 |
| BIOM LITE (l) BIOM GRIP (r) |
Outdoor Retailer, SLC
words/images Judith Ecochard
ECCO is a Denmark based brand that is making headways in the natural motion footwear category-with is launch of BIOM (biomechanical optimization) kickers-back in 2009
Since then the concept of "unlocking the body's intrinsic capabilities" to 'properly' walk/run/hike-move-with a natural gait---thereby strengthening the feet and lower leg muscles-and encouraging proper body alignment...is widely accepted.
Ecco's unique take on all of this -is the BIOM collection with its comfortable feel-the direct-injection outsoles that look pretty cool too-with anatomical lasts, its glove like fit and low to the ground construction.
 |
| BIOM TRAIL |
Smartly, ECCO BIOM's powers that be understand that one size/model does not fit all...and accounts for this with a really huge assortment of performance footwear under the BIOM moniker---including kickers for HIKE, WALK, RUN (A-C-depending on speed and experience of the runner, and probably weight too), GRIP-for lifestyle everyday jaunts...GOLF, and TRAIN-good for gym sessions.
 |
| BIOM LITE |
Besides task oriented criteria-the direct-injected PU midsoles and non-marking outsoles---designed with specific traction patterns- vary in thickness---and level of support. And personal preference def matters too.
 |
| BIOM GRIP 1.2-women's |
 |
| BIOM GRIP 1.1 |
Currently available in whole sizes-we found that we needed to wear super thick socks and not a minimally padded one---as we are a USA 8.5...but that worked just fine for us in the colder temps.
 |
| BIOM GRIP-men's |
We also got a chance to try out the new BIOM LITE---"...the lightest, lowest most barefoot-like BIOM with its minimal cushioning and ultra low-profile..."
With our half size and narrow heels-we again had to wear super thick socks to obtain the "glove-like" fit---but really felt good with how we were able to do shorter distance runs, in the colder weather- in complete comfort. Nice.
The TPU outsole is super thin-but as we do not run on putting green quality grass---but on asphalt and on dirt trails with a few protruding rocks here and there-we appreciated what amount of protection was offered.
PLUS: With the textile uppers, caged in leather---the shoes were flexible enough too. ALSO NICE.
IMO-the quality is outstanding-these are durably made shoes-that will probably last longer than other brands. Prices typically range from $150-$175
 |
| BIOM GRIP-men's |
 |
| BIOM GRIP 1.1-men's |
 |
| Siberia-KIEV-super lightweight, anatomically shaped midsole, warm and water repellant upper nubuck and suede |
 |
| Siberia-RIGA-with fold down cuffs, Hydramax™ treated leather for permanent suppleness, highly water resistant uppers |
----the ECCO quality is there---the multi-functional grippy outsoles, and all day support---via a comfortable stride guaranteed with the proprietary Receptor® Technology-a "performance platform that makes the most of foot's systems for heel strike, mid-stance and push off---" which is the way we walk.
White soles are a throwback to our old Airwalk snowboard boots- and remind us of hightop sneakers too----
Quilted styles are also popular---
 |
 |
| Duck boot style-quilted lace-ups-with drawstring calf toggle-for a closure that really keep the elements out! |
 |
| New-GORE TEX waterproof leather boots-nicely done-with contrast stitching, a hiker style lace-up, multi-functional outsoles that grip many surfaces that winter can bring on. |
