Craft is a Swedish brand known for its high-quality sportswear and performance gear.
While they have traditionally been strong in apparel, especially for cycling and cross-country skiing, they have recently made significant strides in the running shoe market.
Craft’s running shoes are designed with a focus on innovation, functionality, and comfort, catering to both road and trail runners.
Below is an overview of Craft’s notable running shoe models and their key features.
Overview of Craft Running Shoes
1. Craft CTM Ultra Carbon 2
- Type: Road and Trail Running
- Cushioning: Ultralight UD Foam Pro™ midsole with a carbon plate for maximum energy return and propulsion.
- Support: Neutral support designed for speed and efficiency.
- Durability: High-traction rubber outsole with versatile tread suitable for both road and light trails.
- Best For: Runners seeking a lightweight, high-performance shoe for racing and fast training on varied surfaces.
- Highlights:
- Carbon fiber plate for enhanced propulsion.
- Ultra-responsive midsole for a fast, efficient ride.
- Lightweight and breathable upper.
2. Craft CTM Ultra 3
- Type: Road and Trail Running
- Cushioning: Ultralight Pro™ foam midsole without the carbon plate, providing a softer yet responsive feel.
- Support: Neutral support with a broad base for stability on various terrains.
- Durability: Durable rubber outsole designed for high mileage on mixed surfaces.
- Best For: Long-distance runners looking for a versatile shoe for both road and light trail running.
- Highlights:
- High stack height for enhanced cushioning.
- Responsive and durable foam for long-lasting comfort.
- Versatile outsole for road and trail versatility.
3. Craft Pro Endur Distance
- Type: Road Running
- Cushioning: Vault Foam™ midsole for a balance of cushioning and responsiveness, ideal for long runs.
- Support: Neutral support with a focus on lightweight performance.
- Durability: High-abrasion rubber outsole for durability on paved surfaces.
- Best For: Long-distance road runners seeking a comfortable, responsive shoe for marathon training and racing.
- Highlights:
- Lightweight design for faster pace.
- Breathable upper for comfort during long runs.
- Optimized midsole geometry for smooth transitions.
4. Craft CTM Ultra Trail
- Type: Trail Running
- Cushioning: Ultralight Pro™ foam midsole for responsive cushioning on rugged terrains.
- Support: Neutral support with an emphasis on stability and protection on uneven trails.
- Durability: Robust outsole with aggressive lugs for superior grip on challenging trail surfaces.
- Best For: Trail runners tackling technical terrains who need a combination of comfort, stability, and traction.
- Highlights:
- Protective and durable construction for rough trails.
- Enhanced grip with multi-directional lugs.
- Secure fit with a supportive upper design.
Key Features of Craft Running Shoes
- Innovative Cushioning
- Craft’s shoes often feature advanced midsole technologies like Vault Foam™, Ultralight Pro™ foam, and carbon plates. These materials provide excellent cushioning, responsiveness, and energy return, catering to various running styles and distances.
- Versatile Design
- Many Craft shoes, like the CTM Ultra series, are designed for both road and light trail use, making them versatile choices for runners who enjoy mixed-terrain running.
- Durability and Traction
- Craft running shoes are built with durable outsoles and robust upper materials, ensuring longevity and protection, especially in trail models like the CTM Ultra Trail.
- Breathability and Fit
- The brand focuses on creating lightweight and breathable uppers that provide a secure fit, essential for long runs and varied running conditions. Shoes like the Pro Endur Distance are known for their comfortable and adaptive fit.
- Propulsion and Efficiency
- Models such as the CTM Ultra Carbon 2 integrate carbon plates to enhance propulsion and efficiency, making them ideal for racing and fast-paced training.
Choosing the Right Craft Running Shoes
When selecting a Craft running shoe, consider the following factors:
- Running Terrain:
- For mixed terrain or road-to-trail runs, the CTM Ultra series offers versatility.
- For dedicated road running, the Pro Endur Distance models provide excellent comfort and performance.
- For trail running, the CTM Ultra Trail provides the necessary grip and protection.
- Distance and Pace:
- For long-distance running and daily training, look for shoes with robust cushioning and support, such as the Pro Endur Distance.
- For speed-focused training or racing, consider models with lightweight and responsive features, like the CTM Ultra Carbon 2.
- Support Needs:
- Craft primarily offers neutral support shoes, suitable for runners with a neutral gait or those using custom orthotics.
- Comfort and Fit:
- Ensure the shoe fits well and provides ample comfort, particularly for long runs. Craft’s shoes are designed with adaptable uppers and cushioned midsoles for optimal comfort.
Conclusion
Craft has established itself as a credible player in the running shoe market with a focus on innovation and performance.
Whether you’re hitting the roads or trails, Craft offers a range of shoes that cater to various running needs.
Their shoes like the CTM Ultra Carbon 2 and Pro Endur Distance series provide excellent cushioning, support, and durability, making them worthy choices for serious runners.