Backpacker Magazine – May 2012

Gear Review: Hi-Tec V-Lite Infinity HPI Trail Runner

A trail runner that's light but stable

by: Allison Pattillo

Tags:
• Gear
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• Trail runners
|

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Ultralight shoes sacrifice stability to cut weight, which can increase the risk of joint sprains for some runners. The Infinity is light, but built more like a traditional trail runner: TPU overlays reinforce the seamless upper, keeping testers’ feet stable on uneven terrain.

Testers raved about next-to-foot comfort, thanks to the fuzzy microfiber lining (which gives you the option to run sockless) and the excellent breathability of the micromesh upper. Fit runs average to a bit wide, and extra toebox room accommodates swelling. Traction is solid on all surfaces—dry and wet—but testers wished for a pronounced heel brake for downhill traction and slightly deeper toe lugs for powering uphill. $155; 1 lb. 4 oz. (w’s 9); m’s 7-13, w’s 5-11; hi-tec.com/us

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