SHAMMA SANDALS-WARRIOR MAXIMUS---THE GOLDILOCKS SANDAL

Kind of a strange title to this post, I know, but it is really descriptive of this release from Josh at Shamma Sandals. I first tried the original Warriors from Shamma a number of years ago. I really enjoyed the incredible ground feel they provided, while offering protection from rocks, burrs, sticks, etc. More recently, I had the good fortune to obtain a pair of Mountain Goats, Shamma's model with a substantially thicker sole, made for heavy trail use. They are incredible, and I found myself wearing them whenever I was going on less-than-groomed trails. Add in their available Power Straps, and you are ready to take on the toughest terrain, wet or dry. Even in mud, these are on your feet to stay and they don't slide around.

Josh was recently kind enough to send me a pair of one of his newest models without charge, for purpose of testing and review. I am referring to the new Warrior Maximus. This review has taken longer than most, as I have worn and worn these. I have had them on dirt trail, trail with heavy leaf/other debris, sand, mud, gravel, asphalt, concrete, you name it. I really gave this pair a tough trial. Josh has truly hit the sweet spot with this sandal. They are thinner than the Mountain Goats, and thicker than the original Warriors. They came with power straps, and feel incredibly light on your feet. These are part of his Elite collection. I opted for the Ultragrip footbed. I found it really comfortable and conforming to my foot, and able to hold it's grip, even when wet. These are the perfect combination of the qualities of the Mountain Goats and the original Warriors. Just right, thus the Goldilocks reference in the title. So far, they are wearing very little, considering all of the miles I have put on them. When they get muddy, they are easy to just hose off and set up to dry. If you want a truly great experience in a running sandal, give the Warrior Maximus a try. Check them out at www.shammasandals.com