When it comes to running through dust, mud and gravel; leaping over rocks and roots; and dealing with uneven terrain, the Adidas Response TR X has long been a favorite of trail runners. Considering the Trail Response is in its 17th version as of October 2010, the 10th version -- discussed here -- is still longed for by many trail runners, even though it is not produced anymore, and is very hard to find.
Features
Features of the Response X that made the shoe popular for off-road running include its water-resistant mesh upper and its Traxion outsole. Trail runs often involve sloppy, wet, muddy and cold conditions; and the water-resistance helps keep your foot dry and warm. The Adidas Response Trail X is in the minority of trail shoes by including water-resistant material to keep your feet drier. According to a user review and shoe description on the Trail Space website, the Traxion outsole features very aggressive tread and traction. This extra traction and grip mean a better chance of staying upright when running on a challenging surface.
Design
Another feature that has made the Response Trail X popular is its snug, yet comfortable fit. Adidas designers incorporated a molded ethyl vinyl acetate -- or EVA -- mid-sole that creates an anatomically correct fit for your foot. To add to the overall comfortable fit, the Response also features a five-eyelet lacing system that allows you to adjust the lacing tension exactly the way you like it. The stretch tongue can also enhance the fit.
Smooth Running
Whether you are running on the road or a trail, the majority of the time your heel will hit the ground first and absorb the initial shock. The fact that Adidas built in a decoupled heel in the Response Trail X allows for a more flexible landing and a smoother heel, mid-foot, toe-off. A decoupled heel has built-in flex grooves that allow for this smoother transition, even on challenging, off-road terrain. Add Adidas' main shock-absorbing material, Adiprene -- a polymer-based material -- on the lateral side of the heel, and the Response shows why it is so responsive to the demands of running trails.
Style and Colors
The men's version of the Response Trail X is available in two color schemes of navy and orange or yellow and gray. Most trail shoes, including the Response, incorporate all the necessary trappings needed for the trail -- darker colors so as to not show dirt as much, and heavier rubber toe protection at the front of the shoe to reduce the effects of impact with rocks and roots.
Pricing and Availability
Because the Response Trail X is an outdated shoe and no longer manufactured, its availability is very limited. Many of the online sites that show the shoe state that it is either sold out or unavailable at this time. If it is available, the retail price ranges from $53 as noted on the Overstock website, and up to $80, depending on the seller as of October 2010. Considering that this shoe originally sold for $80 brand new, it is now possible to buy it at a lower cost -- if you can find it.
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