2015 Fall Shoe Review by Fortius Media

MOTION STABILIZING—3 • PERFORMANCE—4 • NEUTRAL—5 People make the shoes you run in. There are people who design them; people who develop them; people who assemble them; and people who sell them. We’re the people who get an early look, take the opportunity to test, and then review the shoes that eventually make their way to the stores which sell them to you. We thank you for your trust, and we hope that our efforts are valuable to you. The process of developing the content for our shoe reviews involves a lot of running, meetings, running, phone calls, running, emails, running, research, running, travel, running, writing, and finally, running. If it seems as if there’s a theme about running, you can rest assured that first and foremost, running shoes are about running. There are improvements in the materials we’re seeing in these shoes, as well as some new approaches, new patents, and the adoption of new practices. What results is a tremendous amount of parity among many of the brands. Because there are so many good shoes, it’s more important than ever to find the shoes which work best for you. I’m frequently asked, “Who makes the best running shoes?” I can honestly say that there are some shoes from each of the brands that work for me. That said, there are some that fit and work better than others, and just like you, I’m always looking for the shoes which work best for me. We’ve said it many times before, and it remains true: Use this guide as a starting point, then try to make your first stop a running specialty store to find the best running shoes for you. — Cregg Weinmann, Running Shoe Reviewer for the Running Network, LLC

presented by

FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Partners

2015 Fall Shoe Review Welcome to our 2015 Fall Shoe Review, your guide to some of the best running shoes in the marketplace. It’s the result of a lot of hard work by our team, but remember that it’s only a start. Read through our reviews, then head to your local running store. Try on 6–7 different shoes, run in them, talk to the staff, and figure out which is the best shoe for you. Local running stores are a huge part of the running culture. In the early days of the first running boom, the local running store was a place to hang out, check out products, find your next race, and get training tips. My store was Goettelmann’s Ryan’s Sports in California’s Silicon Valley. Gary Goettlemann was—and still is at heart—a real runner, doing track, cross country, and marathons. Through runs with him, talking with him, reading from his stack of old magazines (full confession: I still have one of his Track & Field News issues from July 1974), I learned about our sport. It was perhaps 1977 or ’78 when I first went to Gary’s store. Now a few decades later, Gary and his son Steve run the shop together. If you want to be patronized, please go to another running store. But if you want honest comments on what shoes could work for you, how to improve your training, and how running can positively impact your life, then by all means ask Gary or Steve. Gary influenced me in many ways. One of my favorite memories was when I was trying to break 33 minutes for the 10K. I had tried and tried, and it just wasn’t happening. Gary looked at me and said, “Maybe it’s not to be.” Those words got me so wound up that I focused on the training I was missing and about a month later I broke 33 minutes for the first time. When I returned to the store to show Gary, he smiled and said, “I knew you could do it.” Read our reviews, then go ask some questions at your local running store. If you need help finding a great store in your area, email me at runblogrun@gmail.com with the subject line “running stores,” and I’ll help you find one. All of the good running stores have characters—and we all need a few good characters in our lives.

Larry Eder Publishing Director FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

361º Sensation

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 Ad Manager: Adam Johnson-Eder, 608.556.9164, adamlawrenceeder@gmail.com Legal Counsel: Perry F. Goldust

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 2

adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8

NEW SHOE

RENOVATION

Fall 2015

New Balance Vazee Pace

This 2015 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.

Mizuno Wave Enigma 5

Motion Stabilizing

Performance

Neutral

Fall 2015

2015 Fall Shoe Review— 2 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

American Track & Field www.american-trackandfield.com Athletes Only www.atf-athlete.com Athletics-Africa www.athletics-africa.com/s/ Austin Fit www.austinfitmagazine.com California Track & Running News www.caltrack.com Club Running (RRCA) www.rrca.org/publications/ club-running Coaching Athletics www.coachingathleticsq.com Colorado Runner www.coloradorunnermag.com Footnotes (Long Island, NY) www.glirc.org Get Active! & Club Business International www.healthclubs.com Hawaii Sport www.hawaiisportmag.com Latinos Corriendo www.latinoscorriendo.com Michigan Runner www.michiganrunner.net Missouri Runner & Triathlete www.morunandtri.com New England Exchange Zone www.usatfne.org Race Packet DC www.racepacket.com 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.ePodismo.com (Italy) www.ePodismo.com/USA www.HalfMarathon.net www.JumpingTheGun.com www.MarathonGuide.com www.PhysicalMag.com www.RunBlogRun.com www.issuu.com/RunDenmark www.RunJumpThrow.com www.RunningProductReviews.com www.SlowTwitch.com www.WomenTalkSports.com www.WorldWideRunning.com

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.

MOTION STABILIZING 361º Sensation

NEW SHOE Fall 2015

120

adidas Supernova Sequence Boost 8

Motion Stabilizing Fall 2015

130

ASICS GT-1000 4

The new Sensation is a shoe from a brand that’s new to the U.S. market, though 361º isn’t new to shoemaking, having produced some award-winning shoes for other companies. The details in the Sensation evidence a mature approach to design and a familiarity with the craft of shoemaking. The upper is straightforward, with open minimesh and traditional overlays offering a well-supported fit and good breathability. The midsole is a two-part system: a lower portion of quality dual-density EVA with a post to stabilize the foot and an upper element that’s a new proprietary process of plastic-coated foam, called Quickfoam, that offers an outstanding ride. The outersole is a proven setup of blown rubber in the forefoot and carbon rubber in the heel, resulting in good flexibility and durable traction. The sole is well-segmented, allowing the foot to flex throughout the gait. The effectiveness, ride, and quality construction of the Sensation earned it our award for Best New Shoe.

“Has a good secure fit and a quality feel to it. Good amount of cushion—bouncy even—and a good stable base.”

The art of the update is a delicate dance in which both designer and runner hope for the best. The Supernova Sequence Boost 8 is updated with some new touches that will be appreciated as all of the vital parts of the previous version remain intact. The upper is closed mesh with no-sew overlays in the forefoot, more open than previously and with better toe room. The gusseted tongue continues, and the saddle is brawnier, although the pliable material holds the foot well without feeling stiff or irritating. The interior’s lining is smooth enough for sockless wear, if that’s your preference, and it offers a fairly plush feel. Minor adjustments have been made to the midsole components so there’s a bit more support medially, and the lateral side exposes more Boost foam, adding a bit more flexibility in the forefoot. The Continental rubber outersole continues as before, with its proven durability and effective traction. The fit, stability, and ride of the Supernova Sequence Boost 8 earned our award for Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“The heel surrounds and holds the back of the foot very securely. Fits well with good toe room. The Boost foam gives the shoes a lively feel despite being a stability shoe.”

For more than two decades, the foundational shoes of the 1000 series have represented value and performance to runners. Round 4 of the GT-1000 has developed into a full-featured stability shoe, providing value without cutting corners. The upper is an engineered mesh (with a bit of stretch to it) that breathes well and holds the foot securely without needless friction. The midsole features a traditional medial post, which shores up the arch and stabilizes the overpronating foot. The midsole is sculpted to flex with the foot, and a crashpad under almost the entire heel facilitates the touchdown of heelstrikers in a most accommodating way. The outersole is AHAR+ carbon rubber in the heel, with blown rubber in the forefoot and segmented throughout to allow foot flexion in its most natural manner. All in all the GT-1000 4 delivers stability, solid performance, and value without stressing the budget.

“Really good fit, roomy and flexible in the toes, and cupped the heel well. Nice cushion; good stable feel. It was a really good shoe for me.”

The Paradox carries on Mizuno’s tradition of motion stabilizing shoes, managing the heavy-duty motion end of the tandem, the counterpart to the Wave Inspire. The upper has been completely rebuilt, gone are the welded overlays that covered the entire upper in Round 1. Instead there’s a uniformly woven fabric supported by traditional overlays and is tied to the Runbird logo, which forms a saddle-like midfoot support. The midsole is U4ic foam, sculpted for support, but a nicely cushioned layer that responds well to the road. The asymmetrical wave plate is solid for stability; here it’s a full-length version with a springy forefoot. A foam Strobel board offers a cushier feel. The outersole is full-contact, X10 carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot with Mizuno’s Smooth Ride technology laterally. The flex grooves are oriented to forward motion, with an eye to curbing excess inward roll. Round 2 Paradox is deserving of your consideration, as its aesthetics belie its seriously stable nature.

“Really, really stable. No, I mean really stable. Fit great, springy, this one is for serious mileage.”

Saucony has had a strong reputation for motion stabilizing shoes. As has been true since its introduction near the turn of the millennium, the Omni does its job effectively without much fanfare. The upper continues with a stretch mesh similar to Round 13, with some of the traditional synthetic leather overlays replaced by no-sew suede with a softer feel to the support. The midsole is slightly reshaped, deeper flex grooves into the sidewall allow for better flexibility, and a larger crashpad softens the touchdown. The second density extends a bit further, stopping behind the first metatarsal region. The outersole features the same placement of flex grooves in the same radial design as before, but the sculpting of the lateral side allows more give to the pods. The medial side is slightly more supportive, with new shaping, which also lends a bit more durability. The nudge from the accumulated changes wrings out a little more performance from a shoe that was already a successful performer—good news to those in need of a supportive shoe.

“Super solid feel, and nicely finished—pretty plush interior. Really stable through the arch, and really flexible where it needs it.”

100

Mizuno Wave Paradox 2

135

Saucony Omni 14

130

2015 Fall Shoe Review— 3 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

New Shoe Sizes: Men 6–12,13,14; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 11.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.5 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Supernova Sequence Boost 7 Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.9 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 moderate overpronation

Updates the GT-1000 3 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15,16,17 D,2E,4E; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 10.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Wave Paradox Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 D,2E; Women 6–12 B,D Weight: Men 13.5 oz. (size 11); Women 10.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semistraight Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, U4ic foam Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with moderate to severe overpronation

Updates the Omni 13 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 D,2E; Women 5–12 A,B,D Weight: Men 11.4 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

MOTION STABILIZING Under Armour Charged Bandit

100

The Charged Bandit is a bit of a hybrid in the Under Armour running line, with a more mainline approach than its siblings. Using a traditional construction approach, the upper is engineered mesh called Armour-Vent, with no-sew welded overlays lending structure and support (as well as prominently displaying the UA logo). The midsole is a multidensity EVA, with an insert of UA’s Charged foam under the forefoot. A thermoplastic medial support lends a touch of stability to the ride, effective for minimal wobble (though for many that’s enough), especially when it’s coupled with full-contact geometry as it is here. If you’re flat on the ground, it’s hard to wobble. Add another layer of Charged foam in the insole that rides on top of an EVA Strobel board, and the package is complete. The full-contact outersole has been pared back, both saving weight and improving flexibility. The rubber compound is pretty sturdy—all the better to pile on the miles. Overall, the Charged Bandit is quite a good buy, delivering cushioning and durability.

“Fit was pretty good, room for the toes, and flexed well. Good cushion and pretty stable. They even look pretty decent.”

What do you do when you’re named after the world’s most iconic marathon? If you’re the Boston Boost, you wear it with pride. In this round (the second to be “Boosted”), the focus is on lightening things up. The upper features two kinds of forefoot mesh that are layered with a small mesh near the foot, a more open mesh on the outside, with a traditional overlay at the toe of microsuede and a saddle of the same, incorporating the logo stripes. The rearfoot uses a thin, minimesh and a stitched heel counter to provide support. Breathability is maximized: The linings are kept to a minimum, but are sufficient for comfort. The midsole is still Boost foam supported by a frame of EVA, though the percentage of the heavier Boost is increased for better rebound. Even so, the overall weight is reduced a bit, and the improved cushioning adds to the bargain. The outersole is the same proven Continental rubber, which continues to be effective for adidas users. The Boston Boost is a great choice for faster running, long races, and even a share of your daily training.

“Close-fitting, stripped-down upper, but not uncomfortable. The ride is totally the ‘thing.’ They have great cushioning and they’re fast.”

Altra is known for zero-drop running shoes that match the shape of your foot. The Torin was the first of the Altra shoes to dip a toe into the mainstream running shoe scene. Round 1.0 employed a traditional approach with materials, but used a flat last with an oversized toebox and, like many of the brand’s shoes, has gained a growing following of runners. Version 2.0 steps things up a notch. The upper is a closed minimesh with no-sew overlays, minimal heel and toe structure (though enough to do the job), and a smooth, roomy interior, especially up front. Taking a page from almost every brand on the market, they have a proprietary midsole foam—called A-bound—and it’s nicely resilient with good cushioning underfoot and, of course, zero-drop geometry. The outersole is carbon rubber, used sparingly in strips on the lateral side, at the heel, under the metatarsals, and at the big toe. The remainder of the sole is toughened A-bound, and it does the trick well. With attributes like these, the Torin is definitely a shoe worth considering.

“Very comfortable. The fit has ample room for the toes and is secure enough in the heel. Plenty of bounce and pretty stable. I liked the feel.”

The Clifton was a surprise when it came out last year: It was crazy light and cushioned to the max. Round 2 shares the ride and feel more broadly, thanks to some minor tailoring changes, but it really ups the performance level for more runners. Round 1 had few options to secure the shoe. Now an extra eyelet on either side allows the shoe to fit better, and the addition of foam in the tongue and ankle collar and a beefier insole improve comfort. More runners can experience the Clifton’s ride with these changes, but runners who found the forefoot snug before will probably have to size up. The midsole and outersole are unchanged: Again, don’t fix what ain’t broke. The shoe remains about as light as you get and with as much cushion as you need (or even a bit more). So recover to your heart’s content—or rock some big miles if that’s your thing. The Clifton 2 won’t care; but it’ll take care of you. No surprise that the Clifton 2 earned our award for Best Renovation.

“The upper fits snugly, securely, and [is] pretty smooth. Light[weight] and well-cushioned. They are really cushy.”

The range of New Balance performance shoes has expanded over the past several seasons. The Vazee Pace replaces the 890, though it has a different fit, ride, and function. Its name is a play on French slang meaning “let’s go,” because it can really go. The upper is mostly minimesh with traditional overlays over most of its surface. The heel employs a bellows-like construction that flexes as the foot moves, and allows the shoe to fit and adapt to the foot’s motion through the gait. The midfoot fit wraps the arch more effectively than previous New Balance shoes have—particularly for those runners with higher arches. The midsole is Revlite foam that’s lightweight, resilient, and nicely cushioned. The outersole is carbon rubber at the heel and toe and is segmented to better cover forefoot, midfoot, and rearfoot. Blown rubber provides durability in the midfoot section. The combination of fit, ride, and value earned the Vazee Pace our award for Best Performance shoe.

“Perfect fit—and moves with the foot—with really great cushioning. Great for tempo runs, intervals, going for an iced beverage … you get the idea.”

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–12,13,14,15; Women 5–11,12 Weight: Men 11.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.2 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

PERFORMANCE adidas Boston Boost

120

Altra Torin 2.0

125

HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 2

RENOVATION Fall 2015

130

New Balance Vazee Pace

Performance Fall 2015

110

2015 Fall Shoe Review— 4 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Updates the Boston Boost Sizes: Men 6.5–13; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 9.4 oz. (size 11); Women 7.7 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Torin 1.5 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 9.8 oz. (size 11); Women 7.6 oz. (size 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 Clifton Sizes: Men 7.5–14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 9.5 oz. (size 11); Women 7.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, perforated EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14 D,2E; Women 6–11 B,D Weight: Men 8.9 oz. (size 11); Women 6.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

PERFORMANCE Mizuno Sayonara 3

The Sayonara fills an important niche in Mizuno’s performance running line. Although Round 3 may look different, it functions similarly. The upper changes from the no-sew overlays over the entire surface to an open mesh with traditional overlays. The fit is a bit freer with the flexible stretch mesh, and the overlays and internal strapping effectively support the foot. The midsole maintains its 10mm geometry with the usual minor tweaks to the molding, but its effective cushioning continues, as does its good, full-contact stability—though with less of an assist from the waveplate. The outersole is X-10 rubber in the heel with a change to blown rubber in the forefoot. This combination provides reliable traction and good durability. The net effect here is a reasonably lightweight shoe that can hold up to all types of daily training.

“Good all-around shoe. Light enough for long races. Good cushioning. Fits well. Comfy for long runs. Have to say they did everything I needed.”

The Elite name has adorned Nike shoes for 40 years, with one thing in common: performance. The Nike Zoom Elite 8 shares that legacy and backs it up quietly and efficiently. The upper is an engineered material called Flymesh, though here it’s two separate pieces seamed together and married by Flywire, which supports the fit of the lacing. The interior lining is smooth enough for sockless use, and the tongue is gusseted so that it stays in place and makes the lining almost continuous. The midsole is molded Phylon with a forefoot Zoom bag, and they combine well for protection and responsiveness and give the ride a good bounce. The outersole is divided into three zones: a forefoot of soft but durable blown rubber that holds up well, a midfoot that’s supported medially by waffles molded into the toughened Phylon midsole, and a heel and lateral midfoot of durable carbon rubber which provide an extra touch of stability. This is one of those “the sum is greater than its parts” equations, whether speeding through the fast stuff or adding some zip to your daily training.

“Fit well in the toes; secure in the heel. Has a gofast feel, but also plenty of cushion, traction, and it adds in good looks to boot.”

110

Nike Zoom Elite 8

115

Updates the Sayonara 2 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 10.3 oz. (size 11); Women 8.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

Updates the Zoom Elite 7 Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 10.4 oz. (size 11); Women 8.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

NEUTRAL 361º Spire

As a new brand, all 361˚ shoes are new to our market, but they’re not unproven, having done factory work for other top brands. As its name suggests, the Spire is 361˚’s pinnacle shoe. The upper features quality stretch mesh, with a combination of traditional synthetic leather/suede and no-sew overlays. The midfoot benefits from a secure saddle, while the external thermoplastic heel counter keeps the rearfoot aligned. The midsole is where this shoe really shines: A new compound called Quickfoam produces a comfy ride and makes the shoe more responsive and bouncy than expected. The outersole is a typical setup: carbon rubber in the heel, blown rubber in the forefoot, and a thermoplastic shank for torsional support. The finish work here polishes the shoe with some quality touches, and the ride points to even better shoes to come.

“Very comfortable fit with good quality linings. Has a very smooth feel to the ride: plenty of cush but with really good rebound. They are really nice to run in.”

Long the workhorse in ASICS’ Neutral lineup, the Cumulus sports upgrades from top to bottom, improving its stock with Round 17. The upper is open mesh with no-sew overlays extending along its full length; only a stitched toe bumper and ankle collar take a traditional approach. The quality ankle and tongue linings give the interior a luxe feel. The reshaped midsole employs the FluidRide system that features two layers of foam sandwiching heel and forefoot Gel elements. Each component contributes to the ride, providing a well-cushioned feel. The outersole is newly configured in a wavelike pattern that exposes more surface area, offering excellent grip and a touch more cushioning. The thorough overhaul of the Cumulus 17 has reinvigorated and raised the capabilities of this proven performer.

“Good ASICS fit, as expected. Snug heel with plenty of room for the toes. I was impressed by the great ride to the shoe.”

The Ghost has figured prominently in the success of Brooks’ running line, and Round 8 shows the good result of much effort. The upper shifts to an engineered mesh supported by no-sew overlays, and minimally stitched overlays at heel and toe lend necessary structure to those critical areas, improving the fit in the process. The midsole now features a full-length, lateral crashpad which aligns with the Omega groove and allows the foot some freedom to move in its gait. The good news for Ghost fans is that the cushy ride they relied on continues in Round 8—perhaps even a bit better. The outersole is similar to Round 7: a luggy series of carbon rubber strips on the edges with a section of blown rubber under the ball of the foot, each grouping segmented to allow the foot to flex and move. Put simply, it works. The result is a shoe that continues to provide cushioning, fit, and overall durability to a wide variety of runners.

“Snug in the heel and soft inside. They feel good and protective. I’ve really piled on the miles in these.”

140

ASICS Gel-Cumulus 17

120

Brooks Ghost 8

120

2015 Fall Shoe Review— 5 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

New Shoe Sizes: Men 6–12,13,14; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 11.5 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Gel-Cumulus 16 Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15,16,17 D,2E,4E; Women 5–12 B,D Weight: Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 10.3 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

Updates the Ghost 7 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

NEUTRAL Brooks Glycerin 13

Round 13 of the Glycerin retains the best elements of its design and forges ahead. The midsole from Round 12 was then a step forward with new geometry, a new compound, and a new platform, all of which were well received. So why mess with success? The expectation that things can be improved sometimes pushes a good technology out too soon, so maintaining the midsole here is a positive move. The upper now features a closed minimesh with a stitched toecap, saddle, and heel. However, the upper has better stretch, and 3D-printed overlays shape and support the shoe with little impact on the interior. The ankle collar has a smoother feel, and the shoe’s interior (including the gusseted tongue) is uniform as well. The full-contact bottom continues as before: Its wellsegmented, omnidirectional design allows the foot to flex pretty much as it likes. While relatively lightly touched, this update is quite well done.

“Great silky smooth interior. Really hugs the foot well, but with plenty of room where needed. Responsive bounce makes training as easy as possible.”

The Enigma has been the premier Neutral shoe in Mizuno’s line and features its most straightforward and signature waveplate. Round 5 has taken a serious step up in performance and comfort, which is a pleasant surprise and should be good news to Enigma fans. The upper returns to a wide-open mesh, with traditional overlays providing most of the support. The midsole continues with the same full-length waveplate and U4ic foam. New here is U4ic-X, a second full-length insert layer that adds a plusher feel to the ride. Another hidden upgrade is the foam Strobel board that adds another subtle comfort layer to the shoe directly beneath the good quality polyurethane insole. The outersole continues as before with X-10 carbon rubber in the heel, blown rubber in the forefoot, and segmented for good flexibility. The bottom line? The performance, fit, and ride of the Enigma 5 earned it our award for Best Shoe in the Neutral category.

“Fit snug, but felt great. They have good traction and durability. Overall, this is a great distance training shoe.”

On has gained a reputation for the ride provided by its unique Cloud technology. The new CloudCruiser is designed for heavy wear, hard surfaces, and high mileage. The upper is similar to other On shoes: a sturdy, slightly stiff, closed mesh that features a sueded saddle that securely wraps the foot with adequate conformity, becoming more comfortable after a few runs. The midsole is a thin layer of EVA, which contains the Speedboard, a thermoplastic plate that adds rigidity and flex to the sole. The outersole adds both cushioning and traction, with its 15 Clouds positioned and shaped to ameliorate the forces of touchdown and toe-off. The Clouds in the heel are the thickest variety, and those on the lateral side are the largest yet used, effectively encouraging proper alignment for a variety of heel strikes. For weight savings without a loss in performance, the interior of the loops now engages teeth that are molded into the EVA layer instead of rubber. The CloudCruiser treads where others have gone, but it does so longer.

“Has a really sturdy feel to it, and a very consistent ride. It seems the farther you go, the more responsive the shoe becomes in shielding the foot. I was impressed with the shoe.”

The new Road N3 is a Pearl Izumi shoe with a laser-like focus on cushioning. In fact, it’s the cushiest of all PI’s shoes. While similar to other very cushioned shoes on the market, it offers the Pearl Izumi approach as part of its EMotion line. The upper is closed mesh supported by 3D-printed overlays that maximize a smooth interior without sacrificing support. The midsole is the tallest of the Pearl Izumi line at 27 millimeters, but has a lower feel, while providing a well-cushioned and neutral ride. The outersole is tough rubber that flares in two directions: in the forefoot toward the lateral side and in the heel toward the medial. This keeps the weight down while effectively providing traction, flexibility, and durability. The upshot is that the N3 is a well-cushioned shoe that handles long runs, recovery runs, and daily training with ease.

“Very comfortable upper that feels good enough to wear without socks. Easy to run in. Smooth from heel to toe. Great shoe for high mileage.”

The Skechers Ultra has found a following, and many of those runners have been waiting for a road version. Well, the wait is over. The Ultra Road takes its cue from the GOrun line—and particularly its trail counterpart—providing a ride that’s springy as well as ultra cushioned. The upper is an engineered mesh called GOKNIT, which has open and closed areas across its surface to offer a good fit and breathability. The midsole has a tall stack height of 32 millimeters in the heel. It’s soft, but surprisingly responsive, and of course well-cushioned, though it’s not designed for wobbly feet. The outersole is full-length Resalyte, which is tougher than it looks, but even so, it’s backed up by strategically placed dots of carbon rubber for added durability, as per other GOrun road models. Whether it’s big road miles or recovery days the Ultra Road has got you covered.

“Fit really quite well; snugged up with good wiggle room. Super squishy, but not too mushy. Weird, but they run really well, and keep you going on easy days or long days with protection from the road.”

150

Mizuno Wave Enigma 5

Neutral Fall 2015

150

On CloudCruiser

150

Pearl Izumi Road N3

130

Skechers GOrun Ultra Road

115

2015 Fall Shoe Review— 6 — FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Updates the Glycerin 12 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 B,D,2E; Women 5–12 2A,B,D Weight: Men 12.1 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 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 Wave Enigma 4 Sizes: Men 7–14,15,16; Women 5–11 Weight: Men 11.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.1 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–14; Women 6–11 Weight: Men 12.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.7 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 Weight: Men 12.1 oz. (size 11); Women 9.8 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–10,11 Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics