BUILT FOR SPEED
Last year’s X-1 was like a thoroughbred—fast, but hard to handle. So Teva tamed it just a little. The result, the still respectably light X-1 Control, is a versatile, high-energy trail shoe that’s just as comfortable grinding up switchbacks as it is opening it up on fifth-gear flats. Thanks to a thick rear-foot crash pad and two exoskeleton ribs (which are integrated into the lacing system), it’s the kind of shoe that gives you confidence to go all out on steep descents. One tester found it the perfect shoe for tackling Jackson, Wyoming’s undulating, semitechnical Sink or Swim Trail. 10.4 oz; teva.com
Bonus: The low-profile lug pattern performed well on trails and roads alike.
Bummer: It’s still a thoroughbred in disguise, and it’s not the best choice if lateral stability is your top priority.