La Sportiva Quantum - Follow Up

In my follow up on my initial observations of the La Sportiva Quantum shoes, I'll cover more about the fit, durability, cushion, and traction of this fine shoe.

I've now put about 300 miles on these shoes and love them 98% of the time.  The snug slip last fit is perfect for my foot. It's a supple, consistent fit that minimizes the foot shifting (causing blisters), even on steep descents.  The upper material breathes well and is durable.  My Crosslite 2.0s suffer from rips right where the foot bends at toe-off.  The cushioning is surprising since the MorphoDynamic sole appears at first to be a hard material but actually provides an active response cushion upon impact with a nice energy release through the foot strike.

I'm still working on trying the shoes on every imaginable surface and condition.  I have yet to try them on snow or ice (a bit difficult when it's in the upper 60s and sunny every day).  I did get out in two separate rain days, one with a soaking rain and another misting shower that just left the trails damp.  The Quantum performed well in both conditions.  I was hesitant on steep descents with wet rocks and logs on the trail but I would feel the same way in just about any shoe.  One instance when I miss some additional bite that you get with lugged soles is on steep climbs on wet trail.  I spun out quite a bit and had to focus on foot placement and smooth toe-off to maintain traction.

Another attribute that takes getting used to is the very narrow heel.  It facilitates ankle rolling until you get a feel for it.  I ran 4.5 hours on mountain trails yesterday and didn't roll my foot once, so, like I said, it's just something to get used to.

Overall, I love the Quantum.  If it had just a few lugs on the sole, it would be the only shoe I'd wear.  But wait!  La Sportiva is releasing the Vertical K, which is reported to be similar to the Quantum WITH some traction changes (and lighter).  La Sportiva is hooking me up with an early pair next week, so look for my initial report and reactions to what is sure to be a huge hit from LS!

Tomorrow I'll be reviewing one of my Rudy Project sunglasses.  Far and away the best sport sunglasses on the market.