Meindl Cuba GTX
weight; outsole lugs; reinforced toe; supportive heel
upper less durable; price tag It’s a lightweight shoe that features well-spaced and deep outsole lugs and a heel breast, which should all add up to grip on the trail – and sets this shoe apart from many others. The upper is mostly synthetic mesh, so it’s not the most durable option, but you do get a Gore-Tex waterproof lining, plus valuable toe and heel reinforcement, that further elevates this shoe above other lightweight options. 4/5
Men’s sizes are 6-12 and women’s 3½-8. It fits well on the foot with reasonable space for toes. A soft and flexible upper helps it mould to your foot a little more easily than stiffer, suede leather uppers. The heel cup is stiffened for more support and this area also fits well. 5/5
The low weight combined with the soft upper and flexible sole makes this shoe feel instantly comfortable from the box. But on the trail it tends to flex and twist more than heavier shoes, so your foot has to work harder, and you can feel stones underfoot. The toe rand does, however, give valuable protection to the foot. 4/5 The weight and sole grip are really worthwhile benefits of this shoe, making it ideal for easier forest track and path negotiation. It’s also comfy enough to wear all day in casual situations, but on rougher ground the flexible sole and upper do impact on comfort. The upper is going to be less durable than a leather design too, so it isn’t the best option for long days on rough ground. 4/5
These offer only small benefits over lower-priced shoes. For a little more cash you get far more trail benefits and ruggedness. 3/5
A lightweight shoe with great sole lugs for grip, but on rougher ground there are drawbacks 4.0/5 to consider.