A sunny afternoon, some heat and strong winds brought a welcome end to stage 1, however, on the horizon, storms were visible from bivouac. Gladly, they never appeared and everyone had a calm night after a beautiful sunset.
Camp life
The impact of the weather on stage 1 however, caused a complete re-working of the stage 2 route, as key sections were still under flood water.
The 0800 start.
With two starts for stage 2, 0800 and 1000 (for the top 50) the day started with some light rain, needless to say, there was concern within the whole bivouac. However, after a cloudy start, the weather started to clear and by mid-afternoon, we were back to a normal Sahara day with temperatures close to 30deg and blue skies. The main difference coming with some extra humidity.
The route was a wonderful mix of climbs, soft-sand, stoney plateau all in an area that is considered a highlight of the Sahara.
The heat returned
With three route options available, 20km, 40km or 60km the full results from the day will only be known when all participants have finished and the timekeepers have collated the data, so, please check the results via the link below.
Full MDS Morocco results are available to be viewed HERE
One thing we do know is that Rachid El Morabity crossed the finish line, hand-in-hand with Abdekkader Elmouaziz.
The landscape in the Sahara is very different at the moment
The HANDI race started with the masses as they did on stage 1 and proceed for 1km before transferring via vehicle to Cp1. They then raced to Cp2. Once at Cp2 they then transferred back to the final km to finish under the MDS arch.
Tomorrow is a rest day and an opportunity to re-charge before stage 3 on Thursday.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Bivouac in the distance towered by the ominous weather
The 2024 MDS Morocco officially got underway after a day of strong winds, sandstorms and rain through the night.
With the glow of fires in bivouac, the sky was ominous and the flashes of light and sound in the distance was a warning of what was to come.
A river runs through it
Stage 1, 24.7km and 507m+ was in theory, an easier day passing through very familiar MDS territory. With 2.5km´s of easy terrain before a short sand climb and descent before a long flat section to cp1.
Climbing the early pass before the rain came
Cp1 to Cp2 contained more soft-sand and soft-sand followed as the runners climbed to the highest point via a mountain pass and then a descent all the way to bivouac.
Making a splash
The story of the day was the weather, the ominous clouds and distance sounds moved to bivouac and then reached the first mountain pass just as the last runner came through.
The fagility of nature
What followed was nothing short of a biblical downpour turning certain sections of the stage 1 route into a mud bath of flooding, rivers and streams. Cp2 was hit hard, but participants embraced the challenge. Everyone was smiles, fully understanding that they were experiencing a very unique moment in MDS history.
As quickly as the storm came, it disappeared and as the day passed, by midday, skies were blue, the sune was once again beating down and all was resumed for a typical MDS day!
Full MDS Morocco results are available to be viewed HERE
El Morabity after cp2 in the rain
Top 3 for stage 1 came as no surprise for the men with Elmouaziz and El Morabity playing a game setting up Rachid for the long stage tomorrow.
The HANDI race started with the masses and proceed for 1km before transferring via vehicle to Cp1. They then move from Cp1 to Cp2, km8.5 to km12.2 in ´race mode.´ A tough and arduous challenge moving a special wheelchair through the soft sand of the Sahara. One pushes, the other pulls. It’s incredible to see these 10 pioneering teams pave a new way in Morocco.
Inspiration from the Handi teams
Tomorrow, stage 2, which is the theoretical long day. Athletes can choose, 20km, 40km or 60km. However, after the heavy rains of today and localised flooding, there may be a change of routes.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Following on from MDS Fuerteventura, the MDS team quickly transition to Morocco and the 2024 edition of MDS Morocco that will take place in the heart of the Sahara. MDS Morocco offers an adventure accessible to all kind of walkers and runners. A unique journey, where you will cross breathtaking landscapes. Far from any form of civilization, this is a unique opportunity to refocus on yourself and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
This 3rd edition, 12th to the 19th October will see 600 participants arrive for the adventure of a lifetime in the place where the Marathon des Sables story started over 37-years ago, Morocco.
Participants will arrive in Ouarzazate on Saturday October 12th for technical and medical checks followed by a night in a hotel.
Admin and medical checks
The following day, Sunday, is the journey, via bus, to the desert (approximately 6 hours) with arrival in bivouac and the start of self-sufficiency.
Bus transfer to the desert
Day 3, 4, 5 and 6 will have participants follow the classic MDS format of racing, 3 stages spread over 4-days.
Day 1 / Stage 1 25-30km.
Day 2 / Stage 2 choose 20km, 40km or 60km.
Day 3 Rest day
Day 4 / Stage 3 25-30km followed by transfer to hotel.
Importantly, MDS Morocco will see the addition of the NEW category, HANDI MDS which will cover 51km and 867m+
The following day provides the opportunity to visit the iconic site of Aït-Benhaddou(one of the locations of the film Gladiator). On arrival back at the hotel, time to relax and prepare for the awards ceremony and gala dinner.
Saturday 19h October is departure day.
Three sublime stages which will transport participants in the most beautiful places of the Moroccan Sahara, sleeping 4 nights in the MDS bivouac, this is the start of one of the adventures of a lifetime.
What is the MDS?
The MARATHON DES SABLES is a unique adventure, shared by thousands of enthusiasts since 1986.
To differentiate the full distance race of 250km’s, Marathon des Sables will now be known at MDS The Legendary, reflecting the legendary status of this iconic event and its long history as a pioneer of the stage racing and multi-day format.
The ‘HMDS’ format will still follow the same protocols as before but has now dropped the ‘half’ title and moving forward, events will be called MDS Jordan, MDS Morocco, MDS Cappadocia and so on.
MDS always an adventure
The MDS events are a one-week sporting adventure that combines the discovery, travel, meeting new people and physically challenging yourself in a self-sufficient manner.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
MARATHON DES SABLES 2025 events are already open:
MDS Morocco – Atlantic Coast: January 25 to February 1, 2025
A rest day made all the difference for the participants of MDS Fuerteventura and stage 3 was eagerly anticipated.
An early departure from bivouac and then a bus transfer to the start at Sotavento Beach, ahead 26.3km with 587m+ to La Pared.
A beautiful day of sand and path passing through Jandia National Park and concluding with epic coastal cliffs and an ocean backdrop.
Today, was all about the medal gladly, all achieved there goal finishing before the cut-off time of 16.45, a huge success.
After the bad weather in 2022 and the missing 2023, MDS Fuerteventura is well and truly back!
In the 120km race, SANTANA FERNÁNDEZ was crowned the winner with an elapsed time of 9:36:35. FOULQUIÉ PADILLA and ROGER PÉREZ placed 2nd and 3rd, 9:40:37 and 9:48:15 respectively.
For the women, DEL RIO VALLES, BOLLENGIER and NACHARD placed 1, 2 and 3, 13:54:20, 14:47:42 and 15:47:08 respectively.
PÉREZ DE LA CRUZ 10:23:12 and MUJICA GONZÁLEZ 11:53:49 were the male and female winners of the 100km and RODRÍGUEZ MORENO 9:02:44 and MAHIQUES 8:47:49 were the male and female winners in the 70km class, with MAHIQUES the outright winner.
Full results are available HERE for 120km, HEREfor the 100km andHERE for the 70km.
Now it is time for a shower, fresh clothes, a good dinner and bed with clean sheets. Tomorrow is a day of relaxation and then a gala dinner with awards ceremony.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Stage 1 was a challenging day for many, the 33.6km proving a tough start to the 2024 MDS Fuerteventura. On the positive side, there were no DNF’s.
Stage 2 is called ‘The Long Day’ as this is the day that for 100km and 120km will prove to be the longest of the race. However, the challenge can be as much mental as physical.
An early start
Challenge 1.
After the start, almost immediately, the runner’s are given the option to to turn right and take on the 17.8kmm loop, 20 men and 63 women chose this. Alternatively, you can turn right and start the 40.5km loop. The remainder of the participants chose this.
Challenge 2.
At the end of the 40.5 km loop, you can turn right and run to the finish – 25 min and 41 women chose this.
Challenge 3.
For the brave, a left turn after the 40.5km loop provides the option to complete a final loop and the total long day distance of 56.7km – 75 men and 61 women chose this.
MUJICA GONZÁLEZ
Today’s route followed a figure of 8 shape for the 120km. The terrain mostly sandy and rocky path, the need for gaiters minimal.
Some wonderful small canyons to run through
The day started at 0600 after a warm night under the stars. The winds had calmed but the sky was cloudy and it would remain that way until midday, when a sunny period provide some blue skies. Temperatures reached a high of 28 degrees and running conditions were good.
Time to grab the race by the horns
With three race distance options, rankings would change considerably during stage 2, however, in the 120km distance, the main protagonists of SANTANA FERNÁNDEZ, ROGER PÉREZ and FOULQUIÉ PADILLA would remain the same. However, today it was FOULQUIÉ PADILLA who now takes the overall lead with an elapsed time of 7:31:21 closely followed by SANTANA FERNÁNDEZ in 7:32:11. ROGER PÉREZ remains in third.
For the women, stage 1 winner MUJICA GONZÁLEZ started the day slower but then moved up through the field and is now in the women’s overall lead with a time of 8:56:08. BOLLENGIER who was 2nd on stage 1 is now 4th on GC with DEMARQUILLY moving into 2nd 9:55:47 and DEL RIO VALLES 3rd with 10:49:47.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
Stage 1 of the 2024 MDS Fuerteventura got underway today, 33.6km and 444m+
It was a 90-minute drive from Play Itas Resort to the northern coastal location of Manjanicho Beach.
A climb from the ocean to start the day
A day that offered a little of everything, starting and concluding next to the ocean, the track was mad up mostly of gravel/sand path, approximately 20% soft-sand and just a tiny amount of road crossings.
The unique landscape of Fuerteventura
Wind was present throughout the day, making the highest temperature of 28-degrees feel manageable.
Expansive landscape
With 300 participants and record 58% women, the 6th edition of MDS Fuerteventura was highly anticipated.
Here for the women’s race
The race upfront was dominated by Juan SANTANA FERNÁNDEZ, ROGER PÉREZ and FOULQUIÉ PADILLA, the trio setting an incredible pace in the 120km race, with SANTANA FERNÁNDEZ taking the victory ahead of ROGER PÉREZ and FOULQUIÉ PADILLA placing 3rd, 2:32:18, 2:33:48 and 2:34:15 respectively.
The lead trio
For the women, MUJICA GONZÁLEZ ran the race solo for a time trial effort and victory in 3:37:37. Behind, BOLLENGIER, and DEL RIO VALLES ran a close race for 2nd, the duo crossing in 3:52:50 and 3:53:10 respectively.
It is important to remember, MDS events offer 3-distances, 120km, 100km and 70km, stage 1 is the same for all races and then the difference comes on stage 2 when participants for MDS Fuerteventura will choose which loop to run, option 1 17.8km, option 2 40.5km and option 3 56.7km.
Volcano backdrops with 3rd place DEL RIO VALLES
Bivouac remains the same for each stage, the final stage (stage 3) the exception when the finish line brings an nd to the race and the participants return to Play Itas Resort.
With stage 1 being a longer first day, we may well see participants change options for stage 2, if they considered day 1 a little hard, they may well choose an easier option for stage 2, the choice is for them.
Stage 2 starts at 0600 and based on the distance chosen, the cut-off times for finishing will vary, midday for the short race, 1910 for the middle distance and for the long, 12:50am the following day.
Gladly for the participants, they will then have a rest day.
Since 1986, the MARATHON DES SABLES has crossed the world’s most stunning deserts with several unique concepts: the MARATHON DES SABLES THE LEGENDARY (252 km in the Sahara Desert in Morocco), the MARATHON DES SABLES (70, 100, or 120 km spread over 3 stages), and the new 2024 concept, the MDS TREK (4 stages with a total distance of up to 120 km), offering an accessible adventure with optimal comfort. These international events have seen over 50 editions in various countries such as Morocco, Fuerteventura Island, Peru, Jordan, Turkey, and offer adventures that combine running/hiking in the desert with tourism.
The internet came alive on September 23rd when Canadian Running Magazine published an article in regard to acclaimed ultra runner Camille Herron and accusations on tampering with Wikipedia content.
Facebook, X and IG was full of opinion, stories and viewpoints on the matter and SoMe is and can be a very brutal place in instances like this. I said a the time:
What followed was the removal of all of Camille’s social platforms. Thinking back, this was probably a wise move to protect Camille from the onslaught that followed. Now of course, many may well say, that the onslaught was justified. However, a response and an attempt at clarification is welcome.
I went on to clarify:
“I have said this multiple times in the last 24hrs. Also important that her running ability is not in question. This is something darker, deeper and a mental health issue which requires understanding and help. The best scenario (I think) is to acknowledge, apologize and seek help. The ultra community I believe would support her. There is something very fragile here.”
– Ian Corless via X
From wikipedia
Below, CONOR HOLT provides an explanation:
Statement:
Hello from Greece- here for the Spartathlon 153 mile race scheduled for this Saturday.
Yesterday I received a notification about a published article by Canadian Running Magazine. The author said he reached out for comment before it was published. I found an email sent Sept 20 in my spam account yesterday after the article was published! I never got a chance to say anything to the Canadian Running website before they published it. Plus we have been traveling the last few days with limited access!
For the Wikipedia part, temporun73 was the original account I created in 2016 and use to edit the page. I manage this so Camille can focus on her running and recovery.
Starting in 2023 and continuing to this day, cyber bullies by the name of Steven Walling, Liliana Uwu, C.Fred, Melcous, and some more were repeatedly editing out significant parts of Camille’s life/ biographical details.
I kept adding back in the details, and then they blocked my account in early February of this year. Nothing was out of line with what other athletes have on their pages. Wikipedia allows the creation of another account, so I created a new account Rundbowie. I was going off what other athletes had on their pages using the username Rundbowie and copying/pasting this info.
Camille had nothing to do with this. I am 100% responsible and apologize for any athletes affected by this and the wrong I did.
I was only trying to protect Camille from the constant bullying, harassment and accusations she has endured in her running career, which has severely impacted her mental health. So much to the point that she has sought professional mental health help.
I also went ahead and deactivated all of Camille’s social platforms for the time being because of the vile comments she has received.
I appreciate you reaching out to me.
Conor Holt
from wikipedia
UPDATE Thursday 26th September
On September 26, 2024 Lululemon ended its association with Herron in the wake of the Wikipedia controversy.
It’s countdown time to the 2024 MDS Fuerteventura, the 6th edition taking place from September 28 to October 5th.
The MDS format is the perfect synergy of travel, adventure and luxury.
The 2024 edition, once again, uses the Playitas Resort Hotel as a pre and post-race hub for 4 nights: two nights pre and two nights post.
Three nights will be spent in bivouac in full self-sufficiency, the only provision provided is a tent in which to sleep and water. All other items the participant must carry, this includes all food and snacks for the duration of the event, clothes, sleeping bag, sleeping mat and any luxuries.
Day 2 and 3: breakfast, lunch, dinner. (Stage 2 and rest day)
Day 4: breakfast, lunch. (Stage 3)
If a participant requires power for phone, watch, mp3 player etc, they must provide this themselves in the form of a portable battery which they must carry.
The MDS format is the same for all events, MDS The Legendary and MDS Trek excluded.
The race will take place over 4-days and 3-stages, typically broken down as follows:
Day 1/ Stage 1 between 25 and 30km.
Day 2/ Stage 2 20, 40 or 60km – the participant chooses the appropriate distance.
Day 3 Rest day
Day 4/ Stage 3 between 25 and 30km.
The race is designed so that finishing is a possibility for all, regardless of ability or speed. Importantly, if a runner does not finish, they are provided a free race entry for the following year.
The last edition of the race took place in 2022 which turned out to be a considerable challenge due extreme and unprecedented weather. 2023 did not take place due to environmental rules. So, 2024 will be a special year for MDS Fuerteventura. Notably, 300 participants will toe the line of which, 58% are women. A fantastic statistic.
The Program for the week will be as follows:
Saturday September 28
Arrival of participants and relaxed night at Playitas Resort Hotel.
Sunday September 29
Technical and medical checks followed by relaxation at Playitas Resort Hotel.
Monday September 30
Stage 1 – overnight bivouac
Tuesday October 1
Stage 2 – overnight bivouac
Wednesday October 2
Rest day – overnight bivouac
Thursday October 3
Stage 3 – followed by relaxation at Playitas Resort Hotel.
Friday October 4
Tourism and rest day followed by evening Gala dinner.
Saturday October 5
Onward travel
Playitas Resort Hotel is one of the key sports hotels in Europe. Located in the southeast of Fuerteventura, it is the perfect hub for a sports minded person, there is a gym, yoga, indoor cycling, CrossFit, pools and so much more available.
MDS Fuerteventura is closely followed by MDS Morocco, October 12-19, MDS Trek, October 20-29 and MDS Jordan, November 2-9.
The Hoka Speedgoat needs no introduction, it is arguably, the best selling trail shoe throughout the world. It’s much loved and universally proclaimed as a great trail running shoe.
I personally was late to the Speedgoat party with version 4, followed by version 5 and now version 6. The Speedgoat 5 reached a critical point for Hoka with very mixed reviews:
There were concerns about the midsole compressing and lacking durability,
The upper had less durability.
The fit and size for some was off.
The outsole was wearing too quickly.
I personally enjoyed the Speedgoat 5. I found the combination of features absolutely fine, the upper fine which was flexible and allowed for a good fit, I did need to lock lace though. The outsole ideal and importantly, the stack height a more reasonable 33/29 which offered good stability with a 4mm drop.
Most certainly, Hoka listened to the feedback. They had to if they wanted to retain the loyal fan base, especially with many other brands releasing shoes that could not only provide competition, but even beat the Speedgoat, the Merrell Agility Peak 5 a prime example.
With the release of the Speedgoat 6, the shoe very quickly received universal acclaim with quotes such as, ‘The King is Back!’ And, ‘Speedgoat is still the GOAT.’
What is new?
Cushioning is new CMEVA foam with increase stack, 40mm at the rear and 35mm at the front and 5mm drop, 38/33 for women).
The cushioning is lighter and more responsive.
The outsole is Vibram Megagrip Traction lugs with 5mm depth and new orientation.
A new more durable upper that is Matryx like with no stretch and with an inner cage.
Hoka say, “We’re offering an updated underfoot experience that provides a more responsive ride with less weight. You’ll find updates to the overall construction, including a breathable woven upper, lighter, more responsive midsole compound, internal chassis, dynamic vamp, and plusher, dual-gusset tongue.”
With neutral stability, balanced cushioning all built around a wide footprint, the Speedgoat 6 is a great trail all-rounder. It is designed to provide protective cushion while maintaining a responsive toe-off for when you want to go faster.
I personally found a considerable difference when putting on the 6 and lacing them up. I immediately preferred the feel of the 5. I lock-laced (as I do on the 5) and the fit/ feel improved.
The lacing does not go as low down the shoe on the 6 and this made me feel less secure at the front, probably not helped due to the fact that the 6 has been given extra width over the 5.
The cushioning is without doubt stiffer and firmer in the 6. The 5 feels bouncy and plush but not squidgy. The 6 almost feels hard by comparison, somewhat unexpected when you consider the extra stack height.
I have to say, my first run I was not loving the shoe. I was constantly thinking, give me the 5 back. However, with 10km in the shoe, the 6 started to feel more at home on my feet and as the km’s passed, that improved. So, I would certainly say although they are good to go straight out of the box, a good run or couple of runs will help them. Ultimately, there is no special life here. They are solid, reliable, good for the long haul, but there is a lack of excitement, especially if you compare to the Merrell Agility Peak 5 and the VJ MAXx2.
There is more structure and hold coming from the new internal support chassis, this is without doubt required with the extra stack. I never had a real issue in the 5 unless on very technical terrain, but here in the 6, the 40/35 cushioning is notably different. Currently, my favourite Hoka is the Tecton X3 which has the same level of stack height as the Speedgoat 6, but for me, has considerably better feel. It’s not that I don’t like the 6, there just doesn’t feel anything special going on and ironically, I prefer the feel of the Speedgoat 5 which is counter to what Hoka say I should feel and also counter to the general Speedgoat feedback from all the fans.
The tongue of the Speedgoat 5 and 6 is not long enough making lacing and particularly lock-lacing an awkward affair and not always comfortable. This really needs addressing.
The outsole with 5mm lugs is solid on most trails. With a new configurtation and the Traction lug, it works well. There ic a comprise with a great deal of mud and I am still never confident on wet rock.
The Speedgoat 6 is a solid trail shoe that will only continue to confirm the shoes legendary status within the trail world. Speedgoat lovers will continue to love this shoe. But, if you are new to Speedgoat and comparing against other like-for-like shoes, would the Speedgoat win out?
For me no. However, it does depend on what shoes you are comparing the Speedgoat with… If it was the adidas Terrex Agravic Speed, the Hoka Speedgoat 6 is a clear winner. However, comparing against a Merrell Agility Peak 5 or a VJ MAXx2, then, for me, I would choose the Merrell for trail runs and the VJ for mountain and technical runs.
The shoes look similar when seen side-by-side but there are very obvious differences: less cushioning, not plate, less rocker and in my opinion, I love the black colorway with Terrex in bold white, a hint of orange provides some colour excitement.
The adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is a super shoe that runs fast on slick trails and is a beast for those looking for speed and the fitness to maximise the super shoe potential.
This Terrex Agravic Speed is a shoe for all and in all honesty, is a much better choice for most people looking for a trail shoe, whereas, by contrast, the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra is only for a select few.
Despite the lower stack height, the shoe still suffers terrible stability issues on technical trail. I was really hoping that this would be less of an issue, and in all fairness, in comparison to the big brother, it is more stable, however, it is nowhere near stable enough. It’s only just a trail shoe, select the trails you run on carefully is my advice. There is a rocker, but it is nowhere near as pronounced as the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra and the need to forefoot strike is less.
Light with a neutral fit, the upper is almost see through and very breathable. The toe box is wide and allows good toe splay. The heel area is minimal and while comfortable for me, it’s an area to be wary of. Sizing is again frustrating, you need to try them on! A gusseted tongue gives a lovely foot hold and reassurance.
The cushioning is well balanced, soft without being squidgy and the responsiveness and propulsion is excellent. With softer foam at the bottom; Lightstrike Pro. Firmer Lightstrike on the top, this combination does add more stability but the footprint is too narrow in the middle and rear – ankle breaking warning given! When Runnning, the rocker does kick in and helps increase cadence and propulsion, but unlike the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra, you feel more in control and able to reign the shoe in and run at a more comfortable pace. This is probably due to the considerably less stack height and the lack of any plate. Walking too is better, not ideal, but better.
Continental outsole is good, again though, the lugs (3 and 4mm) are minimal and reduce the potential for it to be a real trail shoe. However, the grip is better than the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.
This shoe is arguably an update from my favourite adidas shoe, the Speed Ultra. However, with his level of stack height, there are no similarities really. It really is a subdued version of the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra and as such, it would make a good training shoe if using the bigger brother for racing. It feels like a road shoe.
There is a great deal of positives with this shoe and as I have said previously, for most people, this is a considerably better shoe choice than the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.
However, there are lots of negatives.
adidas really need to sort there sizing out. There is no consistency.
They also need to understand that when a shoe is called Terrex, that means it’s a trail shoe and not an updated road shoe… The shoes need to be fit for purpose.
The ankle collar, for some, will be an issue.
The tongue needs more padding.
The footprint is woefully too narrow in the middle and the rear. Again, they are a stability nightmare, nowhere near as bad as the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra, but it’s not great.
The outsole, again, is not aggressive enough. It’s like adidas want to make a road shoe that can just about go off-road, remain fast, but forget any technical and challenging terrain. I consider a 4mm lug a minimum, and this shoe would benefit from 5/ 6mm. But having said that, adidas would need to address the stability issues too.
Ultimately, the Terrex Agravic Speed is a good looking shoe that is ideal for faster trail running on slick or groomed trails. I have used this far more than its bigger brother as they are much more of an ‘all-rounder!’
The potential of the shoe is limited. It’s woefully unstable on technical trail, the outsole is not aggressive enough for anything other than slick trail and there are foothold issues.
So, this is a road to trail shoe, or a trail to road shoe. It’s the type of shoe that is ideal for someone who has loads of road experience and is venturing onto trail for the first time. But don’t get me wrong, there is a nice bounce, feel and propulsion to these shoes.
But, there are a great deal of shoes out there now that are a better option than the Terrex Agravic Speed. The Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra can come highly recommended as it is a super shoe that for the right person, they will reap the rewards that this shoe can offer. Here, the Terrex Agravic Speed is just another shoe with nothing unique or special to bring to the trail market. My advice would be take a look at theVJ MAXx2, this brings something special.
IAN CORLESS 