I had been on the hunt for the perfect trail running and orienteering shoes with superior grip for my mountaineering adventures. My checklist included excellent rock grip, a low heel-to-toe drop for a barefoot feel, a narrow fit, and fast drainage for swampy terrains. It seemed like an impossible quest until I stumbled upon the lesser-known Finnish orienteering shoe manufacturer, VJ Sport, and their Irock 2 model.
Red Irock 2 and the box
I bought the VJ Sport Irock 2 shoes from Suunnistajan Kauppa in Helsinki and paid 129€. With same visit I bought carrying bag for the shoes and couple normal running socks. The Irock 2 shoes come two colours, orange for the small sizes (3-7) and red for the bigger sizes (7.5-13). Shoes are light weighing about 240g.
Irock 2 up in the Italian Dolomites
I have narrow feett and these shoes hug them nicely and the Fitlock-lacing of the shoe locks the feet well, just remember to tighten the shoes well. I'm used using very minimal running shoes like Merrel Trail Glove 3 so when I first tried Irock 2s in orienteering I almost sprained my angle because of the high profile of the bottom of the shoe, so it was something to get used to. The drop from heel to toe is 6mm.
Testing Irock 2 at Hossa National Park in Finland
Key Features:
1. Exceptional Grip:
The butyl rubber sole provides outstanding traction on dry, solid ground, making it ideal for rocky terrains in Norwegian mountains and Italian Dolomites.
While lacking metal studs for tree roots, the shoe excels on bedrock, ensuring a firm grip even in challenging environments.
2. Fit and Locking Mechanism:
Designed for narrow feet, the Irock 2 shoes offer a snug fit, hugging the feet comfortably.
The Fitlock-lacing system ensures a secure fit, though it's essential to tighten the shoes properly for optimal performance.
3. Adaptability and Durability:
Suitable for various terrains, these shoes handle wet surfaces, muddy hills, and mossy inclines exceptionally well.
However, they lack drainage holes, affecting drying speed. The seams are supposed to facilitate water release, but it's not the fastest drying option available.
The shoes exhibit decent durability, although after extensive use in challenging conditions, some wear and tear occurred at the toe box seam.
Scrambling up Kongen in Romsdal Norway
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
Exceptional grip on rocky surfaces, making them ideal for mountainous environments.
Suitable for orienteering in diverse terrains, including Finnish forests.
Snug fit for narrow feet, enhanced by the Fitlock-lacing system.
Cons:
Limited availability outside Europe.
Moderate drying speed due to the absence of drainage holes.
Durability concerns observed after intensive use, particularly at stress points.
Conclusion:
If you're an avid mountain enthusiast seeking unparalleled grip and adaptability in challenging environments, the VJ Sport Irock 2 trail running shoes are an excellent choice. Their exceptional traction on rocky terrain, combined with a snug fit, makes them ideal for both orienteering and mountaineering activities. While they may have a few drawbacks, such as limited availability and drying speed, their overall performance in demanding conditions makes them a worthy investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
Note: For those residing outside Europe, obtaining these shoes might be a challenge, but if you can manage to get your hands on a pair, they can significantly enhance your mountain-like adventures.