage to come in at a perfectly runnable 13oz (for a men’s size 9.5). They’re available now for $150.
