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Reddit Reviews
The SCARPA SPIN ST has insane traction. The website describes the outsole as follows: 'aggressive lug profile with Vibram Traction Lug Technology'. I can be totally aggressive when navigating any hiking trail while wearing these. Shoes have many features or characteristics, but I make the decision first on lugs that are around the 7mm range.
Scarps spin ST are great for muddy conditions however you’ll compromise some cushion
For winter runs over the hills - thinking thick mud, steep grassy descents - I use Scarpa Spin STs. Great traction on almost all surfaces, and I didn't get along with Mudclaws! But I only have a mile run to and from the trails, so I can get away with the 8mm lugs without much discomfort. If I had a longer run in, I'd probably swap out some of the trail traction in return for a little more road comfort - something like the Salomon Genesis. I suppose it might come down to how muddy the trails are - do they justify aggressive lugs, or can you get away with something in the 4/5mm range that'll be more compliant on road as well? If you do need aggressive lugs, does 25% mean just a couple miles on road, or a longer section that might justify losing some trail traction to gain some road comfort?
Option 3: trail running shoes 😁 You’ll need something to give you “stability” and dont be always putting “weight” on your knees when you come down from hills. I did it with some Scarpa, Salomon (worst shoes for me) and I’m planning to do it with ASICS Trabuco.
Scarpa trail shoes. They've been amazing for me.
Had great luck with Scarpas. The Golden Gate 2 and Spin Planet are great in conditions you describe.
Teva flip flops for dry Wednesday and Thursday wandering. Scarpa trails shoes for dry Friday to Sunday Zamberlain Hiking boots and Gaiters if wet and muddy.
Scarpa for more durability than topos
I’m getting amazing mileage out of Scarpa shoes and now wouldn’t go back to Hoka. They’ve been amazing around the Jura and Alps, and are still held together perfectly (except I doubt I’ll get them to look super clean ever again…). I think my current pair are at ~7-800km currently and still look and feel great. Arguably a more niche brand when it comes to running but I would highly recommend.
Rankings by Use Case
Top recommendations from others in the same boat
Best for Deep mud and soft ground

Top pick
Salomon - Speedcross Series
Best for Quick draining and drying for wet trails

Top pick
Hoka - Speedgoat Series
Best for Road-to-trail transitions

Top pick
Nike - Pegasus Trail Series
Best for Steep technical descents

Top pick
Salomon - Genesis Series
Best for Technical rocky terrain

Top pick
La Sportiva - Prodigio Series
Best for Ultra-marathon racing

Top pick
La Sportiva - Prodigio Series





