Have a day off, or work afternoons? I encourage you to attend the Tifft Nature Preserve Wellness Walk, a stroll guided by volunteers with knowledge about everything from birds to botany that takes place every Thursday. The next walk is on June 30.

The North Face Ultra Endurance ($120) is a trail-running shoe that I would personally recommend for this event. it is one of my go-to sneakers, and is very suitable for walking tours around Western New York, as well as dog-walks, my primary use. Why?

First, its Vibram Megagrip sole improves my ability to maintain traction on inclines, rocky terrain, on slippery wet days. The EVA foam in its midsole has the flexibility and softness of rubber. The springy feel is reminiscent of the Vasque Pendulum II, which is the most highly cushioned shoe in my arsenal, which I referred to in December as the “Moon Walker.”

The Ultra Endurance actually has more cushioning without the need to add a gel or custom insole, unlike the other shoes I’ve tested, such as (but not limited to) the La Sportiva Synthesis Mid GTX, the Keen Saltzman WP, and the North Face Ultra Trail, which are all fairly minimalist shoes. I prefer the UE’s bouncy design and thick, cushy rubber because I’m able to walk 6 miles in these without getting sore feet.

The UE is also ideal on hot, humid summer days because of its FlashDry fabric, which wicks moisture away from your feet but also is permanent, unlike the waterproofing treatments I’ve used on my leather boots, which needs to be reapplied.

Finally, the versatility of the UE is unmatched. It is the only trail-running shoe that I use in the gym regularly. I believe the Vibram sole gives me greater control and improved performance on the bench press. The UE is a solid performing touring as well as fitness shoe, and may be worth adding to your collection for use while traveling and at the gym.