The recent entry of rabbit into the trail running shoe market with the High Country model marks a significant development for athletes pursuing performance in rugged terrains. Priced at $180, this shoe blends comfort, durability, and support in a way that is particularly relevant for experienced trail and ultrarunners. Drawing from extensive feedback and personal testing, it becomes evident that the High Country is built not just for casual runs but for the rigors of competitive mountain racing.
Crafted for endurance, the High Country has been rigorously tested over a range of terrains, including fire roads and rocky singletrack, under varying conditions that include wet streams and occasional sun exposure. The shoe’s construction features a 38-millimeter stack height at the heel and 33 millimeters at the forefoot, yielding a 5-millimeter drop that can appeal to a broad spectrum of runners. With a weight of 11.7 ounces (331 grams) for a U.S. men’s 9, this shoe enters a competitive field but promises substantial cushioning. The soft yet stable midsole cushioning is particularly noteworthy, as it offers consistent comfort over long distances while maintaining stability across uneven surfaces.
The upper of the High Country utilizes a blend of recycled materials engineered for breathability and airflow. While some runners have reported it running warm, others have not noted this despite considerable training in varying climates. Importantly, the shoe adapts well to harsher environments; it effectively drains and dries after river crossings or heavy saturation, which may be crucial during ultramarathons or long training runs. The gusseted tongue enhances fit without compromising comfort, and the padding around the collar secures the heel adequately, which is particularly significant during long descents when fit can affect stability.
Underfoot, the rabbit High Country employs the Flowstate Foam technology, paralleling what has been successful in rabbit’s Dream Chaser road shoe. Coupled with a carbon plate aimed at boosting energy return, the midsole is designed for both cushioning and efficiency during extended runs. This technology can support runners looking for a shoe that performs well over long distances, as well as offering protection against the varied impacts encountered on mountainous terrains.
In terms of outsole performance, the High Country features a 360 Grip rubber with multidirectional 4-millimeter lugs that have retained their full functionality even after extensive use. The emphasis on traction is deliberate, as navigating technical descents demands reliable grip. While wear after 250 miles has significantly affected the exposed orange foam midfoot, it’s worth noting that overall traction and stability have not diminished. This balance of durability and performance is especially relevant for races with significant elevation changes, where shoe reliability can directly influence finishing times and runner confidence.
Athletes, particularly those training for events like the UTMB, must consider all aspects of gear performance. The High Country also includes the option of two different footbeds, one being a basic EVA insert and the other a specialized Blumaka footbed. The latter is designed for more traction and comfort, especially during technical descents—this can be crucial in maintaining speed without sacrificing foot health. Runners often favor internal structures that enhance grip, and this shoe’s design choices reflect an understanding of those needs.
The real-world application of the High Country was put to the test during long-distance events, including a 100-mile race, illustrating the shoe’s capability under race day conditions. Feedback from participants indicated that the shoe performed best when subjected to prolonged usage without the typical fatigue or discomfort experienced by runners when transitioning among different footwear options. For seasoned runners eyeing performance metrics, the High Country’s ability to retain toenails during challenging descents stands as a testament to its effective design, which can play a pivotal role in maintaining speed and consistency during critical race segments.
In summary, the rabbit High Country seamlessly integrates comfort, performance, and practical utility in a package suited to the diverse demands of trail running, particularly ultrarunning. Given its favorable initial reception among experienced athletes and the rigorous testing that has already taken place, it positions itself as a strong contender for anyone preparing for extensive mountain races. As ultrarunners continue to push the limits of endurance and speed, the insights gained from testing the High Country remind us that tactical footwear choices—tailored for grip, stability, and comfort—can significantly enhance performance in challenging environments. Recognizing the importance of reliable gear in high-stakes races is essential for optimizing outcomes and achieving personal bests. The takeaway for ultrarunners, as training intensifies and races approach, is that selecting the right shoe, like the rabbit High Country, can make a tangible difference in performance resilience and strategy execution.
