It may have taken a couple of years for SCARPA to release the second iteration of the Spin Ultra, but why fix what isn’t broken? The wait was worth it. Here’s our Scarpa Spin Ultra 2 review.
The Spin Ultra 2 is a refined, distance-ready trail shoe that strikes a balance between lightweight agility and the confidence and protection required for serious terrain.
Designed for mid-to-long-distance trail runs—especially over rocky or moderately technical ground—the Spin Ultra 2 blends a firm yet responsive midsole, grippy Vibram outsole, and a secure fit that holds up when things get rough.
I tested the Spin Ultra 2 on the technical trails of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and it didn’t just hold up—it helped me set a PR on a steep downhill. I trusted the grip and the stability that much. Let’s break it down.
Wide feet: Not offered in wide, but the toebox has enough room for most feet without feeling tight.
Technical trails: Yes—great traction, stability, and rock protection.
Long runs: Yes! This is made for mid to long distances.
Front of the Pack: Long runs, or race day, this shoe works for both!
Buy SCARPA Spin Ultra 2
The Spin Ultra 2 is best suited for runners who prioritize security and grip on variable terrain, while also seeking comfort for longer distances.
SCARPA Spin Ultra 2 Overview
At its core, the Spin Ultra 2 is designed to offer a blend of agility, protection, and comfort that can be hard to find in one package. It’s not the lightest or softest shoe on the market, but it strikes a sweet spot for runners who want a dependable all-around performer.
The midsole is built with a responsive Super Critical TPEE foam that offers enough cushion to reduce impact fatigue without sacrificing trail feedback. This helped keep my legs fresh on longer runs while maintaining the precision needed for rocky descents and tight switchbacks.
SCARPA paired this midsole with a Vibram outsole featuring Megagrip rubber and zone specific lugs, which delivers solid traction on a variety of surfaces—from dry dirt and loose gravel to slick rock and damp roots. Combined with the shoe’s lower stack height and a 4mm drop, the Spin Ultra 2 offers a close-to-the-ground feel that enhances stability. I could tell the difference, not just on the downhill but on the loose uphills too. It’s grippy!
The upper design focuses on a secure fit and breathability. A lightweight recycled mesh, combined with Bio-Based TPU Print, provides structure and durability without adding unnecessary weight.
Scarpa Spin Ultra 2 Specs
Although the Spin Ultra 2 is available in just one color—neon orange and white—it’s a bold, energizing shade that makes me feel fast on the trails.
SCARPA Spin Ultra 2 Fit and Feel
Fit-wise, the Spin Ultra 2 strikes a balance between snug and forgiving. The toe box isn’t overly wide, but there’s enough space for my toes to splay comfortably and avoid pressure during descents.
I recently lost a toenail that was damaged from a race in February, and since then, toe jam on downhills has been a real issue for me. But with these shoes, I was able to cruise downhill without any sensitivity or discomfort in my nail bed. Definitely a win!
The upper is breathable, dries quickly, and doesn’t collect too much debris, even on dusty singletrack. The tongue is lightly padded, mainly under the laces, where the bow ties and adds just enough cushion to eliminate pressure points without bulk.
A favorite feature for me was the laces—they’re flat, stay securely tied, and are long enough to accommodate various lacing styles, including heel-lock setups. The flat shape helps reduce lace fatigue on long runs, though if you really crank them down tight, you might still notice some discomfort over extended distances.
The Super Critical TPEE foam in the midsole delivers a responsive but firm ride. It’s not plush like the Nike Wildhorse, but it offers more impact protection than most nimble mountain shoes, even without a rock plate. I still got trail feedback, but it’s muted just enough to reduce foot fatigue over long miles.
That balance of protection and feel is where the Spin Ultra 2 really shines. It’s cushioned enough for back-to-back long runs but not so soft that you lose precision on rocky terrain. The Vibram Velox Max 2 outsole with Megagrip rubber is as good as advertised—secure on rock, steady on loose gravel, and dependable in dry or damp conditions.
Similar Shoes to the SCARPA Spin Ultra 2
We’ve tested a few that feel similar, but different based on the brand fit:
Are we biased from setting a PR in the Scarpa? Maybe but we think this low drop combo of mega grip and cushion are a win for so many runners. This is a brand more runners need to put on soon.
98%
The SCARPA Spin Ultra 2 is a confident and capable trail runner that excels on technical terrain and in long-distance efforts. It delivers where it counts—grip, protection, fit, and comfort over miles of rough ground.
For runners who want a shoe that can handle fast descents, challenging climbs, and unpredictable conditions without sacrificing comfort, the Spin Ultra 2 is a quiet workhorse that deserves more attention.
I trusted it enough to let go on a rocky downhill and set a personal record doing it. That pretty much says it all.
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