Rossignol Vezor

Trying out trail shoes is not just a matter of stringing together a few outings. For this first Rossignol trail model, I wanted to take the experience to the maximum. In the following lines, I'll tell you how the Rossignol Vezor performs after intensive use.

I was lucky enough to discover the model for the first time during the UTMB Chamonix 2024, on the occasion of its official launch. There, I was able to have an in-depth exchange with Rossignol's design teams and marketing managers to understand the philosophy behind the model.

But it was above all on the ground that everything was played out. First I conducted a series of tests on varied terrain during winter: technical trails, mud, rocks, snow.

Then, to really put Rossignols Vezor to the test, I took a new pair that I had only used for a week of walking... before launching myself on the Blue Trail Tenerife by UTMB, a demanding 73 km ultra, which I ran in 12h 20m. Volcanic terrain, sharp rock, damp forest, rolling sections, asphalt at the end: a real crash test. Even more so considering that I'm a pretty heavy runner, not exactly the model of natural downhill agility... Let's just say it's not easy to transform a former rugby player into a mountain goat.

And maybe that's what makes this test even more relevant: if these trail running shoes held up to my morphology and running style, they'll probably work great for you too.

Technical features: a concentrate of thought and technology

The Rossignol Vezor is a model designed for technical terrain and endurance. These are its main features:

• Weight: 282 grams (Men) / 231 grams (Women).
• Drop: 6 mm.
• Midsole height: 29 mm in the heel / 23 mm in the forefoot.
• Outsole: Michelin Formula with 4 mm lugs, excellent grip even on wet or muddy terrain.
• Midsole: Dual density (EVA + N+FOAM nitrogen injected), with Diapazon+ insert (fiberglass and nylon) for stability, energy return and proprioception.
• Sensor Technology: acts on the three key nerves of the foot for better balance.
• Upper: breathable three-layer mesh with forefoot reinforcement and multi-zone "Dragonfly Cage" lacing system for an ultra-precise fit.
• Heel: raised asymmetric structure for better ankle stability.
• Inner insole: thin, removable, allows the fit to be adjusted according to the volume of the foot.

During the presentation in Chamonix, the teams showed impressive serenity. Three years of development, a design developed in Italy, technical decisions fully taken: the Vezor is a true synthesis of alpine know-how applied to trail running.

A large-scale test, on all types of terrain

After a winter spent on my favorite trails through snow, rocks, mud and roots, I had already felt the potential of the model. But the Blue Trail Tenerife by UTMB allowed me to test the Vezor in extreme conditions, in an ultra lasting more than 12 hours.

From the first kilometers, the dynamism of the shoes is immediately noticeable. The EVA + Nitrogen-infused FOAM combination, along with the well-marked rocker, generates a fluid stride, without feeling soft. It is pleasant and efficient, especially in rolling sections or on false flat relapses.

A key moment? The big descent between km 43 and km 53: 1600 meters of negative elevation gain in 10 km. It starts on abrasive volcanic rock, then comes a tropical rainforest, on narrow and tricky trails. And there, being that I'm not really a good downhill runner, I was surprised. Not a single fall, very few slips. The most important thing: no chafing, no overheating, with the foot perfectly supported.

The fit of the Vezor clearly makes a difference. The foot is well positioned, secure, even when fatigue sets in. On downhills, this allows to step without fear, even with my 85 kilos of weight. I had the clear feeling that the shoe and I were one.

The Michelin grip was more than adequate: effective on rock, stable in mud, reassuring on wet ground. And despite the kilometers and the hardness of the volcanic terrain, the shoe showed no visible signs of weakness.

Strengths of the Rossignol Vezor: undeniable advantages

Ultra-precise fit and impeccable support

The mountaineering-inspired design, together with the Dragonfly Cage lacing system, allows for a millimeter-precise fit. Even on steep terrain, the foot remains firm, which prevents chafing and increases precision when landing. For me, who has a wide foot, the modular system with a removable internal insole allowed me to adapt the model perfectly to my morphology.

Balanced and durable dynamism

The EVA + nitrogen-injected foam duo offers reactive cushioning without being too soft. The result: you can run for a long time, with a good feeling of rebound, without the shoe sinking in. Over 70 km, I noticed consistency in the dynamics, which is rare for this type of distance.

Exceptional grip and real stability

Even on volcanic rock or wet areas, the Michelin outsole responded. The design of the lugs and the structure of the sole guarantee an excellent heel-toe transition. Combined with the Diapazon+ insert, it offers very secure lateral stability, especially when descending.

A robust construction

Despite an ultra on abrasive terrain, no significant wear was noted. The three-layer mesh, the reinforcements, the sole: everything remains intact. You can tell it's built to last.

Points to improve for the Rossignol Vezor

The thin, poorly padded tongue requires a precise fit

On the first few outings, it took me several attempts to get the tongue just right. It can cause slight pressure points if it does not fit well. A slightly more cushioned version would be welcome, without compromising weight.

Slight heel friction

During the first few hours of running, I felt a small friction point at the top of the heel. Nothing serious, but it could be annoying in very long ultras, especially without proper socks.

A design that divides opinions

Very sober, very technical. Some will appreciate it, others may prefer a bolder design. Personally, I find it consistent with Rossignol's mountain DNA.

With which models can we compare the Rossignol Vezor?

Who is the Rossignol Vezor designed for?

The Rossignol Vezor is clearly intended for trail runners looking for precision, stability and reliability on all types of terrain. It excels especially where it is necessary to tread with precision: ridges, technical descents, unstable rocks, soft ground. It will suit both light trail runners and more robust profiles like mine.

It is a shoe for races between 20 and 80 km. In my 73 km Blue Trail it was perfect, and I'm convinced I could have done 30 km more without any issue. I can't talk about a 100 km or 100 miles yet, but for long distances, as long as the terrain is diverse, it will perform very well.

Finally, thanks to its adaptable lacing system and modular internal insole, it adapts to all types of foot morphologies. A real success in terms of versatility.