Montrail FluidFlex is not the “traditional” design you may be used to from Montrail. It is superlight, cushioned, no rockplate with minimal drop.  Let’s take a look at the FluidFlex.

INITIAL IMPRESSION

Super light!  It comes in at slightly over 7 oz (207 g).  It fit true to size. You will also notice the minimal upper with asymmetrical lacing.  The FluidFlex is very flexible. The FluidFoam midsole provide excellent cushioning. It does not have a rockplate (not needed with the FluidFoam design).

TRAIL TESTING

Out of the box 20 miler produced excellent results. No blistering. The FluidFoam provided ample protection from rocks and debris. With the FluidFoam, they feel good running on the road too. I was concerned about a non-gusseted tongue, but the minimal upper fit like a glove.  The FluidFlex drained extremely well.  Generally, most shoes drain okay and may feel a little water logged initially, but the FluidFlex almost immediately felt like they were dry.  The traction was good in sandy, muddy, rocky and scree like conditions.

If I had one complaint, it would be the length of the laces.  I’m not sure why the laces are so long.  After utilizing all the holes and triple knotting the laces, they still hit the ground. I replaced them with a pair of “normal” length laces. This is not a big issue and can be easily remedied.  Overall, a great addition to the Montrail line of shoes.

TECH SPECS

• Weight – 7.3 oz (207 g)
• Forefoot Height -11  mm
• Heel Height – 15 mm
• Drop – 4 mm
• Non-gusseted tongue
• Neutral  Shoe
• No Rock Plate
• Midsole – FluidFoam
• Upper – Synthetic
• Made In – China
• Women’ Version – Yes

Weight Breakdown

CONCLUSION

The Montrail FluidFlex is for the runner wanting a balance between the traditional shoe versus a minimal shoe.  With the 4mm differential, sufficient padding, and minimal design, the FluidFlex will be a significant player in the Montrail running line.  You may need to replace the laces as they are a bit too long.

Thank you for your orders and your support.  Orders will be sent into the manufactures and printers this week and we should be shipping orders the week of July 15th – earlier if we get the printing done sooner.

Ian Torrence has a deep resume of trail ultras:

• Finished over 170 ultras and has won over 50!
• In 1999, he finished 16 ultras and 1 marathon and won 12.
• In 2002, he completed the Grand Slam of Ultras
• 18 JFK finishes including 11 top ten finishes

He currently resides in the trail running mecca of Flagstaff, AZ where he trains and coaches for McMillan Running as their ultra-marathon coach.  Ian talks to us about his experiences and how his body and training has changed over time, how he has adjusted his training to continue to race successfully and tips he feels will help you build a bonk proof body.

Ian Torrence’s Blog

Some articled he has written for IRunFar

Take the Tailwind Challenge at: Tailwind Nutrition   

Check out the cool rechargable headlamps made for trail running at Petzl

Closing Song: “Mama Kin” by Aerosmith

You can listen on ITunes or by using the player below:

Up for review are the Merrell Trimaran Crew and the RFE Shorts.  Let’s see what Merrell has to offer in their apparel line.

INITIAL IMPRESSION & TRAIL TESTING

Trimaran Crew Shirt

The Trimaran is a regular fit and fits true to size.  It is rated for UPF 20.  It is a thicker material than other running apparel I have tested.  The Merrell Opti-Wick fabric does the job in keeping moister at bay. It contains flatlock stitching that reduces seam rubbing – a plus for trail runners. You will also notice the forward shoulder seam that minimize friction rub under pack straps.  It comes in at 4.60 oz (130.4 grams).  The Trimaran tested well on all my runs and is a very durable shirt built for the trails. It also looks good just around town.

RFE Shorts

The RFE shorts have a brief liner that fits just right. They fit true to size and come in at 5.70 oz (161.6 grams). They are UPF rated at 30+. The shorts contain an inside drawcord. The RFE have a total of 3 pockets – 2 front pockets and 1 small zippered rear pocket.  There is enough storage for running essentials. They have the Merrell Opti-Wick fabric which makes it very breathable.  They tested well on the trails – great fit, breathable, and lots of storage.

TECH SPECS

Trimaran Crew Shirt

• Material – 100% Polyester Double Knit (Opti-Wick fabric)
• Fit – Regular
• Number of Pockets – None
• Weight – 4.60 oz (130.4 grams) – Size Small
• Made in – China

RFE Shorts

• Main Body Material: 100% Polyester (Opti-Wick fabric)
• Side Inserts Material: 100% Polyester, stretch panel
• Fit – Regular
• Liner – Brief
• Number of Pockets – 3 (2 front pockets and 1 small zippered rear pocket)
• Inseam Length – 8 inches
• Weight – 5.70 oz (161.6 grams) – Size Small
• Made in – China

CONCLUSION

Trimaran Crew Shirt

Regular fit that is comfortable and moisture-wicking to reduce chafing while looking good on the trail or around town.

RFE Shorts

Comfortable fit, breathable, durable, with plenty of storage, and built for the trails.