TL;DR: The Mount to Coast M1 is a high-cushion trail running shoe built for long-distance ultra races and technical mountain terrain. It features the new JETCELL midsole foam, engineered to deliver Mount to Coast's highest energy return with twice the material strength of PEBA, alongside a full Vibram Megagrip sole, TUNEDFIT Dual Lacing System, and a wide toe box. The M1 retails for $195 and is available now at MounttoCoast.com.
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Mount to Coast released the M1 on August 10, 2026, marking the brand's most cushioned trail shoe to date. Designed specifically for runners tackling demanding ultras like Western States 100 and UTMB, the M1 combines high-stack protection with the stability needed to stay confident on loose, technical surfaces. Early versions of the shoe have already seen race-course success, and the full production model is now available to the public.
What Makes the Mount to Coast M1 Different From Other Trail Running Shoes?
The M1's standout feature is its next-generation JETCELL midsole foam. Engineered from ATPU using a supercritical foaming process, JETCELL delivers, according to Mount to Coast, the brand's highest energy return while offering twice the material strength of PEBA, the foam used in many competing high-stack trail shoes. That extra durability matters in long-distance running, where midsole degradation over hundreds of training miles can quietly undermine performance and comfort.
Beyond the midsole, the M1 features a wider base and higher sidewalls than typical trail models. This geometry is deliberate. On loose gravel, exposed roots, or unstable mountain terrain, a wider footprint provides a more stable platform, reducing the micro-corrections that accumulate into fatigue over a 100-mile effort.
A full-coverage Vibram Megagrip, Litebase, and Traction Lug outsole rounds out the foundation, providing reliable grip across wet rock, dry dirt, and anything in between.
Quick Tip
How Has the M1 Performed in Real Ultra Races?
Early versions of the M1 have already logged meaningful race miles. Canyon Woodward wore the shoe to a top-ten finish at the 2026 Western States 100. Elite runners Kilian Korth and Cody Poskin put the M1 through the tough opening miles of the 2026 Cocodona 250.
These aren't controlled lab results, they're outcomes from some of the most demanding trail ultras on the calendar.
These aren't controlled lab results, they're outcomes from some of the most demanding trail ultras on the calendar
What Features Does the M1 Offer for Long-Distance Comfort?
Foot swelling is one of the most predictable challenges in ultra racing. The M1 addresses it through two specific design choices: a wide toe box that accommodates natural foot expansion over extended efforts, and the TUNEDFIT Dual Lacing System, which allows runners to make independent fit adjustments mid-run without stopping to re-tie.
The durable upper protects against rocks, sharp vegetation, and other trail hazards, a practical consideration for anyone spending extended hours in technical mountain terrain.
At 9.7 oz (US M9) with a 38mm heel stack, 34mm forefoot stack, and 4mm drop, the M1 sits in a performance-oriented range: substantial cushioning without sacrificing the ground feel that trail runners rely on. If you're comparing options, this roundup of the best trail running shoes offers useful context on how the category breaks down.
M1 Specs at a Glance
- Weight: 9.7 oz / 275 g (US M9)
- Stack Height: 38mm heel / 34mm forefoot
- Drop: 4mm
- Lug Depth: 4mm
- Midsole: JETCELL (ATPU, supercritical foaming process)
- Outsole: Full Vibram Megagrip with Litebase and Traction Lug
- Lacing: TUNEDFIT Dual Lacing System
- Price: $195
- Colors: Moss, Glacier, Oatmeal
Where Can You Buy the Mount to Coast M1?
The M1 is available now at MounttoCoast.com and through select US, European, and Asian retailers. Broader retail availability is expected in September 2026.
The Right Shoe for the Long Haul
Long-distance trail running puts demands on footwear that shorter-distance shoes aren't built to handle. Cushioning needs to remain consistent after mile 60. Stability needs to hold on descents when legs are fatigued. Fit adjustability matters when feet change shape over hours of effort.
The M1 addresses each of these through deliberate engineering rather than generic high-stack design. For runners who regularly take on demanding ultras, or simply want a shoe that can handle a long mountain day without compromise, it makes a strong case. If you're newer to the distance, this guide on getting started in ultra running is a good companion read.
Shop the M1 at MounttoCoast.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of runner is the M1 designed for?
The M1 is built for long-distance trail runners, particularly those competing in or training for ultra races on technical mountain terrain. It prioritizes cushioning durability, stability on loose surfaces, and mid-run fit adjustability.
How does JETCELL compare to PEBA foam?
According to Mount to Coast, JETCELL offers twice the material strength of PEBA while maintaining high energy return. This makes it more resilient over long mileage, meaning the cushioning feel remains consistent rather than degrading over time.
Is the M1 suitable for shorter trail runs?
Yes. While the M1 is optimized for ultra-distance efforts, its high-stack cushioning and stable platform make it a capable option for any long day in the mountains, including fast-paced hikes and multi-hour trail runs.
When will the M1 be available at retail stores?
The M1 launched online at MounttoCoast.com on August 10, 2026. Broader retail availability across select US, EU, and Asian retailers is expected in September 2026.
What colors does the M1 come in?
The M1 is available in three colorways: Moss, Glacier, and Oatmeal.