These are my ALL-TIME fav shoe! I'm a Canadian pro athlete in skyrunning, trail running + ocr. Most people I know who try these, like me, basically never wear any other shoe again. I do agree the laces are too short, but they legitimately have the best grip ever, and I just find these so versatile. I wear them for short training days and super long days alike.
VJ is a popular shoebrand in the running and orienterering-community in Norway! The outsolerubber sticks so well to wet rocks and logs compared to other companies. I dont know why, but mountains, rocks and logs gets so slippery here in Norway compared to other european countries I have been to! You should try the VJ Irock 2! It is the most popular one!
The previous world Champion on both OCR and Sky Running Ultra (and placing 4th in the World Mountain Running Championships last year), Jonathon Albon, runs in VJs, and also helped develop one of their shoes - the VJ SPORT XTRM.
I live in Finland, I'd never heard of VJmaxx, but then realised the shoes used to be a company called Sarva, I have winter spike pair. Quite well known with orienteers.
From Estonia. I use VJ shoes for orienteering, specifically the VJ Integrator 17, which have metal studs for better grip (great for slippery fallen trees), the midsole has really little cushioning, makes sense since it's an orienteering/off trail shoe, but I can really feel the ground impact when there's an asphalt section. Also having a problem with blisters on my right foot, and only my right foot. Probably shoud've gone a half size down. Overall, I like VJ, but might just have to switch my orienteering shoes whenever the racing starts again.
VJ are getting pretty popular in the UK fell running scene. I’ve been wearing the VJ XTRM for the last year or so and they’re my favourite fell shoes by far. As close to perfect as you’ll find.
I train and race in VJ’s. Typically race in the iRock3 for muddier obstacle course races, the XTRM(a shoe skyrunning series champ Jon Albon made to spec) for everything not super muddy and under 20 miles, and the MAXx for everything over that. The MAXx starts to feel really good after about 30-40 miles of training in them. I’ve worn them for the Broken Arrow 50k, Spartan Race 24 Hour world championship in Sweden, and The Drift 100 in Wyoming. I’ve never had a single issue with blisters in them. The short shoe laces have actually been replaced with longer laces in the more recently produced Maxx’s. I initially worried about the tongue being too short but have worn various pairs over the past year and have absolutely never had trouble with them. I think it’s pretty much the best shoe out there on wet rocks and logs, basically any time you want good grip.
Aaron Newell i agree with needing to break them in before you get that comfort. When I got my second pair I was reminded of that and has to go back and forth with the older to transition. The grip is excellent. Comfort is fair, I consider them racing shoes and prefer others for longer training runs.
VJ is very popular in the orienteering and trail running community in Sweden. VJ Bold 8 or 9 is the go to race shoe for most elite orienteers. Inov-8 and Icebug (Spirit OLX developed together with Tove Alexandersson) is also veeery popular in Sweden.
This is my second season training and racing in the VJ's. I could run in this shoe for 2 full seasons easily before needing a new pair. Incredible durability. Also very responsive, I can run FAST in these babies. My favorite models are the XTRM's and the MAXx
VJ MAXx has insane grip! The durability of this shoe is awesome! I have ran in this shoe for an entire spartan season and it’s still going strong. The laces never back off and comfort is great. Best grip and durability period!
I have been running and racing in VJ MAXx for over a year now. Have. not found a shoe that compares to its durability and grip. Training in the northeast USA is all rocky technical terrain and having the grip VJ is known for is a serious advantage. They do start off stiff but the shoe softens up fast and is incredibly comfortable for any distance.
VJ shoes are huge in the Orienteering community around the world with most of the biggest athletes being sponsored by them. The older VJs are really aggressive trail racing shoes (for orienteering races
A guy on my team is sponsored by VJ. Here in the Nordics (I live in Sweden) they're really advertised as the ultimate shoes for orienteering where you run with a map from point to point and don't necessarily follow the trails. I can imagine how a good firm midsole is important when going off-trail, stepping on branches and rocks.
I've owned a pair of VJ MAXx's for about a year and have put well over 300+ miles via Spartan Racing, Trail Running, and Hiking up mountains in Southern California. The durability of these shoes is insane. I haven't been able to make a dent in them, literally. The VJ MAXx is arguably the most durable shoe on the market IMHO. Second to that, is the grip on these bad boys. Competing in Spartan Races that are muddy and wet, these shoes have kept me from slipping off the obstacles countless of times. I trust my VJs. No joke. In regards to the short tongue on the MAXx's that Seth mentioned, I've never had a problem with it. It's durable and sits right over my foot just right. So it doesn't really bother me. The two things I really love about the VJ's are the toe cap and the heel cushion. I know that sounds dumb, but I can't recall how many times I've kicked a big ass rock during trail running or at a Spartan Race and the toe cap came in handy. I barely felt anything. In my previous trail running shoe, every time I'd kick a rock, it would sting the crap outta me. As far as the cushion goes, I love the cushion on these. I have tested them out on 15-20 mile hikes and all days hikes as well. My feet feel pretty good afterwards and not all mangled. LOL. Anyhow, if you're in the market for a new trail running shoe, OCR shoe, or hiking shoe for the spring/summer, I would definitely recommend shelling out the money for these shoes. Well worth it. - Carlos IG: @carlosmagana
Great review! USA athlete. I've been running in VJ shoes for two years now and I agree with everything you said. I would recommend all runners to bump up a half size unless you have a super narrow foot. I am on my second year of the same pair of VJ Maxx's and will easily get through a third year based on how durable the shoes are. 👍
Love my VJs! I feel so confident when I race in these shoes blister free! I compete in OCR and these give me the grip I need for muddy obstacles and trails, plus I fly in them! Arrooo!
I had VJ shoes 4 years ago. IT was VJ Supra with spikes for orienteering. But the shoes didn't fit my foot well and after one season I think they get smaller. And on my last run in Supra shoes I got injured because I had them bad placed on my foot and it cost me good result on Czech sprint orienteering Championship. In Czech republic is VJ really popular with Inov-8 for orienteering
VJ is super popular among the trail running crowd in Finland. It's the go to shoe for a lot of people. I'd wear them too but they just don't fit my foot :D
QD: I lived 2 years in Sweden and then 2 years in Finland and have never heard about VJ. There was more popular Swedish Icebug so I also bought studded Icebug running shoes (microspikes) for winter. Those VJ Maxx remind me my old Icebug Anima BUGrip from 2012.
Great first impression! I've trained and raced in the VJ MAXx and iRock3. The nastier and steeper the terrain, the more their grip excels compared toy other trail shoes.
Saw and talked with someone in Spokane, WA on same day you published “Next trail running shoes for 2020” with a pair of VJs on. Crazy, I had just watched your video on it and instantly recognized her shoes. She said she purchased them in Australia and really likes them. She did say they run a little narrow, but overall a great shoe.
I run in the VJ iRock 3 on my local trails here in Oslo, Norway. My take is that this is best option in its niche - stuff that is super technical and needs amazing grip and security. If the trails are dry or less technical, I'm sure there are more comfortable options. i'd like to see you trying them out in even more challenging conditions, where they would shine. Because, oh, the grip! It's just amazing!
Highly detailed and solid review of the VJ MAXx trail shoe (AWESOME...!!!)... I look forward to your follow up review in the future... I trail run and race OCR’s in both the MAXx and XTRM in the VJ Shoes brand... I Love them both and have been using them for about a year and a half now for training and racing... By far the toughest and most durable OCR/Trail shoe I have ever owned... THE BEST GRIP ON THE PLANET... Hands Down...!!! For me, they fit like a glove and I have not had any issues with the tongue or laces... When laced up on my feet, I am as sure footed as a mountain goat... My feet stick where I plant them and the added confidence on the single track and the downhill trails has improved my game... Also the full rock plate in both models are a key feature I look for in any trail shoe... HIGHLY RECOMMEND... 💪🔥👍 @vjshoesusa
I absolutely love the MAXx- I am an endurance obstacle course racer. Key things l look for is durability, grip, and of course fit. I have put over 128 racing miles in my pair- from technical mountain runs to flat marshy races. The shoes are built to last. The grip is out of this world- holds terrain, muddy walls, wet river rock great giving me the confidence to race all out! VJs are my go to racing OCR/ trail shoes- hands down!
I’ve been wearing these shoes for just over a year now and hands down the best trail shoe on the market! The grip is insane, truly the best grip on the planet. I used to be afraid to really hammer down rocky descents because of poor shoe grip. With the vj shoe there is never a doubt with the grip. I also prefer the smaller tongue the fit around the foot is perfect and doesn’t feel to bulky like other shoes. If you haven’t tried these you must! You’ll never use any other trail shoe!
Patrick Beaulieu Same here, I feel the tongue is just enough as it is a fast shoe thus, needed more flexibility. I had a hard time in terms of flexibility on other trail running shoes brand such as Merrel, Salomon and Inov8. I use Maxx and Xtreme and they just blew my mind right away.
VJ is THE shoe brand in trailrunning as far as I can observe here in Southwestern Norway. Spanning XTreme, iRock, Maxx and now the Ultra, there is something for every condition. If you add the winterspiked version VJ Sarva Devil, you are covered for all your trailrunning. Very impressive shoes.
We love our VJ shoes for obstacle course racing/training. We also usually switch out the laces with LockLaces. Besides that, no complaints. Amazing grip!
I've done a ton of running in VJ shoes (and some SkyRunning races as well). Good review! I never lace them with the "runners lacing" as I don't find it necessary, however, I do move the lace to the top hole and skip the second-last hole. This gives good lace length. I've also never had an issue with the tongue being too short, just make sure you pull the tongue up fully when you start. As for the width, playing with sizing will help. I wear a super thin sock in these shoes to give a little more room. The tighter footbox really shines on more technical terrain, with steep downhills, since your foot won't slide around like they do in a larger footbox shoe. These shoes tend to "relax" a little and really start to shine from about mile 30 to mile 400. The more durable uppers are stiffer out of the box and they really start to conform to your feet nicely once you've gotten them muddy and put some harder miles on them. Enjoy! They are my favourite shoe.
I love VJ Shoes! Starting wearing VJs when I saw all the pros racing in them... they really are a game changer for grip and durability. My favorites are still the XTRM and IROCK3
Hi Seth! I live in Finland and VJ shoes are very popular in the orienteering community, and now they are following the Trailrunning trend. Trail running up here in Finland is a unique experience due to our terrain. Actually some of the features of the shoe seems to be comming from that legacy. For example narrow fit, in orienteering you want that since your shoes will be soaking wet 99% of the time (here in Scandinavia) and when that happens materials ”expands” just a bit. Orienteering shoes are also very low and firm from cushioning since you want your feet to be as close to the ground as possible not to hurt your ankles. Just had my own VJ’s on while orienteering yesterday.
Hello from Finland! I first tested this shoe for over a year ago, before it even was in the stores in here. The company is sponsoring a local trail race, and they were promoting this shoe in one of the pre race open group runs. So ever since that day i've wanted to buy these. Finally about two weeks ago I bought these from a local sports store, and I must say, that I'm very pleased. These shoes feel like they are made for my feet! I also own a pair of VJ Xero 5, they are studded shoes for winter running or orienteering. They're pretty good as well, slightly narrower than VJ Maxx. The grip is amazing, altough I managed to lose one stud already after 200 km's of running. That's a quite big minus.
The MaXx is my favorite training shoe for mid to long distances. I've raced in them at The Rut 28k and the Montana Spartan Beast, two radically different terrains and they excelled at both. Traction was never an issue and the upper held up to some serious bushwhacking and miles of dinner plate size shale rock descents. Highly Recommend!!
The quality of your videos continues to improve, and it's pretty amazing. Props to you. Also, I make running videos like Seth as well and am working really hard!
I recently started racing OCR in these shoes and they are by far my favorite shoe that I’ve raced in. “The best grip on the planet” is definitely not an understatement.
I really enjoy all of my VJShoes. The MAXx is my current favorite. I have two pair of them. Have done 4 ultra races in them including a 100 mile race this past March. Add in all the training with them and I have tons of miles between the two pairs. I have also worn them in shorter OCR races. The grip is great, the fit perfect, and the durability has been outstanding.
For orienreerers Vj bold or Vj Irock are the best options. Im running in the Vj bold series for racing in the nordic countries and in Salming OT comp in the continetal southern european countries.
Vj is not that popular or known by regular road runners in Sweden. However the brand is very popular among orienteerers, and used by most professionals in the sport even though Nvii (a new brand) starts to get very popular. If it was not clear I live in Sweden close to Norway.
I'm from the Czech republic and it is quite popular here. My favorite model is actually the irock, because it's really comfy for me and it is an absolute tank, after about 600 miles the sole is a little worn but the upper is like new :-D Also, I asked you about vj on Strava about 4 months ago
We’re a big fan of VJ Shoes at AAB. Grip is insane on wet muddy rocks here in New England. They’re rugged and tough for sure. Have run 30+ OCR’s in my first pair, and haven’t had to retire them yet! Great review Seth!
3 роки тому
I've done about 400km orienteering on VJ Bold X and they are pretty fast and nimble but not the most comfy for rock hard roads or trails since they have only a little cushioning. The upper fabric is even more hardcore than on VJ Maxx. Bold X has excellent grip on any surface since they have star shaped studs.
Hello! First comment for me. Live in sweden and do swimrun. A new sport here in sweden. VJ is popular because its good grip on wet rocks. They have low waterweigth which is important as you swim in the shoes. I use Irock but the are very narrow in toebox. I also use VJ MAXx which I find more roomy. Better cushioned for longer runs.
I love these shoes, raced them last year at the 24hr Spartan World Championships in ARE, Sweden. No blisters, durable, and amazing grip. I'm hard on shoes so Hokas or other brands with soft uppers don't work. These are perfect for gnarly/steep technical terrain and like you say in the video, last forever! They are just as snug months later as they were on day one.
This shoe does fantastic in wet conditions and especially in alpine trail running (rocks, loose dirt, you name it). Great grip. The motto is the truth...”best grip on the planet.” I noticed you gave some critique the tongue length. I see that, but I’d like to note that I’ve put about 150 miles on my pair and the tongue doesn’t move. I’ve had zero issues with the length. Regardless, this is an excellent mountain running shoe. My go-to. I am also an OCR competitor and this serves well for the longer (13 mile + events). I use their VJXTRMs for shorter distances.
Finally! If you could remember, I have asked you about this shoe when you had a live stream. I trained and race with this shoe and I fell in love of it right away. I have to point out that I have used Merrel Agility Flex 2, Inov8 Parkclaw & Salomon Sense Pro but this is just one hell of a shoe for me. I race OCR and this shoe is just amazing. I agree with the aggressiveness of the shoe but I did not felt any exhaustion to my entire legs using them. I use VJ Maxx and VJ Xtreme. I would say VJ Xtreme is the most aggressive as it has lowest drop, pretty firm sole than Maxx and deeper lugs. Irock has high drop than Xtreme. Maxx is their widest toe box but then again, they just released a new model “Orienting” which claim to have wider toe box but this has some metal pin on the slugs. Water comes out of the shoe pretty damn quick. And the grip is just plain amazing. I honestly treat them as race shoes because they tend to push me forward than other Trail shoes I have mentioned above. Looking forward for your whole review! Stay safe!
hi seth ...thanks for your review ...i have not tried vj shoes yet but have worn multiple versions of karhu shoes down the years ...some interesting finnish innovations there,including the fukcrum midsole technology ...well worth checking out if you can track a pair down in a close out sale ....cheers ....tommy ...
Been a couple of years since i competed in a Skyrunning event. Ran in some great events in Scotland and Norway but they are tough tough days out. I enjoyed the shorter skyrunning stuff (up to 20 miles) but after that it hurts. Vertical Kilometres (also under the Skyrunning umbrella) are fun as well.
Agreed with all your criticism Seth! I own the VJ MAXx and the VJ XTRM, and use the two on short and steep runs only. VJ is a durable brand, but very uncomfortable for the price. My top shoe in my rotation is the Scarpa Spin, which is as minimal as the VJ shoes, but much more comfortable 🤘👍
Really popular and have a big presence in the Swedish orienteering scene, mainly the VJ Bold (with metal studs) and VJ Irock (rubber). In the trail scene their presence is fairly small since it's such a competitive market.
There was some Skyrunning races here in Chile. I ran three of them. The highest start from 3000m to 5400m above sea level 🇨🇱🙌🏻. Also I run Run The Rut in Montana, awesome place 🤩
Thanks for this review Seth. I've been very interested in VJ since a lot of the top OCR racers have started gravitating towards it. I think I'll stick with my Salomons for now though.
QD2: Sky running! Would 100% sign up. The footage from Skyrunning UA-cam channel is awesome and the races look unbelievable. The technical trails combined with the amazing views would be awesome
Vj is popular mostly for ocr races here in Sweden. Icebug and Vj. Try Icebug capra. It was developed in coordination with Tove Alexandersson(orienteering/sky running champion)
QD. Interested in sky running. Seen it featured in Australian running magazines. The Buffalo Stampede event in Victoria and also the Northface 100 in New South Wales. I am a trail running novice with limited trail running experience as part of XC racing but sky running being at the extreme end of trail running does take my fancy as being a runner I have progressed from track to road and onto marathon and I admit marathon running for me is the most enjoyable challenge I have experienced with running so far.
QOD: I've not raced in VJ shoes, but many of friends had for trail and OCR. They mentioned the grip is really good. We couldn't get these in Malaysia so had to buy them in from Australia which with the conversion bring up the price point to MYR600+ a pair. So, it's pretty steep of a price point but I guess for people who can afford it and is using the shoes constantly for training and racing, it is a very durable shoes.
I have raced and trained with my VJs for orienteering for so many years. Surely they are not so comfortable but that's the name of the game when orienteering. For trail running I prefer something more foregiving and wider shoe.
When will La Sportiva (e.g. Kaptiva or Jackal) get back into your trail shoe rotation? Don't be afraid, both models are on the softer side (Kaptiva for short and middle distance, Jackal for long and ultra distance). Greetings from Salyburg/Austria!!!
Signed up for the Minotaur skyrace in crowsnest Canada that was supposed to be end of June, unfortunately it was postponed until next year as with many events! Only North American stop on the Skyrunning World Series.
@sethdemoor Being in the UK and seeing much of the European trail and mountain running scene, I think that European runners dont care as much about "stack height" as American runners. I sense that European runners prefer a stripped back minimal type shoe, even for longer runs off road. Food for thought👍
QD: I'm living in Estonia and never heard about VJ shoes. We got Icebug, Salming, La Sportiva available but 90% of trail shoes you see will be always Salomon
@@clappers1233 Hello! I just recieved my pair, I love most of them, but I have the same issue with the heel slippage. Did it resolve itself for you? And did your heel get less slippage after breaking them in?
Directly from their website Product Details Runs true to size; the MAXx is the roomiest of our models Cushioning units in front and heel FitLock for mid sole stability Outsole is 100% Butyl-rubber Full length rock plate Strengthened rubber toe-cap 4 mm cleats in outsole 16mm/10mm stack height 6 mm drop Weight (US 8.5): 8.8 oz (250 g)
These are my ALL-TIME fav shoe! I'm a Canadian pro athlete in skyrunning, trail running + ocr. Most people I know who try these, like me, basically never wear any other shoe again. I do agree the laces are too short, but they legitimately have the best grip ever, and I just find these so versatile. I wear them for short training days and super long days alike.
Agree, I’ve been thruough a lot of VJ models and this is the one and only I use nowadays.
VJ is a popular shoebrand in the running and orienterering-community in Norway! The outsolerubber sticks so well to wet rocks and logs compared to other companies. I dont know why, but mountains, rocks and logs gets so slippery here in Norway compared to other european countries I have been to! You should try the VJ Irock 2! It is the most popular one!
The previous world Champion on both OCR and Sky Running Ultra (and placing 4th in the World Mountain Running Championships last year), Jonathon Albon, runs in VJs, and also helped develop one of their shoes - the VJ SPORT XTRM.
Orienteering woo! Olav Lundanes use the VJ Bold for all his orienteering.
VJ may be a good option in the Blue Ridge Mtns here in the Southeast USA.
@@seandunlap1743 We certainly think so.... 👍🏼
I live in Finland, I'd never heard of VJmaxx, but then realised the shoes used to be a company called Sarva, I have winter spike pair. Quite well known with orienteers.
From Estonia. I use VJ shoes for orienteering, specifically the VJ Integrator 17, which have metal studs for better grip (great for slippery fallen trees), the midsole has really little cushioning, makes sense since it's an orienteering/off trail shoe, but I can really feel the ground impact when there's an asphalt section. Also having a problem with blisters on my right foot, and only my right foot. Probably shoud've gone a half size down. Overall, I like VJ, but might just have to switch my orienteering shoes whenever the racing starts again.
BEST training trail runner! Ran the West Coast trail in this shoe 80km straight, and wet. The rubber on the bottom is next level too.
VJ are getting pretty popular in the UK fell running scene. I’ve been wearing the VJ XTRM for the last year or so and they’re my favourite fell shoes by far. As close to perfect as you’ll find.
Inov8 and VJ both are shoes of choice in orienteering aswell as Icebug
VJ is fairly popular in the UK fell scene, it is usually invo8 xtalon vs VJ irock.
I train and race in VJ’s. Typically race in the iRock3 for muddier obstacle course races, the XTRM(a shoe skyrunning series champ Jon Albon made to spec) for everything not super muddy and under 20 miles, and the MAXx for everything over that. The MAXx starts to feel really good after about 30-40 miles of training in them. I’ve worn them for the Broken Arrow 50k, Spartan Race 24 Hour world championship in Sweden, and The Drift 100 in Wyoming. I’ve never had a single issue with blisters in them. The short shoe laces have actually been replaced with longer laces in the more recently produced Maxx’s. I initially worried about the tongue being too short but have worn various pairs over the past year and have absolutely never had trouble with them.
I think it’s pretty much the best shoe out there on wet rocks and logs, basically any time you want good grip.
Aaron Newell i agree with needing to break them in before you get that comfort. When I got my second pair I was reminded of that and has to go back and forth with the older to transition. The grip is excellent. Comfort is fair, I consider them racing shoes and prefer others for longer training runs.
VJ is very popular in the orienteering and trail running community in Sweden. VJ Bold 8 or 9 is the go to race shoe for most elite orienteers. Inov-8 and Icebug (Spirit OLX developed together with Tove Alexandersson) is also veeery popular in Sweden.
I want to see Seth try orienteering, there is a orienteering club in Colorado (Rocky Mountain Orienteering Club)
This is my second season training and racing in the VJ's. I could run in this shoe for 2 full seasons easily before needing a new pair. Incredible durability. Also very responsive, I can run FAST in these babies. My favorite models are the XTRM's and the MAXx
The snapback and long hair is a good look, get the Stussy on too
VJ MAXx has insane grip! The durability of this shoe is awesome! I have ran in this shoe for an entire spartan season and it’s still going strong. The laces never back off and comfort is great. Best grip and durability period!
I have been running and racing in VJ MAXx for over a year now. Have. not found a shoe that compares to its durability and grip. Training in the northeast USA is all rocky technical terrain and having the grip VJ is known for is a serious advantage. They do start off stiff but the shoe softens up fast and is incredibly comfortable for any distance.
VJ shoes are huge in the Orienteering community around the world with most of the biggest athletes being sponsored by them. The older VJs are really aggressive trail racing shoes (for orienteering races
A guy on my team is sponsored by VJ. Here in the Nordics (I live in Sweden) they're really advertised as the ultimate shoes for orienteering where you run with a map from point to point and don't necessarily follow the trails. I can imagine how a good firm midsole is important when going off-trail, stepping on branches and rocks.
AsGuusual - Running, Lifestyle and Technology Jon Albon?
@@tomjordan5182 Nope, it's Jerker Lysell
I've owned a pair of VJ MAXx's for about a year and have put well over 300+ miles via Spartan Racing, Trail Running, and Hiking up mountains in Southern California. The durability of these shoes is insane. I haven't been able to make a dent in them, literally. The VJ MAXx is arguably the most durable shoe on the market IMHO. Second to that, is the grip on these bad boys. Competing in Spartan Races that are muddy and wet, these shoes have kept me from slipping off the obstacles countless of times. I trust my VJs. No joke. In regards to the short tongue on the MAXx's that Seth mentioned, I've never had a problem with it. It's durable and sits right over my foot just right. So it doesn't really bother me. The two things I really love about the VJ's are the toe cap and the heel cushion. I know that sounds dumb, but I can't recall how many times I've kicked a big ass rock during trail running or at a Spartan Race and the toe cap came in handy. I barely felt anything. In my previous trail running shoe, every time I'd kick a rock, it would sting the crap outta me. As far as the cushion goes, I love the cushion on these. I have tested them out on 15-20 mile hikes and all days hikes as well. My feet feel pretty good afterwards and not all mangled. LOL. Anyhow, if you're in the market for a new trail running shoe, OCR shoe, or hiking shoe for the spring/summer, I would definitely recommend shelling out the money for these shoes. Well worth it. - Carlos IG: @carlosmagana
Love the content Seth you’re a big inspiration and you helped me start my own channel and show my whole running journey
Great review! USA athlete. I've been running in VJ shoes for two years now and I agree with everything you said. I would recommend all runners to bump up a half size unless you have a super narrow foot. I am on my second year of the same pair of VJ Maxx's and will easily get through a third year based on how durable the shoes are. 👍
Love my VJs! I feel so confident when I race in these shoes blister free! I compete in OCR and these give me the grip I need for muddy obstacles and trails, plus I fly in them! Arrooo!
I had VJ shoes 4 years ago. IT was VJ Supra with spikes for orienteering. But the shoes didn't fit my foot well and after one season I think they get smaller. And on my last run in Supra shoes I got injured because I had them bad placed on my foot and it cost me good result on Czech sprint orienteering Championship.
In Czech republic is VJ really popular with Inov-8 for orienteering
VJ is super popular among the trail running crowd in Finland. It's the go to shoe for a lot of people. I'd wear them too but they just don't fit my foot :D
QD: I lived 2 years in Sweden and then 2 years in Finland and have never heard about VJ. There was more popular Swedish Icebug so I also bought studded Icebug running shoes (microspikes) for winter. Those VJ Maxx remind me my old Icebug Anima BUGrip from 2012.
Great first impression! I've trained and raced in the VJ MAXx and iRock3. The nastier and steeper the terrain, the more their grip excels compared toy other trail shoes.
Saw and talked with someone in Spokane, WA on same day you published “Next trail running shoes for 2020” with a pair of VJs on. Crazy, I had just watched your video on it and instantly recognized her shoes. She said she purchased them in Australia and really likes them. She did say they run a little narrow, but overall a great shoe.
I run in the VJ iRock 3 on my local trails here in Oslo, Norway. My take is that this is best option in its niche - stuff that is super technical and needs amazing grip and security. If the trails are dry or less technical, I'm sure there are more comfortable options. i'd like to see you trying them out in even more challenging conditions, where they would shine. Because, oh, the grip! It's just amazing!
The MAXx is that more comfortable option for less technical or dry trails! Thanks!
Highly detailed and solid review of the VJ MAXx trail shoe (AWESOME...!!!)... I look forward to your follow
up review in the future...
I trail run and race OCR’s in both the MAXx and XTRM in the VJ Shoes brand... I Love them both and have been using them for about a year and a half now for training and racing... By far the toughest and most durable OCR/Trail shoe I have ever owned... THE BEST GRIP ON THE PLANET... Hands Down...!!!
For me, they fit like a glove and I have not had any issues with the tongue or laces... When laced up on my feet, I am as sure footed as a mountain goat... My feet stick where I plant them and the added confidence on the single track and the downhill trails has improved my game... Also the full rock plate in both models are a key feature I look for in any trail shoe...
HIGHLY RECOMMEND... 💪🔥👍 @vjshoesusa
I absolutely love the MAXx- I am an endurance obstacle course racer. Key things l look for is durability, grip, and of course fit. I have put over 128 racing miles in my pair- from technical mountain runs to flat marshy races. The shoes are built to last. The grip is out of this world- holds terrain, muddy walls, wet river rock great giving me the confidence to race all out! VJs are my go to racing OCR/ trail shoes- hands down!
I’ve been wearing these shoes for just over a year now and hands down the best trail shoe on the market! The grip is insane, truly the best grip on the planet. I used to be afraid to really hammer down rocky descents because of poor shoe grip. With the vj shoe there is never a doubt with the grip. I also prefer the smaller tongue the fit around the foot is perfect and doesn’t feel to bulky like other shoes. If you haven’t tried these you must! You’ll never use any other trail shoe!
Patrick Beaulieu Same here, I feel the tongue is just enough as it is a fast shoe thus, needed more flexibility. I had a hard time in terms of flexibility on other trail running shoes brand such as Merrel, Salomon and Inov8. I use Maxx and Xtreme and they just blew my mind right away.
VJ is THE shoe brand in trailrunning as far as I can observe here in Southwestern Norway. Spanning XTreme, iRock, Maxx and now the Ultra, there is something for every condition. If you add the winterspiked version VJ Sarva Devil, you are covered for all your trailrunning. Very impressive shoes.
We love our VJ shoes for obstacle course racing/training. We also usually switch out the laces with LockLaces. Besides that, no complaints. Amazing grip!
I've done a ton of running in VJ shoes (and some SkyRunning races as well). Good review! I never lace them with the "runners lacing" as I don't find it necessary, however, I do move the lace to the top hole and skip the second-last hole. This gives good lace length. I've also never had an issue with the tongue being too short, just make sure you pull the tongue up fully when you start.
As for the width, playing with sizing will help. I wear a super thin sock in these shoes to give a little more room. The tighter footbox really shines on more technical terrain, with steep downhills, since your foot won't slide around like they do in a larger footbox shoe. These shoes tend to "relax" a little and really start to shine from about mile 30 to mile 400. The more durable uppers are stiffer out of the box and they really start to conform to your feet nicely once you've gotten them muddy and put some harder miles on them. Enjoy! They are my favourite shoe.
I love VJ Shoes! Starting wearing VJs when I saw all the pros racing in them... they really are a game changer for grip and durability. My favorites are still the XTRM and IROCK3
Hi Seth! I live in Finland and VJ shoes are very popular in the orienteering community, and now they are following the Trailrunning trend. Trail running up here in Finland is a unique experience due to our terrain. Actually some of the features of the shoe seems to be comming from that legacy. For example narrow fit, in orienteering you want that since your shoes will be soaking wet 99% of the time (here in Scandinavia) and when that happens materials ”expands” just a bit. Orienteering shoes are also very low and firm from cushioning since you want your feet to be as close to the ground as possible not to hurt your ankles. Just had my own VJ’s on while orienteering yesterday.
VJ is very popular in orienteering and adventure racing
Hello from Finland! I first tested this shoe for over a year ago, before it even was in the stores in here. The company is sponsoring a local trail race, and they were promoting this shoe in one of the pre race open group runs. So ever since that day i've wanted to buy these. Finally about two weeks ago I bought these from a local sports store, and I must say, that I'm very pleased. These shoes feel like they are made for my feet! I also own a pair of VJ Xero 5, they are studded shoes for winter running or orienteering. They're pretty good as well, slightly narrower than VJ Maxx. The grip is amazing, altough I managed to lose one stud already after 200 km's of running. That's a quite big minus.
The MaXx is my favorite training shoe for mid to long distances. I've raced in them at The Rut 28k and the Montana Spartan Beast, two radically different terrains and they excelled at both. Traction was never an issue and the upper held up to some serious bushwhacking and miles of dinner plate size shale rock descents. Highly Recommend!!
The quality of your videos continues to improve, and it's pretty amazing. Props to you.
Also, I make running videos like Seth as well and am working really hard!
I recently started racing OCR in these shoes and they are by far my favorite shoe that I’ve raced in. “The best grip on the planet” is definitely not an understatement.
I really enjoy all of my VJShoes. The MAXx is my current favorite. I have two pair of them. Have done 4 ultra races in them including a 100 mile race this past March. Add in all the training with them and I have tons of miles between the two pairs. I have also worn them in shorter OCR races. The grip is great, the fit perfect, and the durability has been outstanding.
For orienreerers Vj bold or Vj Irock are the best options. Im running in the Vj bold series for racing in the nordic countries and in Salming OT comp in the continetal southern european countries.
Vj is not that popular or known by regular road runners in Sweden. However the brand is very popular among orienteerers, and used by most professionals in the sport even though Nvii (a new brand) starts to get very popular. If it was not clear I live in Sweden close to Norway.
I'm from the Czech republic and it is quite popular here. My favorite model is actually the irock, because it's really comfy for me and it is an absolute tank, after about 600 miles the sole is a little worn but the upper is like new :-D Also, I asked you about vj on Strava about 4 months ago
We’re a big fan of VJ Shoes at AAB. Grip is insane on wet muddy rocks here in New England. They’re rugged and tough for sure. Have run 30+ OCR’s in my first pair, and haven’t had to retire them yet!
Great review Seth!
I've done about 400km orienteering on VJ Bold X and they are pretty fast and nimble but not the most comfy for rock hard roads or trails since they have only a little cushioning. The upper fabric is even more hardcore than on VJ Maxx. Bold X has excellent grip on any surface since they have star shaped studs.
Hello! First comment for me. Live in sweden and do swimrun. A new sport here in sweden. VJ is popular because its good grip on wet rocks. They have low waterweigth which is important as you swim in the shoes. I use Irock but the are very narrow in toebox. I also use VJ MAXx which I find more roomy. Better cushioned for longer runs.
I love these shoes, raced them last year at the 24hr Spartan World Championships in ARE, Sweden. No blisters, durable, and amazing grip. I'm hard on shoes so Hokas or other brands with soft uppers don't work. These are perfect for gnarly/steep technical terrain and like you say in the video, last forever! They are just as snug months later as they were on day one.
This shoe does fantastic in wet conditions and especially in alpine trail running (rocks, loose dirt, you name it). Great grip. The motto is the truth...”best grip on the planet.” I noticed you gave some critique the tongue length. I see that, but I’d like to note that I’ve put about 150 miles on my pair and the tongue doesn’t move. I’ve had zero issues with the length. Regardless, this is an excellent mountain running shoe. My go-to. I am also an OCR competitor and this serves well for the longer (13 mile + events). I use their VJXTRMs for shorter distances.
Finally! If you could remember, I have asked you about this shoe when you had a live stream.
I trained and race with this shoe and I fell in love of it right away. I have to point out that I have used Merrel Agility Flex 2, Inov8 Parkclaw & Salomon Sense Pro but this is just one hell of a shoe for me. I race OCR and this shoe is just amazing.
I agree with the aggressiveness of the shoe but I did not felt any exhaustion to my entire legs using them. I use VJ Maxx and VJ Xtreme. I would say VJ Xtreme is the most aggressive as it has lowest drop, pretty firm sole than Maxx and deeper lugs. Irock has high drop than Xtreme. Maxx is their widest toe box but then again, they just released a new model “Orienting” which claim to have wider toe box but this has some metal pin on the slugs.
Water comes out of the shoe pretty damn quick. And the grip is just plain amazing. I honestly treat them as race shoes because they tend to push me forward than other Trail shoes I have mentioned above.
Looking forward for your whole review! Stay safe!
hi seth ...thanks for your review ...i have not tried vj shoes yet but have worn multiple versions of karhu shoes down the years ...some interesting finnish innovations there,including the fukcrum midsole technology ...well worth checking out if you can track a pair down in a close out sale ....cheers ....tommy ...
Been a couple of years since i competed in a Skyrunning event. Ran in some great events in Scotland and Norway but they are tough tough days out. I enjoyed the shorter skyrunning stuff (up to 20 miles) but after that it hurts. Vertical Kilometres (also under the Skyrunning umbrella) are fun as well.
I used Vj Irock and Xtrm. I run OCR. These models are very aggressive and gripping.
Super interested in sky running. Love to see you having a go Seth!
Agreed with all your criticism Seth! I own the VJ MAXx and the VJ XTRM, and use the two on short and steep runs only. VJ is a durable brand, but very uncomfortable for the price. My top shoe in my rotation is the Scarpa Spin, which is as minimal as the VJ shoes, but much more comfortable 🤘👍
Broken Arrow has peaked my curiosity about Skyrunning. I'm squeamish with heights so I will probably still to watching it on UA-cam lol
VJ USA Athletes had a good showing last year at Broken Arrow, Aaron Newell, Ryan Atkins, and Lindsay Webster!
Love your shoe reviews, very helpful!
👍
Hey Seth, great review. Have you ever thought about making a different intro for the shoe reviews vs. the training/life vlogs?
VJ shoes are popular in the Spartan racing world even in the states
Really popular and have a big presence in the Swedish orienteering scene, mainly the VJ Bold (with metal studs) and VJ Irock (rubber).
In the trail scene their presence is fairly small since it's such a competitive market.
There was some Skyrunning races here in Chile. I ran three of them. The highest start from 3000m to 5400m above sea level 🇨🇱🙌🏻. Also I run Run The Rut in Montana, awesome place 🤩
Interesting stuff Seth - really looking forward to the other shoes you wore that day as well
Thanks for this review Seth. I've been very interested in VJ since a lot of the top OCR racers have started gravitating towards it. I think I'll stick with my Salomons for now though.
QD2: Sky running! Would 100% sign up. The footage from Skyrunning UA-cam channel is awesome and the races look unbelievable. The technical trails combined with the amazing views would be awesome
#QD2: I really looking forward to my first skyrace. It is Czech Championship in September - 22k and 1300 meters of vertical gain.
Cant wait, just ordered vj integrator high 6. But I intend to use it for paintball
QD: Skyrunning is the coolest running there is!
Hrm hrm, orienteering....
@@QronoZ713 Orienteering is at least in the top 10 of running!
Vj is popular mostly for ocr races here in Sweden. Icebug and Vj. Try Icebug capra. It was developed in coordination with Tove Alexandersson(orienteering/sky running champion)
I've managed just one sky runs here in the UK, difficult stuff so your input would be greatly received Seth.
QD. Interested in sky running. Seen it featured in Australian running magazines. The Buffalo Stampede event in Victoria and also the Northface 100 in New South Wales. I am a trail running novice with limited trail running experience as part of XC racing but sky running being at the extreme end of trail running does take my fancy as being a runner I have progressed from track to road and onto marathon and I admit marathon running for me is the most enjoyable challenge I have experienced with running so far.
QOD: I've not raced in VJ shoes, but many of friends had for trail and OCR. They mentioned the grip is really good. We couldn't get these in Malaysia so had to buy them in from Australia which with the conversion bring up the price point to MYR600+ a pair. So, it's pretty steep of a price point but I guess for people who can afford it and is using the shoes constantly for training and racing, it is a very durable shoes.
QD: Sky running sounds awesome! Dont know much about it.
I have raced and trained with my VJs for orienteering for so many years. Surely they are not so comfortable but that's the name of the game when orienteering. For trail running I prefer something more foregiving and wider shoe.
The MAXx is a wider shoe for VJ. Perfect for Trail Running!
Oh, forgot: would LOVE to get Dewa interested in SKY RUNNING!
When will La Sportiva (e.g. Kaptiva or Jackal) get back into your trail shoe rotation? Don't be afraid, both models are on the softer side (Kaptiva for short and middle distance, Jackal for long and ultra distance). Greetings from Salyburg/Austria!!!
It’s another double upload! 🏃🏃
The best for orientation races, for spartan or ocr races and vertical kilometer too
Just watched some sky running videos on UA-cam. Talk about running extremes. Parts of it look similar to mountain racing but at higher altitudes.
Signed up for the Minotaur skyrace in crowsnest Canada that was supposed to be end of June, unfortunately it was postponed until next year as with many events! Only North American stop on the Skyrunning World Series.
I’m only interested in the uphill Sky Races which are more of a VK race
You’re amazing Seth!!!
that shoe looks beautiful. would you recommend it for a trail ultra?
Cracking video Seth!
You should try Nvii, it's a really good orienteering and trail shoe just as the vj and inov-8.
they are huge in the uk hill and mountain running scene.
Im from Estonia (right next to Finland) and I had never heard of this company
QD2: I've never heard of sky running.
SFM Seriously 😳
@sethdemoor Being in the UK and seeing much of the European trail and mountain running scene, I think that European runners dont care as much about "stack height" as American runners. I sense that European runners prefer a stripped back minimal type shoe, even for longer runs off road. Food for thought👍
QD: I'm living in Estonia and never heard about VJ shoes. We got Icebug, Salming, La Sportiva available but 90% of trail shoes you see will be always Salomon
Aleksei Tkach no HOKA up there?
I just purchased the VJ ultra 2 trail shoe. How did your Vjs drain for you when they got wet?
How are your vj ultra 2s holding up? What are the strengths and weaknesses?
Just got these I love them but there is no lockdown in the heel my heel moves up and down so easily. Does this go away with a break in ?
@@clappers1233 Hello! I just recieved my pair, I love most of them, but I have the same issue with the heel slippage. Did it resolve itself for you? And did your heel get less slippage after breaking them in?
I returned them before I even used them. I did however get the MAXx 2s and they are incredible better in every way. And no heal slippage
Change in posting schedule?
bonus shoe review .. he has a lot of shoes to get through 😉
Some people are more familiar with the VJ brand “Sarva”.
Directly from their website
Product Details
Runs true to size; the MAXx is the roomiest of our models
Cushioning units in front and heel
FitLock for mid sole stability
Outsole is 100% Butyl-rubber
Full length rock plate
Strengthened rubber toe-cap
4 mm cleats in outsole
16mm/10mm stack height
6 mm drop
Weight (US 8.5): 8.8 oz (250 g)
Vj ultra review?
Seth u should try the Kenyan Enda shoes
we want more training videos pls
Running_with_marc lives in Finland (check out his UA-cam). I'm sure he can provide more insight into this brand
Yes Dan, actually they used to be called 'Sarva' I have a pair for winter running and enjoy them, and the shoes are quite popular with orienteers. :)
What is sky running?
QOD: I Live in Iceland and have never heard of VJ :)
You always want the shoe to be $10 cheaper 😂