Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC
Buy Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC at today's best price (men's/women's)
7 minute read
Overview
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is a trail running shoe designed for long-distance races and ultra-marathons. This shoe is known for its lightweight construction and high traction, making it suitable for various terrains.
Key Features:
- Kinetic Foam Midsole: Provides up to 14% more energy return than standard EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, a common midsole material).
- Hybrid Traction: Ensures excellent grip on different trail surfaces.
- Technical Mesh Upper: Offers lightweight and breathable support.
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is an ideal choice for trail runners who prioritize energy efficiency and traction for long-distance runs. Its lightweight design and hybrid traction offer stability and grip, making it suitable for ultra-marathons and other long-distance trail events.
Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently just above the median price of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC excels in long-distance trail running, offering a lightweight and dynamic option for runners. The kinetic foam midsole provides excellent energy return, making each stride more efficient. The hybrid traction ensures a firm grip on various terrains, enhancing stability. The technical mesh upper is both breathable and supportive, contributing to overall comfort. However, some runners might find the 8 mm drop a bit high for their preference. Overall, the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is a versatile and high-performing trail shoe, especially for ultra-distance races. It offers great value for runners seeking a reliable and efficient trail running shoe.
Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC: Base model
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is a special version of the Scott Kinabalu. While the Kinabalu is designed for general trail running, the Ultra RC version is specifically built for long-distance races and ultra-marathons. The Ultra RC features a kinetic foam midsole for better energy return and a hybrid traction outsole for improved grip. These enhancements make the Ultra RC a more specialized option for runners seeking performance in ultra-distance events.
Comparable Shoes
The Hoka Speedgoat 4 is a good alternative for runners seeking more cushioning. While the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC offers excellent energy return and a lightweight design, the Speedgoat 4 provides a softer ride with its thicker midsole. Both shoes offer great traction, but the Speedgoat 4 might be better for those who prioritize cushioning over responsiveness.
The Salomon S/Lab Ultra 3 is another strong contender in the ultra-distance trail running category. It offers a more aggressive lug pattern compared to the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC, making it suitable for more technical trails. However, the Kinabalu Ultra RC excels in energy return and lightweight design, making it a better choice for smoother trails and fire roads.
The Altra Lone Peak 5 is a zero-drop trail shoe that appeals to runners who prefer a more natural running experience. While the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC has an 8 mm drop, the Lone Peak 5 offers a flatter profile. Both shoes provide good traction and durability, but the choice between them will depend on the runner's preference for heel-to-toe drop.
6 Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC Pros & Cons
4 Pros
2 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is made from a technical mesh material, which is both lightweight and breathable. This design helps keep the foot cool and comfortable during long runs. The thermoplastic polyurethane (a type of durable plastic) elements in the instep area add extra protection and support, making it suitable for rugged trails. The upper's construction ensures a snug fit, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort.
Midsole
The midsole of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC features kinetic foam, which provides up to 14% more energy return compared to standard EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, a common midsole material). This foam, combined with the eRide rocker effect design, enhances the shoe's responsiveness and efficiency. The midsole construction ensures a smooth and stable ride, making it ideal for long-distance trail running.
Outsole
The outsole of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is designed with hybrid traction, offering excellent grip on various trail surfaces. The high traction lugging ensures stability and control, even on uneven terrain. This makes the shoe suitable for both smooth trails and more challenging off-road conditions.
Size/fit
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC offers a medium toe box, providing a comfortable fit for most runners. The shoe's design ensures a snug fit, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort during long runs. The sizing is generally true to size, making it easy for runners to find their perfect fit.
Comfort
Comfort is a key feature of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC. The technical mesh upper and kinetic foam midsole work together to provide a comfortable and supportive ride. The shoe's design reduces the risk of blisters and discomfort, making it suitable for long-distance runs. The breathable upper helps keep the foot cool, enhancing overall comfort.
Cushioning
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC offers excellent cushioning, thanks to its kinetic foam midsole. This foam provides a soft yet responsive feel, making each stride more comfortable. The cushioning is ideal for long-distance runs, reducing the impact on the feet and legs.
Breathability
The technical mesh upper of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC ensures excellent breathability. This design helps keep the foot cool and dry, even during long runs. The breathable upper is a key feature for runners who prioritize comfort and ventilation.
Stability
Stability is a strong point of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC. The hybrid traction outsole and kinetic foam midsole work together to provide a stable and secure ride. The shoe's design ensures a firm grip on various terrains, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Durability
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is built to last, with durable materials and construction. The technical mesh upper and hybrid traction outsole are designed to withstand the rigors of trail running. This makes the shoe a reliable choice for long-distance runners who need a durable and long-lasting shoe.
Grip
The hybrid traction outsole of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC offers excellent grip on various trail surfaces. The high traction lugging ensures stability and control, even on uneven terrain. This makes the shoe suitable for both smooth trails and more challenging off-road conditions.
Flex
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC offers a good balance of flexibility and support. The technical mesh upper and kinetic foam midsole provide a flexible yet stable ride. This makes the shoe suitable for long-distance runs, where both flexibility and support are important.
Who should buy the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC?
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is ideal for trail runners who participate in long-distance races and ultra-marathons. Runners who prioritize energy efficiency and traction will find this shoe particularly beneficial. Its lightweight design and breathable upper make it suitable for those who run on various trail surfaces. Additionally, runners with a neutral pronation and a preference for a medium toe box will appreciate the fit and comfort of this shoe.
Who should not buy the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC?
Runners who prefer a lower heel-to-toe drop might not find the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC suitable due to its 8 mm drop. Those who primarily run on very technical or rocky trails might want to consider a shoe with more aggressive lugging. Additionally, runners with a wide foot might find the medium toe box too snug. For these runners, other trail shoes with a lower drop or wider fit might be more appropriate.
Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC: What's it good for?
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is great for long-distance trail running, including ultra-marathons. Its lightweight and breathable design make it suitable for ultra-marathons and other long-distance events. The shoe's hybrid traction ensures a firm grip on various trail surfaces, making it ideal for trail running. Additionally, the kinetic foam midsole provides excellent energy return, enhancing performance during long runs.
5 Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC FAQs
Is the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC suitable for ultra-marathons?
Yes, the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is designed for long-distance races and ultra-marathons. Its lightweight design and excellent energy return make it ideal for these events.
What type of terrain is the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC best for?
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is best for smooth trails and fire roads. Its hybrid traction outsole provides good grip on various trail surfaces.
Does the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC have good breathability?
Yes, the technical mesh upper of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC ensures excellent breathability, keeping the foot cool and dry during long runs.
What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC?
The Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC has a heel-to-toe drop of 8 mm, providing a balanced ride for long-distance trail running.
Is the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC suitable for runners with neutral pronation?
Yes, the Scott Kinabalu Ultra RC is designed for runners with neutral pronation, offering a stable and comfortable ride.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | ||
| released | ReleasedJun 2020 | Oct 2023 | May 2022 | May 2020 | ||
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| productAthletes | Pro athlete users   | |||||
| Weight | WeightM: 269 g W: 230 g | 326 g | M: 269 g W: 235 g | 289 g | M: 249 g W: 227 g | 343 g |
| Forefoot | Forefoot21 mm | 30 mm | 23 mm | 27 mm | ||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop8 mm | 8 mm | 4 mm | 10 mm | 12 mm | |
| Heel | Heel29 mm | 38 mm | 27 mm | 37 mm | ||
| Terrain | TerrainTrail | Trail | Trail | Snow/iceTrail | Trail | Trail |
| Brand | BrandScott | New Balance | adidas | Saucony | New Balance | PUMA |
| Support Type | Support TypeNeutral | Neutral | Neutral | NeutralStability | Neutral | Neutral |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Low dropZero drop | Low drop | Lightweight | ||
| Breathable | Breathable | |||||
| Rock plate | Rock plate | |||||
| Orthotic friendly | Orthotic friendly | |||||
| Removable insole | Removable insole | |||||
| Rocker | Rocker | |||||
| Carbon fiber plate | Carbon fiber plate | |||||
| Techs | Techs | New Balance FuelCellVibram | ||||
| Environmental Characteristics | Environmental Characteristics | Sustainable | ||||
Common characteristicsNeutral pronationFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strikeHigh arch |
