This isn't really a review; more like some initial observations in prelude to a review after I wear them more.
Wore the La Sportiva Quantums today for my run. The odd shape and composition of the sole and snug fit initially had me omitting them from my race shoe stable. After a few runs in them I've grown to love them. Sizing is tricky. La Sportiva doesn't convert American and Euro sizing the same as other brands. e.g. a 10.5 (my size) American typically translates into a 44.5-ish. LS translates a 10.5 into a 44. So, the gist of this nonsense is that you need to go by your Euro size when choosing LS shoes.
To add to the confusion, the different styles fit differently. The Crosslite 2.0 (yes, I adore them too) fits bigger than the Quantum. Regardless, I bumped up to an 11 (44.5) in both. Back to the Quantum in a minute. I ran the Epiphany 50k on Sunday in the Crosslite 2.0 and they were perfect. No issues and no foot soreness whatsoever. The only thing that I'm mildly concerned about is how they drain water and that I can't attach gaiters to them - both minor things, since I'm fairly certain they'll drain water well enough.
The Quantum is snug but fits my foot like a glove and is about as comfortable as any shoe I've worn. The upper is built as a slip last, like climbing shoes, and then glued onto the sole, so the fit is very natural. The wavy rubber outer sole is attached to a foam mid sole that provides amazing cushion - not the mushy cushion found in thick eva soles but more responsive. It reminds me of the firmer, responsive cushioning of the old Addidas Super Nova Cush road shoe. Even without traditional lugs, the outer sole is grippy on varied terrain and I haven't found a surface where it doesn't perform well. The upper mesh-like fabric also seems like it would drain well. Sounds like my Hardrock shoe of choice!
Careful with the quantums at HR. Good shoe but I wore them pacing Joe and nearly slid to my death off Oscar's Pass on those ice fields. The morpho wouldn't bite at all. I have never been more terrified in my life. I think the Crosslite would be perfect for HR though. Or Fireblade. Hope all is well man. Good luck with everything you're working on.
ReplyDeleteHey Dylan. Thanks for the info. Crosslites it is!
ReplyDeleteYeah, that morpho dynamic sole is sweet, but it slips a bit on steeper, gravelly trails (though is epic on steep angled rock).
ReplyDeleteWould love to try the Vertical K though, the morpho sole with tread. Might be the best of both worlds.
I should also note though, that at ~6.5oz, the Vertical K would probably be better suited to shorter races than something like HR.
ReplyDeleteTotally agree...and similar thoughts to what I mentioned in my review. The Quantum has been a surprise shoe in my stable too. Have worn a whack (whack translates to 16prs) of the original Crosslites, but really like going with the Quantums on days that I want a bit more protection. The amazing thing is that they don't feel heavy or bulky all things considered.
ReplyDelete...and yes, can't wait for the Vertical K's! Hoping to be able to run fairly long in them as it should be a great blend with the outsole construction.
300 miles and counting on my quantum's wear them in everything but snow and ice. They can be quite scary in that combo.
ReplyDeleteI've had huge reliability issues with the Quantum. On my first pair the toe box started to pucker in against my toes and the rubber toe bumper started to pull away. This was after about 100 miles. I sent them back and they graciously sent me a second pair. I have roughly 30 miles on the second pair and the same thing is happening. I've read a few reviews that mentioned the same issues. It's a shame because I love wearing them. I should mention that I own Crosslites, Raptors, Crossover GXT, and Fireblades and have loved every one of them.
ReplyDeleteZzzzzz.... ;)
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