When you think about running shoe companies, Scarpa is probably not one of the first few that jumps to your mind. However, if you are an outdoors enthusiast you are probably familiar with them and their large footprint (pun intended) in the outdoor activities sphere. Heading over to this Italian company’s website, you see links to skiing, mountaineering, climbing, and hiking before you even get to the trail running section.
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Looks
The Spin Planet comes in two colorways: a bold blue option and a more subdued grey version (reviewed). The blue colorway pops with energy, while the grey provides an understated look for those who prefer to stay under the radar.
The freckled outer midsole adds a subtle but unique design touch, complemented by marigold accents (a color called saffron) that give the shoe a little extra flair. Neither colorway is over-the-top, but they both stand out in their own right, making the Spin Planet both functional and stylish.
Construction and Fit
While not overly narrow, the Spin Planet does taper slightly toward the toe, which could be an issue for those who prefer a roomier toe box. The thermally welded polyurethane overlay on the upper provides added protection but may feel a bit constricting.
The Spin Planet truly shines on technical trails. Its firm midsole and robust build make it a standout for steep climbs and rugged terrain. That said, casual trail runners (like myself) will probably find the shoe’s features underutilized on less challenging paths. A break-in period is highly recommended; the initial firmness softens after a few runs, providing a more comfortable fit.
Specs
- Weight (Men’s Size 9): 10.2 oz.
- Drop / Stack Height: 4mm (28.5mm/24.5mm)
- Sustainability:
- Upper: 100% recycled material
- Midsole: 45% recycled material
- Outsole: 30% recycled material
The eco-conscious design is central to the shoe’s name and purpose, combining performance with sustainability.
Upper
The upper is constructed from 100% recycled dual mesh, offering breathability and a streamlined fit. The underlays keep the foot securely in place, while the forked tongue design adds a unique touch.
The tongue isn’t heavily cushioned but is cleverly engineered to improve fit and function. The inner tongue is fully gusseted, while the outer part features an elastic connection. This accommodating a variety of foot shapes and motions on the trail. This design, called Axial TR Tech, also helps keep debris out of the shoe. The heel area offers more cushioning than the tongue and assists with a nice hold.
Midsole
The Spin Planet’s midsole strikes a balance between cushion and firmness. It features a dual-layer construction, with a softer bottom layer beneath a firmer top layer. This design provides stability for long miles without compromising speed. It does still need a break in period to really get past the initial firm feeling – it probably took me a good 20 miles before I felt truly dialed in.
While the overall feel leans toward firmness, it’s built to handle challenging terrain and longer runs. If you prefer a firmer ride over the growing number of max-cushion models, the Spin Planet could be a perfect match. The shoe’s technical pedigree is evidenced by its use to win the 2023 Hardrock 100.
Outsole
The outsole’s design goes beyond standard rubber with lugs. Multidirectional patterns aren’t really all that new, but we like that the Presa ATR 4mm rubber lugs are arranged strategically to enhance performance:
- Inner and Outer Forefoot: Propulsion
- Center Forefoot: Stability and Grip
- Heel: Braking
Conclusion
The Scarpa Spin Planet is a well-rounded trail shoe that excels on technical terrain. Its eco-friendly construction doesn’t compromise performance. While casual trail users might not fully utilize its advanced features, the Spin Planet’s versatility and approachable price point make it worth considering.
Additionally, these shoes look great and can easily double as a solid pair of hiking shoes, adding to their functionality. This is where I personally am finding my joy in these shoes. Regardless, if you’re looking for a trail shoe that combines sustainability with technical prowess, the Scarpa Spin Planet is a solid choice.
Scarpa Spin Planet $159
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Thank you to Scarpa for providing us with a sample pair. Please read our transparency page for info on how we do our reviews.
