The Montrail Hurricane XCR is a waterproof-breathable bootie made with GoreTex® XCR barrier and high-performance trail running features. Chosen training shoe of ultramarathon legend David Horton, it offers great protection from the elements and trail hazards. Montrail's patented stretch tongue construction creates a sock-like fit to avoid rubs. The flexible board last and supportive upper provide substantial arch and midfoot stability. The sawtooth lug pattern offers ample traction. Support over the long haul—even with heavy loads—is anchored in the medially-posted midsole. The forefoot and toe box are roomy for wider feet but your narrower heel is held securely (to prevent blisters) by the heel counter and snug upper.
Bottom Line: For serious training in every condition, Hurricane Ridge XCRs keep your feet in the eye of the storm.
I do regular 6-13 mile trail runs on steep rocky muddy terrain with calf deep river crossings. These shoes are very, very waterproof. If water gets in over the top, a wet suit effect occurs the thin layer of water warms and you are fine again. On rocky mountainous terrain, very foot punishing, these were stable and my feet did not feel bruises. They are not for long, street runs as they are too stable and not cushioned for street. If you twist ankles on rocky terrain, like toe box room, like a snug ankle and padded foot top, and ability to stay dry in snow and creeks, try these Montrails!
I bought these for my wife since she needed a new pair. I saw them on SAC and figured I would order them for her. Turns out she loves them. They are certainly waterproof and she loves the connected tongue on the shoes. I ordered up a half size and am glad I did because they fit her perfectly. They are certainly not a normal running shoe since the padding is pretty thin, but overall they appear to be a great outdoor/trail running set of shoes.
The shoes are ok- I've put about 50 kms on them so far running through the Alps. Traction is good, obviously, waterproofness is good but the tongue prevents me from doing really long runs. It is not free like a typical shoe- it's completely attached to the rest of the shoe all the way up making it like a slipper. The laces really must just be for show. Great for keeping water out but it really bugs the tendons on the top of my feet as they are always too tight (I do have a fairly high arch). If I try them again, I would definitely size up one or one and a half sizes to see if that helps.
