Tired of soggy socks and sweaty feet? Whether you're returning to the pavement after a long hiatus or simply seeking a fresh pair of kicks, now is the ideal time to invest in new running shoes.
Our expert team of runners, including seasoned veterans from ACTIVE, has meticulously tested a wide range of shoes to bring you this comprehensive guide. Each pair was subjected to at least 20 miles of rigorous testing, with our testers evaluating factors such as comfort, fit, weight, breathability, flexibility, and overall ride.
From beloved classics that have stood the test of time to innovative newcomers designed to inspire your miles well into summer, you're sure to discover the perfect shoe to match your unique needs and preferences. While we understand that budgets can be tight, we encourage you to consider investing in yourself. Your feet will thank you.
Spring Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Mammut | Merrell | New Balance | Nike | On | Pearl iZUMi | Reebok | Roll Recovery | Saucony | 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 that 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 highly rated products.
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.
Mammut Sertig II Low
Mammut Sertig II Low
About: The Sertig II is visually appealing, but the functional elements truly shine. The snug fit is enhanced by two reinforcement laces across the vamp, securing the shoe comfortably on the top of the foot. Additionally, the toe reinforcement features extra rubber that wraps around the shoe’s edge, offering an extra layer of protection against rocks and debris. The varied tread on the bottom securely grips slippery surfaces in wet conditions.
Mammut demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, incorporating eco-friendly materials and ethical practices into their products. The Sertig II Low excels in performance and reflects Mammut's dedication to fair working conditions through its partnership with the Fair Wear Foundation, ensuring workers are treated fairly throughout the manufacturing process. Additionally, the brand prioritizes production methods that reduce emissions, making these shoes an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers who want to enjoy the outdoors without compromising their values. This blend of performance and sustainability truly sets the Sertig II apart in the trail running market.
This shoe is fast and agile while still providing excellent grip!
Things We Liked:
"I liked the reinforced lacing on the sides of the vamp. I like ways to secure my arch that is not just a rise underneath. When you have a high arch and narrow foot, it really helps with stability."
"For such an affordable shoe, I was impressed with how much grip and responsiveness it provides. This will be a great everyday shoe to take with me on trips to the mountains."
"I love seeing a lightweight and aggressive design in a hiking shoe. I don't want a traditional bulky hiking shoe that laces-up above my ankles and weighs a ton."
Areas for Improvement:
"The sizing. Maybe it was the Swiss element, but it's just too long, and I kept catching the toe under roots"
"The insole rubs on the inside arch. Those that pronate will need to consider wearing thicker socks."
"This is a narrow shoe. They got the length right, but the width is a tight fit. I'm unsure if sizing up would be the solution here because the shoe would be too long."
Final Thoughts
The Mammut Sertig II Low is a great choice for any trail enthusiast looking for a low-profile shoe that still delivers. Weighing just 9.88 0z, these shoes are incredibly lightweight, making them ideal for long hikes or runs where every ounce counts. The 7mm drop offers a comfortable and natural feel, promoting a smooth stride on various terrains. One standout feature is the EVA foam midsole, which expertly dampens shock and vibration, allowing for a cushioned experience even on rocky paths without creating a bulky stack height. The EVA wedge design provides excellent arch support, ensuring stability while still enabling nimble movement over roots and uneven surfaces. With a rated A5 flex index, the Sertig II strikes the perfect balance between control and agility, responding dynamically to the twists and turns found on the trail. Whether navigating steep inclines or quick descents, the shoe adapts dynamically to changes in terrain, making it easy to maintain pace without feeling restricted. This flexibility allows for precise movements, giving confidence when tackling challenging trails. A neutral shoe, the Sertig II avoids too much rigidity that may make it challenging to perform specific movements while not too soft that it may not provide enough support to execute proper form. According to experts, the right flex index is necessary to give trail runners the necessary support and control to execute movements with ease and precision.
Specs:
- Drop: 7mm
- Weight: 9.88 oz (Women) 11.64 oz (Men)
- Price: $135
- Category: Neutral
- Type: Trail Running
- Fit: Runs slight large
- Ideal For: Trails (all types) and Hiking
Buy:
Women's | Men's
Check out the other shoes in the Fall Shoe Guide.
Fall Shoe Guides
Asics | Astral | Brooks | HOKA | Mammut | Merrell | New Balance | Nike | On | Pearl iZUMi | Reebok | Roll Recovery | Saucony | 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.
Get ACTIVE on the Go
Couch to 5K®
The best way to get new runners off the couch and across the finish line of their first 5K.
Available for iOS | Android
Discuss This Article