Details
Brand
Dynafit
Heel To Toe Drop
8mm
Breathability
7.7/10
Latest Version
Feline SL
Terrain
Trail
Type
Racing
Key Features
• Sensitive Fit+• Form Fitted Upper• Duo Motion midsole• Adaptive Grid• Ballistic Bumper• Quick Lacing System• Vibram Ultra Outsole• Mapping and MegaGrip rubber compounds• OrthoLite Sock Liner
Upper
Thanks to the Form Fitted Upper technology, the upper provides a solid fit and great protection. Lateral support bands provide extra protection and enhance a tight but gentle fit. The Sensitive Fit technology enhances your blood circulation so you can run for longer without suffering from swelling in your feet.;The upper is very breathable as well. The Adaptive Grid technology helps to maximize the breathability of the shoe while adapting to your foot and promoting more natural movements. The QuickLace System provides a better fit while making it easier to tie your shoes. Reviewers have stated that the laces unravel easily though.
Midsole
The Duo Motion technology in the midsole features two EVA units with different densities in order to optimize motion control. The Multipad midsole makes the shoe responsive, which is especially useful on rough, technical terrain. The heel area absorbs the shock of impact and then transforms it into energetic takeoffs. An OrthoLite sock liner provides lightweight cushioning and extra shock absorption.
Outsole
With big, deep lugs on the Vibram outsole, the Feline Ultra provides maximum traction. The outsole uses a different rubber on a specific section. The hard Mapping compound in the heel area enhances traction and durability. In the forefoot area, the Mega Grip compound provides more grip, durability, and responsiveness. The lateral lugs of the shoe provide more stability and traction when climbing, as well as protection from the elements. Overall, the outsole is well designed.
Breathability
The breathability of this shoe is excellent. The upper allows for a good flow of air to and from the interior of the shoes. The Adaptive Grid technology featured on both sides of the shoe enhances ventilation. Reviewers stated that shoe dries quickly if it gets wet, which is really important in order to prevent blister formation and hot spots, especially when performing a long run.
Comfort
The Feline Ultra’s comfort is okay. Reviewers stated that the EVA cushioning is lacking but appreciate that it is lightweight. The two EVA compounds used in the midsole absorb the shock of the impacts when landing, and transforming that energy into more powerful takeoffs. The OrthoLite sock liner adapts to the shape of your foot and provides more cushioning and shock absorption. The Form Fitted Upper offers a secure fit.
Style
These shoes look just as powerful as they actually are. The aggressive lugs on the outsole tell you that they’re not going to let you slip at any time. They look incredibly protective, and they are. The color choices are limited, but the combinations they do offer are great. These shoes look like tanks with a luxurious interior design.
Durability
The durability of the Dynafit Feline Ultra is average. After running 200 km (or around 125 miles), some users have experienced wear in the forefoot area of the shoe where the Ballistic Bumper finishes. Also, reviewers notice some wear on the outsole and that the Quick Lace System doesn’t work as well after a few runs. However, the midsole does not lose its cushioning and shock absorption properties.
Protection
The good shock absorption properties protect your knees and hips. It reduced the risk of injuries due to repetitive impact on your joints. The great fit that the Form Fitter Upper keep your foot stable, even on uneven terrain. Also, the traction of the outsole is remarkable. You can tackle mud and other slippery surfaces with ease. The Ballistic Bumper protects feet from debris, while the tongue prevents debris from getting into the shoe.
Responsiveness
The responsiveness of the Feline Ultra is average. Enhanced traction and remarkable fit work together to provide solid responsiveness. The flexible upper with Sensitive Fit technology provides motion guidance and stability in every step. The Adaptive Grid adapts to the natural movement of your foot, while the Quick Lace System provides a secure fit, allowing your foot to move more naturally.
Support
The Duo Motion construction of the midsole provides adaptive support to your feet. Optimal motion control is achieved due to the combination of the two EVA units in the midsole. The Mapping and MegaGrip compounds used in the outsole provide extended support by providing the best traction when you need it the most. The OrthoLite sock liner adapts to the shape of your foot and provides extra cushioning and support. However, this shoe does not provide extra support for under or overpronators. However, the insoles are removable to give you the chance of inserting your own insoles for customized support.
Terrain
The Feline Ultra works best on hard, compact trails. Dynafit has put the Feline Ultra among the Alpine Running shoe category, meaning it would work for mountain runs.
Price
With a standard price of $140 USD online, this shoe is a bit pricey but still worth checking out. The Dynafit Feline Ultra has a lot to offer, so consider them as a good investment. The price is consistent for both women and men and does not change with the size.
Drop
The drop of a shoe is the difference between the heel height and the forefoot height of the shoe. The Dynafit Feline Ultra shoes have an 8 mm drop. The drop of the shoe allows for a more natural gait cycle.
Stability
From the outsole to the upper, the shoe was designed to provide a stable ride. They were designed for long runs,so stability was high priority. The wide surface of the outsole, mostly in the forefoot area, provides a stable surface to land on. The Form Fitted Upper provides a secure fit. The Duo Max midsole also provides stability by adapting to the movement of your foot.
Flexibility
The Feline Ultra are not flexible shoes. The company designed a shoe that was protective and supportive, and in turn, flexibility was sacrificed. However, once you break in the shoes, you will notice the improved flexibility.
Traction
The outsole with the Mapping and MegaGrip provide excellent traction. Regardless of the terrain, conditions, and speed, the outsole performs great, even under wet conditions. The deep, aggressive, multidirectional lugs are able to help you conquer vertical runs and down hill runs.
Bottom Line
Designed for long-distance runners, the Dynafit Feline Ultra provides enough support, protection, and traction to make them a solid choice for your next ultra marathons. The different rubber compounds used in the outsole provides excellent traction, while the two layers in the EVA midsole provides enough cushioning and shock absorption for a more comfortable run.
