Customer Reviews

Flow Multisport Shoe - Men's Gypsy 13 by Montrail

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

I've done my research, trying to find a lightweight shoe that breathes well, holds up, and has traction on gravel and mud as well being good for clambering on bare rock. A lot of my "book research" was done reading reviews in Backpacker Magazine [...]

I found these to be lightweight without being flimsy. I also tried a pair of Scarpa Axis shoes (a close 2nd place), which were slightly lighter, but they seemed better suited to trail running, and lacked the torsional rigidity for climbing, and also lacked the protection from sharp stones on the trail. I thought they would be more breathable, but the Montrail Flow seemed to be as good (as far as I could tell, I wasn't able to wear them side-by-side out of the house). So, the Montrail has the support and protection that I want, and the reviews I've read about some other shoes indicate that they might have problems with durability. The Montrails are on the inexpensive side, yet I haven't read about any durability issues. I found the toe box to have plenty of room, and they feel very natural when walking. The toe bumper looks like it will prevent any major damage, my informal testing indicates good protection. Also, the leather looks like it will last longer than shoes with more fabric in that area, and doesn't have any stitching in vulnerable areas.
On a minor note: I think they look a bit goofy, but my wife thinks they look fine (she's the one I go to for "fashion advice", being somewhat challenged in that area.) I think the outside view looks better than the view from the instep.
One other thing: the tongue gusset is not stitched to the upper of the shoe behind the laces, rather it is an elastic material stitched down to the insole of the shoe; you can feel the stretchy material when you put the shoe on at first. You get used to it in a few seconds, don't let it put you off. This is a great pair of shoes! I need to put some more miles on them to see how they wear.

It's comfortable and, let's face it, pretty darn good-looking. I use it every day. Church, hiking, everyday... very versitile. Not to mention darn good-looking.