Tecnica is an American Trail Running Association (ATRA) double-track corporate member.
I’ve recently had the opportunity to test the new Tecnica Origin LT and after my first run, I give this trail running shoe a thumbs up! My initial test run was 4.5 miles and included dew-laden grass (my feet stayed dry), gravel road, pavement, sidewalk, dirt-strewn and rocky single track.
When I first laced up these beauties, I sensed I had too much wiggle room in my heel. I re-laced and tightened around the mid-section of my foot and voila, no more wiggling. In my experience, the lacing does not cause any rubbing or unnecessary pressure points. In addition, the tongue is an integrated part of the shoe upper and provides a snug fit and again…no rubbing. As far as looks, Origin LT are a great stand-out color for the trails – mostly black with a neon blue strip running from the front of the shoe to about the ankle. For grip, this custom fitting trail shoe features a Vibram sole.
Long used in Tecnica’s alpine ski boots, the removable insole features Custom Adaptive Shape (CAS) technology and is a real plus in this trail running shoe. In order to have the CAS fitted to your feet, runners need to visit a run specialty store, or a location carrying the CAS machine. Fortunately, we have a great location serving up the CAS machine in the Mountain Chalet in downtown Colorado Springs. The employees are knowledgeable and did a great job fitting me for the shoe. Be prepared to spend about 30-40 minutes from start to finish as the process is indeed customized.
Prior to getting the custom fitting, I did try on the shoes, and the fit was not very snug and I had too much room at the front of the shoe. I am typically a size 7 in trail running shoes so I needed to go down to a 6.5. Although you can wear the shoe without getting the customized fit, I chose not to as I felt the shoe was too loose. After the CAS was made just for me, the shoe fit perfectly.
Back to the trail run and some more noted observations. I was a bit concerned at first that I’d miss a hefty midsole. I did not. The shoe felt light, but sturdy. Upon acceleration, the performance was flawless and I felt light and fluid on my feet. When I encountered a rocky section trail, nothing pierced the sole, nor caused any discomfort, and the grip is excellent. I highly recommend this shoe for the casual trail runner, or the serious trail racing competitor.
Check out the initial press release from Tecnica to learn some of the finer points about the shoe’s construction and features.
Tecnica Origin LT, MSRP $170, Size tested: US 6.5 Women’s equivalent to 37 ½ European or 4.5 UK.
