I don’t usually weigh in with an opinion on run shoes given the individual nature of fit and mechanics but thought I’d share my pleasure and satisfaction with Montrail’s Leona Divide.
I’m not an expert - have never done an ultra and I don’t do Ironman so my experiences may be on the fringe of this forum. I simply enjoy the dirt version of our sport.
I train most of my miles on singletrack trail (shared with horses and Mtb). The terrain is rock - mud - rooted, hilly and sometimes all of the above. The Leona’s have been the most durable and comfortable foot protection I’ve had the pleasure to lace up. I typically run through at least two pairs of shoes a summer (6’4 185) but these “ever-ready” foot soldiers keep going and going. Most importantly for me, I haven’t had an over-use injury, turned ankle or sore feet from the trail beating I dish out to my feet. They dry out easy after getting wet and stick to the earth like super glue for those hard scrambling ascents or fast descents.
Anyone interested in doing some serious trail running, I would recommend these shoes for any conditions or distances you may encounter.