These Mammuts have soul. Gripex Sonar II soles to be precise. Its low-profile design with rounded edges takes sharp rocks and uneven footing in stride. Last year, Mammut shoes offered the best traction we’d ever tried. Now, with extra-sticky instep rubber and meatier lugs, they’re better. The full-foot rock plate returns, as does an EVA midsole, memory foam in the heel and tongue, and a fat toe bumper. Tester’s take: “Like to scramble and climb over rugged terrain? Here’s your wingman.” Swami gripe: Subpar breathability, a liability in high summer. Swami like: Nimble, fun, and fully protected for technical terrain. 12 oz; $140

From the Early Summer 2014 issue. Back to Trail Test 2014.