Loop-lacing lockThis is a great way to create a secure, tight fit. Just put each lace end back into the same hole it just exited, leaving a small loop on the top side of the shoe; now thread each loose end through the loop on the opposite side

. The key to the shoe is the Gore-Tex upper, which has all the advantages and flaws of other fully waterproof, breathable uppers. They are fine when running through wet grass or if there is moisture in the air, but a disaster if the water comes over the top

Weight 361gEvaluation You’re spoilt for choice if you’re after a decent trail shoe with an Asics label attached. There’s the good value Gel Guts, the top-of-the-range Eagle Trail 2 and the latest addition to the range, the Mesa Trail. The Mesa Trail

Weight 385gEvaluation Last year’s Trance was a nice enough stability shoe, but £100 was way too expensive for such a straightforward model. The new version does more to justify its top-end price alongside plush shoes such as the Asics Gel Kayano

of the Gel Koji GS, which replaces the venerable MC+ at the top of its motion-control range.First signs are that it’s a better shoe in almost every way. It’s certainly more wearable. The midsole has been scooped out in the midfoot for a smoother ride

additions, particularly its top-of-the-range X-A Pro. It still offers much of the same midsole and upper protection, but in lighter, faster, more responsive shoes. While the X-A Pro is not as runner-friendly as the Flagstaff, it clearly has its roots

synthetic overlays on the toe and side panels topped with light mesh over the top of the foot means that the shoe breathes and clears water as well as any comparable model. It also probably explains why the shoe comes in 50-60g lighter than other Montrail

Weight 324g Evaluation From the 2030 to the new 2080, the Asics 2000-series has been one of the top five – often the top – all-round running shoes on the market. In reviews, it almost becomes a victim of its own success, as we pounce on any

shoe. A great combination of fit, cushioning, ride and stability – plus a great-fitting upper – means it now sits comfortably alongside the best top end shoes on the market, including the Kayano.Try it on if you liked Brooks Trance NXG (£100); Nike Air

Weight 400gEvaluation Aside from the Brooks Beast, you won’t find a more specific shoe for big runners than the Wave Renegade: a superb, ultra-supportive, durable, and very well-cushioned trainer. With a Double Wave design (one plate sits on top