361° Lynx Running Shoes Review

361° Lynx Running Shoes Review

Finding the perfect trail running shoe can be hard. I’ve certainly tried many brands and models over the years. There’s always one or two things that could make the shoe better suited to your running gait, running style or comfort requirements.

For me the ideal trail running shoe needs to be lightweight, breathable, have sufficient cushioning for longer distances, a spacious toe box and most importantly a durable grip on the sole with a decent lug size.

Recently I came across the brand 361° (One Degree Beyond). With their headquarters based out of China, they are a global brand and operate across Europe. They have a trail shoe called the 361° Lynx, which they say is a high-performance trail running shoe designed to handle the toughest terrains while providing comfort and support. In other words, exactly what I’m looking for.

I’ve been testing them out for the last couple months, on a variety of runs, slow, fast, long, short. On various types of terrain, light trail, mountain trail and woodland. And varying weather conditions including ice and snow. In total covering around 200 miles using them.

Here’s a detailed view from my experience running in them…

First off, they feel and perform like a cross between the positives and best bits from a HOKA and a SAUCONY running shoe. The 361° Lynx certainly is lightweight for a trail shoe but feels and has been very durable, showing hardly any sign of wear, after over 200 miles using them. They have been crafted with premium materials which will withstand the test of the most rugged trails. The shoe is available in 2 colourways here in the UK. Magma Orange/Deep Ocean (the colour I have) which is marketed as a Men’s shoe and Deep Ocean/Absinthe Green which is marketed as a Women’s option.

They are constructed with a gusseted tongue, and they have a very breathable upper mesh, which is constructed with 25% recycled yarn, which assists in the smooth movement from heel to toe ensuring breathability during natural motion. Along with the wider front foot base and toe box I found they were a perfect fit and kept my feet comfortable, especially during longer runs.

That takes me onto my best point about them. The Comfort. One of the standout features of the 361° Lynxis their exceptional comfort. The shoe is equipped with 361° PRIMO foam in the midsole, which provides excellent cushioning and absorbs impact effectively. This has made my long runs feel less strenuous and has definitely helped reduce fatigue. The Lynx runs true to size, but those with wider feet, like me, may want to consider sizing up slightly for a more accommodating fit. For reference, I went a half size bigger, and they are perfect.

In addition, they also have removable ORTHOLITE X-40 insoles, which add to the comfort and breathability of the shoe. The outsole of the 361° Lynx utilises the VIBRAM LITEBASE technology, which reduces the sole weight by 30% while maintaining excellent grip and durability. The multidirectional lugs enhance traction, especially on the more technical terrain, and certainly gave me the confidence with every step. Whether I was navigating slippery roots and rocks, loose gravel, boggy mud or snow and ice the Lynx delivered a reliable performance.

I found they offer a very good balance of support and flexibility, which is obviously crucial for trail running. The midsole is very responsive for a trail shoe but still provides a stable yet flexible experience, keeping my foot secure without feeling overly restrictive. This combination ensures a smooth and comfortable ride on the variety of surfaces I’ve tested them on.

After over 200 miles of use, the 361° Lynx shows minimal wear, indicating its robust construction and durability. The materials used have a premium feel and show no signs of fraying or degrading anytime soon, suggesting that these shoes can withstand the rigors of extensive and many miles of use on the trails.

Conclusion

The 361° Lynx trail running shoes have performed excellently and should be a top choice for trail runners seeking a reliable and comfortable shoe that excels in various conditions. They combine comfort, traction, durability, and style, making them a versatile option for both seasoned trail runners and those new to the sport. If you’re in the market for a shoe that can handle the unpredictable nature of trails while keeping your feet comfortable, the 361° Lynx is certainly worth considering.

The Stats

Men’s Sizes 7 – 14 (Women’s 6 – 11)

Weight: 290g / Stack: 30 – 35mm / Drop: 5mm

Test and Review by Steven Williams