Weight 347g
Evaluation This is a great trail shoe. Nike describes it as utilitarian, which is true, and about as understated as hype gets. The grip is probably the best you’ll experience outside of a fell shoe, from deep, well-spaced waffle lugs. It’s great in mud, and best of all, the lugs extend right to the heel of the shoe, which makes for a confident heel-strike.
It’s comfortable, too: there’s a light, flexible upper that’s designed to let water in and out and dry fast, and smooth cushioning. There’s no forefoot Air, which you might feel on rocky ground, but was not a problem for our weartesters. The Tupu’s only other limitation is that it’s not a model for overpronators: it has a soft heel counter, no added stability features, and the underside of the forefoot is slightly bevelled on the medial side, which could cause you to toe-off at an angle if you already have a stability problem.
In short The Terra Tupu is a pure off-road trail shoe in the mould of Nike’s old Air Terra Albis, and praise comes no higher than that. It’s quick, comfortable – and most importantly, its grip is exceptional.
Try it if you liked Nike Air Terra Albis (£70, discontinued); Adidas Incision (£70);
New Balance 904 (£70)
