Dedicated minimalists will find a lot to love about the Vapor Glove, and will be able to use it for a wide variety of conditions. There’s just enough shoe to provide a bit of protection and comfort, and nothing else to get in your way.
New Balance had a winner on its hands with the first generation Minimus Trail shoe, and the 2013 version provides improvements in weight and comfort without compromising performance. It’s an attractive middle ground between minimalism and high intensity demands.
This is a youthful, urban sunglass that impressed us on both quality and price, especially given the polarized lenses, secure fit for activities, and an eco-friendly design. The optics are surprisingly good considering the $99 pricetag.
The Vuarnet VL1121 is a solid performance product with a sophisticated European look. It has nice full coverage, and the polarized Nautilux lenses really stand out—they increase visual acuity and depth perception.
The Oakley Underspin is an excellent sunglass for women looking for a sunglass that can go seamlessly from trail running or mountain biking to a sunny breakfast patio in a swank part of town.
The Native Apres flows effortlessly from the bike, run, or hike to après. A unisex frame, it has hip styling with solid performance features, such as an air flow system, strategically placed gripping rubber, and polarized optics.
The FC Eco 3.2 is a versatile light hiker that can withstand the most demanding terrain, but is still comfortable enough to feel at home on moderate day hikes. I thought this was an outstanding boot for any terrain.
The Bora is a super stable shoe that is at home on aggressive, sporty terrain. It’s stiff enough to handle high mileage hikes and supportive enough to get you through the nastiest talus field. The Bora proved to be one of the most exciting boots in the test.
This is one of the most versatile boots in the test: i.e. it’s at ease on everyday cruiser hikes but has enough muscle to handle rough terrain or longer treks. It’s super supportive on steep downhills, has great control, and is very stable on rocks.
The Drifter WP is a carryover style that is truly an all-purpose light hiker. This mid-height boot is versatile enough for anything ranging from mellow day hikes to longer treks on variable terrain in wet or dry conditions. It’s a great all around trekking shoe that can handle light pack weight.
The Teva Sky Lake Mid is an average light hiker with enough support to perform well during short hikes on variable terrain, but doesn’t have the guts to protect your feet on long, grueling treks. For $120, however, this is a great value.
This is a cushy cruiser best suited for on-trail hikes or moderate off-trail adventures—it lacks the support and structure for more than that. It’s also best for women with a wider foot.