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.
