Meet the winner and finalists for favorite trail shoes to wear for walks and day hikes on natural trails. The finalists were nominated by readers and selected by our expert panel of walkers. Voting was open from Feb. 19 through March 19, 2013. The prize: bragging rights.
Vasque Velocity 2.0
One nominator said, "This shoe marries the toughness of a hiking shoe with the comfort of a running shoe. It features a low profile, durable midsole of molded EVA and a TPU plate with a mesh upper for strength and breath-ability. Bold color punches and a reflective trim make it a stylish option for hitting the trails." I've had great experience with Vasque trail shoes.
Montrail Mountain Masochist
One nominator said, "Super comfortable, lightweight, durable, waterproof. The Best!" They have a "Gryptonite" outsole to give you good traction on the trail. The tread is angled in the forefoot to grip the trail. They have a full-foot trail shield so you won't feel rocks poking through. The gussetted tongue helps keep out trail debris. They come in a mid-height hiking version as well as the regular height trail runner version. Their webbing and strap closure system over the laces should help form a lace lock to keep your lacings at the proper tension during uphills and downhills.








