You'll "bug" out over these "icy" favorites.

PositionWHAT'S NEW? - Ice Bug Zeal OLX and Ice Bug Anima3 RB9X

The holy grail of off-trail running is to provide stability and flexibility. However, attempts to make a stable, yet soft, midsole so far has proven too difficult for product development teams worldwide--until now. The development of the Ice Bug Zeal OLX ($185) took more than three years-and numerous tests and prototypes--before it was ready to launch.

The upper material is a light, yet durable nylon textile and, together with the lacing system, embraces the foot firmly. To increase durability further, the upper is fastened with a stitch-and-turn technique to protect the thread. Yet, it is the midsole construction that is the true innovation. Zeal provides a stable, but soft, heel grip; this is the impossible combo made into reality through the molded midsole cradle on the interior side of the shoe. The midsole not only adds superb fit, it turns into the reinforcement protecting the foot in serious terrain. The height of the heel cup is slightly reduced at the center back in order to lessen pressure on the Achilles tendon. The medium last is half lined with quick dry mesh. The torsion and cushioning is in fine balance and, together with the low-sole profile, the ground control is just outstanding. As if the deep lug pattern of the outsole wouldn't provide traction enough...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT