Engearment

Review by Will Trail

Initial Impressions
A recent addition to Arc’teryx’s running shoe lineup, the Arc’teryx  Vertex Speed shoe is a hybrid shoe for technical running and climbing adventures.  They feature Vibram’s® Megagrip outsole, off-road level cushioning and support and a gaiter system to keep your feet free of dirt and pebbles.

The shoes are built around a rugged Vibram® Megagrip outsole with LITEBASE technology delivering durable, surefooted performance across a range of conditions while shedding every gram possible.  The  lugs are spaced to provide loads of grip while shedding dirt/mud.

Moving up on the shoe is a forefoot TPU film providing underfoot protection and improved stability.  The midsole has dual-density construction for softer heel and midfoot cushioning and a firmer forefoot support area.  The upper is constructed of an abrasion-resistant Matryx® woven polyester that is durable, lightweight, breathable, and flexible.  TPU reinforcement zones are located around the shoe to ward off rocks and other trail obstacles.

The lacing system locks in for a secure foot feeling and has a tongue pocket to eliminate lace bouncing.  Topping it all off is a stretchy, breathable gaiter to seal out debris and moisture.

Detailed Review
When you slide your feet into the shoes and tighten the laces, no pressure points form—which is a huge bonus for me.  The heel area holds the foot securely and prevents heel lift, enhancing the overall locked-in feel.

I tested these shoes on trail runs and hikes. The Vibram® Megagrip outsoles are super grippy and produce enough traction to run/walk comfortably during inevitable loose or rocky climbs and descents. I was never lacking grip in dirt, sand, minor cobbles or rock outcrop settings.  These shoes just take hold of the Earth and let you decide what to do with it.

The ankle gaiter conforms to the foot and forms a barrier to minimize dirt and debris intrusion…a major pet-peeve of more open running shoe designs.  One of the draws for me to try these shoes was the gaiter and I can report that it does it’s job quite well without being too tight.  I forgot it was there, which is superb in my book.  The shoes breathe very well through the upper and gaiter system and I did not have any issues with my feet getting too hot.  It does take a little more effort to get into these shoes but there is a convenient pull tab at the heel to aid.

I’m a heavy footed runner and I found the cushioning level to be very nice for my heavy foot falls.  While the cushioning was absorbing impacts, I still felt a good amount of lateral support and control.  Some running shoes tend to offer high levels of cushion but can’t control the foot motion.  High marks to Arc’Teryx for combining high levels of cushion and control with the Vertex Speed.

The size 11 US shoes did take a few runs to break in which is not a surprise. I normally wear a size 10.5 – 11 US and the toe box feels plenty roomy.  I have standard-width feet, so wider-footed riders should take note.  Personally, I’ll size down by half a size for my next pair as there is just enough excess room ahead of my toes that could be minimized with a smaller size.  As always, footwear fitting in person is the best.

Closing Thoughts
Over the runs and hikes I’ve used the Arc’Teryx Vertex Speed shoes, I’ve been impressed by the fit and comfort provided by the laces and gaiter system. My feet felt securely locked into the shoes and, by extension, to the ground thanks to the sticky Vibram® Megagrip outsole. Toe protection from trail impacts is top-tier with a strong toe cap.  The amount of foot cushioning aligns with my heavy running style and I still feel support and control at the same time.

Fit-wise, these run a bit larger than my other running shoes, so I recommend sizing down by a half-size—or better yet, trying them on in person. Arc’teryx created a solid off-road running shoe that isn’t afraid of scrambling up rocks from time to time.

Will Trail

Will grew up in Idaho (fifth generation!) where he enjoyed the outdoors, riding his bike, participated in multiple sports, and working on the family ranch from time to time.

During college at Montana Tech, he played football for a few years and worked as a wildland firefighter during the summers.  He met his future wife, Erin Trail, there and after graduating with a degree in Geophysical Engineering, they moved to Texas where he was involved with racing his Subaru WRX, camping and powerlifting.