austinjason

Those of you who have read my previous shoe review know how much I adore my Brooks Cascadia 3 trail runners. Seriously, those shoes just rule. I haven't been able to even put another pair of trail runners on my feet since I bought those.

However, I did really love the feel of these Vasque Aether shoes in the store, to the extent that I bought them, as an alternate pair. I haven't put them on to run in until this morning, but I did promise a shoe review for those shoes, didn't I? :-)

I wasn't sure if I'd be able to write a review of this shoe in just one run, but it delivered. I'm gonna start by saying, "wow!" And mind you, this is with me starting a tad apprehensive that my favorite trail runners were not on my feet. These shoes feel just incredible!

They fit the foot well, and are incredibly light weight. If a size 13 shoe can feel like it's not there, and still provide support, structure/traction, then that says something. Speaking of traction: these shoes have outstanding traction. I was able to test them on the following types of trail:

• crushed gravel
• limestone gravel
• grass
• dry, sandy soil
• black clay, slightly damp
• mixed clay/rock (both slightly damp, and dry)
• very rocky areas

Sadly, I was not able to run through any water, but from the design of the shoes, and the materials used, (and the countless testimony of fellow runners) these shoes perform well in those conditions. They were very responsive, despite their almost stiff appearance.

I took it as a good sign when I showed up to a large training group filled with ultra trail runners, including the coach who does 100 milers, and at least 1/4th of them had these very shoes on. Yes, I still love and adore my Brooks Cascadia 3's, but I have to say, that these shoes are equally impressive. They might even become my new favorites. I have to remember, these aren't technically broken in yet. They have earned a spot in my next several workouts!

Review #1: Asics Gel Nimbus 9 (street shoe)

I've never run in shoes rated as "cushioning" before, and I was somewhat unsure what to expect. I was worried they might feel "too squishy". I was wrong. These shoes are comfortable, they breathe well, and I've enjoyed the three runs that I've done in them. I've had Asics shoes in the past, and they've always delivered, and these do not disappoint.

I've definitely noticed a big reduction in the stress that my body takes from street running in these shoes, and I can tell there will be many great miles ahead in them. :-)

I've run through puddles in these, and most types of paved surfaces, both in good and bad repair. They've felt great and worked well through all of that, and they drain well if you're faced with wet. (as long as you have the right kind of socks on! tech socks = <3)

Review #2: Brooks Cascadia 3 (trail shoe)

I'm going to start by saying that these are my favorite running shoes I have EVER had on my feet. I can say that after only doing 1 run in them. I like them so much that I almost want to just not street run until these shoes are worn out :P (and I want to go buy another pair so when these are worn out, I'll have another)

I was trail running in Cascadia 2 shoes, and I didn't think it would be possible for me to like a pair of shoes more than those. However, the Cascadia 3 blew me away.

To me, it seemed they had added more cushioning in these shoes, they're definitely more shock absorbing, especially in the heels. (compared to the cascadia 2's when they were new). The fit is comfortable, and they are lightweight and nicely breathable. They passed all of my trail test stuff: grassy areas, gravel, sand, mud, water, puddles. Just like the previous model, they drain water exceptionally well, which is nice because I love to run through water.

Additionally, these shoes just look SO cool. I normally kinda hate the way running shoes look, but these are so sexy, they look like an italian sports car. :) I can't really say enough good about these shoes, and I look very VERY forward to my next trail run.

stay tuned for a review of the Vasque Aether trail shoe [if I can make myself take off my new Brooks shoes long enough to run in the Vasque ones, hah!]