Scott Kinabalu 3

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Scott Kinabalu 3: Review

β€œA balanced trail running shoe for mountain adventures.”

Overview


The Scott Kinabalu 3 is a trail running shoe designed to offer a balanced mix of cushioning, lightness, and protection for mountain running. This shoe is part of the Scott Kinabalu family, known for its innovative design and advanced technologies.

Key Features:

  • Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2): Promotes a dynamic running position, reducing heel strike (landing on the heel of the foot) and increasing efficiency.
  • Scott Kinetic Foam: Lightweight and highly reactive foam that returns 14% more energy than standard EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, a common midsole material).
  • Ortholite Ultra Insole: Provides extra comfort and cushioning with antibacterial properties.
  • Redesigned Outsole: Optimizes contact with the surface and improves traction on various terrains.

The Scott Kinabalu 3 is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize efficiency and comfort for mountain running. Its advanced technologies offer a smooth and stable ride, making it suitable for a wide range of terrains.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just above the median price of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Scott Kinabalu 3


The Scott Kinabalu 3 is well-regarded for its balanced combination of cushioning, lightness, and protection, making it a versatile choice for trail running. Reviewers appreciate the shoe's Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) technology, which promotes a dynamic running position and reduces heel strike. The Scott Kinetic Foam in the midsole is praised for its energy return, providing a smooth and stable ride. The Ortholite Ultra insole adds extra comfort and helps prevent odors. The redesigned outsole offers excellent traction on various terrains, making it suitable for both easy and technical trails. However, some reviewers note that the shoe is best suited for runners with good running technique and may not be ideal for heavier runners. Overall, the Scott Kinabalu 3 is a solid choice for trail runners looking for a versatile and efficient shoe. Its combination of advanced technologies and balanced performance makes it a standout option for mountain running.

Updates to Scott Kinabalu 3


The Scott Kinabalu 3 features several updates from its predecessor, the Scott Kinabalu 2. The most notable update is the Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) system, which promotes a more dynamic running position and reduces heel strike. The midsole now includes Scott Kinetic Foam, providing 14% more energy return than standard EVA. The outsole has been redesigned with a new lug pattern to improve traction on various terrains. Additionally, the upper has been updated with a more breathable mesh and reinforced areas for added durability.

Comparable Shoes


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The Salomon Speedcross 5 is a popular trail running shoe known for its aggressive grip and durability. Compared to the Scott Kinabalu 3, the Speedcross 5 offers a more rugged design with deeper lugs for better traction on muddy and technical trails. However, the Scott Kinabalu 3 provides a more balanced combination of cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for a wider range of terrains.

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The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is another trail running shoe that is often compared to the Scott Kinabalu 3. The Speedgoat 4 is known for its maximum cushioning and comfort, making it ideal for long-distance runs. In contrast, the Scott Kinabalu 3 offers a more responsive and dynamic ride, with a focus on efficiency and versatility for various trail conditions.

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The Brooks Cascadia 15 is a trail running shoe that emphasizes stability and protection. While the Cascadia 15 offers excellent support and durability, the Scott Kinabalu 3 stands out for its lightweight design and advanced technologies like the Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) system and Scott Kinetic Foam. This makes the Kinabalu 3 a more dynamic and efficient option for trail runners.

7 Scott Kinabalu 3 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Balanced combination of cushioning, lightness, and protection.
Advanced technologies like Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) and Scott Kinetic Foam.
Breathable mesh upper for good ventilation.
Redesigned outsole for improved traction on various terrains.

3 Cons

May not be ideal for heavier runners.
Best suited for short to medium distances, not long-distance running.
Fit might be too snug for those who prefer a wide toe box.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Scott Kinabalu 3 features a breathable mesh that ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool during long runs. The incorporation of a Gore-Tex membrane in some versions provides additional protection against water, humidity, and mud, making it suitable for various weather conditions. The upper design also includes reinforced areas for added durability and support, ensuring the shoe can withstand the rigors of trail running.

Midsole

The midsole of the Scott Kinabalu 3 is equipped with Scott Kinetic Foam, a lightweight and highly reactive foam that returns 14% more energy than standard EVA. This technology provides a smooth and stable ride, enhancing running efficiency. Additionally, the Ortholite Ultra insole offers extra cushioning and comfort, with antibacterial properties to prevent unpleasant odors. The combination of these features ensures a comfortable and responsive running experience.

Outsole

The outsole of the Scott Kinabalu 3 has been redesigned to optimize contact with the surface and improve traction on various terrains. The new lug pattern enhances grip, making it suitable for both easy and technical trails. The Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) system in the outsole promotes a dynamic running position, reducing heel strike and increasing efficiency. This makes the shoe versatile and reliable for different trail conditions.

Size/fit

The Scott Kinabalu 3 offers a medium toe box, providing a comfortable fit for most runners. The shoe is designed to accommodate a wide range of foot shapes, ensuring a secure and snug fit. The reinforced upper and adjustable lacing system allow for a customized fit, enhancing overall comfort and support during runs.

Comfort

Comfort is a key feature of the Scott Kinabalu 3, thanks to its Ortholite Ultra insole and Scott Kinetic Foam midsole. These technologies provide excellent cushioning and support, reducing fatigue during long runs. The breathable mesh upper ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry. Overall, the shoe offers a comfortable and enjoyable running experience, even on challenging trails.

Cushioning

The Scott Kinabalu 3 excels in cushioning, with its Scott Kinetic Foam midsole providing a soft yet responsive feel. The foam returns 14% more energy than standard EVA, enhancing running efficiency and reducing impact on the joints. The Ortholite Ultra insole adds an extra layer of cushioning, ensuring a comfortable ride on various terrains.

Breathability

The breathable mesh upper of the Scott Kinabalu 3 ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during long runs. This feature is particularly beneficial for trail runners who often encounter varying weather conditions. The breathable design helps prevent overheating and reduces the risk of blisters, enhancing overall comfort.

Stability

The Scott Kinabalu 3 offers good stability, thanks to its Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) system and redesigned outsole. The ER2 system promotes a dynamic running position, reducing heel strike and increasing efficiency. The outsole's lug pattern enhances grip and stability on various terrains, making the shoe reliable for both easy and technical trails.

Durability

Durability is a strong point of the Scott Kinabalu 3, with its reinforced upper and redesigned outsole. The shoe is built to withstand the rigors of trail running, providing long-lasting performance. The Gore-Tex membrane in some versions adds extra protection against water and mud, further enhancing the shoe's durability.

Grip

The redesigned outsole of the Scott Kinabalu 3 offers excellent grip on various terrains. The new lug pattern enhances traction, making the shoe suitable for both easy and technical trails. The Evolved Rocker 2 (ER2) system in the outsole also contributes to better grip and stability, ensuring a secure footing during runs.

Flex

The Scott Kinabalu 3 provides a good balance of flexibility and support, thanks to its Scott Kinetic Foam midsole and breathable mesh upper. The shoe's design allows for natural foot movement, enhancing overall comfort and performance. The flexible construction ensures a smooth and responsive ride, making it suitable for various trail conditions.

Who should buy the Scott Kinabalu 3?


The Scott Kinabalu 3 is ideal for trail runners who prioritize a balanced combination of cushioning, lightness, and protection. It is suitable for those who enjoy running on mountain trails and need a shoe that can handle various terrains. Runners with a good running technique will benefit the most from the advanced technologies in this shoe. Additionally, those who appreciate a breathable and comfortable design will find the Scott Kinabalu 3 to be a great choice.

Who should not buy the Scott Kinabalu 3?


The Scott Kinabalu 3 may not be the best option for runners who prefer road running or need a shoe with maximum cushioning. Heavier runners might find the shoe less supportive, as it is designed for light to medium weight runners. Those who require a wide toe box might also find the fit too snug. If you are looking for a shoe specifically for long-distance running, you might want to consider other models with more cushioning and support.

Scott Kinabalu 3: What's it good for?


The Scott Kinabalu 3 is well-suited for trail running on various terrains, from easy to technical trails. It is ideal for 10k and half marathon distances, offering a balanced mix of cushioning and responsiveness. The shoe's advanced technologies make it a great choice for runners who enjoy mountain running and need a versatile shoe for different trail conditions.

5 Scott Kinabalu 3 FAQs


What type of terrain is the Scott Kinabalu 3 best suited for?

The Scott Kinabalu 3 is best suited for trail running on various terrains, from easy to technical trails. Its redesigned outsole and advanced technologies provide excellent traction and stability.

Is the Scott Kinabalu 3 suitable for long-distance running?

The Scott Kinabalu 3 is ideal for short to medium distances, such as 10k and half marathon runs. While it can handle longer distances, runners looking for maximum cushioning might prefer other models.

Does the Scott Kinabalu 3 have good breathability?

Yes, the Scott Kinabalu 3 features a breathable mesh upper that ensures good ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during long runs.

What is the weight of the Scott Kinabalu 3?

The Scott Kinabalu 3 weighs approximately 300 grams for the men's version and 270 grams for the women's version.

Is the Scott Kinabalu 3 suitable for heavy runners?

The Scott Kinabalu 3 is best suited for light to medium weight runners. Heavier runners might find the shoe less supportive and may want to consider other models with more cushioning and support.

Scott Kinabalu 3 alternatives

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released
Released
Mar 2018Mar 2018May 2019Nov 2015
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productAthletes
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Jesse ShotlandDamian Hall
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+5
Elov OlssonRyan Woods
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Jeffrey SternPablo Villalobos
Weight
Weight
235 g
M: 204 g
W: 170 g
M: 181 g
W: 142 g
M: 221 g
W: 176 g
215 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
7 mm
M: 18 mm
W: 16 mm
5 mm
8 mm
16 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
4 mm
3 mm
4 mm
Heel
Heel
11 mm
M: 21 mm
W: 19 mm
5 mm
8 mm
20 mm
Terrain
Terrain
Trail
TrailMudTrailTrailTrailTrail
Brand
Brand
Scott
Inov-8HokaVibramVibramSalomon
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
LightweightLow dropLightweightLow dropBarefootLightweightLow dropMinimalistZero dropLightweightLow dropZero dropLightweightLow drop
Techs
Techs
VibramVibram
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellent
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Vegan β“‹Vegan β“‹
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Scott Kinabalu 3 characteristics and specifications

Specifications
Model
3

Evolution of the Scott Kinabalu product family

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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