Since I already have worn a couple pairs of 5.11 A/T boots before and enjoyed both their comfort and durability, I grabbed a pair of their A/T Trainers for working out. You can find that reviews here. I have enjoyed them enough that I occasionally don’t change out of them after the workout. I have been wearing them for the last several months and used them for all types of workouts: Olympic lifts, functional workouts, sprints and running. They have the fit and feel of the previous A/T boots that I have and fit true to size, with enough room in the toe box for physical activity. I chose the Storm color as it was a neutral gray color scheme. They come in 4 other colors, mostly variations of black or gray with different highlights.
The shoe is a low top trainer with 5.11 All Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.), that includes their Echo Lite high rebound EVA outsole, A.T.L.A.S. support plate for stability and Ortholite comfort foot bed for both comfort and support. The exterior of the shoe is made with high abrasion mesh and TPU welds to include a reinforced toe and heel cup. These trainers have the same soft fat shoe laces to prevent them from coming untied without having to double tie them. They feel light and the inner and outer soles provide shock absorption and energy return, preventing your feet from getting tired. My only complaint would be they felt like they had a low heel and I might lift out of them while running. However, I never had any issues. Even while doing sprints.
The soles are flat with aggressive tread similar to a traditional cross trainer. The rise in the sole was minimal so I could leave them on while doing Olympic style lifts, unlike my thicker running shoes. The tread is made up of multi directional lugs to provide the traction required when running on unimproved or wet surfaces. They have a tractioned arch for grip while climbing ropes. I run on all kinds of surfaces including gravel base and have not had any issues with feeling the rocks through the soles.
Final Thoughts: These have become my everyday trainers because of the functional fitness type workouts and the comfort they provide. These are some lightweight, durable shoes that I would recommend for both training and all day wear. They won’t replace my runners for the longer distance or weighted runs just because of my running style and prior injuries, I need more cushion for those.
By the numbers:
Comfort – 4.5/5 I would have given these a 5 except for the lower heel cup than I am used to and the feeling that I may lift out of them. The A.T.L.A.S. system provides a very comfortable foot bed with shock absorption and energy return.
Durability – 4.5/5 The mesh exterior with TPU reinforcements make these a durable trainer that should last through any hard training season. The rubber outsoles with aggressive lugs are holding up with the miles I have put on them running roads.
Functionality – 5/5 The trainers function as a versatile trainer for multi-type workouts providing comfort and support that a trainer should.
Weight – 5/5 These are some of the lightest trainers I have owned and they feel light when you are wearing them.
Value – 5/5 The retail price is $130 putting them on par with most purpose built trainers on the market and you can usually find them on sale at the 5.11 website.
Overall rating – 4.8/5 I was pleasantly surprised with the capability of a trainer from a company that hasn’t been manufacturing running and training shoes as their primary product. These are some very comfortable and durable yet effective trainers.
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer via Spotter Up so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal, or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product.
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