Cimalp 864 Drop EVO

Minimalist footwear is footwear that tries to interfere "minimally" with the natural movements of the foot. A concept that gains prominence in the high performance trail runningshoes that we analyze in detail below; the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution Multi-Drops.

This is a super lightweight trail runningshoe that incorporates 3 pairs of insoles (8, 6 and 4 mm respectively) that allow you to evolve towards a more natural stride. While it is true that, a priori, it may be a somewhat "convoluted" concept, the truth is that the French company presents it in an easy, simple and very practical way.

If, like me, you are not used to running with low drops; the proposal that Cimalp makes us get should be considered with time. The body has to get used to the progressive reduction of the drop and, therefore, the "jumps" from one insole to another will have to be delayed a little more in time. These times will always vary depending on the runner.

These Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution Multi-Drops present the innovative progressive Drop Evolution concept. A transition process towards minimalism that favors a gradual reduction of the drop, from 8mm to 4 mm. The French company 's proposal is to accompany you in this process towards a more natural stride, providing you with an adapted response before, during and after. But how is this process forged? I must admit that it has been easier than I thought and the results have been more than evident. Of course, it is a process of adaptation that takes time; it is not a matter of two days.

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Who are the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution Multi-Drops recommended for?

The transition to minimalism requires a process of adaptation. If, like me, you are not used to running with low drops, the Cimalp proposal should be considered over time. The body has to get used to the progressive reduction of the drop and, therefore, the "jumps" from one insole to another will have to take a little more time. These times will always vary depending on the runner.

In my case, the first 2 weeks I was running with the drop 8 insole; it is a profile to which I am accustomed. However, with the drop 6 and drop 4, respectively, the adaptation process was somewhat longer, reaching 5 weeks to make the jump from one insole to another. I needed to feel confident and comfortable, to get used to that midsole height before changing the insole.

Their lightness makes these Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution an unbeatable bet for neutral-footed trail runners eager to run long distances in the mountains. A model especially focused on demanding trail runners who seek, prioritizing safety above all, to "get started" or even "get a foothold" in the concept of minimalism.

The 3 reasons why I loved the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution

• Lightweight. Weighing just 265 grams, this women's trail runningshoe guarantees a lightweight running experience without compromising stability and durability.
• Comfort. The CROMOSOMA midsole ensures good shock absorption during running. Also, thanks to the R-FOAM compound, a hollow structure in the forefoot, it ensures greater comfort. A lightweight model with a seamless and breathable upper emphasizes the feeling of comfort.
• Traction. The VIBRAM MEGAGRIP outsole is a guarantor of traction and grip. A rubber that offers excellent grip properties both on somewhat compacted terrain with loose stones.

For what kind of distances are the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution shoes designed for?

The Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution has been optimized to complete long runs on the most uneven terrain. We could talk about distances ranging from half marathon to distances of less than 80km.

Main characteristics of the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution Multi-Drops

The natural habitat of these top-of-the-range trail runningshoes in terms of cushioning is rough and uneven terrain. Forest trails, compacted terrain, loose rock. However, if you're looking for a model to tackle softer or wetter terrain, this may not be the best choice.

Opportunities for improvement in the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution

Little room for improvement in a model that combines comfort, protection and performance to face the most demanding distances in the mountains. However, as far as fit and support are concerned, I do believe that the French company can evolve towards a more anatomical fit. While it is true that the seamless upper ensures excellent comfort, I miss more protection in the ankle collar area.

A more generous padding could improve the performance of a model that is far from the robustness that characterizes trail running models.

What are the shoes with which these Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution can be compared?

The truth is that the Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution is apioneering concept in the competitive trail running segment. However, being a lightweight shoe, to face long distances, that accompanies you in that transition towards "minimalism" we could confront them with:

• HOKA ONE ONE Mafate Speed 3
• Salomon Sense Pro 4
• Altra Running Timp 3

Final Conclusions

If you are looking for a trail runningshoe with which to test the benefits of minimalism, these Cimalp 864 Drop Evolution are your ideal companion. A shoe with which to begin the process of transition to minimalism with maximum protection and safety. Lightweight and comfortable, it is a very versatile and versatile option to face the most demanding distances in the most uneven terrain.

RUNNEA tester's final rating

• Lightness: 8
• Responsiveness: 7
• Cushioning: 8
• Stability: 75
• Flexibility: 7
• Grip: 85