.png)
The Mount to Coast C1 is a max-cushion super trainer designed for comfort and protection over long distances. Priced at $180, it competes with shoes like the ASICS Superblast 3 ($210) and On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper ($220). The C1 is Mount to Coast’s first super trainer, featuring their CircleCELL supercritical, PEBA-like foam on top paired with a very firm layer of rubberized EVA on the bottom for added stability and protection. It measures 42mm in the heel, comparable to other max-cushion super trainers on the market, and comes in at about 285 grams in our men’s size 10.5, which is decently competitive for this category. The shoe features a dual-lacing system that theoretically allows for a dialed-in fit, along with a very wide, stable platform, a cavernous upper, and a plush tongue, all contributing to a very comfortable step-in feel. Out on the run, we could see why this shoe is somewhat polarizing. On one hand, it is highly cushioned, protective, and stable; on the other, the foam—especially in the heel—feels quite firm, and the rubberized EVA layer somewhat dampens the ride. We found the transition to be fairly smooth, although it is not as aggressively rockered as some competing models. The C1 feels like a shoe that will be highly durable and may require some break-in time. If you’re looking for a long-distance or ultra training shoe with a roomy, voluminous upper and excellent durability, the C1 could be a great choice. However, if you want a fun, max-cushion daily trainer with more speed versatility, there are better options available.
