Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Shoes Review
Star Rating:
The Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Shoes are designed for trail runners seeking a balance of comfort, grip, and sustainability. Weighing approximately 330g, these shoes feature a responsive fit and a reverse lug system to deliver stability and grip on uneven terrain. The midsole and arch brace provide comfort and support, while the toe box and heel reinforcement offer excellent torsion, enabling efficient energy use during runs.
Constructed with over 70% recycled materials, including the upper, laces, and lining, the Trail Wizard emphasizes eco-friendly design without compromising performance. The HH® Max-Grip outsole ensures reliable traction across various surfaces, and the HH® Max-Comfort insole offers cushioning for extended runs. However, it’s worth noting that while the shoes are treated with a durable water-repellent finish, they are not fully waterproof, which may be a consideration for wet conditions.
Priced at £115, the Trail Wizard offers a competitive option in the trail running market, combining Helly Hansen’s outdoor expertise with features tailored for trail enthusiasts. Whether you’re tackling coastal paths or forest trails, these shoes aim to provide the support and durability needed for your adventures.
Pros & Cons
Additional Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comfortable Cushioning: The HH® Max-Comfort Insole provides cushioning for longer runs.
- Durable Outsole: The HH® Max-Grip outsole offers reliable traction on various terrains.
- Quick-Drying Materials: HH® Quick Dry feature ensures the shoes dry rapidly, maintaining comfort in wet conditions.
- Protective Toe Cap: HH® Pro Guard offers added protection against trail hazards without compromising flexibility.
Cons
- Tongue Design: The non-integrated tongue can allow water ingress if not properly aligned.
- Moderate Grip on Wet Grass: While the outsole performs well on various terrains, it may struggle on wet grassy surfaces.
- Break-In Period: Some users might experience a short break-in period before achieving optimal comfort.
- Price Point: They are positioned at a premium price, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Features
When it comes to trail running, the Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Shoes stand out as a dependable companion for off-road adventures. Right out of the box, you can feel the quality in the trainers, they are lightweight yet sturdy, with a well-balanced design that cradles your foot without feeling bulky. The HH® Max-Grip outsole truly lives up to its promise, delivering exceptional traction on a variety of terrains, from loose gravel to compact forest paths. Compared to many trail shoes in the same price bracket, the Trail Wizard excels in comfort and breathability, thanks to its HH® Max-Vent mesh upper which keeps your feet cool even during intense runs.
One area where these shoes really shine is sustainability. In a market increasingly conscious of environmental impact, Helly Hansen has made a bold move by incorporating over 70% recycled materials into the upper, laces, and lining. This is a significant step ahead of many competitors that still rely heavily on virgin synthetics. The eco-friendly approach doesn’t compromise performance either—the materials are durable, quick-drying, and feel premium.
The RRP is £115, however, you may find a better price elsewhere. The Trail Wizard shoes are priced at the higher end of the market, but what you get for that investment is a fusion of innovative design, trail-specific functionality, and brand reliability. Many comparable shoes in this category either lack the eco-conscious build or sacrifice performance for weight savings. These manage to offer a blend of cushioning (with HH® Max-Comfort insoles) and foot protection (thanks to HH® Pro Guard in the toe area), making them a solid all-rounder whether you’re training, racing, or just enjoying weekend trail hikes.
While the shoes aren’t fully waterproof, something to keep in mind for especially wet runs—their water-repellent treatment and fast-drying fabric more than compensate in most scenarios. All in all, the Helly Hansen Trail Wizard Running Shoes deliver a high-performance experience with a green twist, making them a great pick for runners who don’t want to compromise on quality, ethics, or style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Shoes offer a compelling blend of durability, comfort, and eco-conscious design that truly sets them apart in the crowded trail running market. Their thoughtful construction, featuring recycled materials and innovative grip technology, ensures you stay confident and supported on a variety of terrains. While they come at a premium price, the quality and performance justify the investment, making them a smart choice for serious trail runners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for reliable trail shoes that balance sustainability with functionality, the Trail Wizard is definitely worth lacing up.
Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Trainers Product Specs
- Colours: Navy & Suns, Black & Sweet Lime
- Size: UK 6.5 – 12.5
- Material: Upper: 100% Polyester (Recycled) – Upper 2: 100% Polyester (Recycled) – Upper 3: 80% Thermoplastic Polyurethane 20% Polyurethane – Lining: 100% Polyester (Recycled) – Insole: 100% EVA – Outsole: 100% Rubber
Where to Buy Helly Hansen Men’s Trail Wizard Running Shoes?
Disclaimer: We were sent this product in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are from our staff writers and we were in no way asked to write a positive/negative review on the product. At Reviewers United we take an honest and unbiased approach to all of our reviews. Links within this post may be affiliate links, these mean we take a small commission of sales without any price increase to buyers.
