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Montrail Kinabalu: A Light & Fast Trail Running Shoe

Upside: Super lightweight, good cushioning, solid traction
Downside: Sometimes the cleats get pebbles stuck in them.
Rating: ^^^^^ (5 out of 5 peaks)
Ideal User: Rabid trail runner, hiker, or wanderer

Luckily, I got these Kinabalu on a Friday afternoon at the office because once I got them on my feet, I was out the door running. I haven't had my foot in such a light and comfortable running shoe in a long time. I've since found myself wearing them everywhere for comfort alone. They breathe well and don't hold water for long once they're wet.

Montrail Kinabalu shoe The Kinabalu is a lightweight running shoe with some outdoorsy features that really allows it to thrive in a mountainous environment. The sole not only has a "smearing compound" that sounds like something from Montrail's new climbing shoe line, but also four small, oval, metal cleats on the sole. There are three on the outside edge and one on the inside. It was nearly impossible to actually feel if these cleats added significant support and traction, but I had to assume that they did something. I know what they didn't do was add weight.

The toe protection works well for minor stubbings, but does not provide protection on the top or sides of the feet. The IntegraFit and Hydrophobic synthetic leather / mesh work well to give you that soft, broken-in leather feeling without the leather. The sole is wide, grippy and absorbs shock well.

I actually can't find anything to complain about the Kinabalu. If you don't like the orange/grey combination, well, too bad. I do.

For more information or products or visit Montrail, www.montrail.com

Reviewed & Written by Hans Prosl, MountainZone.com








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