Trail-running shoes have become the preferred thru-hiking footwear for many overseas trails, and increasingly so for New Zealand’s Te Araroa. Aotearoa’s long-distance trail encompasses a particularly challenging variety of terrain and weather conditions that set it apart from many overseas trails, however, and although trail-running shoes have convincing benefits, including drying speed, energy efficiency and comfort for easy-to-moderate tracks and road walks, on the roughest tracks they are often compromised by limited durability, and lack traction, foot support and agility.

Salewa’s approach shoe expertise has influenced the design of the Pedroc 2 Max, a hybrid lightweight hiking and trail-running shoe that’s honed for day-after-day hiking comfort while still being responsive. It is built around Salewa’s heel-locking 3F system, which is integrated into a breathable mesh upper with a microfibre and EXA shell lining for foot-wrapping stability. Designed to handle rock strike and trail debris, it has a firm toe cap, prominent heel and toe bumpers, and TPU overlays. The Pomoca sole’s stability plate provides stiffness and effective underfoot protection.

I generally prefer lightweight boots or mids for thru-hiking, but if I was going to choose a shoe, the Pedroc 2 Max is a convincing option due to its balance of supportiveness, breathability and weight. It’s comfortable without being mushy, roomy without being clumsy, and doesn’t leave your foot beaten up after a long day on the trail.

Key features we like

Breathable foot-hugging uppers

Tear-resistant mesh along with minimal padding, low absorbency linings and no waterproof membrane keep this shoe cool in the heat and speed drying time. Salewa’s 3F system forms the heel-anchoring stability, and this continues through the midfoot with EXA shell reinforcing for support and structure. The forefoot is lined with a microfibre sleeve which, in combination with precise lacing, contributes to a slop-free, high-comfort fit.     

Grounded stability

With a stack height of 30.5/24.5mm, this 6mm-drop shoe is balanced to put the heel closer to the trail, enhancing ‘ground feel’ and proprioception for confident walking on rocky and rooty tracks. This drop encourages a stable and efficient gait on rough ground that I found was also aided by the wide Pomoca Hiker 2 sole, which has a partial heel brake and well-spaced 4mm lugs to help clear mud.    

Tuned for comfort

A spacious toe box belies the agility of this shoe, which has a well-tuned fit: roomy where it needs to be for toenail-wrecking descents and extended comfort, yet responsive and positive on a variety of surfaces. EVA midsole cushioning leans towards firm rather than mushy for positive trail feedback and support over long distances. The sole also integrates stability and pushback plates that make this shoe stiffer than average while considerably dulling sharp stones and roots, but this shoe does require some break-in time.

Durability for the distance

Lightweight shoes are always a compromise when it comes to durability, and the Pedroc 2 Max is no exception. However, this shoe is sturdier than most in its class owing to its high-durometer rubber, heel and toe reinforcing and tough TPU overlays, all intended to extend its range for long thru-hikes and to reduce the need for multiple replacement pairs.     

Wilderness verdict 

Whether you’re taking on rough day walks or the varied conditions of thru-hikes, this wide-fit shoe is optimised for day-after-day comfort and durability without feeling blunt and imprecise.

Trail Specs

Price $329.90

Weight 650g (m) 510g (w)

Heel to toe drop 6mm

Upper PFC-free high-tenacity mesh and microfibre with TPU overlays

Midsole Rebound EVA

Support High-density EVA

Sole Pomoca Speed Hiker 2