Monday, 02/24/14 La Sportiva Bushido, The Ultimate Mountain Running Shoe?

After running in the Bushido for a few weeks in a wide variety of conditions, I can honestly say they are the most competent and versatile mountain running shoes that I have worn.  This shoe strikes what I feel to be the perfect balance of grip/traction, stability, agility, responsiveness, ground feel, protection, fit and cushion, all in a light (for all the it offers) package.

I am quite impressed with how well this shoe hooks up in just about all conditions, snow, mud, slush, wet rock, dry rock, steep gravel and even moderately icy trails.  It even scrambles quite well and can double as an approach shoe.  Certainly the best I have used for a wide variety of conditions, it handles it all very well.  I never really worry if it is going to stick or not.

The "STB Control" TPU frame that wraps underfoot offers amazing stability and control (don't ask me what that really means, all I can tell you is that whatever it is, it really works).  This shoe is amazingly stable and precise when pushing one's limits in the most technical and rocky terrain.

The rock plate is bomber.  I have aimed for the sharpest embedded rocks and hardly feel a thing.  Though this is not the most cushioned shoe out there, my feet never get tired or feel as though I need more cushion.

Fit has been an occasional issue for me when it comes to La Sportiva and even though these shoes are pretty low volume, the upper hugs the foot in a soft, yet very supportive manner.  Lateral stability is unmatched and there is no compromise in comfort.

The toe bumper is just right, not too obtrusive, but just enough to adequately deflect all but the most severe and sloppy toe hits.

And they are light.  In the past, it seems the only way to get this sort of protection was with a 10+ oz. shoe, but Sportiva pared it down to 9.1 oz. and with all the high end performance features, the Bushido may well be the best mountain running shoe yet.

If you happen to be in the market for a new pair of shoes, they are worth a try:

http://www.sportiva.com/products/footwear/mountain-running/bushido

Monday, 02/10/14 Sourdough Snowshoe Photos

A few photos taken by Amelia Tanttila, who was photo/video documenting the Sourdough Snowshoe Race last month.

Seconds into the race

Kendrick (in green) going out too fast ;)

Geoff Roes back to racing

Yet another Tony impersonator.  I almost said something, but I know the response "yeah, I have heard of Anton, but I have had this look since before I knew who he was and it is just coincidence that I wear all the same clothes (or lack thereof), shoes and drive a white pickup with a cap"

I look horrible here in my unflattering shirt, 1991 tights and deformed fun house fat mirror face.

Charlie Nowacki (11.5 miler winner)

Me chasing (I think)

Love this shot of Joe Grant and I.  Was glad to have the hooded shirt, as the Atlas Race snowshoes really flick a good rooster tail.

Geoff

Charlie winning.

My good buddy (and RD) Kevin Lund