We are back and excited to review a new pair of shoes from one of the newer companies in the market, Mount to Coast. This time, we are focusing on their latest release, the S1 model.
Mount to Coast is one of the most anticipated running shoe companies to emerge in recent years. Although they are relatively new to the game and still have learning opportunities ahead, we were very impressed with the inaugural launch of their first shoe, the R1.
For a first attempt, we had a positive outlook on Mount to Coast’s shoes – even though they initially targeted a relatively niche market—road ultramarathoners. While most of us don’t fall into that category, the shoe still performed solidly. The S1, however, caters to a broader audience, designed for daily training. It features technology similar to the R1 version but with enhanced stability and protection.
Looks:
The S1 comes in the same three straightforward colorways: white with a black midsole, all black, and all white. Personally, I really like the version we received, but the white/black option stands out as a unique mix of contrasting colors while still maintaining a subdued look. It also foregoes the swirly black addition that the R1 white version had, and I’m a big fan of that minor change.
Fit & Construction:
Much of the same construction in the S1 is also present in the previously reviewed R1, so we won’t go into huge details and reference some previous content from our other post.
Upper:
The upper construction of Mount to Coast shoes boast some unique features. Made from 100% recycled Jacquard mesh yarn, it is both breathable and eco-friendly. The “four-way stretch” characteristic, typically associated with running apparel, is less common in footwear. This allows the knit mesh to adapt to various foot shapes, providing a personalized and snug fit. The material is notably soft, offering a blend of comfort and support precisely where it’s needed.
What is different is that the S1, while designed for non-ultra distances, does not have the TUNEDFIT lacing system. In the R1 version, this tech allowed for both a standard tie on the laces AND a separate independent lace system, reminiscent of BOA technology but without the dial. This was to allow for different tightening and loosening to exist as the feet swell during extended runs. However, the S1 only has the standard tie. There is also a little pull tab on the back of the shoe – a minor thing, but found myself using and liking.
Regardless, I got nice lockdown and it all felt and fit very comfortably – dare I say a nicer step in feel than the R1…?
Midsole:
Really, the midsole in the S1 features much of the same content – the ZeroSag midsole insert, LightCELL midsole base, and GOFLOW midsole geometry. It is slightly heavier than the R1 by about 3/4 oz, yet remains lightweight. The drop is a bit more at 10mm compared to the R1’s 8mm, while the heel stack is lowered by 1mm.
Some of this stuff is a little too techy for me, so I will do my best and copy/paste some items. The midsole is made from ZeroSag material, which (given the name) aims to keep the cushion consistent from mile 1 through mile whenever. That would obviously be important – and perhaps necessary – for ultra roadrunning. Running on roads is not all that forgiving – especially when running miles upon miles at a time – and so this construction is backed by research to “control excessive forefoot abduction to reduce injury risk.”
On the foot – it seems to occupy a nice middle ground. The Pebax blend is not overly springy and bouncy, but it’s also not crushed with too much groundfeel. It feels like a running shoe at its core – and that’s a good lane to occupy.
Outsole:
The outsole remains largely the same across both versions. It performs adequately and appears to be less squeaky initially compared to the R1 straight out of the box. I did notice that the outsole has been slightly modified to be a more standard feel, as opposed to the small v-shaped additions on the outsole in the R1. The R1 still performed well, but I feel that this shift in the S1 makes it even just a tiny bit better.
Overall:
While the R1 may be the one that got people talking, I am really liking the S1 version even a little more. There aren’t a ton of major changes (mostly the lacing system), but it just feels right on my feet. It really delivers and makes for a nice progression in comfort to me.
Mount to Coast S1 $150
Specs & Socials:
- Weight: 9.35 oz (men’s size 9)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Stack height (heel/toe): 36mm/26mm
