The North Face Ultra 100

I bought this shoe specifically for running in the Leadville 100. It performed perfectly, giving me support, cushion during the rocky sections, and best of all, grip for screaming down both sides of Hope's Pass! They have great space in the front toe box to allow for foot swelling.

Downsides are that the shoe is a little heavier than some -- but what you give up for weight is additional comfort. They also have large lug grips that extend outside the bottom of the shoe slightly. This is only a problem when your legs get tired and you are less controlled with your stride as I had the problem of catching the opposite inside leg with the lugs (occasionally). Ouch!

Overall, I would say fantastic shoe for serious trail runners that encounter a mixed bag of conditions.