13 Best Dynafit Running Shoes Fully Reviewed & Compared
Dynafit has a long history on the slopes, seeing its popularity grow in the early ’70s and ’80s alongside the success of Olympic gold medalists and World Cup winners. Now, Dynafit is not just for mountaineers and skiers. This winter gear company has branched out over the years to produce shoes for runners that rise up to meet a variety of different needs and levels of terrain.
We’ve put together a list of the best Dynafit running shoes to help you find the right Dyna-fit for you! Our selection is based on a set of criteria we’ve also provided below that are meant to cater to runners and their needs.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Comfort
One of the most important features that has to be considered when looking for running shoes is how comfortable they are. Any money spent on shoes will be a waste if they are not comfortable and are not going to keep your feet protected while you wear them. Thankfully, all of the shoes on our guide list here have been tested and rated highly when it comes to comfort!
Every pair of shoes on this list has been reviewed using a very specific set of criteria chosen with runners’ needs and preferences in mind. We comb through hundreds of real customer comments while performing our own independent research and tests to make the best decisions because we want you to be able to as well.
Below are the categories we used to judge the shoes on our list of best Dynafit running shoes.
Hopefully, these criteria will help you make a solid buying decision that you can be confident of, whether you’re browsing RunnerClick or shopping in-stores for your next pair of Dynafit running shoes.
Comfort is the number one quality we look for in a pair of running shoes. If your running shoes make you uncomfortable and miserable, there’s hardly any reason to wear them in the first place.
But what exactly does comfort mean? Well, there are lots of different features in a shoe that can affect how comfortable it will be. Many of those features can overlap with how supportive a shoe is which could mean the difference between a routine run and an injury.
One of the things we look at is cushions in running shoes. There are some who love the feeling of running barefoot and prefer less cushioning, but for everyone else, there are cushioned soles.
Shoes generally come in a spectrum, but most will specify the level of cushioning they have and whether or not they have removable insoles so you can add your own cushioning. Cushioning can definitely affect how much support a shoe will give you, particularly if you have issues with arch support.
Value
It is also important to consider the value you get from your running shoes. Many runners get distracted by the price tag and tend to focus on the money coming out of their wallet. While budget is important to keep in mind you should also remember true value comes from the benefits you stand to gain and we made sure all these shoes are a good value for all runners!
The value of a shoe will equal the overall cost compared to the amount of use and the kinds of benefits you’ll get out of it. Not all low-cost shoes are a good deal and not all high-cost shoes are quality. Think about how much you’re willing to invest for a good pair of shoes and what features are absolutely necessary to you as a runner.
In our list of best Dynafit running shoes, we compared the price of each shoe and considered the kind of features each one had. Some of the shoes on our list may have more value for you, in particular, depending on what your needs are.
Durability
Runners are known to put their shoes through a lot. Running on treadmills, on sidewalks, along trails, or anywhere else runners love to roam will put a lot of wear and tear on any pair of shoes. The shoes that are featured here on our list are all rated highly when it comes to durability and are a great choice for runners who love to be on the go at all times.
The durability of your shoes will factor into the long-term cost and the value you’re able to get out of your shoes. The more quality materials that are used in the construction of your shoes, the longer use you’ll get out of them, generally. The amount you use them, the places you use them, and how much extra care you put into maintaining the materials will all also factor into the life of your shoes. You can take a look at our FAQ for tips on taking care of your shoes!
Read also about yellow running trainers.
Materials
You will also find it helpful to take time to consider the materials that are used in the construction and design of your running shoe. From the outer fabric to the inner materials to the sole, the materials used can impact how a shoe feels and how it performs. Our review team checked each shoe on this list to ensure they are made with the best materials available!
Another thing we look for is the quality of the materials. The better and more reliable the materials, the more comfort and support you’ll get out of your shoe. Look for things like durable rubber outsoles, nylon mesh, and quality textile blends.
Particular features can also provide more comfort and stability, like welded support beams, waterproofing finishes, and lugs for traction. There’s an endless combination of features a shoe can have, so keep an eye out for things that will be helpful for you and your routine.
13 Best Dynafit Running Shoes
1. Feline SL (Women's)
These Dynafit running shoes are an excellent choice for anyone looking for something that provides excellent support and stability while still being lightweight and nonrestrictive.
Read moreA women’s size 9 weighs only 8.8 ounces, making the Feline SL one of the lightest pieces of footwear on the market. A snug heel and midfoot provide you with the security that you need. The toe box is not super squared off, but not pointy either, meaning your toes will have room to move but will still be secured at the same time.
A plastic insert in the midfoot adds both support and protection for the arch. The outsole uses Vibram’s mapping compound, providing you with the excellent traction that Vibram is known for. While not quite as sticky as Vibram’s MegaGrip compound, it still provides a great grip on rocks and loose terrain.
The Dynafit Feline SL is priced in the mid-to-high range. Considering its superior quality, however, this shoe is well worth the price.
2. Feline SL (Men's)
With a men’s size 9 weighing only 10.22 ounces, the Dynafit Feline SL is the perfect choice for runners looking for a supportive running shoe that's lightweight, breathable, and flexible as well.
Read moreThe Dynafit Feline SL contains a multi-pad midsole that easily adapts to any kind of terrain. The Sensitive Fit system ensures that you receive a precise, snug fit while maintaining flexibility and natural movement. The shoe’s OrthoLite footbed with memory foam provides the perfect amount of cushioning and conforms to your foot for a customized fit. The Feline SL is incredibly breathable and lightweight, making it the perfect choice for hot weather.
The mapping compound sole from Vibram ensures that you receive an incredible grip on any surface, including those which are wet and slick. The shoe utilizes a quick-lace system which provides extra protection and assists in keeping out stones and other trail debris.
This model is priced similarly to other trail running options.
3. Feline Up Pro
Designed for superior grip and agility, the Dynafit Feline Up Pro shoes are perfect for technical terrain and aggressive outdoor endeavors. They are durable, comfortable, and lightweight enough to tack this rough terrain.
Read moreThe shoes are really comfortable thanks to their durability and lightweight. While they aren't great for long-distance, they do provide excellent shock absorption as long as you keep your runs short or medium-distance.
The carbon shield utilized by this shoe provides great stability and durability. These Dynafit running shoes provide adequate neutral support and have just the right amount of cushioning.
Priced moderately, that is when you compare it to other trail running footwear of its quality.
4. Feline Vertical (Women's)
The Dynafit Feline Vertical shows innovative footwear that’s designed for performance on any kind of terrain. The first thing you notice with the Dynafit Feline Vertical is its bright color. However, these Dynafit running shoes are designed to be a lot more than just visually appealing.
Read moreThe entire midsole is EVA foam, providing a comfortable footbed for your foot to rest on while also providing a customized fit. The midsole isn’t very tall, which means the shoe really hugs the ground while running. Its upper contains woven mesh for exceptional breathability and ventilation to avoid excessive sweating and overheating.
It’s clear that this shoe was designed with traction in mind. With an aggressive outsole as well as lugs, the Feline Vertical was created to handle essentially all kinds of terrain. A rock plate is used to protect your foot and toes from any harmful elements that may be found along your run.
The Dynafit Feline Vertical is priced averagely in comparison to other similar products of its quality.
5. Alpine Pro
The Dynafit Alpine Pro is a great choice for lightweight trail footwear. Weighing only 10.6 ounces but still maintaining its durability, these newly released Dynafit running shoes are quickly becoming a favorite among thousands of runners.
Read moreThe Ortholite footbed is the main factor that makes this option so comfortable and shock-absorbent. Its upper is flexible, comfortable, and incredibly durable all at the same time. Dynafit’s new “Rubber Tension” technology provides your foot with exceptional comfort and precision. Its quick-lace system is designed to securely hold your foot in place while also being simpler and faster than traditional laces.
With Vibram’s Megagrip outsole, you’ll never have to worry about this product not having enough traction. The Dynafit Alpine Pro promises to provide the best grip possible in either wet or dry conditions. The “Alpine Rolling” midsole construction contains a double compression-molded EVA midsole. Extra protection features include a heavy-duty rock plate as well as diagonally placed reinforcement panels across the heel.
The Dynafit Alpine Pro is priced in the mid-to-high range.
6. Trailbreaker Evo Trail
Looking for a new pair of shoes that will support your feet and keep you going mile after mile? If so then you need to check out the Trailbreaker Evo Trail shoes from DynaFit. These running shoes are made to be used and will handle anything you have to throw its way.
Read moreYour feet will stay cooler and comfortable in the Trailbreaker Evo Trail shoes than in any basic pair of sneakers thanks to breathable materials and moisture wicking properties. There are many features that will keep your feet comfortable no matter how long your run is or how intense your workout set may be. That is why runners everywhere are falling in love with these shoes!
These are a bit on the pricey side when you compare them to other shoes but it is important to keep in mind that value comes from the benefits you stand to gain and what the product has to offer. When you consider all of the features and other points that the Trailbreaker Evo Trail running shoe has to offer it is easy to see how good of an investment it can be.
Runners can be very rough on their shoes and can put them through a lot with the day in and day out wear and tear. It is important to have a running shoe that is made to be durable and that can handle indoor and outdoor runs and workout sessions. Thankfully the Trailbreaker Evo Trail shoe is very durable and its rugged design is perfect for all kinds of running!
Soft interior materials keep your feet comfortable and supported with every step you take. The mesh outer layers allowed for maximum air flow to keep feet cool and cozy even on the longest of runs. The laces are made from durable snag resistant materials and the soles are tough and designed to provide traction and shock protection which every runner can appreciate.
7. Feline Vertical Pro
An incredibly lightweight and supportive Dynafit running shoes, the Feline Vertical Pro is the perfect product for trail exercisers looking for superior protection as well as support and responsiveness.
Read moreIts midsole is made from EVA foam, with a heel to toe drop of 4mm. These Dynafit running shoes are designed to give a low, trail hugging ride. Its upper is constructed from a tightly woven mesh which does a great job of preventing stones and other debris from entering the shoe. A single piece of PU wraps from the heel, around the toe, and back to the heel on the other side for extra protection.
The outsole uses Vibram’s new durable high-performance rubber compound that works well on both wet and dry surfaces. The implementation of “speed laces” means you simply just squeeze and slide a buckle to tighten your laces. They’re designed to be not only quicker but also more secure than traditional laces.
This high-quality model and is priced accordingly, in the mid-to-high range.
8. Feline UP
If you want something that is light and zippy, the Feline UP is a great choice. What runners love most about this design is that it is packed with features to keep your feet protected and dry, while still keeping you light on your feet. This design boasts minimal cushioning and a low drop to keep your focus on the trail ahead of you.
Read moreWhat makes the Feline UP stand out from the pack is its minimalist design with deep and grippy treads. The midsole boasts light cushioning and zero drop so that you can really be awake on the ground beneath you. However, it hosts a Heel Preloader that provides users a little extra support and stability around the heel when the trail becomes really jagged.
We also like that the upper is composed of lightweight and breathable materials. As always, it hosts a drawstring closure for a snug yet comfortable fit, and a water-resistant flap to keep your socks dry in soggy conditions. The mesh upper has a less stable structure than many of the other designs in this line of trainers, which makes it perfect for zippy and quick times.
If you are on the market for a trail runner that is designed to go fast, you can’t go wrong with the Feline UP. It boasts minimalist features while still keeping your feet comforted and supported. We like that it comes in quite a few stylish color options that will keep you noticed when you are out in the wilderness.
9. Trailbreaker
Weighing only 9.2 ounces, these Dynafit running shoes are a perfect choice for runners searching for a piece of footwear that’s going to be comfortable, responsive, and flexible.
Read moreThe upper is extremely lightweight and plush, providing you with a level of comfort that’s incredibly soft and light. The upper is constructed of Alpine Air Mesh, which is designed to provide breathability, lightness, and comfort. This mesh structure guarantees constant air circulation and ventilation, so you’ll never have to worry about your feet getting overheated or excessively sweaty.
The EVA midsole is designed for ultimate support even on high-impact terrains. The breathable and lightweight Ortholite footbed provides high-quality shock absorption and easily conforms to the shape of the foot. An adaptive grid on either side of the shoe offers a comfortable fit, good ventilation, and the ability to adapt to the foot's movement.
The Dynafit Men's Trailbreaker is priced slightly on the high end, but its incredible quality makes it well worth the investment.
10. Speed Mountain GTX
If you need something that is lightweight and easy, you will want to check out Speed Mountain GTX. What we loved most about this design is that it is built to traverse some pretty rough conditions without the need for big and bulky materials that will weigh you down. If you want to climb and mountain, and you want to do it quickly, this is the trainer that you need.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this design is that it boasts a slim upper that provides users with a full range of motion. Users love this option because it is incredibly lightweight and breathable, and the Gore-Tex membrane wicks away moisture if you get caught in a rain shower when out on your run.
The Speed MTN midsole provides runners with modest cushioning that contours to the shape of your foot to provide support where you need it most. It has a Vibram outsole with a slightly tacky finish that is ideal for gripping slick surfaces.
What makes the Speed Mountain GTX stand out from the pack is its low profile and lightweight frame. You will have a firm feel of the ground under your feet and a full range of motion to traverse even the most difficult of trails and mountains. It may cost a little bit more than some of the other designs on our list, but it is a great option for those that need something lightweight and tough.
11. Ultra 100
Don't like the idea of drawstring laces? The Ultra 100 ditches the drawstring in favor of a more traditional lacing system. What we like most about this design is that it boasts a minimalistic style that keeps you light on your feet while traversing treacherous terrain. Plus, it comes in a few sleek color options that you are sure to love.
Read moreThe very first thing that we noticed about this style is that it boasts traditional shoelaces. These laces help to produce a sure and snug fit for excellent lockdown. It also has a breathable mesh overlay to keep your laces clean and your socks from getting soggy when running in rainy conditions.
It also boasts an outsole that really grips the ground under your feet. A Vibram outsole has a slightly tacky texture that is ideal for slick surfaces. It also has a heel preloader that provides users with just a little extra support and comfort which is ideal when training on incredibly uneven and jagged trails.
If you are in the market for something that is lightweight and easy, this is a great option. Users love that it has a more traditional lacing system compared to other designs in this line of trainers. It comes in a few color options that users are sure to love, and comes in at a price point that won’t break the bank.
12. Feline Ultra Trail
The Feline Ultra is incredibly supportive, adaptive, and protective for long distance trail running. With deep lugs attached to the Vibram outsole, It offers maximum traction and grip on essentially any type of terrain.
Read moreThe breathable upper is relatively form-fitted, providing a solid, secure fit as well as excellent protection. It’s designed for maximum breathability and easily adapts to your foot’s shape and movements. The Sensitive Fit technology is designed to enhance your blood circulation to reduce the chances of your feet swelling on long runs. An OrthoLite sock liner is in place for extra cushioning.
The midsole utilizes DuoMotion technology. It features two EVA units, both with different densities, in order to optimize motion control and comfort. The heel area does a great job of absorbing the shock of impact and then transforming it into momentum. Different rubber is used on each section of the outsole, meaning that the shoe provides exceptional traction. The hard mapping compound in the heel area enhances traction as well as durability. In the forefoot area, MegaGrip compound provides even more grip and responsiveness. The quick-lace system is designed to offer additional stability and support to the foot.
The Dynafit Feline Ultra is priced in the mid-to-high range.
13. Sky Pro4
Want to get down in the mud, but hate the idea of soggy socks? The Sky Pro4 has an upper that cinches well above the ankle for a tight fit that leaves no room for mud, dirt, or rocks to penetrate. It is composed of waterproof materials that keep your feet cool and dry and boasts a grippy outsole that is great for all types of trails and weather conditions.
Read moreWhat runners love most about this design lies in the upper. It boasts an internal lacing system that uses a drawstring to ensure that you get a snug and secure fit that enhances lockdown so that they don’t shift around on your feet. This lacing system zips up closed with a waterproof seal to keep mud and water far away from your feet.
We also like that this design has a Vibram outsole that is slightly tacky that really grips slick surfaces such as wet rocks or leaves. It has deep grooves that grip the trail ahead, and minimal cushioning so that you can maintain awareness of the ground to help maintain your footing.
If you are on the market for a pair of serious trail runners that adapt to all kinds of treacherous trail conditions, you can’t go wrong with the Sky Pro 4. It is important to note, however, that this design is a little bit more expensive than other options on our list, and comes in limited color options as well.
Sources
- , A Beginners Guide To Buying Running Shoes, Blog
- , Running Shoes: How to Choose, Website
- , Proper Shoe Fit, Website
- , Road Running vs. Trail Running: 5 key differences,
- , How to Buy Running Shoes, Blog
