How to choose the best VJ shoes


Hardlopen, Koopgidsen by Varuste.net / Toimisto-Jorma, 24.5.2023
VJ's story began in 1981 in the small village of Orivesi in Finland, and to this day, the brand has been producing and developing trail running shoes with passion and expertise for several decades. The company originated from the idea of creating specialized footwear for orienteers to use in challenging and slippery terrains. Shortly after its inception, VJ's shoes began to gain legendary status among orienteers and extreme athletes, and this reputation continues to grow even today. VJ's shoes are known for their exceptional durability, grip, and high quality.

VJ’s shoes help athletes achieve their dreams and win world championships in a variety of outdoor sports such as trail running, OCR, sky running and orienteering. The best athletes and adventurers in the world choose VJ shoes when grip and performance matter.  #thebestgripontheplanet

Special Innovations in VJ Shoes


Superior Contact Outsole and special tread patterns
The Superior Contact outsole, made from VJ's developed butyl rubber, ensures that you can confidently rely on the grip of the shoes regardless of the terrain you are running on - even on hard and wet surfaces. Depending on the model, the height of the lugs varies from three to six millimeters. Generally, the higher the lug, the better it performs in softer terrain. However, cushioning and other features also affect the intended use.

Fitlock System
Thanks to Fitlock, the shoe becomes a natural and perfectly fitting extension of your foot, which, together with the lacing, provides precise control exactly where you direct it. At the same time, Fitlock supports and protects the arch of the foot from impacts.

Midsole Solutions and Rock Plate
VJ has focused on all special situations and surprises that the terrain may offer from a trail runner's perspective: the midsoles are primarily made from highly responsive EVA or CMEVA material, which ensures an excellent running feel. In the latest models, the SuperFOAMance midsole takes cushioning to a new level with its lightness and responsiveness. Additionally, some shoes, especially those designed for longer distances, feature a full-length Rock Plate between the midsole and outsole, which prevents sharp stones and branches from being felt through the sole and adds stability to the shoe.


Which shoe to choose for which activity?

The grip of the outsole is guaranteed in every VJ shoe. What you should particularly pay attention to is the tread pattern (how aggressive the lugs need to be, or whether you might need studs even outside of winter). Remember that the perfect fit is best found by trying on the shoes. VJ's range includes both narrower and wider lasts. Regardless of the width, VJ shoes have a unique snug feel, which is essential: a snug-fitting shoe is precise and safe in challenging terrain.

Additionally, it is important to determine what kind of distances you plan to run and in what type of terrain. For sprint-type activities, the shoe needs to be light and fast, while for long ultra distances, comfort (last, space for toes) and extreme grip are required, especially if navigating special terrains like mountains.

Another point to consider regarding the durability of the footwear is the material used for the upper. VJ shoes are designed in detail to meet the needs of trail runners, but there are differences in the uppers. Breathable and durable uppers are made from a combination of aramid fiber and nylon or knitted one-piece. The most durable uppers are made from armored nylon or Schoeller Keprotec material.

The fastest VJ model in terms of features is the ultra-fast and ultra-light racing shoe, Lightspeed.

For all distances and varying terrains, the best options are the comfortable and high-performing MAXx2 and the XTRM2, designed for tough conditions and races.

For shorter distances and mild terrains, the specialized shoe is Spark. For short to medium distances in soft and rocky terrain, the best option is the IRock series, known for its aggressive design.

Ultra and Ultra 2 are perfect for long distances and also for shorter runs for those who appreciate the comfort provided by cushioning.

VJ's most popular studded shoe is found in the Devil series, featuring star-shaped carbon steel studs. The star-shaped carbide tip provides more edge and grip. This shoe is suitable for winter running, orienteering, and trail running that requires studs. The studded Xante series is at its best on slippery winter surfaces.

-20%
VJ Sarva Ace Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Ace Womens
Promotieprijs 151,20 €
(9)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Ace Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Ace Mens
Promotieprijs 151,20 €
(7)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Xante 2 Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Xante 2 Mens
Promotieprijs 119,20 €
(23)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Xante 2 Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Xante 2 Womens
Promotieprijs 119,20 €
(9)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-25%
VJ Sarva IceHero Womens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva IceHero Womens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Promotieprijs vanaf 119,90 €
(8)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-25%
VJ Sarva Icehero Mens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Icehero Mens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Promotieprijs vanaf 119,90 €
(17)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-28%
VJ Devil 5 Womens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Devil 5 Womens hardloopschoenen met spikes
Promotieprijs vanaf 99,90 €
(5)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Ultra 2 Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Ultra 2 Mens
Promotieprijs 135,20 €
(15)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva IceHero 2 Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva IceHero 2 Womens
Promotieprijs 135,92 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Icehero 2 Mens
 
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen met spikes‪»
VJ Sarva Icehero 2 Mens
Promotieprijs 135,92 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Polar 2 Mid Waterproof Unisex
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Antislipschoenen‪»Spijkerschoenen‪»
VJ Sarva Polar 2 Mid Waterproof Unisex
Promotieprijs 135,92 €
(2)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ XTRM 2 Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ XTRM 2 Mens
Promotieprijs 119,20 €
(11)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Maxx 2 Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Maxx 2 Mens
Promotieprijs 127,20 €
(6)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Xter Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Sarva Xter Mens
Promotieprijs 127,12 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-19%
VJ Sarva Ada Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Antislipschoenen‪»Spijkerschoenen‪»
VJ Sarva Ada Womens
Promotieprijs 102,26 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-33%
VJ Maxx Mens trailschoenen
 
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Maxx Mens trailschoenen
Promotieprijs vanaf 99,90 €
(45)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Artix 2 Mid Waterproof Unisex
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Winterschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Sarva Artix 2 Mid Waterproof Unisex
Promotieprijs 135,92 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Sarva Xter Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Dames‪»
VJ Sarva Xter Womens
Promotieprijs 127,12 €
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ XTRM 2 Womens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Dames‪»
VJ XTRM 2 Womens
Promotieprijs 119,20 €
(3)
Op voorraad beschikbaar
-20%
VJ Lightspeed Mens
Sporten‪»Buitenactiviteiten‪»Schoenen‪»Hardloopschoenen‪»Trailschoenen‪»Heren‪»
VJ Lightspeed Mens
Promotieprijs 143,20 €
(2)
Op voorraad beschikbaar

Misschien bent u ook geïnteresseerd in

Find your perfect Primus stove: The complete selection guide

Choosing the right stove can make all the difference on your outdoor adventures. Whether you're a solo hiker, a group camper, or an expedition adventurer, Primus offers a range of stoves to suit your needs. Here's a guide to help you decide—and a special spotlight on the innovati...

How to choose the right Fjällräven backpack

Selecting the right backpack is key to comfortable and efficient outdoor adventures. Here's a quick overview of Fjällräven's most popular backpack series to help you find the perfect companion for your journeys: Kajka Series Best for: Long hikes, even with heavier loads. Featu...

Varuste.net Home Trail

Download the GPX file of Varuste.net’s best trails in Malminkartano to your device from here! The start and finish of the route are at the Varuste.net parking lot. Route descriptionTrail designer, Samuli Pyykönen, Varuste.net The route runs clockwise. This challenging 4 km loop ...