When it comes to trail running shoes, the Dynafit Ultra 100 proves to be a reliable companion for off-road adventures. The shoe is the same for mens and women's, just a different colour. Let's dive into the specific aspects of the shoe and see how it performs.
REASONS TO BUY
✅ Looking for a daily trail runner with the capacities to handle whatever a trail can throw at you✅ Need extra cushion for long days without feeling too disconnected from the ground
✅ Looking for lots of traction for secure descending on trail
REASONS TO AVOID
❌ Looking for an off trail scrambling shoe❌ Need maximum lateral stability for high precision edging
Dynafit Ultra 100 Traction
The Dynafit Ultra 100 excels in providing exceptional traction on most surfaces. Whether you're running on steep smooth granite or loose rock, the shoe feels grippy and tacky, ensuring you stay confident on your feet. I found it to slip occasionly on very steep dry dirt gullies, but overall, the traction is impressive. I recently ran the Enchantment trail in Washington which has a fair amount of smooth rock descending and they had no issues, I felt very secure.
Dynafit Ultra 100 Sensitivity
With its large cushioned sole, the Dynafit Ultra 100 sacrifices some precision, as expected. However, this shoe still manages to strike a good balance between cushioning and sensitivity. I was able to negotiate rock hoping on talus fields and smooth rocky terrain felt comfortable, allowing me to navigate from one rock to another with ease.
Dyanfit Ultra 100 Stability
While the Dynafit Ultra 100 performs admirably in most aspects, stability is an area where it faces some challenges. The thicker sole compromises lateral stability on rocky terrain, but it's important to remember that this shoe isn't advertised as a scrambling shoe. Once you adapt to the higher stack height, the shoe provides adequate stability, especially during regular trail running on smooth trail. I tested these on the Blackcomb buttress which has some class 5 moves and they were at their limits. I did not feel very secure. I would look for something like the Dynafit Traverse for scrambling.
Dyanfit Ultra 100 Comfort & Fit
Comfort and fit are crucial factors for any trail running shoe, and the Dynafit Ultra 100 delivers well in this department. After spending over 50 hours in them and using them for multiple ultras and demanding descents, i can report getting no blisters. The shoe offers a fit that's neither narrow like a Salomon Speedcross nor too wide like there Arcteryx Norman LD 3. Striking a comfortable middle ground. i'd advise sizing up a full size to ensure the best fit, I found this to be the optimal choice. The sole is not massively rockered in the front so for mid foot runners they do not feel very tippy like some running shoes.
Dyanfit Ultra 100 Weight
As an all-day trail running shoe, the Dynafit Ultra 100 weighs in as expected for this category. While it may not be the lightest option available, its weight is suitable for extended running sessions, offering the necessary balance between durability and agility.
Dynafit Ultra 100 Comparison with Altra Lone Peak
When compared to the Altra Lone Peak, the Dynafit Ultra 100 offers distinct advantages. The Dynafit Ultra 100's superior traction makes it more reliable on various terrains, especially on steep smooth granite surfaces. Additionally, it strikes a better balance between cushioning and precision, making it more suitable for trail running over technical terrain. However, the Altra Lone Peak might outperform in terms of lateral stability due to its unique low profile design, which could be advantageous for those seeking extra support when scrambling / edging.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Dynafit Ultra 100 is an excellent trail running shoe that provides impressive traction, good sensitivity, and overall comfort. While it may lack some lateral stability on rocky surfaces, it compensates with its dependable performance in other areas. If you're in search of a reliable all-day trail running shoe, the Dynafit Ultra 100 could be a solid choice for your off-road adventures.
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