Salomon XA Pro 2 ($90):
One noted adventure racer lists the following as central tenets for adventure-racing footwear: "a generous, well-protected toe box, an outer sole stability plate with stone bruise protection, and one-pull lacing systems—no knots to tie!" He could be talking about the Salomon XA Pro 2, a speedy specimen designed for durable long-distance trekking across streams, mud, dirt, rock, and any other surface a devious race director can devise. This racing shoe sports a Kevlar Quickfit one-pull speed lacing system that racers love, along with the aforementioned protective heel and toe-cap sections that ward off bruising encounters. Salomon's deservedly ballyhooed Running Contagrip outsole is as good as it gets where rubber hits the road (or trail, or rock, or mud) and superior traction is needed. The XA Pros also protect you with a special Advanced Chassis system to prevent ankle roll, without diminishing stability. And the dual-density EVA is as cushiony as a running shoe, but with a bit more oomph to add the needed shock absorption and protection on rough surfaces. Go ahead, bring on the hard knocks. Contact 877-272-5666, www.salomonsports.com.
