Dynafit Feline SL
7 minute read
Overview
The Dynafit Feline SL is a trail running shoe designed to tackle technical and rugged terrains. This shoe is known for its superior traction and protective features.
Key Features:
- POMOCA Outsole: Provides excellent grip and traction on various surfaces, including wet trails.
- Ballistic Bumper System: Offers enhanced protection for the toe and instep areas.
- Sensitive Fit System: Ensures a comfortable and adaptive fit for dynamic movement.
The Dynafit Feline SL is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize traction and protection on technical terrains. Its lightweight design offers agility, making it suitable for medium-distance runs.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Dynafit Feline SL
The Dynafit Feline SL excels in providing stability and traction on technical trails, making it a top choice for those who frequently encounter rugged and uneven surfaces. Its POMOCA outsole offers unparalleled grip, while the Ballistic Bumper system ensures protection against rocks and roots. The shoe's narrow fit may not suit everyone, and it requires a break-in period due to its rigid construction. However, for those who find the fit comfortable, it offers a high level of performance. The Sensitive Fit system enhances comfort and support, making it suitable for medium distances. While it may not be the best option for ultra distances due to limited cushioning, it remains a reliable choice for technical trail running. Overall, the Dynafit Feline SL is a durable and high-performing trail shoe for those who value protection and traction.
Comparable Shoes
The Hoka Torrent 3 is a good alternative for runners seeking more cushioning for ultra distances. While the Dynafit Feline SL excels in traction and protection, the Torrent 3 offers a cushier ride, making it suitable for longer runs. Both shoes perform well in terms of grip, but the Torrent 3 may be more comfortable for those who prefer a softer underfoot feel.
The Salomon Speedcross 6 offers nearly unparalleled grip, similar to the Dynafit Feline SL. However, the Speedcross 6 may provide a more aggressive fit and is known for its rugged traction. Runners who prioritize grip on muddy and technical terrains may find the Speedcross 6 to be a suitable alternative.
The La Sportiva Bushido II is another shoe with a slim profile that offers great traction. While the Dynafit Feline SL focuses on protection and stability, the Bushido II provides more sensitivity, making it a good choice for runners who prefer a more responsive feel on the trail.
6 Dynafit Feline SL Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Dynafit Feline SL features the Sensitive Fit system, which provides a more comfortable and adaptive fit. This system helps the shoe conform to the natural movements of the foot, enhancing comfort during runs. The Ballistic Fabric used in the upper is optimized for alpine conditions, offering resistance and reduced weight. The Quick Lacing system ensures a secure fit, preventing the laces from becoming a distraction during runs.
Midsole
The midsole of the Dynafit Feline SL combines TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) material with Dynafit's Multipad structure, offering dynamic cushioning and motion control on steep terrains. This design provides a responsive feel, allowing runners to move with confidence on technical routes. The OrthoLite insole adds cushioning and support, while also enhancing breathability and lightness.
Outsole
The POMOCA outsole of the Dynafit Feline SL is designed for superior traction and grip on various terrains. Its curved, S-shaped design reinforces stability and natural foot rotation. The outsole features a prominent arrow-shaped lug pattern, ensuring excellent performance on wet and dry surfaces. This makes the shoe ideal for trail running on technical and uneven terrains.
Size/fit
The Dynafit Feline SL has a narrow fit, which may not be suitable for all runners. It is recommended to size up for a more comfortable fit, especially if extra room in the toebox is preferred. The Sensitive Fit system enhances the shoe's adaptability, providing a snug and supportive fit that prevents foot movement within the shoe.
Comfort
While the Dynafit Feline SL offers a streamlined fit and protective features, its comfort level may not suit everyone. The shoe has a light to medium level of cushioning, making it suitable for medium distances but potentially uncomfortable for longer runs. The rigid construction requires a break-in period, and the narrow fit may not accommodate all foot shapes.
Cushioning
The cushioning in the Dynafit Feline SL is moderate, with a focus on protection rather than plush comfort. The TPU midsole and OrthoLite insole provide adequate cushioning for medium distances, but the shoe may not be ideal for ultra distances due to its limited underfoot padding. The 8 mm heel-to-toe drop caters to both heel and midfoot strikers.
Breathability
The upper of the Dynafit Feline SL is designed to be breathable, allowing for adequate ventilation during runs. The Ballistic Fabric used in the upper contributes to this breathability, ensuring that the shoe remains comfortable even during longer runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for trail runners who encounter varying weather conditions.
Stability
The Dynafit Feline SL offers excellent stability, thanks to its narrow profile and rigid construction. The shoe's design ensures that the foot sits close to the ground, enhancing stability on technical terrains. The forefoot and heel are well-balanced, preventing foot movement within the shoe and providing a secure fit.
Durability
The Dynafit Feline SL is built to withstand the rigors of trail running, with a durable outsole and protective features. The POMOCA rubber and Ballistic Bumper system contribute to the shoe's longevity, ensuring that it remains in good condition even after extensive use. This durability makes it a reliable choice for trail runners who frequently tackle rugged terrains.
Grip
The grip of the Dynafit Feline SL is one of its standout features, with the POMOCA outsole providing exceptional traction on various surfaces. The arrow-shaped lug pattern ensures optimal mud shedding and grip, making the shoe ideal for technical and wet terrains. This superior grip inspires confidence during runs, allowing runners to tackle challenging trails with ease.
Flex
The Dynafit Feline SL has a rigid construction, which may limit its flexibility. While this rigidity contributes to the shoe's stability and protection, it may not suit runners who prefer a more flexible shoe. The shoe's design focuses on providing a secure and stable fit, which may require a break-in period for optimal comfort.
Who should buy the Dynafit Feline SL?
Trail runners who frequently encounter technical and rugged terrains will find the Dynafit Feline SL to be a valuable addition to their gear. Its superior traction and protective features make it ideal for those who prioritize stability and grip. Runners who prefer a narrow fit and are comfortable with a break-in period will appreciate the shoe's performance. The shoe is also suitable for those who run medium distances and require a shoe that can handle varying weather conditions.
Who should not buy the Dynafit Feline SL?
Runners who prefer a wider fit or require a shoe with ample cushioning for ultra distances may not find the Dynafit Feline SL suitable. Its narrow profile and rigid construction may not accommodate all foot shapes, and the limited cushioning may not provide the comfort needed for longer runs. Those who primarily run on smoother trails or prefer a more flexible shoe may want to consider alternatives like the Hoka Torrent 3 or the Salomon Speedcross 6.
Dynafit Feline SL: What's it good for?
The Dynafit Feline SL is well-suited for trail running on technical and rugged terrains. Its superior traction and protective features make it ideal for medium-distance runs where stability and grip are essential. The shoe's design allows it to perform well in neutral pronation scenarios, catering to both fore/midfoot and heel strikers. Its durability and grip make it a reliable choice for those who frequently encounter wet and uneven surfaces.
5 Dynafit Feline SL FAQs
What type of terrain is the Dynafit Feline SL best suited for?
The Dynafit Feline SL is best suited for technical and rugged terrains, offering superior traction and protection on uneven surfaces.
Does the Dynafit Feline SL have a wide fit?
No, the Dynafit Feline SL has a narrow fit, and it is recommended to size up for a more comfortable fit.
Is the Dynafit Feline SL suitable for ultra distances?
The Dynafit Feline SL may not be ideal for ultra distances due to its limited cushioning, but it performs well for medium distances.
What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Dynafit Feline SL?
The Dynafit Feline SL has an 8 mm heel-to-toe drop, catering to both heel and midfoot strikers.
How does the Dynafit Feline SL perform in wet conditions?
The Dynafit Feline SL performs well in wet conditions, thanks to its POMOCA outsole, which provides excellent grip and traction.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedSep 2017 | May 2019 | Nov 2015 | Jul 2019 | Mar 2018 | |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users | +5   | ||||
| Weight | WeightM: 289 g W: 249 g | M: 181 g W: 142 g | M: 221 g W: 176 g | M: 241 g W: 190 g | M: 204 g W: 170 g | 215 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot | 5 mm | 8 mm | 17 mm | M: 18 mm W: 16 mm | 16 mm |
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 3 mm | 4 mm | |||
| Heel | Heel | 5 mm | 8 mm | 17 mm | M: 21 mm W: 19 mm | 20 mm |
| Terrain | TerrainTrail | Trail | Trail | Trail | MudTrail | Trail |
| Brand | BrandDynafit | Vibram | Vibram | Merrell | Hoka | Salomon |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | BarefootLightweightLow dropMinimalistZero drop | LightweightLow dropZero drop | LightweightLow dropZero drop | LightweightLow drop | LightweightLow drop |
| Techs | Techs | Vibram | Vibram | |||
| Waterproofings | Waterproofings | Water repellent | ||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Vegan Ⓥ | Vegan Ⓥ | |||
Common characteristicsNeutralNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh arch |
