2015 SPRING SHOE REVIEW by Fortius Media

presents

2015 SPRING

SHOE REVIEW SHOE REVIEWS: MOTION STABILIZING—3 • PERFORMANCE—4 • NEUTRAL—5

The only constant in the sporting goods industry is that it’s not static. While new brands continue to appear, their chances of success have not been great. That said, the odds of success have never been better than they are now, as running specialty stores are gravitating to many of the smaller brands. The reason? Big sporting goods chains want to carry the best shoes that have been vetted by the running specialty stores, and most of the top brands have complied. So, to give customers something special, many running specialty stores have begun carrying shoes from less well-known brands. Of course, that’s what we’ve promoted in these reviews for more than 17 years: The more shoe choices you have, the better your chances of finding one to fit your feet and needs. This spring review features both established stalwarts and some fresh new creations, with innovation and industry best practices thrown into the mix. Categories continue to be refined and address the ever-present need for shoes to meet biomechanical needs, hold up to the forces exerted when running, and optimize a shoe’s performance via shape geometries. Use this guide as a starting point and, if possible, make your first stop a running specialty store to find the best running shoes for you. Keep running, friends. — Cregg Weinmann Running Shoe Reviewer for the Running Network, LLC

FORTIUS Media Group, LLC Partners

2015 Spring Shoe Review Somewhere in my garage in Wisconsin are my first pairs of running and racing shoes. My first pair of real running shoes were Onitsuka Tiger Cortez. It was 1974, and I had just moved to California from Missouri. Over the summer, I ran more than 1,000 miles in that pair of training shoes, eventually reinforcing the heel with a shoe glue product that was popular back then. My first track spikes were adidas Intervals, a shoe made for racing distances, which I beat up terribly. They started out white, but were covered with mud and such after a few spring races on dirt tracks. During the spring of 1975, I raced in Brooks track spikes which, if memory serves me well, I purchased at Starting Line from Angel Martinez, who’s now chairman at Deckers. I remember telling Angel that he sold me the first pair of running shoes that I actually paid for myself: $30 that I earned from babysitting and painting jobs. I broke five minutes for the mile in those shoes. Also in my garage are my old Nike waffle racers from the fall of 1975, which I loved because of their colors—green and yellow. I broke 17 minutes at Crystal Springs in those shoes. It was (and still is) a fine course, back then it was 2.9 miles. Eventually, I used those shoes in a college art project. Every time I open a new box of running shoes, I experience the same excitement I did when I bought my first pair. In our reviews, we remember that feeling and we hope you feel the same excitement. And, as always, we suggest that you go to your local running store when you purchase running shoes. They don’t want to simply sell you a pair of shoes; they want to fit you in a pair that will make your running enjoyable. Special thanks to Cregg Weinmann, our RN footwear reviewer; Christine Johnson, RN project coordinator and editor; Kristin Cerer, designer; Marg Sumner, proofreader; and Alex Larsen, production manager, who continue to prepare these reviews for you, year in and year out, since 1998. Enjoy!

Larry Eder Publishing Director FORTIUS Media Group, LLC

Saucony Zealot ISO

Brooks Ravenna 6

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

ASICS GT-2000 3

NEW SHOE

RENOVATION

Spring 2015

adidas Supernova Glide Boost 7

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 Quarterly 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.RunBlogRun.com www.issuu.com/RunDenmark www.RunningProductReviews.com www.SlowTwitch.com www.WomenTalkSports.com www.WorldWideRunning.com

This 2015 Spring 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.

New Balance Fresh Foam Zante

Motion Stabilizing

Neutral

Performance

Spring 2015

2015 Spring 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.

MO T IO N S TABILIZIN G ASICS GT-2000 3

RENOVATION Spring 2015

120

Brooks Ravenna 6

Motion Stabilizing Spring 2015

110

The 2000 series has been a cornerstone in the ASICS running line because of its effectiveness for a wide variety of runners. Round 3 is an update that builds on the strengths of Round 2, while refining its components. The upper features new, lateral no-sew overlays, with stitched medial overlays that provide support while reducing the weight of the shoe. The addition of the Heel Clutch system (adopted from the Kayano) better secures the rearfoot. The midsole employs the same geometry, but the cushioning of the shoe is plusher, thanks to added Gel in the heel and adjustments to the two foam layers of the Fluid Ride system. The stability remains the same, as the medial seconddensity foam (Dynamic DuoMax) shores up the shoe effectively. The outersole has the usual adjustment—here the toe is filled medially, the shank is beefier, and the Guidance line is straighter—all in an effort to subtly stabilize the gait while maintaining both durability and ride. The upshot is that the GT-2000 3 will please fans of the shoe. Its ride, fit, and value earned it our award as Best Renovation.

“Fits well overall, nice fit on the heel. Feels true to size. Pretty cushy, better for long runs than for short, fast training.”

The Ravenna has been a successful franchise for the Brooks line, evidenced by earning a few awards in its time, thanks to its solid focus on stability and cushioning. Round 6 has a flashier new look and the chops to back it up. The upper is open mesh, supported by welded overlays, with synthetic leather at the toe to give it shape. A ghilley lace loop at the saddle continually adjusts the midfoot, effectively securing the foot into the heel, where new linings and foam have a much smoother feel than before. The midsole is twodensity BioMogo DNA, Brook’s proprietary foam, which has a smooth, cushy feel while avoiding the mushy ride that can accompany cushioning. The outersole is full-contact rubber (carbon in the rearfoot, blown rubber in the forefoot) that makes good on the stability that comes with the extra surface. The combination of fit, ride, and great price earned the Ravenna 6 our award for Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“Nice secure fit, does a good job of hugging the foot with a smooth interior. Stable feel and good cushiness to the ride.”

Hoka has a number of shoes that focus on maxing out the cushioning—the brand’s main focus. The Constant is a new shoe to the Hoka line and slots in as a motion stabilizing shoe. The upper is closed mesh, supported by welded suede overlays, that shapes the toebox, locks down the midfoot, and reinforces the eyestays. The tongue is asymmetrical, wrapping from the medial (inside) side to support the midfoot, and a TPU clip anchors the heel. The midsole is a combination of EVA and RMAT foam. A unique stabilizing second density of the RMAT pushes into the arch, while the rocker geometry and flare of the forefoot stabilize the foot at the late stage of the gait. The outersole is a full-contact design. A ring of rubber around the perimeter opens on the lateral side, and toughened EVA and RMAT fill the open areas. The Constant brings cushioning and stability to recovery days with more focus than Hoka has brought before.

“Good snug fit, but with enough room up front. Gives good support and has a great feel. Really provides nice cushioning while still feeling stable and responsive.”

Now in its fifth iteration, the 860 remains the moderate stability shoe of the New Balance line, here with good updates from top to bottom. The closed mesh upper has welded overlays in the forefoot and a strip of synthetic leather shaping the toe. The midfoot is anchored by a lace/strap in the saddle, and stitched rearfoot overlays secure the heel. A new asymmetrical heel counter bolsters the medial side without overbuilding the entire heel. The midsole continues with the two-layer setup introduced in Version 4, but with new tooling that offers better flexibility and contouring. The outersole is Ndurance carbon in the heel and blown rubber up front, each contributing its strength: durability and cushion. The improvements point to better performance, which is good news to New Balance fans and another choice for runners in need of more fit options.

“Felt secure all around. Room for my toes and the heel was well supported. Solid shoe for plenty of training.”

The Hurricane is the most vaunted shoe in Saucony’s running lineup; its update brings changes, some big and some minor. The upper is an open mesh with welded overlays. More significant, however, is the new ISO fit system: a saddle of fingers that wrap the midfoot and adjust as the foot moves to offer a better fit than previous versions. The midsole has new geometry. It still features an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, but with a more substantial crashpad and a taller stack height for more cushioning. The outersole is little changed, but two things have been addressed. First, the medial heel outersole has added rubber beneath the second density of the midsole for stability. Second, the medial forefoot has a release groove at the first metatarsal for better flexibility at toe-off. These changes have increased the performance feel of the shoe. With its fit, ride, and stability, the Hurricane ISO has been upgraded from a very good shoe to an even better one.

“Love the new fit! Nice and secure, flexes well, stable. I have been really impressed with this update.”

Hoka One One Constant

160

New Balance 860 v5

115

Saucony Hurricane ISO

150

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

Updates the GT-2000 2 Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16,17 (B,D,2E,4E); Women 5–13 (2A,B,D,2E) Weight: 12.0 oz. (men’s 11); 9.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Ravenna 5 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5–12 (B,D) Weight: 12.9 oz. (men’s 11); 10.5 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–11 Weight: 11.5 oz. (men’s 11); 9.3 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the 860 v4 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E); Women 5–12,13 (2A,B,D,2E) Weight: 11.7 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 mild to moderate overpronation

Updates the Hurricane 16 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5–12 (B,D) Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation

PERFO RM AN CE adidas adizero Tempo 7 Boost

The Tempo has been a reliable Performance shoe choice: It’s great for faster running with a touch of stability. The addition of Boost foam in this version is welcome news and constitutes a step up. The upper is completely redone: now open minimesh with traditional synthetic suede overlays and a new saddle design to anchor the midfoot. The tongue, employing a stretchy fabric, is gusseted to prevent it from slipping side to side. The midsole is full-length Boost foam topped by a layer of EVA that’s thin on the lateral side, but forms an enclosed medial forefoot (called Stableframe) to stabilize the foot. The outersole is full-length Continental® rubber that’s thin, flexible, and durable. The sum of these parts equals another effective execution of the Boost technology and another versatile option for runners in need of solutions.

“Fits snug, but roomier than expected. The Boost midsole has a lively feel to it. Comfortable on my long or fast runs. Definitely a well-designed shoe.”

Ampla is a new brand, perhaps a catalyst for something different, as they’ve introduced a new technology. The upper is a closed micromesh, supported by welded overlays, that is close-fitting like a racing shoe. The midsole is two layers: a softer layer near the foot and a very firm layer near the ground. The technological shift—and the visual difference in the shoe—resides between the layers, where a carbon fiber shank sports a flange that protrudes below the sole, appearing to hang toward the ground. When running, the shank’s stiffness keeps the foot lined up while the angle of the sole acts as a proprioceptive cue to move the foot strike to the sweet spot. Internally, the carbon fiber extends to the big toe to encourage an efficient toe-off. The outersole is tough carbon rubber at both the heel and toe, and softer rubber where the flange contacts the ground. While the effect is a faster feel, the shoe is really designed for neuromuscular training. The label on its tongue says it all: “Stop not running right.”

“Snug overall, like a racer. The midfoot is stiff and holds my foot in a forward position that feels fast. Running in it seems to train the foot so it can improve my running.”

With shoes designed to accommodate the 33 joints in the foot, the 33 series has been the most nimble of the ASICS running lines. The new 33 FA features the latest version of the Fluid Axis geometry first introduced in the Gel Lyte 33. Here it features a 4mm offset from heel to toe. The upper is open mesh with soft, sueded overlays that are welded for a smooth interior. The structure is minimal. The midsole is two layers: a Solyte cradle near the ground and a new compound, AmpliFoam, that sits atop the cradle near the foot. While the AmpliFoam’s cushioning has been superior, it needs more structure, hence the cradle. The outersole is AHAR, ASICS’ abrasion-resistant rubber compound, which spreads over the shoe in pod-like segments. The rest of the sole is toughened foam. The outcome is a shoe that’s excellent for faster running, strengthening, and even as a regular training shoe to rotate into your routine.

“It has a very flexible and comfortable upper. I like the way the shoe flexes and moves with my foot. The flexibility of the toebox makes it very comfortable, almost slipper-like.”

At one time the Launch was nearly squeezed from Brooks’ line, but its attributes earned it a second chance. The Launch 2 is wholly new, its name and purpose the only constants. The upper is open mesh, supported by welded overlays, and a synthetic leather toe bumper shapes the toebox. The interior is smooth, thanks to Lycra linings in the heel and tongue areas. With its visually appealing, vibrant colors, the two-tone mesh also allows the forefoot plenty of space, while snugging the midfoot securely. The midsole is Brooks’ DNA, so it’s well-cushioned without mushiness, protective yet responsive enough for faster running. The full-contact outersole is a combination of carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot. The Launch 2 is an effective training shoe that’s light enough for faster running, yet durable enough for the long haul.

“Great snug fit from the heel to the arch, with a wide toebox, I love it! Good cushioning, but it runs plenty fast. I trained in it on all kinds of runs, and even a few races as well.”

New Balance has been pushing the innovation envelope with its Fresh Foam; the new Zante falls on the lighter and faster end of the spectrum. The upper is an open minimesh, with welded overlays, stitching kept to a minimum to do the job in the least restrictive way. The saddle is fashioned from a stiffer mesh, with minimal structure in the heel so it’s almost nonexistent. The lacing eyelets have been decoupled to both better secure and move with the foot, and the tongue is gusseted to keep it in place. The midsole is 6mm geometry, combining cushioning and structure into the midsole where needed. The outersole is full-contact, with low-profile, hexagonal lugs molded for traction in the forefoot and contact in the heel. The blending of performance, cushioning, and economical price earned the Fresh Foam Zante our award for Best Shoe in the Performance category.

“Fits like a racer, and is light enough to be a race shoe, but cushy enough to be a day-to-day trainer. It has been a great performer, and has a key spot in my shoe lineup.”

120

Ampla Fly

180

ASICS 33 FA

110

Brooks Launch 2

100

New Balance Fresh Foam Zante

Performance Spring 2015

100

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

Updates the adizero Tempo 6 Sizes: Men 7.5–13,14; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.8 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 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 6–11 Weight: 11.6 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

New Shoe Sizes: Men: 7–13,14,15; Women: 5–12 Weight: 10.4 oz. (men’s size 11); 8.5 oz. (women’s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, PU Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced runs

Updates the Launch Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15; Women 6–11,12 Weight: 11.0 oz. (men’s 11); 9.0 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

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 Weight: 8.6 oz. (men’s 11); 7.0 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

PERFO RM ANC E Newton Distance IV

The Distance is Newton’s lightest training shoe—what they describe as a speed trainer. Round 4 retains the geometry established across the line with the various Point of Pressure platforms; here it’s the POP1 configuration. The upper features different meshes in the forefoot and rearfoot, employing the same open mesh as the whole Version 3, but here only in the rearfoot. The vamp and tongue feature a new, closed mesh with less give to it, welded overlays, and a small toe bumper giving shape and a little structure to the forefoot. The midsole features the same 2mm geometry, cushioning, and performance as before. The outersole is also unchanged: rubber over the lugs and toe, the rear section just toughened foam. What results is an effective update, keeping what worked and nudging the progress forward with some upgrades.

“Good, roomy toebox, and they fit true to size. The heel counter is stiff and supportive. The lugs are noticeable until a few miles into the runs, but they do work.”

Saucony has introduced a variety of effective performance shoes. The Breakthru is the first to feature the 8mm geometry of many of its mainline training shoes. The upper is a closed mesh with both traditional and welded overlays, and tailored for a good fit for a broad range of feet. The midsole is a blend of well-cushioned EVA and a full-length of Powergrid that adds snappiness to the ride, extending its effective range in the process. The mostly segmented outersole is lightened by the “missing” segments. The effectiveness of the shoe can be summed up this way: good durability and a smooth ride at a reasonable price.

“Nice, roomy forefoot with a no-nonsense heel and midfoot fit. Not super cushioned, but they can really handle the mileage—and they don’t weigh a lot either.”

The Zealot is the third of three shoes equipped with Saucony’s ISO technology, which is designed to provide a more secure fit. The Zealot is for faster running, while its brethren are for cushioning and for stability. The upper is closed mesh with welded overlays, and the strap-like ISO fingers adapt as the foot moves. The tongue is gusseted to allow the upper to conform to the foot without the tongue slipping from side to side, contributing to the excellent fit. The midsole is fairly firm, leaning toward the responsive end of the cushioning spectrum, rather than cushy, although it’s flexible enough to avoid a stiff feel. The outersole is segmented, which contributes to the shoe’s flexibilty. The traction is good, as is the sole’s durability. Its blend of clever design, responsive cushioning, and adaptable fit earned the Zealot our Best New Shoe award.

“The sheath-like construction is snug, and the eyelets on the lacing system are separate, allowing variable adjustment along the length of the foot, which makes for a good fit. Very nice on road and dirt. The tread pattern suits all types of running.”

Skechers has overcome some barriers with its serious approach to performance, and it’s been enhanced by the successes of its signature athletes. The GoRun 4 makes a quantum leap without abandoning its genetic roots, always a dilemma when updating a shoe. The upper is a step forward, with closed mesh, sublimated graphics, and welded overlays that contribute to an improved fit and updated look. The midsole features the same 4mm geometry, with a new midsole shaping that offers a better ride, while the midfoot’s new second density results in a better feel. The outersole is still largely toughened foam (the small round rubber buttons remain in the heel and forefoot), and the midfoot features larger rubber pods that have improved durability. These changes have upped the game of the GoRun, significantly improving what was an already good shoe.

“The stretchy upper flexes well with the foot, snugs up pretty well, and has enough support. The ride is pretty smooth and fast, worked well for my faster running. It has been a good shoe to reach for in my rotation, for a ‘kick up the pace’ run.”

155

Saucony Breakthru

100

Saucony Zealot ISO

NEW SHOE Spring 2015

130

Skechers GoRun 4

100

Updates the Distance III Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 8.4 oz. (men’s 11); 6.7 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; 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 to mild overpronation

New Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.8 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 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 GoRun 3 Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14; Women 6–11 Weight: 10.1 oz. (men’s 11); 8.0 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, finished fabric Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics for faster-paced runs

NEUT RAL adidas Supernova Glide Boost 7

Neutral Spring 2015

The Supernova Glide 6 Boost proved to be a versatile, durable, and practical use of the new Boost technology. It maintains the effective chassis while turning its focus on the upper. The new upper has two aims: aesthetics (which are nice, but don’t affect performance) and fit. The new fit is effective, especially in the women’s shoe; the uppers in the male and female versions are different. In both, the stretch mesh flexes well and is also breathable without feeling too breezy in cool conditions. Minor tweaks to the overlays and saddle also do their parts in enhancing the fit. The effective midsole is unchanged: Boost foam topped with EVA to spread and stabilize the bounce. The outersole is the thin layer of tough Continental® rubber over the length of the full-contact bottom that has been so effective for grip and durability. The ride, durability, and value earned the Supernova Glide Boost 7 our Best Shoe award for Neutral shoes.

130

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

“The best thing about the fit is you don’t even notice it—hugs your foot perfectly. The cushioning is fantastic, my best shoe.” Updates the Supernova Glide 6 Boost Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.8 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics

NEUT RAL Mizuno Waverider 18

With any shoe, the goal is to please as many runners as possible. Consumer concerns about Round 17 have informed effective changes to Round 18. The upper construction has returned to a former technique, and the fit is better tailored in the midfoot: snug in the arch/instep with plenty of toe room. The midsole is firm but fairly flexible in the forefoot. A new polyurethane insole softens the feel a bit, but the firm ride is noticeable. Increased toe spring both allows the foot to roll better through the gait and gives the shoe a more responsive feel. The outersole is unchanged. X-10 rubber in the heel and bevelled pods on the lateral forefoot smooth the transition. Overall, the shoe is a few grams heavier, but the fit, ride, and feel are more familiar to the franchise, so fans who didn’t love the 17 may recognize much in this version. Recent converts should also be pleased.

“Fit was good: roomy in the toes, snug heel, no friction problems. The ride was very firm, but the cushioning was pretty good. The shoe rolls well with the foot.”

The Fresh Foam Boracay is the update to the Fresh Foam 980, a combination of a new foam formulation and application of geometries by New Balance. This round focuses on nudging each area forward to arrive at a better product overall. The upper (an open mesh in Round 1), is now a closed but breathable airmesh that’s supported by a thin framework of welded overlays. The toe is surprisingly well-supported even without a toecap, the eyestays feature self-adjusting eyelets, and the neoprene tongue and foam ankle collar provide a plush, interior feel. The Fresh Foam midsole features the same 4mm geometry. The sidewall cells have been altered to stabilize the shoe medially, while the lateral side cushions and directs the foot. This is possible, in part, because the one-piece, full-contact outersole (which is unchanged) allows the gait’s path to be chosen by the foot as the sole flexes to accommodate. The fit and ride have been elevated a notch, and while not for everybody, fans and future fans will find a lot to like.

“Really comfortable shoe to put on. It fits well— snug where needed, roomy where needed. The run is very smooth and lively for a cushion shoe.”

The Cloudster was introduced as the third model for On, a durable, high-mileage shoe with basic credentials. Round 2 keeps the chassis, while adding some zing to the rest of the shoe. The upper is closed mesh in the rearfoot, and stitching reinforces the heel counter and midfoot. The forefoot is a unique, four-way stretch fabric that adjusts with the foot without squeezing or irritation. The midsole is compression-molded EVA foam, with 7mm geometry—fairly firm—but it acts more as a platform for the “clouds” (the outersole lugs). The Cloud technology of the outersole provides the unique ride here; it varies with each runner’s stride, as the clouds compress and grip the teeth of the interior surfaces. The addition of the stretch upper, combined with the proven midsole/outersole setup has succeeded in providing a responsive shoe that can manage high mileage with ease.

“Feels light on the foot, lighter than it actually is. The fit is very accommodating, the stretch of the forefoot never restricts the foot, just supports it. They were great for my longest runs—really held up well.”

The Triumph is Saucony’s flagship neutral shoe, so it’s fitting that it’s the model to debut its new ISO-fit technology. The upper is wide open mesh that’s supported by welded overlays, but the central focus is on the ISO-fit system, independent plastic fingers that replace the eyestay and flex with the foot to hold the midfoot firmly, though without discomfort. The tongue is gusseted to keep it from slipping sideways and causing irritation. The taller midsole has an additional 3mm of cushioning in the stack height without affecting heel-to-toe drop, which holds steady at 8mm. The full-contact outersole is a combination of carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot. That’s similar to the previous version, but with additional release grooves to provide the foot with more freedom to flex at toe-off. The success of the update will be judged at the cash register, but the technical accomplishment has been, yes, a triumph.

“A sheath-like fit was great, even without the ISO-fit, but the flex with the foot made them even better. The ride was cushy enough that they became my mileage monsters.”

The new Gemini builds on Under Armour’s growing collection of shoes with molded textile uppers. This one is aimed at the runner who looks for deluxe cushioning. The upper is (very) open mesh and supported by welded overlays at the sides of the vamp that secure it to the heel. A thermoplastic toe bumper shapes the toe and gives the outersole an anchor point. In the back is an external thermoplastic heel counter. The midsole is charged foam, well-cushioned with two resilient densities that combine to provide a responsive ride. The outersole is full-contact—carbon rubber heel, blown rubber in the high-wear portions—and open areas along the length are exposed, toughened foam. The form fit is snug, so some runners may want to size up a half-size or more. The bounce, fit, and responsiveness make the Speedform Gemini a new shoe that’s worth serious consideration.

“They fit OK, but seem to run a little small. The cushioning is better than I’ve tried with Under Armour, I think they have it pretty well dialed-in. It was a good shoe, but I think it will probably get better.”

120

New Balance Boracay

120

On Cloudster

130

Saucony Triumph ISO

150

Under Armour Speedform Gemini

130

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

Updates the Waverider 17 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16; Women 6–12 Weight: 10.9 oz. (men’s 11); 8.8 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Fresh Foam 980 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (D,2E,4E); Women 5–11,12 (B,D) Weight: 10.5 oz. (men’s 11); 8.5 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 Cloudster Sizes: Men 8–12,13,14; Women 6–12 Weight: 12.4 oz. (men’s 11); 10.0 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation

Updates the Triumph 11 Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.3 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 Shoe Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–10,11 Weight: 11.0 oz. (men’s 11); 8.9 oz. (women’s 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: molded slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics