Gear Review: The Dynafit Feline UP Pro trail running shoe

 

The Dynafit Feline UP Pro Running Shoe was tested by our employee Samy:

For many years I love running in different terrains like the mountains but also flat roads. So a good (trail) running shoe is a must. I got the Dynafit Feline UP Pro in June 2019, to get to know it better and to test it during my runs. In my freetime i did several runs with the shoe – most recently at the Gap Pub Run in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the running group of my employer Sport Conrad. 

 

Test conditions

The new trail running shoe was used in offroad and on level roads. I was able to test it four times during the test period. The duration was usually 60-75 minutes. My test runs in the mountains and hills around Garmisch-Partenkirchen were dry and medium temperatures prevailed. The routes were better-developed but uneven trails, as well as paved, public roads.

 

 

My first impression

First of all, I noticed that the shoe is very light (230g) and has a slim but good fit. Since I had a broader foot, it was initially too tight for me, but after two runs, the shoe adapted to my foot and the uncomfortable feeling of pressure was gone. Visually I liked the orange-black shoe with its sporty-modern fit. To my taste the color is not too bright or too dark.

 

Grip on rock and stone

No matter which terrain, the grip of the soles plays an important role. The Dynafit Feline UP Pro has a very good grip due to its Vibram Megagrip sole and thus supports the transmission of power from the legs. Despite good mobility and flexibility, I had a firm hold in the shoe. The sole adapted perfectly to any unevenness of the ground. That’s how my running also stabilized in uneven terrain.

 

 

It’s about the details!

Scuffed skin or sweaty feet are the nightmare of every runner. The Dynafit Feline UP Pro prevents those with a cushioned edge around the heel and ankle and a blended fabric at the top of the shoe. Since my feet did not really sweat in the shoe I can confirm the breathability. The EVA damping was sufficient and the blast (4mm) for my running style completely appropriate. Thanks to the Vibram Litebase technology, the Feline UP Pro is 20g lighter than its brother, the Feline UP. The attached rubble protection in the toe area prevented a painful impact against stones and objects on the way. The lacing with quick release system was very convenient and easy to use. It was always tight while running and gave my feet a tight fit.

 

 

Conclusion


In my opinion the Dynafit Feline UP Pro is especially suitable for runners with narrower feet who want to compete in short to medium-length trail running competitions. Due to the weight-saving, easy processing, it should not be overused in demanding terrain but should be used on selected short and medium distances.

 

Find the Feline UP Pro and other trail running products in our stores or online:

 

 

Interested in other blogposts about trailrunning? Check out these ones:

Trail Running: Race Equipment Guide

→ Trailrunning backpack and hip bag guide

 

Photos: ©Dynafit