VJ MAXx2 - Unisex

I have been running mountain trails for the past 30 years, including racing half marathons in very technical terrain at high altitude. At 67 I have tried almost all existing brands for my actual training runs. Very technical 1000 meter total elevation variation 5 mile runs that change with the seasons including loose rock and scree hard packed rocky terrain wet grass and a very sticky muddy clay in winter. I finally settled for the VJMaxX2 and have 2 pairs. Nothing comes close to it. Supple,nimble, perfect fit and cushion in fact the best cushion and grip of any shoe period. If I could change something I would have 5 mm lugs instead of 4 and 2-3 extra mm of superfoamance. I am an 80kg midfoot athletic runner and I could train and race ultras with that extra. Anyway this is the pinnacle of trail running shoes for me.

I liked the original MAXX shoe, the others were too narrow. But VJ hit a homerun with the MAXX2! It is so comfortable. The sizing is very different from their other shoes and most brands. Softer cushion than other brands I have yet feels great when running. Highly recommend, especially when on sale as these are very pricey.

Several years ago, I took a chance, ordering a pair of VJ XTRM, and I loved the grip and how fast they felt. Not great for longer distances though. So I ordered a pair of the ULTRA 2. They still had great grip, and I could wear them for longer outings, but I still needed more cushion. I am now on my second pair of MAXx2, and though I still have a pair of the XTRM for shorter, fast runs, I have used the MAXx2 for longer runs, and for backpacking adventures. The cushion is a nice balance of absorbing some of the jarring but maintaining a good feel of the ground. The tight weave kept fine dust out of my shoes as I backpacked up in the Mt. Hood area, which meant I didn't get blisters. And they were not so warm as to cause blisters. The toe box and last of the shoe is a bit wider than the XTRM or the ULTRA, which made my feet much happier. I did size them 1/2 size down from my XTRM and ULTRA, and they are perfect.

The MaxX2 are ok on flat ground, but unstable on technical terrain. I loved the original MaxX and wish I could find more. I have many versions of VJ's, Maxx, maxx2, lightspeeds, xtrms, ultras, & sparks. I have found that in the Original Maxx is the best choice for the New England White Mountain terrain but can no longer find them. Please consider bringing the original Maxx back as that was my favorite shoe and I cannot keep from rolling my ankles in the new version. Thank you for your time, Jason

Loving the new Maxx's VJ literally stepped it up with the Maxx2. Really lightweight (even when going through mud and water) responsive to terrain and they have a much improved cushion. The only thing I would improve is a stiffer heel cup for more rugged terrain.