Shoes that can handle Chicago's unusual race

I want to enter the Chicago Urbanathlon, but I don’t know what type of shoe I should wear. Ideas? – Eric Bailey, Evergreen Park, Ill.

Fun race: Well, that should be entertaining. The Chicago Urbanathlon, sponsored by Men’s Health magazine, is a nearly 12-mile racecourse that winds through Chicago. Nothing unusual there. What sets the event apart is that spaced along the route are a series of obstacle courses. Participants hop through tire barricades, walk along the tops of Jersey barriers placed end to end, crawl over cars, and more. See – it’s urban, it’s an athlon. Urbanathlon.

As for shoes: I’d go with either a cross-trainer or a trail-runner, something with a little more support than a pure running shoe. Besides, this is an event that’s as much about fun as it is about time, so a little extra weight won’t hurt.

Maybe wear something cool, like the Reebok ZigPulse cross shoe ($100), which has a wild wavy sole made of orange foam. But it’s actually a practical shoe as well – lots of sole flexibility for all the strange maneuvers you’ll be making, plus good grip and support.

In a trail-runner, go for something like the Merrell Refuge Pro ($115), which has leather and suede uppers for durability, a nylon shank for support, and an EVA footbed for comfort. Plus they have a nicely urban look.

Or get a pair of Puma Complete Nightfox TRs ($95). They have a rock shield plate for foot protection, grippy outsoles, and breathable but water-repellent uppers. Plus they’re cool-looking – black with red and yellow trim. I also like the Tecnica Wasp Low ($99), which is a little lighter shoe than the other two, but still has the support and toughness of a good trail-runner.

To ask a question of the Gear Guy, you can find Douglas Gantenbein at www.outsidemag.com.