SCOTT Trail Rocket (Spring 2014)
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The Dirt: The Trail Rocket is like the racing-flat version of SCOTT’s longtime flagship, the Kinabalu—similar fit, but with a lighter weight, a significantly lower heel-to-toe drop and no rock plate.
Nevertheless, it excels on muddy, technical terrain, blowing away our testers with its ability to grip well in all conditions. “For a cold, wet environment, this shoe is top-notch!” said one tester.
The airy, mesh upper fends off trail debris well, yet dries out quickly after creek crossings. “It’s a Goldilocks shoe,” said one tester. “Not overly firm or soft, nor too heavy or too minimalist—just credible tread, decent cushioning and a barely there frame.”
Best For: Runners who value “ground feel” over cushioning, as well as short to mid-distance runs, including speed workouts, on any terrain.
Traction: Nothing but raves here, on everything from mud to hardpack to even snow or ice. “The tread initially worried me,” said on tester, “but even in icy conditions, the lugs provided surprising results.”
Fit: The Trail Rocket runs true to size with a snug heel pocket and average-sized toebox.
The Downsides: Particularly for longer runs, some testers felt the stiff midsole could benefit from more cushion.
Tester-Monial: “SCOTT has kept this shoe to the bare essentials. I just need a well-designed shoe that is going to keep me going, and I found it with the Trail Rocket.”
–Tim Barnes, Louisville, KY