Details
Brand
Zoot
Breathability
6.5/10
Latest Version
Solana 2
Terrain
Road
Type
Neutral
Key Features
• BareFit internal construction• DryLex inner-lining• Injected EVA midsole• Blown carbon rubber outsole• Molded 3D heel counter• Responsive Ground Contact outsole• Weatherproof upper• Wet road gripping lugs
Upper
The upper of the shoe has been redesigned. Instead of an open mesh upper, the shoe features a closed mesh that is weather resistant. The upper is still breathable but not as much as the previous version of the shoe. Some reviewers have complained about the ventilation of the shoe. Zoot has sacrificed breathability so you can wear the shoes during wet and winter seasons. The upper is made to resist tough weather conditions. The shoe still features the great BareFit technology that provides a secure fit, as well as the DryLex inner lining that has moisture wicking properties. The molded 3D heel counter provides stability locking your foot in a secure position for a more efficient gait cycle.
Midsole
The midsole features an injected Zoot EVA called ZVA. It is flexible and provides responsive cushioning. The ZVA adapts to the shape of your foot, providing a custom-like cushioning. The midsole is very efficient at absorbing shock, and combined with the outsole, provides good protection for your knees and hips. It also provides good energy return and transforms the energy from landing into powerful take offs.
Outsole
The outsole is made of a blown carbon rubber in order to provide lightweight traction and stability. The outsole features Zoot’s Responsive Ground Contact design, which provides more ground contact. The outsole is as flexible and supportive as previous versions, but this time it features better grip for running on wet surfaces. The rubber component provides good shock absorption, as well as a bouncy feeling for more powerful take-offs.
Breathability
The balance between the weatherproof characteristics and the breathability is not the best. By incorporating a closed mesh upper, the ventilation of the shoe is reduced. Reviewers have said that they can get sweaty and hot when running with them in warm conditions. The Solana ACR works best in winter conditions. The DryLex lining will wick the excess of sweat away from your feet.
Comfort
Comfort is what makes this shoe a favorite for many runners. A good combination of cushioning, good fit, and light weight make for a comfortable ride. There is enough room in the toe box, allowing your toes to splay more naturally. The molded 3D heel counter secures your heel comfortably. The blown carbon rubber outsole and the ZVA midsole provide a good bouncy feeling for protection and comfortability.
Style
This version of the Solana looks almost exactly like its previous version. The difference with this shoes is the closed mesh upper material. They come in a default black upper that is combined with other colors. The women’s line comes with at least 3 combinations of colors, while the men’s line comes in black and bright green.
Durability
The reduced durability of the shoes is a downside of them. The shoe breaks down and reviewers stated they get no more than 250 miles out of them. From holes in the upper to structural damage in the midsole, these shoes have a limited life. The great thing is that they are very affordable, so getting a new pair isn’t a problem.
Protection
The great shock absorption properties of the midsole and outsole, promote softer landings and thus, helping prevent injuries. The toe cap protects your toes from any debris. The All Conditions Running (ACR) waterproof upper provides extra protection from the debris and the weather, especially during wet and cold conditions.
Responsiveness
The overall flexibility combined with an amazing fit thanks to the BareFit technology, makes this shoe very responsive. The midsole adapts to the shape of your foot and the upper locks your foot into place for enhanced control and responsiveness. The outsole provides great traction, even on wet surfaces, adding to the overall responsiveness.
Support
Just like the previous version, these shoes provide neutral support. They are not made for under or overpronators, but they do provide good support for heavier runners. Reviewers stated the insoles are thicker than other similar shoes, making them more comfortable and supportive for longer. If you overpronate, the insole can be replaced with.
Terrain
These shoes are more versatile than the Zoot Solana. The outsole pattern in the Solana ACR provides better traction on wet surfaces. These shoes are waterproof and work best in cold weather and wet conditions. As the previous version, these shoes are made to run marathons and triathlons, so long distance runs over asphalt is their natural terrain.
Price
Slightly more than the non-weather-proof version, these shoes come with an amazing price tag. The average price is $110 USD, making them a great value for your money.
Drop
The drop of a shoe is the difference between the heel height and the forefoot height of the shoe. The Zoot Solana ACR has the same drop as their previous version – 8 mm. The heel height is 28 mm and the forefoot height is 20 mm for both men and women. These neutral shoes will make you run smoother by promoting more natural transitions for a more efficient gait cycle.
Stability
Lightweight, flexible but yet very stable. Each component featured in this shoe promotes stability and responsiveness. The combination of the outsole and ZVA midsole provide stability for the base of your foot. The BareFit seamless internal construction will secure the midfoot area while the molded 3D heel counter promotes a natural but stable heel to toe transition.
Flexibility
For some reason, reviewers are divided when it comes to the flexibility of these shoes. Some say that they need a break in period, while others state they are ready to go as soon as you open the box. The blown carbon rubber, the ZVA midsole and the BareFit upper were designed to provide maximum flexibility. The more you wear them, the more flexible they will feel.
Traction
The outsole of the shoe is made with blown carbon rubber, a compound that provides great traction and grip while being lightweight and very flexible. The lug pattern provides even more responsiveness and control than the previous Solana. It is made for running under all kinds of weather conditions. However, they perform their best on flat and even surfaces like roads, tracks, and light gravel paths.
Bottom Line
This version of the Zoot Solana features a weather resistant treatment in the upper. The closed mesh provides extra protection against the winter conditions. You can now have the perfect year-long combination of footwear. Thanks to the updated outsole, the responsiveness of this shoe has been increased. But many of the other features runners know and love from the previous version, have remained. The Zoot Solana ACR is a versatile shoe that will allow you to run smoother and faster during the winter.
