Brand: Backcountry
Category: Trail Running Shoes
Recommended by John Bruno, Ultra trail-runner, ski mountaineer — Aspen Colorado (:
Highlights: max cushion, cushioned, long distance, grippy
The ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe is designed for serious trail runners seeking superior performance and comfort on rugged terrain. With its advanced cushioning and durable construction, this shoe ensures a responsive ride while tackling the toughest trails. 1. Lightweight mesh upper for breathability and flexibility, enhancing comfort during long runs. 2. Responsive cushioning system that absorbs impact, providing support on uneven surfaces. 3. Aggressive outsole with multidirectional lugs for exceptional traction on various terrains. 4. Reinforced toe cap for added protection against rocks and debris, ensuring durability. 5. Secure fit with a dynamic lacing system that adapts to your foot shape for optimal lockdown. 6. Water-resistant materials to keep your feet dry in wet conditions, perfect for unpredictable weather. 7. Available in multiple colorways, allowing you to express your personal style while on the trail. The ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe is ideal for trail running enthusiasts who tackle challenging landscapes, including rocky paths and muddy trails. It performs best in varied weather conditions, making it suitable for year-round use. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner looking to explore off-road routes, this shoe provides the support and traction needed for both training and racing scenarios.
- Who it's for
- Trail runners logging high mileage on established trails who prioritize cushioning and grip over technical scrambling capability. Works for daily training through ultra-distance efforts; less suited to heavy boulder-hopping or scrambling terrain.
- What people are saying
- Hosts consistently praise the grip, durable lugs, and plush ZoomX cushioning that holds up under high mileage without bottoming out. One host notes it got heavier than its predecessor, though it goes unnoticed underfoot; no notable criticism beyond limited technical terrain suitability.
- Worth noting
- Nike's narrow toe-box reputation may not apply here — one host sized up half a size for width and swelling with good results, and another calls it a wide platform. The built-in gusset/sock tongue is a distinctive fit feature worth knowing about.
John Bruno's review
Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
Recommended by John Bruno, Ultra trail-runner, ski mountaineer
Frequently asked questions
Who is the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe for?
Trail runners logging high mileage on established trails who prioritize cushioning and grip over technical scrambling capability. Works for daily training through ultra-distance efforts; less suited to heavy boulder-hopping or scrambling terrain.
What do experts say about the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe?
Hosts consistently praise the grip, durable lugs, and plush ZoomX cushioning that holds up under high mileage without bottoming out. One host notes it got heavier than its predecessor, though it goes unnoticed underfoot; no notable criticism beyond limited technical terrain suitability.
What should you know before buying the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe?
Nike's narrow toe-box reputation may not apply here — one host sized up half a size for width and swelling with good results, and another calls it a wide platform. The built-in gusset/sock tongue is a distinctive fit feature worth knowing about.
What does John Bruno say about the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe?
Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
Why does John Bruno recommend Backcountry?
John Bruno recommends the Backcountry ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe for trail running shoes. Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
Is the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe a good trail running shoe?
Yes — John Bruno recommends the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe by Backcountry as their trail running shoes pick. Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
Is the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe good for long distance?
John Bruno recommends it for long efforts: Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
How cushioned is the ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe?
In John Bruno's experience: Everything I loved about Zegama 2 just better. It’s plush and comfortable without the feeling of bottoming out or bouncing me all over the trail. The upper is vastly improved, traction is much more rubust. Probably one of the few next-gen trail shoes that got heavier. However it’s not noticeable underfoot. The ride of the ZoomX midsole is exceptional; this is a top contender for my ultra distance racer of the season. Wow.
More from John Bruno's Trail running
View John Bruno's expert gear recommendations on Rendezvu
What other hosts are saying
5 experts recommend the Backcountry ACG Zegama Trail Running Shoe.
Abby Storer, Mountain Running & Storytelling
My FAVORITE trail shoe ever. Tread lasts forever, cushion holds up under high mileage weeks, and the lugs are placed perfectly ! Could go on and on about this shoe.
Recommended in Trail Gear
Ben Corwin, Hutkeeper and mountain adventurer
Ben swears by these (Laura has a few pairs too). Fits pretty true to size. A good balance between cushioning and speed. Not the most technical, but plenty for most established trails that don't involve too much boulder hopping or scrambling. Plenty of cushion for long efforts.
Recommended in Teton Crest in a Day
Built for all-mountain cruising - ZoomX goodness underfoot, and a WIDE platform from Nike.. er.. ACG!
Recommended in Latest Reviews
My daily trail shoe - these are very well-cushioned and SUPER grippy. I feel comfy after a long time just jogging downhill, which I can't say for a lot of peppier racing shoes. I ordered a half-size up to accommodate extra swelling and slightly wider feet and have had none of the issues that I typically run into with Nike's narrower toe box reputation (can't speak to TTS fit as I ordered online). Hot take but I love the built-in lil sock thing.
Recommended in Dirt Run Essentials
