Ronhill returns to the sharp end of fell and mountain running with two distinct updates on a shoe with the same DNA: the Reverence 2 and the stripped-back Reverence SL. Built for grip, precision and confidence in the worst conditions, both shoes promise performance, but go about it in slightly different ways. In this review, our testers Dave and Ronnie put each model through its paces, give you two perspectives so you can decide which is the best choice for you.
Ronhill Reverence 2 – Ronnie Barnsley
Ronhill is a brand known for innovative but reliable running wear, who have recently turned their attention to shoes. The Reverence 2 is an update on Ronhill’s first fell/mountain shoe, the Reverence, released in 2024. The shoe combines the nimbleness of a fell running model with enough cushioning and stability for a comfortable trot on the trails. A versatile shoe for runners who appreciate ground feel on technical or mountain terrain but want the security of good grip on wet rock, the Reverence 2 does a lot of things well. The ‘True-Fit’ foot shape allows for your big toes to splay but the shoe maintains a 55mm drop, so there’s no need to sacrifice your hamstrings for freer foot movement. At 295g this new version comes in at least 30g lighter than the previous model, the key innovation being the supercritical EVA foam in the midsole, replacing the dual-density EVA of the Reverence (I don’t pretend to know the difference).
KEY FEATURES
- 7mm multidirectional lugs
- Stackheight 28mm/23mm, 5mm heel to toe drop
- Weight 275g (women’s size 6.5)
- EVA foam supercritical midsole
- OCX MICHELIN sticky rubber outsole
- One-piece Matryx fabric upper with Kevlar reinforced stitching
- ‘True-Fit’ toe box
- Wrap-over tongue
- RRP £139.99
Straight out the box the Reverence 2 looks neat and smoothly designed, with its key stats printed on the side so you know exactly what you’re getting. I tested this shoe on rock, mud and grassy trails and was surprised at how comfortable and efficient it is as I usually run in a more substantial shoe. The long multidirectional lugs and sticky rubber outsole give confidence even in greasy and softer conditions. I really enjoyed the extra foot space that is achieved without any sliding around as the fit is snug and the wrap-over tongue stops most debris getting in.
The one-piece upper of Kevlar reinforced fabric appears durable. As my shoes have a tendency to develop rips at the side I’m keen to see whether this holds up better than seamed shoes over time. The rubber toe bumper also provides good protection if you’re prone to bashing against rocks and a band of the same material surrounds the upper. I was sceptical at first of the thin round laces threaded through taped holes, but haven’t found they undone easily. The low-profile of the heel did make the shoe feel less secure than I’m used to, but I had no problems with slippage and soon adapted to it.
My home trails are a mix of fields, woods and canal and this shoe is proving a great go-to for daily runs with the dog. As expected, it’s less forgiving on tarmac sections than more cushioned options. When I took the Reverence 2 onto the rocky, sandy routes of the Peak District I found it light and agile enough to enjoy fast descents. I was hesitant to trust the shoe on treacherously boggy sections, but it was surprisingly grippy, and dried out quickly too as the upper repels water.
The original Reverence was designed for short to medium distances and the new version’s extra cushioning suggests it can go longer. I found it ideal on runs up to 10 mile and, although I haven’t tested it on longer outings yet, I think I’d be happy up to at least marathon distance. If I was doing an ultra, particularly on hard-packed ground, I would choose something more cushioned to avoid the risk of sore feet. That said, though the feel of the ground in the Reverence 2 compares to old-style trail offerings, the generous fit means the risk of discomfort is lower. The shoe isn’t as responsive as some might like for racing, but its ready for anything if you’re out for an adventure on mixed terrain or looking for a durable daily trainer.
PROS:
- The snug but roomy fit (if you’re used to wide toe-box shoes they might feel narrower)
- Brilliant traction on muddy trails and dry rock
- A good balance between cushion and ground feel
- Built for durability
CONS:
- Some runners find the low heel takes some getting used to
- Not as bouncy or dynamic as some competitors
Scores: Design: 8 Features: 9 Performance: 8 Value: 9
Comparable shoes I’ve tested:
Scarpa Spin ST: Also a shoe with great ground feel and super grip. Stiffer than the Reverence 2 with a narrower fit. I found my feet beginning to get sore in these after just short distances.
La Sportiva Mutant: these are my ‘go to’ shoes for long runs on gnarly terrain. They have similarly aggressive lugs to the Reverence 2 but are heavier.and feel chunkier to wear. They offer a bit more cushioning and firmer support for the foot.
Saucony Peregrine 16: a bouncier shoe that’s more comfortable than the Reverence 2 on hard trails but the traction in the wet is poor and on technical sections the lack of ground feel makes tripping more likely.
Ronhill Reverence SL – Dave Town
The Ronhill Reverence SL (super light) has been quietly building a reputation among fell runners as a lightweight, no-nonsense performer built for steep, technical ground. Designed with classic fell running demands in mind; grip, agility, and stability, it promises to deliver confidence where it matters most.
To see how it really stacks up in the wild, I’ve spent the last three months putting the Reverence SL through its paces across the Lake District fells, including everything from steady long runs to race conditions. Here’s how it performed.
Key Specifications
- Weight: Approx. 260g–280g (varies by size)
- Drop: Low drop (fell-focused profile)
- Upper: Lightweight, breathable mesh with reinforced overlays
- Midsole: Responsive cushioning designed for ground feel and agility
- Outsole: Aggressive fell-specific rubber outsole with deep lugs
- Fit: True to size, snug performance fit with a slightly narrow profile
First Impressions
Straight out of the box, the Reverence SL looks every bit a purpose-built fell shoe. It has a stripped-back, functional design that makes it clear this is built for performance rather than aesthetics.
The initial fit is snug and secure, sitting slightly on the narrow side but true to size. Once on foot, it feels locked in and ready to go, although the entry is a little tight — getting the shoe on can be slightly fiddly, especially if you’re in a rush or dealing with cold hands on the side of a hill.
On the Fells
Over the past three months, I’ve logged around 100 miles in the Reverence SL, almost exclusively across the Lake District fells in typical winter conditions — wet ground, loose rock, steep climbs, and technical descents. I also raced in them once, which gave a good sense of how they perform under pressure.
Underfoot, the shoe strikes a really nice balance between responsiveness and comfort. Despite not having a high stack or heavy cushioning, it holds up well over medium to long distances. There’s enough protection to keep things comfortable, but still plenty of ground feel — exactly what you want when moving quickly over unpredictable terrain.
The standout feature is the grip and stability with Michelin soles offering excellent grip. On steep, uneven ground, the shoe feels planted and reliable, giving you the confidence to push harder both uphill and on descents. Even in poorer winter conditions (even snow), traction remained consistent and dependable.
In terms of ride, the Reverence SL feels fast and agile. It has a similar feel to the Inov8 Mudtalon Speed — responsive, precise, and built for moving efficiently across technical terrain. That comparison alone says a lot, as it’s a well-established benchmark in the fell running world.
Room for Improvement
The main drawback is the narrow entry when putting the shoe on. While the snug fit works well once you’re running, actually getting your foot inside can take a bit of effort and feels slightly restrictive.
The narrow fit itself won’t suit everyone either, particularly if you prefer a roomier toe box. That said, for those with narrower feet, it provides a secure and comfortable hold without causing any discomfort over longer runs.
Verdict
After consistent use across a full range of fell conditions, the Ronhill Reverence SL has proven to be an impressive and capable performer. It delivers exactly what you want from a fell shoe; excellent grip, strong stability, and a fast, responsive ride.
What stands out most is how well it holds its own against established options like the INOV8 Mudtalon Speed. Matching that level of performance is no small achievement, and in many ways, the Reverence SL feels just as good all round.
For runners looking for a lightweight, confidence-inspiring shoe built specifically for the fells, this is a serious contender. With a slightly easier entry, it would be very hard to fault.
I don’t like giving 10s but I’d defo give one for performance I really did like it. It’s a shoe that loves the MUD.
Scores: DESIGN: 9/10, FEATURES: 8/10, PERFORMANCE: 10/10, VALUE: 8/10
