Lightweight, snug fitting and very grippy, the Scarpa Spin ST trail shoes are easily my top choice. I have a long but narrow foot so I appreciate the neater width of this shoe. Many other brands widen footwear excessively as they go up the sizes. On another note, though, I needed a UK9 to fit my UK8.5 foot.
The higher ankle collar is a bonus when out on rough trails because it provides low-level support but not so much that it hinders you moving from a walk to a run. I was surprised by the comfort levels and support for both activities.
Fiona Russell’s best in test
The Spin STs are now a firm favourite trail footwear, especially when heading into the summer hills and mountains.- Lightweight
- Great traction
- Durable
- Lace Lock
- Lace lock might irritate
- Overlong laces
- Narrow so not ideal for wider feet
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price | £150 |
| Weight | 280g |
| Materials | stack height, 22mm to 18mm, Fixion ST sole in Vibram Megagrip, Traction Lug technology, Ortholite insole, breathable upper, high ankle collar, lace lock, lace pocket, vegan friendly |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 4mm |
| Lug depth | 7mm |
| Sizes | EU 37 to 43 |
| Men’s version | Yes |
| Brand site | www.scarpa.co.uk |
The sole is the ideal depth for trails – not too thick nor too thin – and cushioning is medium, which I really like. The 4mm heel-to-toe drop might not suit everyone but I like the more natural feel, especially for off-road routes.
The traction on all kinds of trails, in wet, mud, scree and snow is really good thanks to deeper lugs. The lugs at the rear of the sole are particularly good. These are not the sort of shoes you would use for miles and miles of tarmac or hard-packed forest trails though because they feel unforgiving.
The uppers are well made with a more durable material over the toe-caps and heel area, plus an abrasive resistant mesh at the mid foot, where vegetation and rocks do their worst on trail footwear.
The uppers are not as breathable as other shoes on test so sweaty feet might be an issue on hot summer days.
You will either love or loathe the lace-lock system. The laces pull evenly along the top of the foot but it is a bit of a fiddle to get the system to lock. Once locked, the laces do stay taut. The excess lacing needs to be tucked into a small pocket in the tongue and, again, this is a bit tricky but once in place, they stay put.
The Scarpa Spin ST’s are now a firm favourite trail footwear, especially when heading into the summer hills and mountains.
