Pearl iZUMi Men's EM Trail N 2 Running Shoe Review

Customer Ratings:

So, I have been looking for a trail shoe that is not to minimal but with a very low drop and with some good protection while maintaining a light weight. Very picky! I went through a pair of Brooks PureGrits and Asics Gel-Fuji Trainer 2s... Although very decent shoes one did not have enough grip and made my feet slide while taking hills and the other did not have enough protection from sharp rocks or debris. I finally noticed alot of folks up on the mountains wear PIs for the races and training, so I decided to look around and give them a shot. Due to the lack of availability of trail shoes on shoe stores around the area I decided to give the road version a try for fit. They felt fantastic, so like the deal finder that I am I came here to Amazon for a decent price.

The first time I ran on the N2s it felt as if they were frozen, very rigid and felt dull. But after the first 2 miles, I began to feel and understand why so many mountain runners prefer them. They offer a lot protection from the ground while still returning lots of feedback and traction. The 6-7 mm drop feels great, and even though it sits a bit higher from the ground they are nimble. I have about 30-35 miles on them right now, mainly hill work for about 4-5 at a time, no sliding around, no hot spots, no complaints, I can fly down hill and my toes don't scream at me from the crushing sensation I got out of the previous two. They are fantastic for the price. I hear they are lasting a bit longer than usual as well.

One thing I would change, the lacing, it might be cause I have skinny feet, but I end up with lots of lacing left somehow. Other than that, if they somehow can make it an ounce lighter, they would go head to head with the best of the best. Awesome job Pearl Izumi, I am a fan now.

5'11" / 158 lbs / Training for my first Ultra Trail in Jan '14.

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I got my shoes a day or so before expected--I use them as golf shoes due to a hip replacement and I,m still leary of spikes--they work great, fine support, traction, and comfort. I hope they last a long time.