Peter Macfarlane recommends the Jack Wolfskin Ps Trail Knit Low, the heaviest shoe on test, but still a nimble pair of shoes.
The Jack Wolfskin Ps Trail Knit Low is the heaviest shoe I had on test but the extra 90g over my lightest pair isn’t something I noticed on my feet – they’re still a nimble pair of shoes.
Peter Macfarlane’s Best Value
The Trail Knits have been a good half way point between a runner and walker for me, although better grip in the wet would see them worn on the hills more.- price
- comfort
- grip in wet conditions
- question over outsole durability
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | £100 (available from Jack Wolfskin) |
| Weight | 658g UK9 pair |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10mm |
| Lug depth | 4mm |
| Materials | rubber outsole, foam insole, synthetic knit upper, plastic molded overlays |
| Features | EVA midsole and footbed, reinforced heel cup, Texaride cushioning |
| Waterproof | no |
| Sizes | 39.5-48EU, 6-13UK |
| Women’s version | Yes |
| jack-wolfskin.co.uk |
When the weather stopped me heading to bigger hills I took these straight onto a trouble-free long loop in the Muirshiel hills, always a good test. The 4mm lugs on the outsole aren’t the deepest but are square edged and give good traction over most surfaces, other than very wet ground. The heel lugs are the same depth but are wider and these tend to break away on wet descents, especially on mud and grass. It’s not affecting performance at the moment, but I’ve noticed more signs of wear on the outsole than expected for the mileage, almost all of which is off-road.
The sole is well padded with quite a stiff flex from the heel to the toe where it’s light enough to run comfortably. Flex and cushioning is excellent for walking on rough ground with a load. A simple, lightly foam-backed fibre insole settles the foot into the shoe and the fit was spot on straight away. The upper is mostly mesh with reinforcing overlays at the toe and heel.
The upper breathes well and allows water to be pumped out when you’re moving. The lace slots are reinforced and are doubled along the length of the shoe which gives lacing options. The mesh tongue is lightly padded and has been comfortable under a runner’s knot, the heel cup is padded internally which aids fit and comfort. The Trail Knits have been a good half way point between a runner and walker for me, although better grip in the wet would see them worn on the hills more.
How we tested
Peter has a favourite 22km running loop starting from his door through Kilpatrick Hills where testing miles were accrued over the winter and early spring. He has a narrow heel and wide forefoot. Weights were taken from his own digital scales. This review was first published in the June 2026 issue of The Great Outdoors. You can compare it to other in our guide to the best trail running shoes.
