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Darren Smith | Trail Running
United Kingdom
เข้าร่วมเมื่อ 8 ก.ย. 2019
Plant based Trail, Fell and Ultrarunner from North Yorkshire, also dabbling in Fastpacking. My Trail Running channel holds a mixed bag of goodies from running Vlogs, to race reflection and running shoe reviews as well as feature films.
VJ Ultra 2 - My 10 First Impressions | Trail Running Shoe
Today I have 10 quick, first impressions of the VJ Ultra 2 Trail running shoe. After testing for a good hundred miles I am loving the new VJ Ultra 2 and while I don't have time for a full review here are my first impressions on fit, durability, best use, outsole grip etc etc.
✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning
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RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS
►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel??aff=75
►Spring Energy Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/spring?aff=75
►Lucho Dillitos Blocks - xmiles.co.uk/collections/lucho-dillitos?aff=75
►Mountain Fuel Gels - xmiles.co.uk/products/sport-jelly?_pos=4&_sid=6aa98698a&_ss=r&aff=75
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🕺🏻 FOLLOW THE JOURNEY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
►Twitter - darrenrunstrail/
►Facebook - Darrensmithrunning/
►Instagram - darrensmithrunning
►Gear review enquiries - darrensmith360@googlemail.com
#trailrunning #ultrarunning #shoereview
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✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning
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RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS
►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel??aff=75
►Spring Energy Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/spring?aff=75
►Lucho Dillitos Blocks - xmiles.co.uk/collections/lucho-dillitos?aff=75
►Mountain Fuel Gels - xmiles.co.uk/products/sport-jelly?_pos=4&_sid=6aa98698a&_ss=r&aff=75
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🕺🏻 FOLLOW THE JOURNEY ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
►Twitter - darrenrunstrail/
►Facebook - Darrensmithrunning/
►Instagram - darrensmithrunning
►Gear review enquiries - darrensmith360@googlemail.com
#trailrunning #ultrarunning #shoereview
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มุมมอง: 2 315
วีดีโอ
Fight or Flight | OMU Mountain Marathon 40km/10'000ft - Mountains Trail Running Film
มุมมอง 2.7Kปีที่แล้ว
The OMU Mountain Marathon covers 40KM ascending 10,000ft of the most beautiful, remote Romanian mountains starting and finishing at Bran Castle, the home of Dracula. This was my first major mountain race and first time racing at altitude, safe to say I did not expect the quick weather shifts and what thin air can do to your body. This trail running film share my journey and Raceday experience, ...
Best TRAIL RUNNING SHOE of 2022 | VJ XTRM 2 Trail Running Shoe Review
มุมมอง 3.8Kปีที่แล้ว
Is this the best trail running shoe of 2022? This VJ XTRM 2 full review would suggest so as the new upgrade makes huge improvements on an already popular VJ XTRM. we asked for a wider toe box, more cushioning underfoot and new materials to add that all important comfort, VJ have answered. I have tested the VJ XTRM 2 fell running, mountain running, sky running and trail running from 4 mile train...
What Happens When a Trail Runner Tries Fastpacking 75km of The Cleveland Way | "A Change Of Pace"
มุมมอง 7K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Fastpacking is a mix of trail running and ultra light backpacking; I am most certainly a trail runner and having not forayed into Fastpacking before but decided to invest in all the gear, with no idea and move as quickly as I can from Helmsley to Great Ayton, 75km across the Cleveland Way, in two days. Fastpacking the Cleveland Way has its challenges from sourcing water to the unpredictable wea...
WHAT HAPPENED? 16 Mile Long Run Update, Finding My Love Of Running Again | Trail Running Vlog
มุมมอง 1.7K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Its been a while since my last update but todays trail running vlog will explain all. What happened during the 3 Peaks, why the radio silence since and what does the future hold? Lots of reflection and tough decisions to make but lots of good news too. ✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS ►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel...
A Story From The Yorkshire Three Peaks Fell Race 2022 | 4K | The Marathon with Mountains
มุมมอง 9K2 ปีที่แล้ว
The 67th annual Yorkshire 3 Peaks Fell Race was my second attempt after a completing the course in 3 hours 39 minutes previously, this Fell Running film is a documentary from my training right up till the final result of Raceday. ✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning The three Peaks Fell Race takes in 3 of the biggest mountains in Yorkshire starting from Horton ascending Pen-y-G...
MAYBECK 3 CROSSES FELL RACE | 4K | A Story Of The Mind Body Connection In Endurance Sport
มุมมอง 2.1K2 ปีที่แล้ว
The Maybeck 3 Crosses Fell Race is an event I expected to compete in, training has been excellent of late and all pointed to a front of the pack turtle. Yet an unexpected setback played on my mind with a surprising outcome. This is the story of how body and mind are one in endurance Sport and the shocking impact innocent thoughts can have on your performance. Shot in 4K, with Raceday commentary...
Why Is The Channel Changing? 2022 Races + Me & Future Update
มุมมอง 1.2K2 ปีที่แล้ว
✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS ►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel??aff=75 ►Spring Energy Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/spring?aff=75 ►Lucho Dillitos Blocks - xmiles.co.uk/collections/lucho-dillitos?aff=75 ►Mountain Fuel Gels - xmiles.co.uk/products/sport-jelly?_pos=4&_sid=6aa98698a&_ss=r&aff=75 🕺🏻 FOLLOW THE JOURNE...
VJ Spark Full Review | Best Trail Running Shoes
มุมมอง 2.8K2 ปีที่แล้ว
This VJ Spark review comes from over 100 miles of testing and covers everything from comfort, to fit, sizing, durability, grip and best use. Another review from one of the best trail running shoes on the market. If you are looking for a minimalist trail shoe, with a snug mid foot feel and roomy toe box the VJ Spark is great for anything up to half marathon distance and boasts that iconic butyl ...
The Biggest Room In The World Is The Room For Improvement | New Park Run PB - Trail Running Vlog
มุมมอง 1.5K2 ปีที่แล้ว
✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS ►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel??aff=75 ►Spring Energy Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/spring?aff=75 ►Lucho Dillitos Blocks - xmiles.co.uk/collections/lucho-dillitos?aff=75 ►Mountain Fuel Gels - xmiles.co.uk/products/sport-jelly?_pos=4&_sid=6aa98698a&_ss=r&aff=75 🕺🏻 FOLLOW THE JOURNE...
Best Running Gels & Natural Alternatives For a Sensitive Stomach | Marathon & Ultramarathon Gels
มุมมอง 3.5K2 ปีที่แล้ว
I struggled with a sensitive stomach for many years but landed on 4 manufacturers of running gels and natural alternatives suitable for Marathon & Ultramarathon races distance. All links to products are further down in this description. Today we review Lucho Dillitos, makers of a fully natural running fuel made from a fruit, Guava and wrapped in fully compostable palm leaves. These are fantasti...
Injury Update, WHAT HAPPENED? An Honest Conversation
มุมมอง 9812 ปีที่แล้ว
✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS ►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unived/products/unived-gel??aff=75 ►Spring Energy Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/spring?aff=75 ►Lucho Dillitos Blocks - xmiles.co.uk/collections/lucho-dillitos?aff=75 ►Mountain Fuel Gels - xmiles.co.uk/products/sport-jelly?_pos=4&_sid=6aa98698a&_ss=r&aff=75 🕺🏻 FOLLOW THE JOURNE...
SURPRISING New Trail Running Shoes | FUGA Pro 3 & Air 2 First Impressions + Ultra Hydration Pack
มุมมอง 3K2 ปีที่แล้ว
30% DISCOUNT OFF ALL KAILAS GEAR USE THE LINK AND CODE BELOW ►Discount link: kailasgear.com/discount/kailasdarrensmith30%25 ►30% off code: kailasdarrensmith30% Last week I introduced you to KAILAS, an Asian company specialising in anything that climbs. Today we have my first impressions of the FUGA Pro 3 trail running shoe plus FUGA Air 2 Hydration pack and I have to say, the test was a surpris...
3 Festive Days, 3 RUNNING SESSIONS to build SPEED + New Gear Drop - Trail Running Vlog
มุมมอง 9262 ปีที่แล้ว
A Trail Running Vlog from Christmas week which includes my 35th Birthday but there's no rest for the wicked, we have 3 tough speed sessions as I look to get fast for the 3 Peaks, talk of some running gels and a new trail running brand to the channel as we introduce KAILAS. ✅ SUBSCRIBE: th-cam.com/users/DarrenSmithTrailRunning RUNNING NUTRITION LINKS ►UNIVED Gels - xmiles.co.uk/collections/unive...
The Night Run | Training While Working 11 Hour Days, My Reality - Trail Running Vlog
มุมมอง 1.8K2 ปีที่แล้ว
In todays Trail Running Vlog we deep dive into the reality of working 11 hour days...it isn't all beautiful Mountain scenery and lush green Forests, 90% of my runs are at night and today you are coming with me. We are now entering a speed phase so this week included 3 tough sessions and plenty of running tips. I've also received a surprise package and dusted off a year old pair of Fell shoes I ...
7 BEST TRAIL RUNNING SHOES of 2021 - My Favourite Trail & Ultramarathon running Shoes Of The Year
มุมมอง 15K2 ปีที่แล้ว
7 BEST TRAIL RUNNING SHOES of 2021 - My Favourite Trail & Ultramarathon running Shoes Of The Year
Healthy or Fit? Running Recovery + Big Race Reveal | Trail Running Vlog
มุมมอง 1.2K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Healthy or Fit? Running Recovery Big Race Reveal | Trail Running Vlog
Fell Runner | 4K | A Story From The Eskdale Eureka Fell Race - Fell Running Documentary
มุมมอง 11K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Fell Runner | 4K | A Story From The Eskdale Eureka Fell Race - Fell Running Documentary
RUNNING THROUGH A STORM | Consistency Is The Key Come Wind Rain Or Shine - Trail Running Tips
มุมมอง 1.4K2 ปีที่แล้ว
RUNNING THROUGH A STORM | Consistency Is The Key Come Wind Rain Or Shine - Trail Running Tips
Trying To Break My 3 Year 5K PB Drought | Dalby Forest Park Run - Trail Running Film
มุมมอง 1.3K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Trying To Break My 3 Year 5K PB Drought | Dalby Forest Park Run - Trail Running Film
How I Structure Training For Long Term Results + What I LEARNT From an OLYMPIAN - Running Vlog | 26
มุมมอง 1K2 ปีที่แล้ว
How I Structure Training For Long Term Results What I LEARNT From an OLYMPIAN - Running Vlog | 26
VJ SPARK Trail Running Shoe | First Impressions - Important Sizing Info, Comfort & Grip
มุมมอง 2.3K2 ปีที่แล้ว
VJ SPARK Trail Running Shoe | First Impressions - Important Sizing Info, Comfort & Grip
BEST RUNNING EXERCISES To Prevent Injury, Improve Muscle Activation and Form - Running Routine
มุมมอง 1.8K2 ปีที่แล้ว
BEST RUNNING EXERCISES To Prevent Injury, Improve Muscle Activation and Form - Running Routine
Best FELL RUNNING SHOE of 2021? Inov-8 X-Talon G210 V2 First Impressions & 15 Minute Hill Reps
มุมมอง 5K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Best FELL RUNNING SHOE of 2021? Inov-8 X-Talon G210 V2 First Impressions & 15 Minute Hill Reps
What Next...Dealing With Post Race Blues, Injury Update & Future Plans | Running Vlog
มุมมอง 1.1K2 ปีที่แล้ว
What Next...Dealing With Post Race Blues, Injury Update & Future Plans | Running Vlog
3 Peaks Fell Race | 4K | A Short Film About A Fine Line - 66th Annual Yorkshire Three Peaks Race
มุมมอง 46K2 ปีที่แล้ว
3 Peaks Fell Race | 4K | A Short Film About A Fine Line - 66th Annual Yorkshire Three Peaks Race
The North Face FLIGHT VECTIC | Does The CARBON PLATE ACTUALLY WORK? + Sizing, comfort and Lockdown
มุมมอง 6K2 ปีที่แล้ว
The North Face FLIGHT VECTIC | Does The CARBON PLATE ACTUALLY WORK? Sizing, comfort and Lockdown
Scott Supertrac RC 2.0 FULL REVIEW | AFTER 500 MILES - Best Trail Running Shoe
มุมมอง 7K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Scott Supertrac RC 2.0 FULL REVIEW | AFTER 500 MILES - Best Trail Running Shoe
A Spontaneous FELL RACE In The VJ SPARK & Hilly Fartlek Session | Running Vlog | 09
มุมมอง 1.5K2 ปีที่แล้ว
A Spontaneous FELL RACE In The VJ SPARK & Hilly Fartlek Session | Running Vlog | 09
Lake District Fell Running Film | SKIDDAW & BLENCATHRA - Training For A Marathon With Mountains | 08
มุมมอง 6K2 ปีที่แล้ว
Lake District Fell Running Film | SKIDDAW & BLENCATHRA - Training For A Marathon With Mountains | 08
ive just searched for alternative food to use instead of energy gels for long ultras . i starting to believe these gels are just a con and ive just started eating a pack of Haribo's instead. ill be trying your suggestion's
I love this shoe but I’ve had to cut out the padding around the ankle . Did a tea round in them and apart from the ankle these are my favourite ride
Just bought a pair for £56 ,can’t wait to try them.
Well done, very good video too
Just signed up for Cape Town 3 peaks challenge 2024 n I feel like my training period is not going to be enough 😢 😢 😢 . Paid for the classic package as a beginner I've got mixed feelings....excitement outweighs the anxiety. Can't wait!
Very nice that will be an amazing experience. As long as you're training consistently that is the important bit the one thing you don't 'fell' till race day is just how bigger a compound effect consistency has.
Thanks for the informative video. I like the idea of rice - you could also drip some honey through it for extra carbs. I've been taking very basic sandwiches on my long runs lately - white bread with the crusts cut off, a little bit of butter to help it go down and either honey or marmite. Marmite is good if you've had enough of the sweet stuff. The most natural gels I've found are a brand called Pure from New Zealand. These go down much better for me than other more processed gels.
Thanks, the only slight issue with rice is it has to be cooled in a fridge once cooked before reaching room temp for too long and likewise must be eaten when cool or steaming hot...when room temp theres a risk of spores which can make you sick...if you have a crew this is not a problem but if not near impossible to use. I had no crew in my latest 55 miler so used cheese and pickle wraps (just white tortilla type bread) and jam/peanut better wraps with some chia charge chews and other bits and pieces.
Do you have any recommendations for vegan gels or chews that digest quickly for quick fuel. I've been using date bars and toddlers organic fruit bars, but they are hard to digest later in a 50 k and I feel like I never get the energy and keep piling in food in my stomach. Also, I get super swollen in my lower abs like water tire hanging over my running belt, is this dehydration, like do I need more electrolytes or do I have too many electrolytes?
Hi, this is a very complicated subject but what you describe is what happens to me in ultras and I put much of it down to dehydration. The difficult part is understanding why you’re getting dehydrated, not enough fluid or not enough salt/sodium etc as it is possible to get too much sodium too…if you race in warmer weather and don’t use any products to get sodium and electrolytes I’d bet on lack of that and consider using precision hydration. I use that but generally run in cooler climates so don’t need much. On the food front, I’d recommend chia charge chia chews if you’re uk based they are ace and Maurtens gel 100 for a simple gel that’s easier to get down.
@DarrenSmithTrailRunning Thank you. I suspect it was too much water not enough salt.
Thanks for sharing Darren. This video gives me a good idea of what I would like to try for my 3 hour easy run this weekend. Thanks for including the part where your fuel malfunctioned and ended up on your shirt, such a real thing!!! Have a great day and happy running Darren!
Thanks for the thorough review Darren. I suffer terrible stomach issues on long runs, and it cost me a PB in one marathon. Going to give the Luchos Dillitos blocks a try.
Do you have an update on your thoughts of the vj maxx 2? Do you feel that it is more cusioned than the ultra 2 because of the nitrogen infused in the midsole?
Hi, not been able to find time to review yet and only managed 3 runs in them so still early days. But on the cushioning side for me they feel comfier in terms of softness under foot, more responsive and it’s a much much better midsole, some felt the ultra was a little like a plank of wood when running long, giving little back I feel the new maxx will be a big step up on that front.
That's insane. I have Supertrac RC2 and I signed up for Transvulcania Ultra this year and for some reason I was thinking that maybe 73km might be too much in these shoes, but looks like I have a perfect choice for this race. Really love these shoe.
Yes when they originally designed the shoe it was made with that course in mind and tested on the course too...perfect for it.
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning Just bought my third pair for good price in case I won't find it anywhere later. Have 580km + 500km in old ones and these still look pretty fresh.
Did you end up getting the correct size for the VJ Maxx 2? If so, how do you find them?
Just done an Ultra at weekend so had no time to test unfortunately but did get a true to size...found them a little too big, half size down seemed slightly too small but based on the one run I did (if you can get the sizing right) they're very comfortable. Give more back than any other VJ, like the new midsole and comfortable.
@DarrenSmithTrailRunning I was thinking that even though the ultra 2 has a higher stack, the maxx 2 would feel more comfortable and cusioned over ultra distances because of the new midsole? Is that a fair assumption or is it still a fast shoe on technical terrain for max half marathon or marathon distances?
My fave shoe ever! The radial tread pattern is unbeatable. This shoe has the best traction action of any shoe in any conditions. It works really great in the mud and slippery wet clay we have here in upstate NY. It also performs better than anything I've tried and I've tried a lot on the anorthosite rocks in the Adirondack High Peaks were I've worn this shoe to several summits. It also grips well in the gnarly, rock trails in Pennsylvania, U.S.A. Also known locally as "Rocksylvania". I've worn it successfully at the Hyner Trail Challenge 50K several times. The new upper is much better. I've not had it crack either. Also, the yellow rubber parts have not separated like happened on the original RC. I'm only amazed by your tread wear. I have over 1000 miles on these and I've never had them look like that. To me that is really interesting because I obviously weigh a lot more than you. I'm a Clydesdale if there ever was one. I really hope that @scottrunning keeps producing great shoes with this unbeatable, radial tread pattern. Heck Yeah! 👍🏼👍🏼💯💯❤❤
Morning Darren hope you are keeping well mate. Funny enough was in a local shop yesterday in Keswick and they had these on sale £70 must have bought a load in they had boxes of them. I take 8.5 they didn't have them so tried an 8 perfect fit think 8.5 would been to big shows different people different feet. So thought I'd see a review before I get them first that came up was this one and I trust you're review as I got a pair of Scott on your review think it was blencathra you were doing could be wrong. Anyway hope you are well take care
Hi mate, all good thanks just getting ready for the Hardmoors 55 in a few weeks time. The Ribelle Run are a great shoe my only issue was the lack of side support as someone who pronates and can have issues with lack of stability in my strike it was going to be a problem. But that aside I'd have loved to keep using them
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning great to hear from Darren and you are still running. Miss the channel always had good content put out. All the best for upcoming race if you are back up in the lakes give me a shout and I'll meet up if you like all the best Darren 👍👍
Have you seen the vj maxx 2? Wanted to know your thoughts on the shoe?
I have mate yes, looks very interesting. They sent me a half size down but found it a little too tight so waiting on true to size now to test. Will all come down to fit but if fit is ok I think it could be a cracking all rounder and responsive which is something VJ have lacked a little on in the past
@DarrenSmithTrailRunning do you think it could replace the vj ultra for long mountain days given the increase in cusion?
That was my initial thoughts and hope but it all comes down to fit. For me the ultra always fit quite well and wide, the new MaxX seems more of a precise fit so depends how tight they’ll be in half size down or if they’ll be too roomy true to size
@@bilaltahir9978 I am meant to be getting a pair of the MaxX 2 on Monday not quite in time for my next Ultra but will let you know how they are
@DarrenSmithTrailRunning I went to myracekit in Sheffield which is the only shop I know of that is selling it. For reference, I wear size 10 in the xtrm 2 and it is quite a precision fit with half thumb or less gap between my toe and toe box. However the size 10 of the maxx 2 was way too big - more than a thumb width. Unfortunately sizes 9.5 and 9 were sold out.
Thanks for usefull information
What Altra superior should have been...
Excuse me, how do you measure Montane Gecko VP 12+ for a proper fit? Is it on the chest or below it? Thank u so much
Hi, its usually chest measurement from under the armpit.
I will do youtube promotion for monetization organically
interesting I ran with these over 50K's regularly and felt great! I do walk around in barefoot shoes day to day so that might be why
Thanks for breaking down the energy sources. Although I live in America, I’m gonna use some of your tips for training for my first big marathon , Berlin 2024! We’ll see how 😊my 20+ week training goes
Nice positive vid
Bonking out my arse 🤣
Just got some for my first ultra (50k, very technical); very impressed so far. They replace XTRMs which were great but a tad too unforgiving.
Great little video, really enjoyed that 😀👍
Thanks appreciate that 😊
Brilliant watch - a wonderful unwrapping of a great story.
Thanks ☺️
Just came across your review as I’ve found these heavily discounted online! Sounds like the lug depth will be too small for xc. Have you tried the Terrex Speed SG? I can’t seem to find a comprehensive of what each shoe offers in the Terrex range.
I haven’t tried them no but I have heard they are very good for grip, but they are also quite narrow
Hi You can pick up supertrac 3 for £40. Is it worth getting a pair at this price,even if you don't need new shoes?
If you can afford to I’d buy two at that it’s rare to find them under £100 let alone that but make sure it’s the supertrac RC as the normal supertrac are colletely different and I found them terrible
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning Oops 😬 They are the normal ones.... However, sports shoes are selling the RC for £50
I’d get the RC but usually they only do that when they have odd sizes left unless you are lucky with odd sized feet 😊
Have you reviewed the RC carbon?
Afraid not because I don’t road run often and I think they’re way overpriced
Absolutely amazing! Well done
Thank you 🙏
Salted banana and dates coconut water with salt
How did you find the sizing of the Scott shoe?
True to size for me mate good room in the toe box and fits just right all round they’re quite rigid for the first 20-30 miles but wear in nicely
Great review Darren, I managed to pick a pair of these up a few ago after wqtching this video for £50. Love the shoes. They're working really well for me running steep coastal paths in the South West and White Cliffs in Kent. Have been using Peregrines for a few years but these feel so much more grounded and nimble. Have done a few forwat runs abdbthey qork really well on rutted paths and rooty singletrack.
I made the same transition many years ago from Peregrine to Supertrac and they're a real step up. Cracking durability too, while the grip has gone I am still using this pair for easy short runs after 700 miles!
Think the only thing not covered off was bladder option and poles... Presume there's looping for bladder? And for the poles can they attach at the front or just at the back? Good review otherwise
Yes it will take a bladder and poles...personally don't use either but it has the capability and designed for it. I'm sure there are loops at the front for the poles.
Hi Darren. These vs Adidas Terrex Speed SG Trail?
Hey, I haven't tried the SG in fairness but I have tried them on and found the VJ Xtrm 2 comfier...so for me still VJ
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning would you consider the VJs versatile enough for quicker stuff / speedwork?
Definitely they are my go too for raceday at marathon or under
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning thanks for info 👍
Tested, switched from M to S (38inch chest approx) and it's so much better, snappy. When I tied M more tightly, it was a little bit too much above shoulders, not comfortable around neck and with soft flasks, some movement on shoulders, but for example, it will be totally fine for walk/hike or I ran with camelbak in the back and was fine. Additional S/M size would be perfect from Montane.
Good to hear, I love mine still.
oh, i went for VP5 size M and running with one soft flask, it was bouncy on the chest / shoulders.. but when I ran with camelbak, it was fine, should I switch to S? 38 inches chect, so i fit to their M size initially
The sizing's are quite broad and generic so you may lie on the border of two, maybe go a size down. Assume you have tightened up all the adjustments available.
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning right, fits fine around lower chest, but shoulders are not so tight as i would want, thanks for reply
I am currently trying to decide whether or not to buy this shoe. I really liked the feel of it in the shop, but a bit concerned that it is a bit tight around the side of the toes. Did you find that they stretched/ molded sufficiently as you wore them in?
TBH the longer I used these the more I struggled with the lack of protection...yes it feels like a slipper (in a comfy way) but it feels like a slipper in a bad way too when the going gets tough. I didn't have issues with the outer toe despite having similar concerns but I'd highly recommend the VJ Xtrm 2 over these...its a wider toe box but precision fit higher up where it won't rub, has a rock plate that offers a little snap and protection while not losing ground feel and the lugs are made of butyl rubber, much better in wet conditions. My go to now, there's a review on the channel if your interested
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunning Thank you very much, that's really useful!
Would you use these shoes for the Ben Nevis race? I’m running it for the first time this year and bought these shoes. I tried them out in training and felt as though I could feel every stone under my foot 😔
Hi, I'd highly recommend the VJ Irock for that type of fell race, never looked back since I started wearing them. Or if you want a little more protection then the VJ Xtrm 2 is ideal with its rock plate. But the Xtalons are too minimalist for type of course IMO
Nice one, thank you for the reply 😀 will look into them
I’ve been wondering about the spring line. I may purchase now.
They're great :)
You should look into onigiri. They are japanese rice balls quite similar to your foil basmati idea.
Yes the idea came to me from having sushi homemade, just found it a little fiddly so tried to simplify :)
Thank you for this helpful video. I am using spring energy gels exclusively and am very happy with them. What I don’t know is when to start taking them. I usually start taking them 45 or 50 minutes into my long runs. Is this a good time to start or should I be starting earlier ? The same I have with the electrolyte intake. I take 2 capsules per hour , starting 60 minutes into the run. How does that sound?
It can depend on the effort you will put in. For me I always fuel less in training than races. When racing I start around the 30th minute and training around 40 minutes. How much glycogen your muscles can hold varies from person to person but as a rule no more than 90mins to 2 hours so you want to be replacing what will be lost ahead of time.
@@DarrenSmithTrailRunningThank you for your reply, how about electrolytes intake?
Sorry forgot that, I personally use Precision Hydration but its very specific to how much you sweat. Personally I don't use in training unless its a warm day, in racing I do half a PH1000 tablet in 500ml of water and have the other 500ml bottle plain water but if its not hot I'll reduce to 1/4 tablet and every time I refill bottles I'll have the same mix again, but always having one full bottle with no electrolytes as sometimes your body won't want them and may make you feel sick. Reason is you can get too much sodium which has messed my stomach up before.
Thank you again. I appreciate it. I wish you all the best.
Brilliant format for this video!
Is this the Yorkshire 3 peaks ultra arranged by rangers ultra?
No it’s the original 3 peaks race the fell race that’s been going for years.
Do you recommend wearing gaiters with these when wearing in very boggy terrain?
I don’t wear gaiters with any trail or fell shoe so I guess it’s personal choice. Compared to original xtrm it’s better in the toe box and generally more comfortable for me.
Good info. Beautiful place to run
Thanks :)
Is the toebox of the vj ultra 2 bigger than the ultra 1? And do you find the ultra 1 more comfortable than the more durable ultra 2 as it doesnt have the rock plate?
They have exactly the same mould so no difference in fit. Only difference is how the rock plate feels in the early miles for me. It just needs wearing in...for me the Ultra 1 isn't any good on rocky terrain after 200 miles so prefer the Ultra 2
What shoe would you recommend for this race?
It depends on what you need personally but for me the VJ Xtrm 2 would be ideal for its sticky grip and decent lugs, plus the rock plate will be appreciated in the final descent.
How does it compare to the original vj ultra? Some people preferred the original so would be good to hear your thoughts
Only difference is the addition of a rock plate, which offers protection under foot and makes it more responsive, then the grip has changed slightly to make it more durable, thats all. For me I don't see how either can be seen as worse, they are enhancements. I can only think other shave judged the shoe before fully wearing them in as the rock plate may be a little stiff in the early miles.
Would this shoe be good for technical scrambling at grades 1-3 e.g. Tryfan and Dolmen ridge?
Yeh for sure. The sticky grip is unrivalled so great on that side and with decent lugs plus a rock plate its ideal...only thing better is the irock 3 but that's quite the minimalist shoe so not ideal for longer distance
Was fun Watching. Greatings from the Netherlands 👊😉
Thank you