Trail Shoes (From Top) 

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Asics Gel-Eagle Trail V
Our first choice when there's a mile or two of pavement before the trail, the Gel-Eagle Trail V ($100; www.asics.com) moves as smoothly from road to dirt as it does from heel to toe. Along with padding that boings more than most off-road dogs, the new V includes an improved water-resistant upper and
an unbeatable heel-stabilizing lace system.
 
New Balance 907
When trail running means roots and rocks rather than sandy bridle paths, New Balance's 907 ($100; www.newbalance.com) excels. A Sherman tank among the new crop of lightweight trail shoes, the 907 merges traditional elements like a protective forefoot plate, pronation control, padding in the heel and forefoot, and an aggressive tread pattern, resulting in a shoe that's old school and proud of it.
 
MontrailHighlander
The Highlander ($85; www.montrail.com/) is designed for "fell running"—a type of cross-country death-scramble currently popular in the U.K.—which means that it's sparsely padded and designed to be quick and light. Best for lower mileage on wood-chip tracks, its elfin nature means less support than a traditional trail runner.
 
Salomon XA Pro 3D
There's little new about the frame of the XA Pro 3D ($100; www.salomonsports.com), but so what? While trendy technology flits past, Salomon's proven comfort, fit, and durability let you rack up big mileage for many moons. The one-pull lacing is terrific, and the triple-density EVA midsole can take oodles of punishment.
 
Adidas CC Cardrona
Out with the bad air, in with the good: The CC Cardrona ($85; www.adidas.com) has more ventilation than a screened porch. All that air-conditioning means the Cardrona doesn't secure your foot as well as it could. But with openings everywhere (even under the foot), the shoe keeps you cool and comfortable.





Pick up the March 2006 issue for more secrets of the Southwest, nine Caribbean adventures, the best gear for runners, and our World Class outfitter trips.

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