You love to run in all conditions, on any kind of terrain, and you’re looking for a pair of shoes that’s perfectly suited to the way you run. Well, you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to help you compare all the models in our CROSS line – all of which have been specially designed to conquer challenging terrain – so that you can find the shoe that’s perfect for you!
FREQUENCY OF YOUR RUNS
Those who run occasionally will have different needs from those who run every day, especially when it comes to finding the perfect shoes! That’s why the first two things to consider when buying new shoes are how much you run and what kind of terrain you run on!
- Occasional runner? Start with the Alphacross 3 or the Madcross
- Experienced trail runner? Go for the Wildcross 2 or Speedcross 5
DROP
An essential element to consider when choosing trail running shoes, drop is defined as the difference between the height of the heel and the forefoot. Choosing a shoe that features the amount of drop that’s suited to your stride results in a shoe that’s more comfortable, and the risk of injury during your runs will be reduced. Check out our article What is drop in running shoes? to learn more.
FIT
For maximum comfort and support, choose a shoe with a fit that matches your foot. The Supercross 3, Madcross and Alphacross 3 feature a more generous fit compared to the Wildcross 2 and Speedcross 5.
CONTAGRIP® TECHNOLOGY
Developed to achieve maximum traction on a wide variety of terrain, Contagrip technology provides these benefits:
- Contagrip® Traction Durability: Deep lugs and long-lasting durability (thanks to a very resilient rubber) make this shoe ideal for mixed terrain.
- Contagrip® Traction Adhesion: Deep, sharp-edged studs made from a rubber compound that provides the perfect balance between durability and grip, make this shoe great on unstable, loose or rough surfaces.
CUSHIONING
When your shoe hits the ground as you run, its cushioning absorbs the force of the impact. Read our article What is cushioning in a shoe? to learn more. The CROSS trail running shoe lineup features three different types of cushioning:
- Soft Biobased EVA: High-performance EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) material or foam that absorbs shock.
- EnergyCell™: High-performance compound used in the midsole that absorbs repeated shocks.
- EnergyCell™ Plus: High-rebound compound used in the midsole that provides exceptional energy return along with outstanding cushioning and durability.
UPPER
The CROSS models shown above are available in the following fabrications:
- Ripstop: Woven material often made from reinforced nylon to provide better resistance to tearing and abrasion.
- Single layer mesh: Single layer of mesh that’s close to the foot for maximum feel.
- Anti-debris mesh: tight mesh that prevents debris from being trapped between your foot and the footbed.
Some CROSS shoes feature these additional technologies:
SENSIFIT™
SensiFit™ wraps the foot from the sole to the lacing system providing a secure, precise and custom-like fit.
QUICKLACE™
Simple and efficient lacing system using one easy step resulting in a shoe that’s easy to put on and take off.
Finally, how and where you run will determine the value you’ll place on the weight of your shoes. It’s up to you to decide how light or heavy you want your shoes need to be!
And if you’re still not sure which CROSS shoes to choose, even after all these pointers on how to find the one that’s best for you, you can always try the different models in a store.
