Patagonia has a cache of trail runners in their stable, from the Everlong to Evermore to Evo. But one shoe shuns the “ever” moniker and laces up for serious trail running – the Tsali 3.0. These extremely loud (in the Folios Green color) comfortable, and traction-heavy runners look to be an eco-minded, trail runner’s dream. But do they hold up to the rigors of the dirt and rock world? We’ve been running in them since March and have some thoughts. First, the details.
The Patagonia Tsali 3.0 feature:
- Welded air mesh upper
- Perforated nylon reinforcement
- Synthetic toe bumper
- Reflective webbing and heel
- Dynamic lacing system
- Dri-Lex® moisture wicking ventilated air mesh collar and tongue lining treated with Aegis Microbe Shield®
- 20% recycled EVA anatomical perforated footbed with Aegis Microbe Shield®
- Forefoot shock absorption pad and flex grooves
- Gender specific lightweight 15% recycled EVA foot frame.
- 1 mm (men), 0.8 mm (women) forefoot shock absorption plate
- Sticky rubber outsole
- 10.4 oz
These shoes are decidedly meant for trail running. On my first foray, I took them on a road run around my neighborhood in Sugar House. Immediately, I noticed a lack of cushioning, and the fact that they are neutral was evident under my high arches. I kept running for around 3 miles total, however, and came away unsullied. Although the Tsali 3.0 are meant for trails, they worked adequately well for road running, but I don’t think I would attempt a marathon on city streets.
On the trail, the Tsali 3.0 felt more at home. I always like my trail shoes to have less cushioning for good ground-feel, but not so little that every pebble feels like a nail is being driven into my metatarsals. These shoes have a nice balance. Traction is adequate in the dirt, even when going up and down steep pitches, and I like the way they corner like agile puma paws. But while the soles are pretty much just there, doing the job, the thing I’m over the moon for are the uppers.
The Tsali’s welded-TPU air-mesh upper, when on my feet, feel super snug without being stiff. They are flexible, breathable, and the fact that they are welded (meaning no stitching) means that I never got any hot spots or chafing on my feet, even during long runs. The lacing system also works to the upper’s advantage for a super comfortable fit. I’d go so far to say that the Tsali 3.0 may have won me over as my favorite trail running uppers I’ve ever had the pleasure of running in. I also like how the toe box feels pretty roomy.
Now for my gripes. First, I’ve noticed that Patagonia shoes have been somewhat inconsistent with their sizing. I’ve tested other Patagonia shoes, like hiking boots and casual kicks, always in a size 8. Every one of them fit well enough to wear, but just a touch too small. So with the Tsali 3.0, I sized up to a 8 1/2. Now they feel a touch too big. I guess for me, there is no happy medium. Another gripe is that these shoes are loud on pavement. Sure, they’re built for trails, but when running city streets, they make an obnoxious slapping noise on a level that I’ve never encountered with other running shoes. It might be the neutral position they are built with, and I need to get more on my toes, but the result has seen me increase my music to an unhealthy level to drown out the sound (I want to apologize to anyone I pass on the trail for scaring you with my psycho stomping.)
The Good: Super comfortable, breathable and downright amazing welded uppers, good traction and performance on trails.
The Bad: Good but not great on pavement, noisy, Patagonia sizing is inconsistent in my experience (try them on before buying.)
Final Word: The Patagonia Tsali 3.0 trail running shoes are a good option for anyone who spends most of their time on the dirt, but need shoes with enough cushion to get them to the trailhead on city streets.
For more information, or to purchase, check them out at Patagonia.com