When it comes to finding the perfect shoe for those who enjoy both road running and light trail adventures, the Craft Xplor Hybrid deserves some serious attention. This shoe offers the best of both worlds, blending comfort, durability, and versatility. Whether you are an avid runner or just looking to mix up your workouts, dive into this review to see if the Craft Xplor Hybrid could be your next go-to shoe.
Technical Specs
- Weight – 10.5oz or 298g for a US Men’s 9, oz or 0g for a US Women’s 7
- Cushion – 40mm of cushion and a 6mm heel/toe drop
- Pricing – $139.99 USD
- Colors – 2 colors
Upper Construction
The Craft Xplor Hybrid features a one-piece engineered mesh upper that offers a lightweight and breathable experience. We appreciate the effort that has gone into making the upper both functional and aesthetic. However, the fit leaves a lot to be desired. The upper feels a bit too loose and roomy, which might be an issue for those who prefer a snug fit. While it’s comfortable for casual runs, serious runners may find it lacking in the support department.
Midsole Magic
Craft has hit the nail on the head with its proprietary beaded TPE Px Foam midsole. This isn’t your average foam; it provides an exceptional ride that is both soft and responsive. The feeling underfoot is almost luscious, making each run a joy rather than a chore. One of the standout features is the durability of this foam. After logging over 50 miles, the midsole retained its original feel, which is quite impressive. The foam’s stability and cushioning are comparable to some of the top models from brands like Hoka and Asics, making it a strong contender in its category.
Outsole Excellence
The shoe’s outsole is where the Craft Xplor Hybrid truly shines. Partnering with Vittoria, known for their expertise in bike tires, Craft has designed an outsole that performs exceptionally well on both gravel and pavement. The tread features a mix of hexagonal lugs down the center and more aggressive, widely spaced lugs on the sides. This design makes for smooth transitions during road runs while providing excellent grip on trail surfaces. It’s an all-terrain beast that handles everything from wet, muddy paths to dry, rocky trails effortlessly.
On-the-Run Experience
While the technology behind the shoe is noteworthy, how does it perform in real-world running scenarios? Surprisingly well. The Xplor Hybrid is comfortable for daily training on gravel or light trails and holds its own on poorly conditioned roads. The ride feels smooth and the transition from heel to toe is seamless, thanks to the well-designed midsole and outsole. However, those who are used to a snug fit might have to adapt to the looser upper. The platform is stable, allowing for confident strides even on uneven terrain.
Conclusion
In summary, the Craft Xplor Hybrid excels as a road-to-trail hybrid shoe. The combination of its innovative Px Foam midsole and expertly crafted Vittoria outsole makes it a formidable choice for those looking to diversify their running routes. While the fit of the upper may be a downside for some, its overall performance and comfort make it a solid pick for both road and trail enthusiasts. If you’re in the market for a versatile running shoe that doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance, the Craft Xplor Hybrid is well worth considering.
Learn more on the Craft website
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Check Out Other Reviewers Thoughts
As always, we gather together some of our favorite reviewers so you can get a well-rounded view of the shoe. Here are our favorites.
