Centrifugally Tested Trail Runners

Terrain-transcending performance, street-worthy aesthetics and a scarcely believable combination of waterproofing, breathability and ruggedness have collided with spectacular results in the 'Nike Pegasus 3 GTX' trail runners, which benefit from the wonders of Gore-Tex technology to elevate this already revolutionary material.

Upon first wear, it's easy to forget that you're wearing Gore-Tex due to the fact that the waterproof membrane doesn't take up a distinct layer but is rather embedded into the very construction of the shoes. This allows for a reliably waterproof upper that is dubbed 'Invisible Fit' due to the fact that the Gore-Tex membrane isn't distinct, making it virtually invisible and ingrained into the very nature of the shoe. Further water-repelling design is evident in the form of an ankle collar that acts as a gaiter of sorts, preventing water and debris from infiltrating your shoes. Underneath, the shoes are equipped with a shockwave-pattern rubber outsole that offers quality traction on everything from wet, muddy trails to smooth rock and synthetic running tracks. Meanwhile, Nike's celebrated 'React' technology allows for a featherweight foam that is incredibly responsive on treacherous terrain whilst remaining rugged and guaranteeing many years of use.

This incredible confluence of traits is the result of pioneering technology and testing on the part of Gore-Tex's state-of-the art footwear labs. The materials used are put through the rigor of the Martindale abrasion test, which subjects them to between 100,000 and a million abrasion cycles. Waterproofing is assessed via a Suter test which checks to make sure that laminates retain waterproof status over five minutes at an immense pressure of one bar. Meanwhile, a wicking test ensures that all components of the shoe right down to their laces and textiles are water-resilient before receiving the all-clear to grace your shoes.

Finally, the intimidating centrifuge test sees shoes filled with water and spun for around half an hour at a rate of around 250 revolutions per minute, creating an exceptional gold standard to thwart potential water leakage. Indeed so impressive is Gore's testing facility and process that the company even lets the public peek behind the curtain via a virtual lab tour that showcases the stunning technology and attention to detail that makes these shoes possible.

Ultimately, this exhausting battery of tests and the innovative wielding of 'Invisible Fit' technology offers trail running enthusiasts something that was long thought impossible: the promise of being able to continue running in inclement weather in waterproof shoes that feel as lightweight, comfortable and flexible as their favored non-waterproof kicks.

Image Credit: Nike