The weather is finally getting to a place where you are don't need as many layers to keep warm just to go for a run, or you may just be ready to get back into running, it's the perfect time to invest in a new pair of shoes.
That's where this guide comes in handy.
We gathered testers from all over the country, including veteran runners at ACTIVE, to extensively test the shoes in this guide. All of our testers put their shoes through a minimum of 20 running miles (some way more than 20 miles) while paying attention to comfort, fit, weight, breathability, flexibility and ride.
From updates of old favorites that had our feet singing to new releases that will ensure you'll find something to motivate your miles well into summer, you're guaranteed to find a shoe you'll love. We know money might be tight, but if you can, treat yourself! You deserve it.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Merrell | Nike | Reebok | Scarpa | Skechers | Under Armour
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com's editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Atral Loyak
Atral TR1 Mesh
Astral Loyak
About: The Astral Loyaks are the perfect minimalist shoe for standup paddle boarding, kayaking, or even the causal evening stroll. The G15 Rubber sole, you can really feel it grip, especially on slippery surfaces. The many areas on the shoe that help with removing water quickly out so you are not standing in water all day, plus they dry extremely fast. You should have not problems wearing these shoes all day, as they are extremely comfortable, especially for a minimalistic shoe design.
This shoe was perfect for my cave exploration in Grand Cayman. The grip on the soles is perfect!
Things We Liked:
"Loved the fit of this shoe! Lightweight, casual, and easy to slip on for errands or a casual walk."
"The Loyak is good for getting wet and still having grip. I never felt insecure after my feet got wet. The traction was amazing."
Areas for Improvement:
"The shoe could have a bit more arch support, but overall an amazing fit right out of the box."
"It was hard to find something I didn't like about this shoe, but could use a bit of a style refresh at the most.
Final Thoughts
The Astral Loyak shoes definitely meets expectations as a casual-wear, all around walking shoe. The shoes were comfortable right out of the box without having to break them in. Having the Loyak also be waterproof, certainly came in handy while at the garden shop where water is everywhere.
Specs:
- Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 5.7oz
- Price: $95
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Everyday
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal For: Boat, Walking, Casual
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Astral TR1 Mesh
About: The Astral TR1 Mesh is not your typical trail shoe. They are ultra-lightweight that also give you more grip thanks to their G15 Rubber sole. This G15 rubber sole provides exceptional grip whether wet or drip, giving you the confidence you need while traversing the anything that comes your way on the trail ahead. This minimalistic trail/hiking shoe adds amazing ventilation through the top mesh letting air pass through, while giving the water a place to drain from. These quick dry, quick drain, and ultra lightweight hiking shoes would be a great addition on any path you choose.
The soles grip like no other
Things We Liked:
"The G15 Rubber sole's grip is like nothing we've ever tested before."
"The fast draining and quick dry really came in handy when there was a small creek I encountered. While the traction across wet surfaces gave me confidence."<
Areas for Improvement:
"Not the most stylish shoes out there, would like to see an improvement in this area for sure.
"I need more arch support in my hiking shoes and this one is lacking. Sticking was coming up in one area, but this is most likely an isolated issue."
Final Thoughts
Specs:
- Drop: 0mm
- Weight: 10.6oz
- Price: $130
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Hiking
- Fit: True to Size
- Ideal For: Light hiking
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Check out the other shoes in the Spring Shoe Guide.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Merrell | Nike | Reebok | Scarpa | Skechers | Under Armour
About the Author
Stephen is the Editor in Chief for ACTIVE.com. He has been running been involved in the fitness industry for more than 10 years but has been running or playing sports for most of his life.
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