VJ - Lightspeed

I have tried on the Lightspeed and they are super narrow. I feel like my feet are normal width and there wasn’t a chance in hell I was even going to try to run in them. You can see in photos how narrow the mid foot is. That is not an illusion!

I didn’t try Maxx2 but was told by VJ the midsole is wider on Maxx2 and that you can see in photos. It appears much more narrow to me. If Maxx2 is snug at all, the Lightspeed is likely to be uncomfortable.

Nnormal Kjerag 2 (24/18mm) and VJ Lightspeed (29/23mm) are my favorite shoes for technical trails (up to 21 km). For 42 km runs, I have used VJ Maxx2 (31/25mm) and Hoka Tecton X3 (40/35mm) for some extra cushion. The new Kjerag 2 is really good! I would probably have the Tomir as well in my rotation, if not for the 8mm drop ... (There is always VJ Ultra 3 (38/30mm), Mafate 5 (44/36mm), Mafate X (49/41mm), Rocket X Trail (50/44mm) for even more stack ... but good luck to your ankles if you wear those on technical trails ...)

Nnormal Kjerag 2, VJ Lightspeed. The latter has a plate, so a bit more control with the Kjerag.

Lightspeed is more narrow - definitely in comparison to the MAXx2. I have reviewed both shoes for RTR and testing the Ultra 3 now. They told us the Lightspeed was kind of a niche shoe - it has the same foam as the MAXx2 but its a narrower platform and less stable due to that. It's not a shoe for short technical stuff - despite what they may show in promo pics. I think they actually had pics mostly in forested trails, which it would be fine for.

MAXx2 is a better and far more versatile shoe than the Lightspeed. After testing, I only really use the Lightspeed sometimes for trail speedwork on flat dirt. Both shoes use SuperFOAMance which is nitrogen-infused TPU/EVA. There are questions about foam durability, and I've experienced packing out with both shoes. But I still find it ok in the MAXx2 as they feel a bit more stable in technical terrain. Initially they were softer and more bouncy, and they've lost that feel. I don't think it's a reasonable long ultra distance shoe though, most people want more protection and cushion underfoot. But for those that prefer a firmer, thinner ride, I supposed it could work. I'm just speaking generally.

If you're primarily concerned about stability, I'd steer clear from the Lightspeed. You'll do better with your MAXx2 . If you did want to step up in cushion, the Ultra 3 is good. Lots of people complaining about the foam compressing over time, but they've been great for me so far (30 miles in). You seem to have a good handle on how the VJ foam feels, so that shouldn't be a problem for you - if you did want that extra cush.

VJ Maxx 2 or VJ Lightspeed would be fit for purpose. Especially considering the terrain you described.

Exposed rockplate material at midfoot may be slippery at times. Also the rock plate next to the outsole makes it less pliable and not conforming to the ground like some other shoes. For example VJ Lightspeed has better grip on rock and roots since it has the plate sandwiched in the middle of the foam. It also has more contact area.