2014 FALL SHOE REVIEW by Fortius Media

presents

2014 FALL

SHOE

REVIEW SHOE REVIEWS: NEUTRAL—3 • PERFORMANCE—5 • MOTION STABILIZING—6 Fall 2014 continues to demonstrate the topsy-turvy nature of the running shoe world: merging categories (there are only two Motion Stabilizing shoes in this review), an ever-increasing smorgasbord of features, new brands and models, not to mention the influence of the result of recent lawsuits. (OK, we just mentioned it.) Marketplace demands have created an atmosphere of consumer suspicions that there might be more smoke and mirrors than necessary. Yeah, it is confusing but three things are unchanged: foot shape, foot motion, and footstrike. These remain the best metrics for selecting a shoe. Most shoes we’ve reviewed here are semicurved and will fit the average medium-arched foot. They do have a bit of play, though, to accommodate feet that have slightly more or less volume (girth) than average. This is why it’s important to try on a few models from several of the brands—to make sure they fit you properly. This is especially important after your favorite shoe has been updated; those little changes may not affect the shoe’s performance for you, or they could be a deal breaker. Look closely at our recommendation for the type of feet the shoes fit, and the comments of our weartesters. Then visit a running specialty store and let them do their job: fit you with the best shoes for you. Keep running, friends. —Cregg Weinmann, Running Shoe Reviewer for FORTIUS Media Group

2014 Fall Shoe Review

FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Partners

Welcome to the 2014 Fall Shoe Review from the FORTIUS Media Group, LLC partner publications and websites. We’ve been reviewing running footwear for you, our readers, since 1998. The team of footwear reviewer Cregg Weinmann, designer Kristen Cerer, proofreader Marg Sumner, and project manager Christine Johnson, along with our many shoe weartesters, strives to provide clear, concise reviews of the best running products in the world. Our goal is simple: to help you find the perfect running shoe for you.

So, where should you go to try out and purchase your shoes? We strongly recommend a running specialty retailer. In other words, buy your shoes from one of your local running stores. If you want to buy online, go to the local running store’s website. Why do we encourage this? First, because we think that you get the proper fitting and, second, because you’re supporting the place that gives you information throughout the year and sponsors your local events and school teams. FORTIUS Media Group, LLC continues to evolve. We thank you for your patience and appreciate your support and encouragement as we continue to grow. The varied ways we’re able to provide running content—footwear and otherwise—are expanding. Look for social media options, digital video, and where appropriate, print that’ll be headed your way in the coming months.

Larry Eder Publishing Director FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Hoka One One Huaka

adidas adiZero Boston Boost 5

Skechers GOrun Ultra Extreme

NEW SHOE

RENOVATION

VALUE

Fall 2 2014 01

F ll 2 Fall 2014

Fall 2014

American Track & Field www.american-trackandfield.com Athletes Only www.atf-athlete.com Athletics-Africa www.athletics-africa.com/s/ Athletics Ontario www.athleticsontario.ca Austin Fit www.austinfitmagazine.com California Track & Running News www.caltrack.com Club Running (RRCA) www.rrca.org/ publications/club-running Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com Colorado Runner www.coloradorunnermag.com Footnotes (Long Island, NY) www.glirc.org Get Active! www.healthclubs.com Hawaii Sport www.hawaiisportmag.com Latinos Corriendo www.latinoscorriendo.com Michigan Runner www.michiganrunner.net New England Exchange Zone www.usatfne.org RunMinnesota www.runmdra.org Running Journal & Racing South www.running.net RunOhio www.runohio.com Track & Field News www.trackandfieldnews.com US Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association www.USTFCCCA.org Winged Foot (NYC) www.nyac.org Winged M (Portland, OR) www.themac.com Youth Runner www.youthrunner.com www.MarathonGuide.com www.RunBlogRun.com www.RunningProductReviews.com www.SlowTwitch.com

Project Coordinator/Editor: Christine Johnson Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann Designer: Kristen Cerer Proofreader: Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial Services Shoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña, Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales: FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Publishing Director: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785, fortiusmedia@gmail.com Adam Johnson-Eder, 608.556.9164, adamlawrenceeder@gmail.com Legal Counsel: Perry F. Goldust This 2014 Fall Shoe Review is produced independently by FORTIUS Media Group, LLC for its partner publications and websites. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matched to the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

Nike LunarGlide 6

Brooks Glycerin 12

Newton Kismet

Motion Stabilizing

Neutral

Performance

Fall 2014

Fall 2014 2

Fall F ll 2 2014

2014 Fall Shoe Review— 2 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

FORTIUS Media Group, LLC and its partner publications and websites suggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meet with a healthcare professional before beginning or changing your fitness regimen.

N EU TR A L ASICS Gel-Cumulus 16 $115

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 16

ASICS Gel-Pursue

150

$110

Brooks Ghost 7

Brooks Glycerin 12

120

150

Neutral Fall 2014 2

The Cumulus continues to be the workhorse of ASICS’ Neutral shoes. In Round 16, the upper features an open mesh similar to the 15’s, the welded overlays are a bit more substantial in the midfoot, and the heel setup is nearly the same. The interior has a nicely finished feel, ramping up the performance a notch. The midsole adopts the FluidRide concept from the Nimbus, which means that more Gel cushioning makes for a cushier feel than before. The outersole is unchanged in the fundamentals, though its new (and reportedly lighter-weight) rubber compound and the reduced shank lighten it up without affecting its support. This update elevates the Cumulus to a loftier position, with an upgraded feel, ride, and value.

“One of the best shoes I’ve worn in a long time. All around comfort, quality, and they look great.”

The 16th edition of the Gel-Nimbus remains faithful to the original: It’s ASICS’ most deluxe Neutral running shoe. Each update has set out to improve comfort and performance, and that’s exactly where Round 16 goes. The upper uses a single stretch mesh throughout, supported via traditional and welded overlays. A slightly more forgiving heel clutch system provides support without excessive restriction. The almost cocoon-like smooth lining caresses the foot, wicking moisture and holding it securely. The midsole is well cushioned, with more Gel than ever before that handles shock attenuation effectively—great news for fans of a plush ride. The outersole features a new, lighterweight AHAR formulation. The shank has been pared back, thanks to the effectiveness of the shoe’s geometry. The shoe’s new, lighter components are offset by the addition of denser components, so there’s little net change in weight and the Nimbus continues to be about the plush ride, which it manages with ease.

“The step-in comfort is better than expected. Secure fit, great cushioning, handle the roads great. They really made my running enjoyable.”

The new Gel-Pursue is the “Good” in a Good, Better, Best of ASICS’ Neutral lineup, but its responsive ride and lower price make it stand out. If it looks familiar, that may be because the midsole is a Neutral version of the GT-2000’s tooling. The upper is open mesh with traditional overlays and its heel is supported by ASICS’ heel-clutching system, an exterior TPU framework that surrounds the heel and keeps it in place. The midsole is firm, single-density foam that’s more responsive than softer foam densities. The outersole is segmented for flexibility and divided by ASICS’ Guidance Line, and features carbon rubber pods in the heel with blown rubber in the forefoot and a TPU shank framing and supporting the midfoot. Adapting existing elements from other models to provide another fine Neutral shoe choice deserves applause, and so does the Gel-Pursue.

“Familiar ASICS fit: secure and comfortable. Wellcushioned, flexible. They’ve been great for my marathon training.”

The Ghost, Brooks’ bestselling Neutral shoe, returns for Fall with a few significant upgrades, including a $10 price bump. The upper is a new, breathable closed mesh that’s supported by welded overlays to fit as expected (that is, really well). The midsole is a new foam blend that features Brooks’ DNA dispersed throughout the BioMOGO. This shaves grams without losing the feel that the rubbery (denser) DNA element of previous rounds provided. The geometry is kept intact, as is the crashpad setup. The outersole retains its composition of HPR carbon rubber in the heel/blown rubber in the forefoot. Bidirectional flex grooves and decoupled lugs from heel to toe allow the foot and shoe to work together through the gait. The Ghost 7 is subtly upgraded to maintain its fit, ride, function, and ultimately, to add to its fan club.

“I thought they performed great; loved the fit, no irritations. Plenty of cushioning and decent flexibility. It was a nice step forward for the Ghost, [it’s] familiar but improved.”

The Glycerin is Brooks’ premium Neutral shoe, and Round 12 features some dramatic changes based on its research efforts. The traditional 10mm (heel-to-toe) drop geometry is reshaped for a smoother touchdown: The heel is narrowed and beveled into a rounded shape, while the forefoot is flatter and flares to a wide platform and has a pronounced toe spring. The upper continues with the construction introduced in Round 11: A gusseted tongue, smooth stretch lining that secures the foot, and 3D printed overlays all contribute to a great fit. The midsole is Super DNA, the new foam formulation introduced with the Transcend. The result is a Neutral shoe that fits well, rolls with the foot, and effectively cushions the foot from the road, earning the Glycerin 12 our award for Best Neutral Shoe.

“Snug fit with better support than my other shoes. Responsive, but not super cushy. They are a little lighter and faster than my normal training shoes.”

2014 Fall Shoe Review— 3 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Updates the Gel-Cumulus 15 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–13 Weight: 12.2 oz. (men’s 11); 9.6 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Gel-Nimbus 15 Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16(D), 7–14,15,16(2E,4E); Women 5–13(B,D) Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.4 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

New Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16,17(D,4E); Women 5–13(B,D) Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.4 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

Updates the Ghost 6 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15(D); 8–13,14,15(B,2E); Women 5–12(B); 6–12(2A,D) Weight: 11.0 oz. (men’s 11); 8.9 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Glycerin 11 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15(D), 8–13,14,15(B,2E); Women: 5–12(B), 6–12(2A,D) Weight: 12.2 oz. (men’s 11); 9.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

NEUTRAL Hoka One One Clifton $130

Mizuno Wave Enigma 4 $140

Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 31 $100

Saucony Ride 7

120

Skechers GOrun Ultra Extreme $85

VALUE Fall 2014

If a Performance shoe were defined by light weight alone, that’s where Hoka’s new Clifton would come in. Although the Clifton is very light (almost racer light), its geometry nudges it into the Neutral category. The upper’s rearfoot has laser-cut, synthetic overlays sandwiching a mesh layer between it and the lining. The forefoot is a closed mesh with welded overlays and a stitched toe bumper for shape. The midsole features 5mm geometry, though with the tall stack height Hoka has popularized. The outersole is primarily EVA foam, with rubber in the highest-wear portions (heel, toe, and the metarsals). The Clifton is protectively well cushioned (and looks it!), thanks to its foam formulation and height. The Clifton can go as fast as you can, but its rocker shape and the soft feel of the midsole foam make it best suited to long training and recovery runs.

“Fit pretty well, but had few lacing options. The ride was soft with a rolling feel, very cushy, took little time to get used to the feeling, maybe just a block. The cushioning goes on and on, nothing seemed beyond its range.”

The Enigma emerges from Round 4 with a new design but the same focus: performance and protection. The upper looks different from Round 3; the traditional overlays are replaced by welded overlays everywhere except for a toecap of traditional materials that keeps the toe box open. The closed, oval-shaped mesh has been replaced by a solid, closed, cross-hatched mesh, and fewer seams make for a smoother interior. The midsole is cosmetically changed, but has the same molding, U4ic polyolefin blend, and the same Wave plate developed for Round 3. The outersole carries over from last season, a testament to Mizuno’s confidence in its design. The Enigma continues not as a mystery, but as a solution to cushioning and performance for the neutral-footed, high-mileage runner.

“A very responsive shoe with great durability. Good weight, good balance, good cushioning. I was quite pleased to try them.”

The Pegasus defines Nike’s running shoe line. It’s a shoe for serious runners, by serious runners. Version 31 takes a really good shoe and improves its value, only making adjustments where necessary. The upper features a new, engineered mesh with the same roomy forefoot from Round 30. New is a midfoot saddle of laser-cut, welded overlays atop a stiff mesh, a gusseted tongue that prevents excess movement or creasing, and the nearly seamless lining of smooth synthetic fabric. The resculpted midsole uses the same combination of Cushlon foam and Zoom Air to provide the smooth ride expected here. The outersole rubber is BRS 1000 for traction and longevity but in a new arrangement that provides good flexibility with newly designed longitudinal flex grooves. The headline here is “Peg 31 delivers on its promise” by providing cushioning, fit, and value.

“The fit has been nicely consistent for several seasons: snug on the foot, roomy in the toes. The ride is well cushioned, great for my long runs.”

As the fraternal twin of the Guide, the Ride 7 benefits from the recent overhaul of its more stable sibling. The upper has similar open mesh and traditional overlays to the 6, and effectively keeps the foot lined up over the sole, though better placement means fewer, more strategically placed overlays for support. The single-density midsole’s geometry adapts to the touchdown and transitions with an assist from new tooling in the crashpad. The 8mm geometry has been retained. A full-length layer of PowerGrid resides atop the midsole and beneath the Strobel board, adding comfort to the ride. XT-900 carbon rubber in the heel and iBR injection-blown rubber in the forefoot are used for their durability and cushioning properties. The flex grooves follow the radius of the forefoot to bend effectively with the foot as it moves. The Ride 7, like its previous versions, is a consistent, high-mileage performer for Neutral feet.

“Typical Saucony fit, roomy in the toes with a snug heel. Good cushioning, the new foam underfoot feels just fine.”

Skechers continues adding to the GOrun line with ever-improving products. The new GOrun Ultra Extreme owes a debt to the GOrun Ultra (they share the same chassis), but the Extreme takes a step up to the next level. The upper is closed, stretch mesh with traditional overlays and reinforced stitching, giving the shoe shape and structure, but with a water-resistant synthetic fabric along the sides of the shoe. The midsole is a soft layer of foam with a taller-than-average stack height of 27mm, so it offers plenty of cushion. The 4mm heel-to-toe drop makes for a flatter footstrike—similar to the other GOrun shoes—but the ride is subtly different due to the densities of the midsole and outersole. The outersole is Resagrip, a rubbery compound with a lugged surface to grip both road and trail, as well as everything in between. With its attractive price and good performance, the GOrun Ultra Extreme earned our Best Value award and your consideration for cool- and wet-weather running.

“Good fit and a very comfortable ride. Smoothed out the feel of the road and had good traction wherever I ran.”

2014 Fall Shoe Review— 4 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

New Sizes: Men 7.5–14; Women 6–11 Weight: 8.6 oz. (men’s 11); 7.0 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Wave Enigma 3 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 Weight: 12.0 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

Updates the Air Zoom Pegasus 30 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.1 oz. (men’s 11); 8.5 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation

Updates the Ride 6 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16; Women 5–12 Weight: 10.2 oz. (men’s 11); 8.4 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

New Sizes: Men 7–12,13; Women 5–10,11 Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s 11); 7.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

PER F OR M A N CE adidas adiZero Boston Boost 5 $120

RENOVATION F ll 2 Fall 2014

Hoka One One Huaka $150

NEW SHOE Fall 2 2014 01

Mizuno Sayonara 2

Newton Fate

Newton Kismet

120

129

Performance Fall F ll 2 2014

Boost foam finally debuts in a Performance running mainstay—and it’s about time! The upper is much as it has been: a snug, racer-like fit. Stiff mesh in the rearfoot anchors the heel, while an open minimesh in the vamp offers breathability, and a soft synthetic suede offers some support and shape to the toe. The midsole has taken a big step forward in cushioning with Boost foam framed by EVA, a proven performer. The low-profile geometry and racy feel of the shoe remains, with long racing and tempo runs its forte. The outersole adds the thin and durable Continental rubber compound, proven throughout the range of Boost shoes. The addition of Boost foam, thoughtful execution, and sticking to the philosophy of the shoe—which has always been solid—earned the adiZero Boston Boost 5 honors as our Best Renovation.

“The more I wear Boost, the more I like the light weight and comfortable cushion. They’re snug in the toe box, pretty fast feeling. They rate very high, in my opinion.”

The new Huaka is at home on- and off-road and may foreshadow a turning point for Hoka. They’re the most flexible of Hoka’s shoes, while retaining all the other Hoka features: rocker sole, tall stack height, and low-drop geometry. The upper is closed mesh with welded overlays, secured with its Race-Lace system (a slide/lock cord) and, as the icing on the cake, it has a cool sublimated graphic to set it apart. The midsole is RMAT, the elastic and durable material that doubles nicely as a midsole for rebound, but is tough enough to grip as an outersole. The 4mm heel-to-toe drop and midsole shaping provide a ride that’s both comfortable and efficient. The rebound from the foam makes the shoe livelier than expected. The outersole is largely exposed RMAT, but it does have rubber in the high-wear spots. The cushioning, its surprisingly nimble feel, and the imaginative design earned the Hoka One One Huaka our Best New Shoe award.

“What can I say? Fit great, cushioned, speedy. It was not what I was expecting or what I would have tried. Count me a convert.”

The Sayonara ushered in a new design ethos for Mizuno, and it’s done well. In this update, the midsole and outersole are the same: U4ic polyolefin in the midsole to provide consistent, firm cushioning that rebounds reliably and an outersole of X-10 carbon rubber in the heel with a combination of blown rubber in the lateral forefoot and polyester and polyurethane inserts medially. The upper has a more structured, closed mesh with oval shapes uniformly throughout the weave, and a smoother lining material reduces friction inside the shoe. The rubbery, welded overlays of its debut have been restyled, with small hands waving (sayonara, get it?) and are repositioned to improve the upper’s flexibility. Minor tailoring adjustments improve the shoe, and a rounder toebox allows better toe splay. Sayonara fans will be pleased, and runners looking for a versatile trainer that can handle faster running just might become fans as well.

“A shoe for most any run you want to do. Light and fast, with a great transition. Wide forefoot and low profile. Even the occasional trail run. Worked great for me.”

The Fate is one of two new shoes from Newton, the other being its fraternal twin, the Kismet. The pair introduce Newton’s new P.O.P2 platform with reshaped lugs that provide a proprioceptive “clue” while running in the shoes, a less in-your-face approach to forefoot cushioning than previous Newton shoes. The upper is an engineered mesh with few rearfoot overlays but a substantial focus on securing the forefoot, where welded, suede supports provide the structure for faster running. The midsole is a familiar singledensity EVA formulation that’s resilient and cushioned, and the P.O.P2 version of Action/ Reaction technology provides a snappy feel underfoot. The geometry is not as minimal as Newton’s typically have been, with a 4.5mm drop between heel and forefoot. The outersole is a new rubber formulation that improves traction and durability over Newton shoes from prior seasons. All told, the Fate adds up to a shoe for faster-paced running that will accommodate a broad range of runners with its lower lugs, less aggressive geometry, and more typical fit.

“Fit well with roominess for the toes. It allows the foot plenty of play and has a light feel to it. A good Performance shoe.”

The fraternal twin of the Fate, Kismet is the stable one. Using a new configuration of the Action/Reaction membrane as well as new geometry, the Kismet features a less aggressive feel than earlier versions from the brand. The racy-looking upper is an engineered mesh that has a snug feel from the midfoot to heel, with good tapering for adequate toe-room. The midsole is quality compression-molded EVA with a responsive feel, and combines well with the unique ride of the Action/Reaction membrane. The outersole is a more durable rubber formulation, while the midfoot employs the EMB (Extended Medial Bridge) with more contact material underfoot, and the lugs have been tapered for a smoother touchdown. The result is a responsive Performance trainer that’s better suited to regular training than previous Newton shoes, and it garners our award as Best Shoe in the Performance category.

“Comfortable upper. I like the wider toe box that these shoes offer. The Kismet has a great feel, definitely has a structured transition from heel to toe.”

2014 Fall Shoe Review— 5 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Updates the adizero Boston Boost 4 Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 9.5 oz. (men’s 11); 7.7 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

New Sizes: Men 7.5–14; Women 6–11 Weight: 10.2 oz. (men’s 11); 8.1 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Sayonara Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–12 Weight: 9.2 oz. (men’s 11); 7.4 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

New Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 10.1 oz. (men’s 11); 8.2 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

P E R F OR M ANCE Puma Mobium Elite Speed $110

Saucony Cortana 4

Saucony Kinvara 5

150

100

As a technology, the Mobium Band was an intriguing concept when paired with creative geometry. The performance character of the Mobium Elite has now been amped up a bit in the Mobium Elite Speed. Borrowing the technology and feel of the Elite, the Speed has a lowered heel-to-toe drop that sits over a beefy slab of foam so while it requires adaptation, it still offers pretty good protection. The upper is closed mesh that fits sufficiently and has a smooth interior, but doesn’t offer many lacing options for adjustment. The midsole is firm, so it’s responsive and conducive to faster running and allows the Mobium technology to do its thing: flexing with the foot to protect it and allowing a heightened proprioceptive feel. The outersole is arranged in pods with carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot—effective, as it has been across the industry. All in all, the Mobium Elite Speed is a shoe for faster running with a low-profile feel and good protection.

“Fit pretty well, nice smooth upper. The ride was a bit bouncy, but also felt fast. I really liked the feel on my faster runs.”

The Cortana is Saucony’s premium Performance shoe. While not unique as a high-end shoe with a Performance fit and feel, count it among the better shoes in the upper end of the high-performance shoe range. The upper maintains the smooth interior from Round 3 by making liberal use of the Flexfilm overlays used in both the 3 and 4. Sauc-Fit on the medial side allows the shoe to move with the foot, and the reduced TPU material in the heel keeps the foot lined up while lightening it. The midsole is built on Saucony’s 4mm geometry for running efficiency, a beveled heel smooths the touchdown, and a fullcontact bottom stabilizes the foot—all carried over from its predecessor. The outersole is also unchanged because, hey, it’s effective: carbon rubber in the heel and Saucony’s iBRinjected blown rubber up front. This time out, the Cortana 4 has maintained its strengths providing cushioning, fit, and a fast feel for many, many miles.

“Fit snug where needed, but with lots of toe room. Thin enough to feel the road, but cushy enough to spring to the next step. I really enjoyed running in them.”

The Kinvara represented a shift in thinking for Saucony that changed its approach to Performance running shoes and, in fact, its entire line. The upper from Round 4 was too narrow for many people, so Round 5 solves that by widening the forefoot and using two mesh layers (a wide-open mesh covered by a minimesh). The inner layer is gusseted, while the outer layer is supported by welded overlays. The midfoot also features two layers: an inner support strap—Saucony calls it ProLock—that’s tightened via the laces and a stiff mesh welded to the eyestays. This setup makes the fit more adaptable. The midsole has the same 4mm geometry as before, with PowerGrid under the Strobel board to add more bounce. The outersole is still minimal with rubber lugs in the high-wear areas. The Kinvara 5 is a Performance shoe with fit, ride, and speedy geometry built in. You provide the go.

“Very comfortable, like a racing flat, wrapping my feet like socks. I feel it’s a good hybrid shoe, between a snug racing flat upper and a training shoe sole.”

Though technically an update, the Supernova Boost Sequence 7 has been upgraded in every area, rendering it virtually new. The engineered mesh upper sports a new gussetlike midfoot wrap with a dual purpose: holding the tongue in place and working with the logo-striped saddle to smooth and snug the arch and instep. The textured lining fabric manages moisture, and a minimal heel counter ties into the rear of the saddle, offering extra structure without being too restrictive. The midsole is Boost foam with an EVA structure called StableFrame that adds support to the medial side and, because the Boost foam is surrounded by it, disperses impact over the midsole’s surface, resulting in a smoother ride. The outersole is a thin, yet tough layer of Continental rubber like that used in all the Boost shoes. The result is an excellent, high-mileage training shoe that’s stable, well cushioned, and durable.

“True to size; snug and secure with no blisters or hot spots. Cushiony with a bounce and good support. Have worn the shoe on both asphalt and dirt, and it has good traction and durability. Well worth the investment.”

The LunarGlide is the longest-running of the Lunar shoes, and is the original model for the line’s Dynamic Support technology. Round 6 evolves the shoe from top to bottom, leapfrogging the design and upgrades of its Lunar brethren. The upper employs a gusseted lining that smooths the interior and sandwiches the Flywire and sueded cutouts between the lining and the exterior mesh and allows good variability in the shoe’s lacing. A TPU clip supports the heel as a modified counter, while a soft, quilted fabric conforms to the heel. The three-piece midsole is well cushioned and engineered to support, and then conform to the foot as it cycles from touchdown to toe-off. The outersole consists of a segmented, horseshoe-shaped, carbon rubber element in the heel, while the forefoot sports irregularly shaped rubber circuits that flex and grip as the foot moves through the gait cycle. Its stability, great cushioning, and light weight earned the LunarGlide 6 our award for Best Motion Stabilizing shoe.

“They snug up nicely and hold my feet in place very well. [They] max out the cushiness without feeling too mushy. Nicely protective. They’re wearing quite well on the roads. It’s been a really solid shoe.”

New Sizes: Men 7–12,13,14; Women 6–11 Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s 11); 8.2 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster paced runs.

Updates the Cortana 3 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 10.2 oz. (men’s 11); 8.2 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Kinvara 4 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 8.4 oz. (men’s 11); 6.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

M O T IO N S TA BI L I ZI NG adidas Supernova Boost Sequence 7 $130

Nike LunarGlide 6

110

Motion Stabilizing Fall 2014

2014 Fall Shoe Review— 6 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Updates the Supernova Boost Sequence 6 Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.5 oz. (men’s 11); 9.1 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation

Updates the LunarGlide 5 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 10.3 oz. (men’s 11); 8.5 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation