I was able to check out the new Zeal trail shoe from Icebug Footwear at last week’s Outdoor Retailer Summer Market, in addition to the other offerings from the brand. The shoe features Icebug’s new HGMS2 technology—Holy Grail Midsole Soft and Stable—as well as stability and protection on a low platform. The Zeal is perfect for trail runners who are looking to go fast.

The new midsole technology creates a stable but soft heel grip, and is made with two different densities but in an extremely lightweight manner. It features a durable nylon upper, a new lacing system, and even comes with the option of two different outsoles. The OLX outsole includes 16 carabide steel studs and a tread pattern perfect for traction on the trail, and the RB9X features Icebug’s special rubber compound and lug pattern that’s perfect for both wet and dry surfaces.

“The Zeal is for your serious trail runner or someone who does obstacle course racing,” said Sarah Niklas from Terra Public Relations. “This new midsole gives you a lot of ground control and stability, and it’s for the runner who kind of likes the minimalist feel but needs some stability too.”

“The Zeal is the future in trail running, orienteering, and OCR,” Icebug USA President Evan Wert said in a news release. “The new HGMS2 midsole along with either of Icebug’s OLX and RBX9 outsoles provides lightweight protection and extreme traction never before seen in trail running.”

Product Details

• Upper: Nylon Textile/PU
• Lining: Half lined with quick-dry mesh
• Midsole: Lightweight EVA with HGMS2 technology
• Outsole: RB9X rubber outsole or OLX outsole with rubber tread and 16 carbide steel tip studs
• Weight: 280 grams (US Men’s 9) and 240 grams (US Women’s 7.5)
• Sizes: US Men’s 7-13, US Women’s 5.5-10.5
• MSRP: Zeal OLX $184.95, RB9X $169.95

For more information, check out the Icebug Footwear website.

Image courtesy of Icebug Footwear/Terra Public Relations