What Berghaus say about the Women's Vapour Light Claw Shoe

Excel yourself on the most demanding trails with the high performance Women's Vapour Light Claw Shoe. Designed for single-track trail grip and security underfoot in a light, breathable package ideal for fast, challenging multi-sport activities. Part of our Vapour Light range, this shoe has been tested for the harsh and demanding environments of the Dragon's Back race.

What I like about the Women's Vapour Light Claw Shoe

Great security underfoot combined with comfort on harder surfaces

My first impression was that this shoe had a seriously rugged tread for something described as a “trail” shoe. Berghaus have taken an aggressive hill running tread and fitted it on to a reasonably cushioned trail running sole. What surprised me was that the combination worked extremely well for my test route, which included both roads and muddy paths. The extra cushioning (compared to my fell shoes) helped on the harder surfaces and the OPTI-STUD tread – made from Tenacious Grip sticky rubber – gave very secure footing on the slippery woodland trails. 

On another test run, over some local hills, the mixed terrain of pavements and rough ground pout the shoes to the ultimate test. Amazingly, every step felt secure and my feet weren't battered into pulp by the road running. I was impressed.

Lightweight and breathable

There is no doubt that these shoes are breathable – I could feel the breeze blowing through the upper mesh! Given the British weather, it is definitely a plus point that these will dry out quickly. They feel very light and springy. The UK size 6 women's version I tested weighed around 280g, which is comparable with other lightweight trail shoes. 

What I'm not so sure about

There's not a lot to dislike about this shoe. The fit is roomy, particularly across the forefoot, which will be perfect for some and a turnoff for others. I definitely recommend trying before buying, particularly if you have narrow feet or prefer a snug fit.

I was concerned that my foot would move around within the shoe but was pleased to find that the lacing system and Limpet stretch panels gave a secure grip, feeling particularly snug at the heel. This shoe is a general off-roader rather than a specialist trail or fell shoe. The cushioning doesn't feel quite enough for long distances on hard trails such as forest roads or canal paths. At the opposite extreme, the cushioned sole unit may reduce stability on uneven ground relative to more minimalist shoes.

Summary of the Women's Vapour Light Claw Shoe

This shoe is trying hard to be the all-rounder that can take me from my front door to the hilltops. It could have been a dissatisfying compromise but in fact it works. If, like me, you're looking for a shoe that is a bit of a Jack-of-all-trades then this could be the one. It gives great security underfoot on rough ground combined with relative comfort on harder surfaces. It would be equally good for tackling the Dragon's Back Race or the daily trot from front door to muddy trails. The main thing to bear in mind is that the generous fit may not suit every foot shape so it’s worth trying before buying.

The details:

Weight (approx): 280g for the size 6 tested

Colour: Geranium/Carmine Rose or Cyan Blue/Paloma

Size: Women's UK 4 to 8 (there is a men's version).

Price: £85

To buy: Berghaus Women's Vapour Claw trail shoes

Note: This article was restored from the archives. It's published creation date is inaccurate.