THE GEAR:
The Evolution GTX is an all-purpose, all-season trail shoe from TrekSta. The Evolution is composed of a variable-density EVA midsole, an IceLock / Hypergrip rubber outsole, and a synthetic upper. The shoe also features a Gore-Tex waterproof/breathable membrane and the company's innovative NestFIT system.
THE TEST:
When I got the shoes a few months ago, I thought that perhaps TrekSta had gone out on a bit of a limb in claiming to have created a multi-purpose trail shoe that was good for all seasons. Frequently when companies take such an approach, the end result tends to be a "Jack of all trades, master of none" type of product; sufficient in many aspects, but not meeting or exceeding expectations anywhere. This is not the case with the TrekSta Evolution GTX.
The Evolution is noticeably different from other shoes, thanks in part to its foot-like shape. The NestFIT system is based on the curves and contours of human feet. TrekSta measured over 20,000 different feet to come up with a composite, and then added a last, insole, and midsole that fills gaps and contours itself to each individual foot shape. It looks and feels different than any other shoe I've tried, and in a good way. The company says that due to the unique design of the NestFIT system that you should order a half size smaller. I found this to definitely be true and in fact, some folks might need a full size smaller. That being said, the design is very comfortable.
Another interesting feature is the Evolution's IceLock system. The patent-pending technology employs micro-glass filaments that are electrostatically aligned in the rubber compound to create a slip-stopping surface tension. And guess what, it works. I'm not saying that I'll be leaving the Microspikes at home on every icy outing, but the IceLock system makes a noticeable difference.
As advertised, the shoes performed great and were comfortable during hiking or running. They were breathable on hot days, stayed dry on wet ones, and handled all terrains exceedingly well.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
TrekSta has a very unique shoe in the Evolution GTX. They have managed to create something that works comfortably well in all conditions. For those of us that continue to hit the trail no matter the weather or season, the Evolution is the ultimate hybrid trail shoe.
Evolution GTX features and specs:
- HyperGrip sole is wear resistant, highly stable, light and durable
- Gore-Tex waterproof, breathable membrane
- IceLock tread technology: micro-glass filaments vertically aligned in the rubber compound create slip-stopping surface tension for durable all-season traction
- NestFIT system cradles the contours of your feet for support and comfort; the upper, footbed, midsole, and outsole work together to follow the design of the foot
- Lightweight variable-density EVA midsole
- TPU heel counter for protection and torsional support for the ankles
- Highly breathable synthetic upper
- Contoured footbed with three different densities supports and cushions each area of the foot
- Slight heel and forefoot “rocker” eases the foot strike and supports the natural progression of the step
Price: $130
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
Sounds like a great shoe.
I like the way it looks.
I think I want to get me a pair of these. They look like a great shoe.
Great review. I like the shape of the shoe.
I have 8.5, 3xE Feet. So I usually always buy shoes about 1-2 sizes bigger. These shoes actually fit my feet, tho i will have to stretch em a bit by wearing them in. wrks good on the ice. I am concerned that the ice lookers will wear off on concrete. So far so great. Would like to see it in a approach shoe.
I bought a pair of Evolution GTX Trekstas about six months ago, I've worn them once hiking in the Sierra for a three day trek in fairly rugged terrain, moderate rock hopping and a couple of simple rappels. The shoes fit good are very comfortable and have great traction and slip resistance. However I was not impressed with the ankle support, the boot seems to float around above the sole and compromises confidence in a secure and positive plant and release especially descending. On one shoe the outside front 30% of the sole has separated from the boot and will need repair before they can be put into service again. For the price paid and based on the use these shoes have gotten that failure is quite premature. For those reasons I'm not satisfied and could not recommend the product, it's a shame they almost had it!
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