Brasher Quantum Traklite Shoes

Brasher Quantum Traklite Shoes - First Impressions

These look more modern than the rest of Brasher's range. Which is good, we think.

Due to the delights of foot and mouth, we've not had a chance to wear the Quantums further off road than the odd verge, but ironically, they're actually pretty well suited to a spot of tarmac rambling. How come?

Well, like Brasher's boots they borrow a lot from running shoes. That means a well cushioned, springy EVA mid-sole - the bit that makes shoes cushioned - and a sprung, flexible last with a lot of fore and aft bend to it. When your foot bends, the shoe bends with it, good for natural walking action and for comfort, though initial impressions are that there's still enough lateral stability to cope with rougher walking as well.

Fit is typical, medium broad Brasher. One point though is that the heel cup is very soft straight out of the box. It's immediately comfortable, almost slipper like, but the taper isn't very defined so there's little to hold your heel down.

Build quality looks to be good with nubuck upper panels combined with breathable mesh for comfort and rubber bumper reinforcements at toe and heel. The outsole's more of a departure. It's the new Traklite unit featuring widely spaced studs including a central spine apparently modelled on a lamb's foot for good grip on soft ground.

The compound feels soft and grippy, but we suspect that the relatively small surface area in contact with the ground combined with the softness of the rubber compound may mean that they'll wear quickly in abrasive, rocky conditions.

The Bottom Line Very early days, but these are good looking, comfortable, lightweight walking shoes from the Brasher stable that are cushy straight out of the box with a neat, running shoe-type feel. Be aware of the gently defined heel cup and make sure that you're heels don't lift before buying.