Details
Brand
Zoot
Breathability
7/10
Latest Version
Solana 2
Terrain
Road
Type
Triathlon
Key Features
• Blown carbon rubber in the outsole• DryLex inner lining• Injected ZVA midsole• Molded 3D heel counter• BareFit internal construction• Responsive Ground Contact outsole
Upper
The mesh upper provides great ventilation all over. The BareFit seamless internal construction provides a custom-like fit while keeping your foot cool and dry during your runs. The BareFit technology promotes a more responsive run. A DryLex lining wicks excess moisture inside the shoe. A 3D molded heel counter placed in the midsole and the upper, locks your foot in, providing extra support and control.
Midsole
The Solana has an Injected Zoot EVA (ZVA) midsole. It is a very lightweight yet durable unit that provides superior cushioning and flexibility. The ZVA midsole from been designed to efficiently absorb the shock of the impacts, which in turn protects your joints during your runs. Thanks to the resilient and supportive midsole, you will be able to run longer, more comfortably. Reviewers have described these shoes as one of the most comfortable shoes in the market. Combined with the outsole, the shoe will feel very cushioned and comfortable, without sacrificing flexibility.
Outsole
This shoe features a Responsive Ground Contact outsole which is composed of blown carbon rubber. The outsole provides lightweight traction and support as well as durability and flexibility. The outsole provides great shock absorption as well as an extra bouncy feeling that promotes a responsive heel to toe transition. The grip of the outsole is very good on wet surfaces while the lug pattern of the shoe allows it to run on a variety of terrain. The traction pods placed strategically on the outsole help make the shoe responsive.
Breathability
The shoe features a mesh upper that optimizes breathability, allowing your feet to stay cool and dry even during the toughest runs. The DryLex inner lining has moisture-wicking properties that will keep feet dry. The DryLex lining combined with the breathable mesh upper will help prevent blisters and hot spots.
Comfort
Like many other Zoot running shoes, these shoes are comfortable. Reviewers state that the midsole cushioning is something really special. A great combination of softness, responsiveness, and stability, allows these shoes to provide a very comfortable ride. The Responsive Ground Contact technology in the outsole provides a wide enough platform for natural toe splay. The ZVA midsole and the blown rubber outsole provide great shock absorption that contributes to the general comfort of the shoe.
Style
The shoe looks fast and flexible. And they are. You can see their amazing ergonomic design that follows the anatomy of your feet. The colors options are limited, but they offer both bold and neutral choices.
Durability
Unfortunately, there were many comments about the shoe’s lack of durability. Many reviewers state that they last no longer than 200 miles. There were complaints of the decreased amount of cushioning and the lack of durability in the upper. However, this lack of durability didn’t seem to bother many reviewers, who simply bought another pair. It’s also worth noting that there were fewer durability issues with the women’s version than the men’s.
Protection
The best protective feature this shoe has is the amazing shock absorption from the ZVA midsole and the blown carbon rubber outsole. Absorbing impact will help prevent knee, hip and other injuries. The Molded 3D heel counter provides your foot and ankle extra stability and support. The toe cap also protects the forefoot area.
Responsiveness
The responsiveness is incredible. The flexible and resilient ZVA midsole provides amazing control, shock absorption and smoother heel to toe transitions. The lightweight blown carbon rubber outsole provides great traction and bounciness. The BareFit seamless inner lining secures your foot for better control. The shoes move with you and allow you to have a more natural gait cycle.
Support
The Zoot Solana are neutral shoes and are designed for people with neutral pronation. Thanks to their good cushioning, they provide good support and impact protection for heavier runners as well. If you underpronate or overpronate, we suggest trying these shoes first before you buy them. The molded 3D heel counter will provide extra support to the rearfoot area. The BareFit technology provides support by securing your foot into place.
Terrain
These shoes were designed for roads, tracks, and light gravel. Some reviewers have taken them off road and state that the shoes have performed great. Considering the durability issues, we suggest avoiding running in them on trails and off-road paths as it may make the shoes wear out quicker.
Price
These shoes are very affordable. Considering the features of the shoe, the price is one of their best advantages. The average price on the market is $100 USD. The price varies depending on size.
Drop
With a heel height of 28mm and a forefoot height of 20mm, the Zoot Solana has an 8mm drop, which is just below a standard drop. At this drop it provides some cushioning under the heel, which is good for heel strikers.
Stability
The Zoot Solana are stable shoes. Their solid construction, especially the molded 3D heel counter is responsible for the great stability of the shoe during the landing stage. It locks your heels in position for better traction, and smoother heel to toe transitions. Luckily, the flexibility of the shoe does not take their stability away. The ZVA midsole is very resilient, so it can be very flexible and provide enough stability. These shoes will help support you during hard training and races without sacrificing their comfortability.
Flexibility
The Zoot Solana is a very flexible shoe and was designed to be so. As soon as you open the box, you will realize how flexible they can be. You can bend them easily with your hands. The BareFit technology in the upper allows the shoe to adapt to the movements of your foot. The ZVA midsole and the blown carbon rubber outsole are designed and built to be flexible for a more natural gait cycle.
Traction
The blown carbon rubber outsole will provide solid traction on the road. The Responsive Ground Contact design provides a wider surface of contact to the ground for overall improved traction. The traction pods in the forefoot area of the outsole provide extra grip when running on wet conditions, while the pods in the heel provide additional stability and durability. The lug pattern makes these shoes very versatile and responsive to the terrain. They perform the best when you run on flat and even surfaces.
Bottom Line
The Zoot Solana is a favorite among many runners. The levels of cushioning and shock absorption combined with the remarkable fit make them comfortable and responsive. The control and precision you get from these shoes are remarkable.;On the downside of the shoes, their durability is not the best. Reviewers stated that they the shoes start breaking down around 250 miles. However, these are affordable shoes with remarkable features that will provide good comfort, even on long runs. The shoes are very lightweight, enhancing your ability to run faster.;For winter runs, we recommend checking out the Zoot Solana ACR.
