Introduction
The Craft Pure Trail (men’s and women’s) is a trail running shoe designed with winter conditions in mind, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and performance. At first glance, its features suggest a versatile option for snowy trails, but how well does it really perform?
After putting the Craft Pure Trail through its paces in the Colorado Foothills—where temperatures hovered around 19°F, snow blanketed the ground, and stream crossings added an extra challenge—it became clear that this shoe is a strong contender for winter trail runners. It sheds snow effortlessly, handles moderate trails with ease, and offers a cushioned ride that’s comfortable both on and off the trail.
So, how does it stack up overall? Let’s dive into its design, performance, and where it truly shines (or falls short).
Craft Pure Trail Design and Construction
The Craft Pure Trail is packed with thoughtful design elements that cater to winter trail runners and deliver a great combination of practicality and performance.
Upper
One standout feature is the shoe’s unique mesh upper material, designed to repel water and shed snow. During testing, the upper performed exceptionally well, keeping feet dry and preventing snow from clinging to the surface. Even after splashing through streams, the upper resisted moisture. However, it’s important to note that the shoe is not fully waterproof. When submerged, the water did seep through.
Lacing System
The laces are paired with rubberized tongue reinforcements, which prevent slippage and reduce pressure when tightened. This small but effective feature enhances comfort and gives a more secure fit throughout the run, but this innovation does not overcome the play found in the roomy upper and soft soles. Running does not feel secure on advanced terrain due to a lack of lockdown.
Outsole and Protection
The outsole provides some degree of water protection with a flexible rubber rand around the front, though it lacks significant toe bang protection. For runners who frequently encounter rocky terrain, this may be a consideration. However, the outsole’s construction worked well for snow and light trail conditions if the grade is mild.
Craft Pure Trail Comfort and Fit
Comfort is where the Craft Pure Trail shines.
The shoe fits true to size for most runners, but there are some nuances. During testing, a size 11 was worn, though a 10.5 might have provided a more secure fit. Compared to other brands, the sizing seems to align more with a Salomon fit but runs slightly larger than La Sportiva. An 11 in La Sportiva fits perfectly.
A thick, cushioned sole reminiscent of the Salomon Ultra Glide provides a smooth, forgiving ride. This cushioning makes the Pure Trail a pleasure to wear not only on the trails but also for casual, everyday use. This pro is also a con when it comes to running on challenging, advanced terrain due to the play in the upper and cushion.
Performance on the Trails
The Craft Pure Trail works well for winter trail running, and it delivers in several key areas:
Winter Performance
One of the shoe’s most impressive features is its ability to shed snow effortlessly. Whether running through fresh powder or slushy trails, the upper and outsole worked together to keep the feet light.
Traction and Grip
The lugs on the Pure Trail outsole provide reliable traction, especially in snowy conditions. For icy patches, the shoe pairs well with microspikes, though the wide sole may require upsized spikes for a proper fit.
Technical Terrain
While the shoe excels on moderate trails, its performance on technical terrain is not so great. The thick sole and wide platform can feel unstable during scrambling or on uneven, rocky trails, leading to some sloppiness in control.
Who Is This Shoe For?
The Craft Pure Trail is a great fit for runners seeking comfort and versatility, even in winter trail conditions.
Ideal For:
- Runners tackling moderate trails where technical features are less critical.
- Casual wearers looking for a cushioned shoe that doubles as everyday footwear.
- Winter trail runners who prioritize snow-shedding and water-repellent features in modest conditions.
Not Ideal For:
- Those navigating highly technical, rocky terrain.
- Runners who need fully waterproof shoes for deep water crossings or heavy rain.
Craft Pure Trail Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Comfortable, cushioned ride
- Excellent snow-shedding capabilities
- Water-resistant upper
- Reliable traction in snowy conditions
- Versatile design for casual wear
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof
- Sloppiness on technical terrain
- Wide platform may not suit all runners
Final Thoughts
The Craft Pure Trail (men’s and women’s) provides a cushioned and comfortable ride with excellent snow-shedding capabilities. While it’s not ideal for technical terrain or fully waterproof, it’s perfect for snowy, moderate trail conditions. This makes it a solid choice for winter trail runners looking for a reliable, versatile shoe.
If you’re in the market for a winter-ready trail runner that balances performance and comfort, the Craft Pure Trail is worth considering. Whether you’re out on the trails or just running errands around town, this shoe has the versatility to handle it all.
