Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review by Fortius Media Group LLC (Running Network)

spring shoe review 2010:Spring Shoe Review 09 2/24/10 9:52 PM Page 1

ShoE REvIEWS: Motion Stabilizing—iii | Neutral—iii | Performance—v ach new season brings with it the anticipation of improved design and new materials. The shoes that endured our weartesting process represent the best shoes for a variety of feet and runners. The influence of “Natural Motion” and a reexamination Eof design and available materials can be seen in the changes that have been made in a number of the shoes. Many shoes in all categories have been lightened up and have lower profiles, though there are still a number of heavyweight shoes with heavyduty motion stabilizing technologies, or multiple layers of plush cushioning. Such changes have further established some best practices that improve overall comfort. All brands have their own lasts and formulations of basic materials that allow them to address the majority of runners’ requirements for fit and feel. The number of offerings in the Neutral and Performance shoe categories continues to grow, while those in the Motion Stabilizing category, though smaller in number, are becoming more precisely tuned to give better support and a more efficient transition from heel to toe-off. While there are some new patents in both design and use of materials, a number of innovations have spread throughout the industry so rapidly that they have already become best practices, and the consumer is the ultimate beneficiary. Shoe companies use slightly different lasts (the foot-shaped forms on which shoes are made) and proprietary midsole formulas, and those result in a wide range of offerings on the market and improved chances that runners can find a shoe to match their fitness and biomechanics. It may take a bit of time to check out all the options, but you’ll know the right shoe for you when you try it. We offer this Review as a starting point.

Welcome to the Running Network’s 2010 Spring Shoe Review! arefoot running has been a hot topic of late: Should you run in shoes or do they hinder your natural movement? This discussion surfaces every decade or so, and in my 30+ years in the sport, I’ve developed my own take on this, which was corroborated by Cregg Weinmann at last year’s Running Network meetings. All things being equal, a runner should run in the least amount of shoe they can, depending on their biomechanical needs. It’s true that some people can run barefoot or in minimalist shoes on long runs, etc., but others risk injury that way. I suggest what my college coach, Dan Durante, had me do: Take a varied approach. I ran on grass, dirt trails, roads and tracks. I ran on beaches barefoot or grass tracks once in a while. I ran in light shoes during fast sessions and had my favorite (heavier) training shoes for long runs and easy days. I also noted that the better shape I got in, the lighter the shoes I could successfully train in. Just remember that this is a personal decision about what works for you in your own set of circumstances. Find the right shoe or shoes for you, and add some variety to your training surfaces— you’ll have healthier feet for it! As always, thanks to Cregg Weinmann, our RN footwear reviewer, Kristen Cerer, our designer, Marg Sumner, our proofreader, and Christine Johnson, our RN project manager. We ask you to use the Running Network’s Shoe Review as the starting point in your journey to find your perfect running shoe. Go to your local running store (we track 683 of them at runningnetwork.com’s Store Locator) to finish the journey!

Running Network LLC Partners

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American Track & Field www.american-trackandfield.com Athletes only www.atf-athlete.com Athletics (Canada) www.otfa.ca Austin Fit www.austinfitmagazine.com California Track & Running News www.caltrack.com Club Running www.rrca.org/clubrunning Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com Colorado Runner www.coloradorunnermag.com Get Active! www.getactivemagazine.com Greater Long Island Running Club’s Footnotes www.glirc.org Latinos Corriendo www.latinoscorriendo.com Michigan Runner www.michiganrunner.net

BEST RENOVATION SPRING 2010 BEST RENOVATION

Missouri Runner & Triathlete www.morunandtri.com

SPRING 2010 Larry Eder President, Running Network LLC

BEST NEW SHOE BESTSPRING NEW2010SHOE

AWARD WINNERS

SPRING 2010

K-Swiss Keahou II BEST SHOE MotionProGrid Triumph 7 Saucony BEST SHOE Stabilizing Motion Best Stabilizing Shoe—Neutral

BEST SHOE Neutral BEST SHOE SP

RIN G 20 Neutral BEST RENOVATION S PRI

SPRING 2010

1 NG 20

BEST SHOE

SHOE II ScottBEST Makani Performance BEST SHOE Neutral Best Performance Shoe—Performance Neutral

Performance PRI 1 Performance NG 20

BEST SHOE BEST NEW SHOE S 0 SPRING 2010

SP SP

RIN G 2010

BEST SHOE

Neutral

Motion BEST Stabilizing RENOVATION

RIN G 2010 RIN G 2010

Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13 Best Shoe—Motion Stabilizing

20101 0 S SPRING PRI NG 20

RIN G 2010

BEST NEWSHOE SHOE BEST

BEST SHOE

Performance SPRING 2010

Performance SP

RIN G 2010 RIN G 2010

adidas adiStar Solution Best New Shoe

Running Journal & Racing South www.running.net Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann Project Coordinator/Editor: Christine Johnson Designer: Kristen Cerer Proofreader: Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial Services Shoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña, Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales: Running Network LLC, Larry Eder, President, 920.563.5551, ext. 112, larry.eder@gmail.com Publisher: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785 Website: www.runningnetwork.com For a Media Kit, please visit our website. This 2010 Spring Shoe Review is produced independently by Running Network LLC for its partner publications. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matched to the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model. Copyright © 2010 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior written permission of Running Network LLC.

Neutral

RIN G 2010

Brooks Glycerin 8 Best Renovation

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

BEST SHOE BEST SHOE BEST RENOVATION Neutral SP

SPRING 2010

Motion Stabilizing

RIN G 2010

BEST NEW SHOE

BEST SHOE

SPRING 2010

BEST SHOE

Performance

Performance Neutral

RIN G 2010

BEST SHOE

BEST SHOE Motion Stabilizing

Neutral S

RIN G 2010

ii | Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review

RunMinnesota www.runmdra.org Runohio www.runohio.com Track & Field News www.trackandfieldnews.com USATF’s Fast Forward www.usatf.org USATF–New England’s Exchange Zone www.usatfne.org The Winged Foot www.nyac.org The Winged M www.themac.com Youth Runner www.youthrunner.com

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MoTIoN STABILIZING | NEUTRAL ASICS GT-2150

$100

The best-selling technical running shoe enters the back half of its second decade with a plan: Be consistent. The design stays as near as possible to previous versions, only tinkering with improvements to materials, especially those at the top of ASICS’ impressive line. The similarity with the 2140 extends from the upper, with minor adjustments in the overlays and a lowered ankle collar for better fit, to the midsole, through to the shank and outersole. The great cushioning and stable ride are well dialed-in, providing long-time users what they expect: a well-protected, securely delivered run. Runners with stability needs should seek out the GT-2150 and give it a test run. “Snug, comfy and feels good. Cushioning is great; my feet are fine even after a 12-mile run. They seem a little lighter than their predecessor: keep what works and fix the little things.” Updates the GT-2140 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16,17 (D), 7–14,15,16,17 (EE), 8–14,15,16,17 (EEEE), 7–14,15,16 (B); Women 5–13 (AA,B), 6–13 (D) • Weight: Men 13.2 oz. (size 11); Women 11.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

BEST RENOVATION Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10

SPRING 2010

$105

Brooks’ go-to shoe (what did you think GTS stood for?) passes the decade mark with a few new twists. The upper elicits the design ethos established more radically in the Trance 9. Here the supportive overlays are effectively distributed to keep the mesh open where needed, while holding the foot over the midsole with the help of a sturdy new saddle overlay on the medial side. The midsole hints at more open segmentation, especially in the heel, improving the transition from heel to toe (a weakness with previous versions). The forefoot maintains its great flexibility, and the heel and forefoot are bridged by a brawnier TPU shank. The overall weight is more than half an ounce heavier, but the improvements to the support and ride seem worth it.

BEST NEW SHOE

“The Adrenaline has worked well for me, I know what to expect: comfortable fit, plenty of cushion, and great stability. Still a great shoe, in my opinion. There’s not much that needs improvement on this series of shoes.”

SPRING 2010

Updates the Adrenaline GTS 9 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 13.2 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Combination Strobel slip-lasted, Texon heel board

Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13

$100

Formerly one of a trio of Triax shoes, the Zoom Structure is the only survivor, though any resemblance to the original is lost in the mists of time. The goal of the Bowerman series is to maintain the essence of each shoe while incorporating improvements as they become best practices. The upper now sports simplified overlays, with more effective rearfoot strapping to lock the heel into its cradle in a manner similar to the Equilon. The mesh is open, especially across the metatarsals, freeing the bunion window. The midsole is essentially unchanged, except for more pronounced flex grooves in the lateral crashpad that improve the touchdown and transition to toe-off. The remaining changes are largely cosmetic, but this scaling back has shaved nearly an ounce from the shoe. Its combination of great fit, ride, and stability earned the Zoom Structure our Best Motion Stabilizing Shoe award.

BEST SHOE

BEST SHOE Motion Stabilizing

Neutral SP

RIN G 2

010

RIN G 2010

“Slipping these shoes on, I like the snug fit and the sturdy support. The first run proved the fit was good, especially the new supports in the heel. There is a noticeable amount of cushioning in these shoes. Overall, my foot felt secure and ‘well liked’ in this shoe. The balance, stability, and support are first-rate.” Updates the Zoom Structure Triax+ 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 12.4 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Cushlon board

Pearl Izumi Fuel

BEST SHOE

Performance

Performance Neutral

RIN G 2

010

RIN G 2010

$100

The Fuel is a new shoe for Pearl Izumi and features some new approaches with its technology. The fit of the upper is glove-like from the heel to the midfoot—almost a racing shoe fit—but the forefoot has a roomy feel across the metatarsals to the toes, which, while common, is not standard fare. The ride is firm and responsive, a nice blending of quality EVA and Skydex elements in the heel and forefoot. The abbreviated Syncroframe is as effective as previous versions while lightening the shoe a bit, though it’s still no lightweight. Overall, the shoe provides just enough support and stability for overpronators looking for less bulky control.

BEST RENOVATION SPRING 2010

“I love the fit of these shoes! The one-piece upper distributes security across the entire foot and helps to reduce the overall weight of the shoe. The ride was firm but not clunky, very stable without being too stiff. These are the best of the Pearls I’ve tried.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: 13.1 oz. (men’s 11); 10.9 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

adidas adiStar Solution

$120

BEST NEW SHOE

The new Solution is aimed at runners who want a responsive ride with a little stability and a measure of comfort. Part of the adiStar family, it features a performance fit in a heavy-duty daily trainer. The upper feels plush, thanks to the cushioned but sleek tongue and the smooth finish of the interior. The midsole is substantial and nicely responsive and protective, while the ForMotion cassette provides a smooth transition and good stability. The adiWear heel and blown rubber forefoot are typical setups and are well executed. The versatility and ride of the adiStar Solution earned it our Best New Shoe award.

SPRING 2010

“Good overall feel, comfortable fit, nice cushioning underneath. The upper is padded where needed, but not overdone. The midsole is firm, but responds well; not mushy. Great stable feeling, and a durable, reliable shoe.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 14.5 oz. (men’s 11); 12.4 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved to curved

BEST SHOE Neutral SP

iii | Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review

RIN G 2

010

BEST SHOE Motion Stabilizing SP

RIN G 2010

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NEUTRAL adidas Supernova Glide 2

$100

In its second outing, the Glide takes a direct aim at performance without sacrificing the quality of the original. The upper uses a very breathable, engineered mesh that’s constructed with openings in some areas and is more solid in others. The midsole has a little softer feel—still quite flexible—but more solid. Thanks to the multiple layers of midsole/innersole materials and the Strobel board, the shoe has a cushy feel while still being resilient and responsive—a fine line that this shoe negotiates well. The new blown rubber forefoot has a little better traction than the original Glide did and a rubbery, resilient bounce. The fit and ride will be familiar to adidas fans. “Great glove-like fit, but enough room in the toe box to wiggle toes! Wore them on long runs, were great on the hills. They were definitely bouncy and squishy. Very comfortable and holding up well.” Updates the Supernova Glide • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20; Women 5–12 • Weight: 13.3 oz. (men’s 11); 11.3 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved to curved

BEST RENOVATION Brooks 2010Glycerin SPRING

BEST RENOVATION SPRING 2010

BEST

$130

Brooks introduces a new technology with its flagship neutral shoe. DNA is a rubbery cushioning element with the unique ability to respond according to the force applied to it: softly when a little pressure is applied, more firmly when more pressure is applied. DNA not only outperforms Brooks’ longtime HydroFlow technology, it’s also more environmentally friendly. The upper closely mimics the familiar fit of the past few iterations, with open mesh and a supportive saddle design. The midsole retains much of the feel of its predecessor but with a little better transition and a more responsive feel. Minor adjustments to the shank and outersole maintain the Glycerin’s support and durability and sports the inscription in German: “Laufen ist in meiner DNA” or “Running is in my DNA.” The performance, upgraded materials, and execution earned the Glycerin 8 our Best Renovation NEW award. SHOE

SPRING “The 2010 fit is familiar: secure with a good feel around the ankle collar and roomy in the toes. The cushioning is quite good, but the rebound and responsiveness are a big improvement. I was certainly impressed.”

BEST NEW SHOE

Updates the Glycerin 7 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15 (B,D,2E widths); Women 6–12 (2A,B,D widths) • Weight: 14.6 oz. (men’s 11); 12.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved

SPRING 2010

K-Swiss Keahou II

BEST SHOE

The K-Swiss line has expanded to six serious shoes; the Keahou is the quality neutral model. The upper is a low-key combination of quality Motion components, including air mesh and synthetic overlays, which draws attention purely by performance: it fits Stabilizing and supports the foot. The midsole is single density EVA with a couple of nifty dampening inserts of Superfoam in the heel and SP 1 0 in the forefoot, all providing a responsive, cushioned ride. The blown rubber forefoot, TPU R I NGuideGlide Strobel board, and G 20 shank, and carbon heel are expected and best practices, but they’re done well in the Keahou. The combination of ride, execuMotion tion, and value earned the Keahou II a tie for our Best Neutral Shoe award.

Neutral SP

BEST SHOE

RIN G 2010

BEST SHOE

Neutral SP

$100

Stabilizing SP

RIN G 2010

“Roomy fit up front, but nice and snug in the heel. Premium shoe. The quality really came through with its consistent, protective cushionRIN G 2010 ing and design. It performed very well for me.” Updates the Keahou • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–11,12 • Weight: 13.5 oz. (men’s 11); 11.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved

BEST SHOE BEST SHOE BEST RENOVATION Performance Neutral Puma Complete S P ventis1 0

Performance SP

BEST SHOE

RIN G 2010

SPRING 2010

$100

ING 2 new Ventis is a sibling to last season’s Velosis and is a surprisingly plush addition to the lineup, especially considering BESTTheSHOE

Performance

the price difference between the two. The upper is open mesh, which effectively handles the job of securing the foot while keepPerformance Neutral ing it cool, along with well-placed synthetic overlays for support. The midsole is responsive, combining DuoCell and ldCell

RIN G 2010

1 0 with the polyurethane innersole and EVA Strobel board for good, step-in comfort, as well as overall cushioning. R Icomponents NG 20

The outersole of carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot is well designed for flexibility and smooth transition from heel to toe. A solid shoe for neutral runners, the Ventis offers another fit option, as well as Puma’s unique look.

BEST NEW“FitSHOE great in the heel, enough toeroom, though on really long runs the overlays across the metatarsals rubbed a bit. The cushioning was SPRING very 2010good; no sore feet even with half-marathon training.” NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5.5–12 • Weight: 14.0 oz. (men’s 11); 12.0 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved

Saucony ProGrid Triumph 7

BEST SHOE Neutral SP

RIN G 2010

$130

The Triumph 7 makes several gains over the Triumph 6. The step-in comfort and cushioning are noticeable right out of the box. The upper sports a few more millimeters of memory foam in the ankle collar, which provides a very plush feel, and a soft, moisture-wicking lining that adds to that sensation. Though reworked, the midsole is familiar and suited for high mileage and proMotion Stabilizing tection. The outersole is a new configuration of blown rubber under the ball of the foot, which is a little more durable without SP 0 sacrificing cushioning. R I N G While 2 0 1 some of the shoes in this category have pared things back, the extra weight and price here make a significant addition to the Triumph’s deluxe fit and feel. The blend of design, componentry, and comfort earned the ProGrid Triumph 7 a tie for our Best Neutral Shoe award.

BEST SHOE

“Nice fit, supports the middle of my foot; toe box adequate; heel snug, but not too snug. These are comfortable shoes and my foot feels protected from feeling rocks/pebbles underfoot. Good compression of the midsole, but [does] not get bogged down in too much cushioning. I like these!”

BEST SHOE Performance SP

RIN G 2

010

Updates the ProGrid Triumph 6 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 14.4 oz. (men’s 11); 12.9 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved

BEST SHOE Performance Neutral

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NEUTRAL | PERFoRMANCE Under Armour Apparition II

$95

The second round of running shoes from Under Armour addresses some issues of the first round and builds on its strengths. The upper is open mesh similar to that of the original, with adjustments made to the Fit-Sleeve that improve the fit and comfort. The midsole and outersole are just a bit better than round one, with a good transition, durability, and a responsive, resilient ride. The weight is toward the beefier end, but acceptable in a heavy-duty trainer. The Apparition sports a price adjustment that makes it a decent bargain. Though not a dramatic change, the performance and upgrades show the Apparition II is headed in the right direction. “They feel really nice, slipper-like. No problems straight from the box for a 6.5-mile run. The cushion on this particular shoe was not disappointing, but not exceptional either, though no sore feet, which, for me, is saying something.” Updates the Apparition • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15; Women 6–11,12 • Weight: 14.3 oz. (men’s 11); 12.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Karhu Forward Fulcrum

$130

The new Forward Fulcrum employs the expected top quality components. The upper is a lightweight, perforated mesh that’s welded to eliminate seams and open across the metatarsals to nicely accommodate bunions or a wide forefoot. The midsole is a resilient and responsive EVA, which has a good level of cushioning. The ratio of midsole material in the heel vs. the forefoot pitches the foot forward for a quick toe-off, but the exaggerated lean may not suit all neutral runners as it does run “downhill” a bit. The outersole is the same effective carbon and blown rubber of other Karhu shoes and is executed at its usual high standard. Its light weight is a bonus. “The upper has a smooth, comfy feel and good, secure fit. Unexpectedly light, especially for such a well-cushioned running shoe. Great heel cushioning, and the flow to the forefoot really keeps you on your toes, even when you are tired. I think it is about as good a shoe as I have worn.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 8–13,14; Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.6 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Mizuno Waverider 13

NEUTRAL

$100

The Waverider 13 maintains the momentum of its predecessor, balancing light weight with protective cushioning. The upper shows typical Mizuno design caution by making subtle alterations to overlays which seem almost cosmetic, but are well thought-out. The most noticeable change is the new lining material, which is softer and cradles the heel better. The midsole is essentially unchanged, though new tooling always subtly affects the ride; here a little foam has been added under the Wave plate to better cushion the touchdown. The outersole is unchanged, providing effective durability and traction. “They proved to be one of the most reliable daily trainers in my rotation. They fit snugly where needed, roomy in the toes. They have a good level of cushioning, but when I was fit, they were super efficient—a great extension of my feet.” Updates the Waverider 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16; Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Zoot Ultra TT 3.0

NEUTRAL

$130

The third round of the Ultra TT maintains effective performance without rocking the boat. The upper is little changed, adding a bit of reflectivity—TT does stand for Triathlon Training, after all—but leaving the lacing and entry points unchanged. The TPU at the heel and toes was overkill and has been replaced by lighter weight HF-welds that do the job. The midsole and outersole have no changes, save cosmetic, since the cushioning and performance were well dialed-in last season. Very light for a neutral training shoe, the Ultra TT 3.0 can handle a good share of mileage, as well as faster running and racing. “Fit like a sock, very smooth. Surprisingly, they had a good deal of cushion. I especially enjoyed the impact on landing with my heel. They were great for tempo runs and races.” Updates the Ultra TT 2.0 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–12, 13,14; Women 6–10,11 • Weight: 9.3 oz. (men’s 11); 7.4 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

ASICS Gel DS Trainer 15

NEUTRAL

$110

Perhaps the most iconic model of this category, the Gel DS Trainer turns 14. The bulk of the changes (though there aren’t a lot) are in the upper, where the overlays have been altered at the toe and reduced in the heel, and the mesh is a bit more open. Support and fit, however, are indistinguishable from last season. The midsole and outersole are the same, with slight adjustments to the Trusstic support in the shank. The overall effect adds up to a quality, stable, well-cushioned ride that fans of the series will be pleased with. Runners looking for a great blend of lightness, stability, and cushioning should consider the DS Trainer 15. “Great fit. It’s shaped somewhat to fit perfectly around the mold of your actual foot. Nice cushioning and no hard spots anywhere. A stable ride; no need to worry about any wobble. Excellent lightweight trainer, good for mid to long training runs or races.” Updates the Gel DS Trainer 14 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s 11); 9.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: slip-lasted

v | Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review

STABILITY

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PERFoRMANCE Mizuno Wave Elixer 5

$105

This Elixer is the best yet, expertly blending lightness, stability, and ride. The upper sports minor changes to the overlays and new support straps of stretchy synthetic material shoring up the medial side. The base of the entire upper is a uniformly shaped airmesh. The Wave plate is unchanged, but the midsole is AP+—the old AP with new polymers added for a better rebound— which softens the cushion of the shoe, while making the ride much more responsive. The outersole features a new configuration of G3, moving from the dots of PU to a combination of chevrons and fins that improve traction and durability. The Elixer has always been a good choice in the performance category; now it’s even better. “They fit well, like Mizuno always does. I was surprised how comfortable the shoe was, especially the cushioning. I felt like I was in close contact with the ground but still able to have the protection and ‘spring in my step’ that the shoe afforded me. I liked the shoe style and function. It has become one of my favorites.” Updates the Wave Elixer 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

STABILITY

New Balance 740

$85

Despite the number reset, the 740 is the second round of last season’s 749. There’s also some resetting of the upper design, making a visual alignment with the NBx firmament. The upper shows a subtle change in fit and support; while still built on the New Balance performance last, the shoe feels wider, and the N-lock lacing has been internalized and lacks the separately-adjusting feature of the external version. The midsole has been slightly resculpted to better incorporate the N-Ergy cassette, but is much the same as the previous heel setup. The more supportive shank and the adjusted flex grooves allow a very responsive toe-off. This version has more forefoot volume with the responsive cushioning and stability of its predecessor. “Roomy fit, but seemed to work OK. Good amount of cushioning, yet allows you to feel the road. Keeps the foot stable and pace quick. Was a good tempo shoe, but I’d rest these on easy days. Above average sole durability; the heel plug is very wear-resistant.” Updates the 749 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (D,2E,4E); Women 5–11,12,13 (B,D) • Weight: 11.7 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

STABILITY

Nike LunarElite+ 5

BEST

$100

The Lunarlite foam has been working its way through many of Nike’s established performance shoes, transforming them into new shoes. The LunarElite+ 5 retains only the mission of the Elite+ 4: to provide a light, responsive, stable ride. The re-vamped upper is now a no-sew, seam-free combination of mesh and synthetic overlays, with Flywire for midfoot support. The close fit RENOVATION is not quite racer-like, but it’s secure and comfortable. The Lunarlite midsole features Nike’s Dynamic Support which is soft SPRING 2010 enough for neutral feet and stable enough for mild to moderate overpronators. The ride is typically cushioned and responsive— the snappiest Lunar shoe yet. “The fit was pretty good and the smooth interior was appreciated. Not as snug in the arch as some tempo shoes or racers. The cushioning and weight are where the shoe really shines and durability has been great, the cushioning really holds up.” Updates the Elite+ 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel sliplasted, EVA Strobel board

STABILITY

BEST NEW SHOE SPRING 2010

Reebok Premier SF Attack

$90

The SF Attack is new to the Reebok Premier line, and a bit of a sleeper with a unique design. The upper is open airmesh with the toe cap as the only forefoot overlay, making them light and bunion-friendly. The Smoothfit upper (the “SF” in the name) supports the midfoot without interior seams, securing heel and midfoot with a soft, sueded feel. The midsole is responsive and durable injection-molded EVA, with a second density adding a good measure of stability. The DMPRTek outersole provides good flexibility with proven durability and a bit of extra cushioning. For performance, stability, and its great light feel, the Premier SF Attack deserves serious consideration.

BEST SHOE Neutral SP

STABILITY

RIN G 2010

BEST SHOE

“Great fit. I ran a half marathon in these three days after I got them and had no blisters or sore spots. Right amount of cushion for running on the road,Motion and nice and straight and stable. These are probably the lightest shoes I have been able to run in and feel like I have good Stabilizing cushion and support, and can run some longer miles in.” SP R I N G 2for: 0 1 0medium- to high-arched feet with very mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 NEW • Recommended • Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Scott Makani II

BEST SHOE Performance SP

RIN G 2010

$110

After a start with European triathletes, Scott brings a range of training and racing shoes to the U.S. market. Of these, the Makani II may be the most versatile, managing the wear and tear of training while being light enough to race in. The upper is the typical lightweight mesh, but with a stretchy inner sleeve through the midfoot and a supportive saddle that cinches separately. The Performance midsole is a new EVA blend known as UltraLyte, which provides a nicely responsive ride. The midfoot features a second denNeutral of a carbon fiber element beneath a TPU window which, in concert, provide torsional rigidity by sity of EVA, as well S P as a shank 0 I N G 2 0 1A combination of blown rubber in the forefoot and carbon in the heel and high-wear regions rounds resisting excessiveRtwisting. out a familiar construction. It’s ultra light weight, responsive ride, and good stability earned the Makani our Best Performance Shoe award.

BEST SHOE

“This is a very good-fitting shoe which snugs up nicely around my ankle and the toebox allows enough room for my toes to dig in during speedwork. This shoe is very responsive feeling with a nice flexible forefoot and a very stiff arch. The heel area absorbs shock well, and the forefoot allows a feel of the ground while pushing off.”

STABILITY

Updates the Makani • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–12,13; Women 5–11 • Weight: 10.8 oz. (men’s 11); 8.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, UltraLyte Strobel board vi | Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review