SHOE REVIEWS: Neutral—iii | Motion Stabilizing—iv | Performance—v

This fall, three major trends continue among running shoes: gender specificity, ever-lighter shoes, and incorporation ofinnovative solutions in shoe development. Gender-specific design is becoming a best practice with each brand adapting its technologies and design to make

its shoes better suited to consumers. The old “Shrink It and Pink It” approach won’t cut it anymore. All consumers, butespecially women, expect that shoes will cushion or flex appropriately for their size, weight, and gait.

New materials that provide the same or better quality but weigh less are resulting in shoes lighter than their prede-cessors. New compounds and components continue to migrate from other industries and shoes will improve as a result.These materials also are more durable; in fact, fully a third of the Performance shoes in this Review can handle the rig-ors of daily training.

Innovations and approaches to biomechanical challenges are raising the bar for the industry as a whole. Some ofthese innovations have come from the automotive and aerospace industries, but more of the brands are finding opportu-nities and adaptations to refine their own technologies. This creative engineering and continual search for chemical solu-tions for all shoe components has resulted in more effective foot protection and improved shoe performance.

—Cregg Weinmann

SHOE REVIEW2009 FALL

fall shoe review 09 FINAL:Spring Shoe Review 09 8/1/09 9:22 PM Page 1

Welcome to the Running Network’s 2009 Fall Shoe Review!

It’s the last weekend in July, on a Sunday night at about midnight. I’ve spent the last few daysmeeting with athletes, coaches, fans, and agents at one of the largest athletic meets in the

world, the Aviva London Grand Prix. On Friday, I witnessed Usain Bolt run a 9.91 for 100 meters into a 1.7 meters-per-second

headwind! The crowd of 16,000 went absolutely nuts. On Saturday, Tyson Gay ran 20.0 secondsfor 200 meters despite a sore groin and after two weeks of not running. Later that day, BernardLagat lead 11 men under 4 minutes in the Emsley Carr Mile, one of the most famous mile racesin the world, dating back to 1953. Afterwards, Lagat stood in front of the crowd and said, “I havewanted to win the Emsley Carr race for several years, but most importantly, I wanted to thankthe fans. Without you, we, the athletes, could not do what we do.”

Whether at track meets, marathons, or road races, we all celebrate our ability to run, jump,and throw. You may remember an ad from a few years ago that claimed, “It’s all about theshoes.” I’m not certain it’s all about the shoes, but it’s certainly a lot about the shoes. We eachneed to find a shoe that works for us and our particular event. And now more than ever, yourspecific biomechanics need to align with the specifics of a particular shoe.

For the past decade, the Running Network LLC has called on its footwear reviewer, CreggWeinmann, to test, evaluate, and review the latest shoes on the market so that we can provideyou with this Shoe Review. We believe it’s an important starting point on your journey to find yourbest running shoe. And after you’ve had a chance to read Cregg’s reviews, head on over to yourfavorite local running store to try them out.

As one of the 750,000-plus readers of a Running Network member publication, we thankyou for reading this Review and we echo Lagat’s sentiments: We couldn’t do our work withoutyour support.

Larry EderPresident, Running Network LLC

ii | Running Network 2009 Fall Shoe Review

American Track & Fieldwww.american-trackandfield.com

Athletes Onlywww.atf-athlete.com

Athletics (Canada)www.otfa.ca

Austin Runnerwww.austinrunner.com

California Track & Running Newswww.caltrack.com

Club Runningwww.rrca.org/clubrunning

Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com

Colorado Runnerwww.coloradorunnermag.com

Get Active!www.getactivemagazine.com

Greater Long Island Running Club’sFootnoteswww.glirc.org

Latinos Corriendowww.latinoscorriendo.com

Michigan Runnerwww.michiganrunner.net

Missouri Runner & Triathletewww.morunandtri.com

New York Runnerwww.nyrrc.org

Running Journal & Racing Southwww.running.net

RunMinnesotawww.runmdra.org

RunOhiowww.runohio.com

Track & Field Newswww.trackandfieldnews.com

USATF’s Fast Forwardwww.usatf.org

USATF/New England’s Exchange Zonewww.usatfne.org

The Winged Footwww.nyac.org

The Winged Mwww.themac.com

Youth Runnerwww.youthrunner.com

Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann ProjectCoordinator/Editor: Christine JohnsonDesigner: Kristen Cerer Proofreader:Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial ServicesShoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña,Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales:Running Network LLC, Larry Eder, President,920.563.5551, ext. 112, larry.eder@gmail.comPublisher: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785 Website: www.runningnetwork.com For a Media Kit, please visit our website.

This 2009 Fall Shoe Review is produced independ-ently by Running Network LLC for its partner pub-lications. All shoes reviewed were tested by experi-enced, competitive runners who were matched tothe biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

Copyright © 2009 by Running Network LLC. AllRights Reserved. No part of this publication maybe stored, copied, or reprinted without prior writtenpermission of Running Network LLC.

Running Network LLC and its partner publicationssuggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meetwith a healthcare professional before beginning orchanging your fitness regimen.

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WELCOME

Pearl Izumi CruiseBest Shoe—Neutral

adidas adiZero AegisBest Shoe—Performance

Brooks Trance 9Best Shoe—Motion Stabilizing

ASICS Gel-PulseNike Air Pegasus+ 26Best Value (tie)

Nike Lunar GlideBest New Shoe

Saucony ProGrid Omni 8Best Renovation

Award Winners

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BEST VALUEFALL 2009

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ASICS Gel-Nimbus 11 $125 With a well-deserved reputation for consistent performance, protection, and quality, the Nimbus 11 keeps the edgy aspects ofthe Nimbus 10 while integrating some new strengths. The upper features asymmetrical lacing (though it has been altered fromlast season’s version), subtly providing the same contoured fit without overlays to irritate the foot. The midsole has a lower pro-file, the heel cradle and large Gel units provide excellent cushioning, and the transition is smooth thanks to the well-spacedsegmentation of the heel. The forefoot flex grooves have slightly wider spacing to improve the toe-off. The similarities are astory here, as well, as the responsive ride and great protection have been preserved and for that, we’re sure the fans of comfortand outstanding cushioning thank ASICS.

“Every time I put them on, I felt the familar feel of a quality running shoe! Comfortable cushion, I like the cushion. Good feel in weight, not reallylight but very comfortable for training. I have been so impressed with the shoe that I am thinking of using them for Rock ‘n’ Roll this weekend.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16 (D);7–14,15,16 (2E,4E); Women 5–13 (B); 6–13 (AA,D) • Weight: Men 13.5 oz. (size 11); Women 11.2 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

ASICS Gel-Pulse $85As the entry-end of a line that culminates in the Nimbus and Cumulus, the new Pulse has a lot to live up to. The SpEVA mid-sole demonstrates that there’s plenty of life left in this proven elastomer, and in the Pulse it’s ably assisted by a generous Gelpad, a combination that provides effective and responsive cushioning. The upper is wide open, breathable airmesh that has acomfortable, if not plush feel, and it’s roomy and flexible. The outersole is standard carbon rubber in the high-wear areas, blownrubber in the forefoot, with well-placed flex grooves to keep the ride smooth. The performance and very reasonable price of theGel-Pulse earned it a tie for our Best Value award.

“A great-fitting trainer. There are so many shoes that I have to be careful how I tie to make sure they feel good for longer runs. These feelcomfy every time. The cushioning is good; the midsole compound is responsive. Just a little lighter than the average trainer. Overall, a

very good shoe. Holds up well to day-after-day training.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16;Women 5–13 • Weight: Men 12.5 oz. (size 11); Women 10.1 oz. • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobelboard

New Balance 758 $90The 750 series continues to offer good performance at a reasonable price. The 758 follows the weight-savings trend by switch-ing to the N-ergy elements in the new crashpad and changing from polyurethane to Abzorb innersoles. The midsole now feelsmore resilient and has a snappier response. The outersole has a sleeker heel, a better supported shank, and additional blownrubber in the forefoot, which add up to a smoother transition. The upper has the supportive feeling of an extended saddle sinceoverlays have been added between the N-lock webbing and the metatarsals—the security is noticeable. Without veering too farfrom its lineage, the 758 is a significant overall improvement over the 757.

“Actually fit okay, but the arch was not quite in the right spot. Cushioning was quite good, and they were fairly stable for a cushioned shoe.A good shoe, which surprised me since New Balance has not been quite right for me in the past. I may have to rethink things.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15 (B,D,2E);Women 5–12,13 (AA,B,D) • Weight: Men 11.9 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Abzorb Strobel board

Nike Air Pegasus+ 26 $85Updating the silver anniversary edition of the Pegasus was approached with care. The midsole and outersole have been retainedintact. The resilient and protective cushioning provided by Cushlon and encapsulated Air has been little heralded, but we thinkit’s about as good a system as you’ll find. The ride is smooth and the cushioning is very good—fine-tuned between cushy andresponsive. The upper sports a few changes, mostly shaving a bit off the overlays here and there, but somehow they found away to reduce the weight of the shoe by more than 2%. The fit is unaffected; it’s still secure and effective with good toe room.Maintaining the price, along with its performance and quality, earned the Air Pegasus+ 26 a tie for our Best Value award.

“I found the fit was secure and comfortable. The cushioning was almost bouncy and seems very durable. With over 100 miles in them,they are still very comfortable. They have a light and bouncy feel to them. I have been very happy with them.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15 (D,4E);Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 12.3 oz. (size 11); Women 10.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVAStrobel board

Pearl Izumi Cruise $110The Pearl Izumi running line has been missing a high-mileage, neutral trainer. Not anymore. Meet the new Cruise. The upperhas a distinctive sublimated graphic and features the seamless construction that contributes to the unique feel of Pearl Izumi’sshoes. The midfoot gets good support from the webbing structure that extends from the eyelets into the midsole and the fore-foot leaves room for the toes without feeling too loose. The midsole cushions effectively thanks to the solid Skydex hemispheresin the heel and the Skydex bag in the forefoot. The outersole features carbon rubber in the heel and high-wear areas of the fore-foot and surrounds blown rubber inserts in the forefoot to add to the cushioning. The smooth ride, protective cushioning, andaccommodating fit earned the Cruise our top honors in the Neutral category.

“They fit well, the lacing is different, but I liked the fit. They have a light sensation, even though they are pretty average weight for a trainer. Thecushioning in the heel was really good, and the flexibility in the forefoot makes them roll well. I was surprised by how well they did for me.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes:Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12• Weight:Men 13.3 oz. (size 11); Women 11.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

NEUTRAL

BEST VALUEFALL 2009

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SOFT

SOFT

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Puma Complete Velosis $120The Velosis is the first of two new models that lead Puma shoes in a new direction. Well, maybe not entirely new. Perhaps it’smore of a return to the original Complete series shoes. Built on a new comfort last, the shoes put a Puma spin on many of theindustry’s best practices. The upper is breathable airmesh with a plush, but snug fit that runs about a half-size shorter than mostshoes. The ankle and heel fit is enhanced by a memory foam collar and an external TPU heel counter. The midsole is cushy—partly due to the ld Cell Strobel board and Ortholite innersole—but it’s still fairly responsive. The outersole has well-placedflex grooves arranged in a radial pattern making the transition through the gait very smooth.

“Very comfortable to run in. Well padded everywhere; by far one of the more comfortable pairs of shoes I’ve had. Puma did something rightwhen it came to the cushioning. I like the overall look and fit of the shoe.”

Recommended for: medium to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–14; Women3.5–10.5 (sizing runs about a 1/2-size short) • Weight: Men 13.8 oz. (size 11); Women 11.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, ld Cell Strobel board (heel), second density (forefoot)

Reebok Premier Verona KFS II $95The Premier Verona KFS II looks sleeker than round one, but the improvements are more than skin deep. The upper features astretchy airmesh not unlike the previous version, but the Kinetic Fit panel allows a better fit across the metatarsals, and the mid-foot has better support from the Vector stripes. The midsole is responsive and has a lower profile. The crashpad is softer, aswell as more effective, thanks to its articulation. The shank has been redesigned—it looks lighter and thinner though we can’tmeasure it to be certain—and now incorporates a strip of the outersole to lend some of the support. The flex grooves are morepronounced and the toespring makes the transition fairly energetic, which was applauded by some of our weartesters. Runnerslooking for responsive cushioning and an accommodating fit should be sure to try on a pair.

“Overall, a good training shoe that feels good on and looks good, as well. Pretty good cushion. Not really squishy, but absorbs shock well.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women6–11 • Weight: Men 13.7 oz. (size 11); Women 11.4 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, DMX FoamStrobel board

adidas Supernova Sequence 2 $100The Supernova Sequence 2 keeps its focus on fit, cushioning, and stability, with minor adjustments to dial-in the performance.The upper shifts to a breathable, but more closely woven mesh with softer overlays in the toe, a stretchy “bunion window” inthe women’s version, and more pliable tongue padding. The chassis is virtually unchanged with only the slightest lengtheningof the medial Pro-Moderator support—a change that isn’t enough to alter the ride for most and might be an improvement fora few. With its stable, cushioned ride, the Supernova Sequence 2 is a quality high-mileage trainer.

“Surprisingly fast for such a well-cushioned trainer. Excelled in cushioning especially—on the highest level. Superbly smooth transfer ofweight and energy from heel-strike to toe push-off. Good enough for road racing.” and “Great, snug fit, but still room for toes to wiggle.

Good cushion, but not a lot of bounce. Good, but not overwhelming stability; not as stiff as the earlier version.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20; Women5–12 •Weight: Men 12.7 oz. (size 11); Women 11.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, adiPreneStrobel board

Brooks Trance 9 $140The Trance 9 telegraphs change. Up top, the fit is closer, the prominent saddle has been reduced to improve flexibility, and newoverlays provide support without restriction. The midsole and outersole feature more pronounced segmenting of the lateralpods that improve flexibility and contribute to an overall weight reduction of 6%. The durable and responsive BioMoGo foamhas proven that sustainability and performance are not incompatible. The well-cushioned ride provides supportive protectionwith a bit more responsiveness. A completely reworked Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, Brooks’ effective multi-density medialsidewall, improves stability. Enhanced cushioning, stability, and improved performance garnered the Brooks Trance 9 our awardas the best shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“The fit is snug. I haven’t developed any blisters or hot spots so far while running. The cushion is great, it’s bouncy and I don’t feel anysinking, squishy feelings. They have good stability and feel as if the shoes are part of your feet. They held up well and felt great.”

Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15; Women 6–11,12 •Weight: Men 11.9 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board

Mizuno Wave Alchemy 9 $110The Wave Alchemy continues to provide reliable support, cushioning, and stability. The size of the stretchy Dynamic Fit inserthas been increased to effectively follow the foot’s movements. Improved stretch in the breathable open forefoot mesh betteraccommodates the metatarsals and an Ortholite innersole adds an extra layer of cushioning. A synthetic leather strap shoresup the rearfoot while allowing an overall reduction in overlays. The midsole has a lower-profile look and feel to it, along witha more pronounced toespring. The reconfigured outersole also amps up the performance, especially in the women’s model, byimproving flexibility. The Wave plate is the more stable asymmetrical configuration which does an excellent job of providing asolid rearfoot feel. By deftly straddling stability and cushioning, the Wave Alchemy continues to exemplify versatility.

“Good comfortable fit; better in the heel. Nice amount of cushioning, the spongy insole adds quite a bit to the feel. The stability really keepsthe foot lined up well, but it feels a bit hard in the heel. They did well for me overall; a good improvement over last year’s shoe.”

Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (D,2E); Women 6–12 (AA,B) •Weight: Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 11.0 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

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Saucony ProGrid Omni 8 $110 This update keeps the classic Saucony fit going for runners who need stability. The upper has the open airmesh of the Omni 7but fewer obstructions over the toes, better ventilation, and reduced overlays that are strategically positioned for effective sup-port. The innersole is still made of cushy polyurethane, but it’s now perforated to breathe better and molded for improved fitand better cushioning. The midsole is functionally the same, though the medial second-density is topped with a softer layer ofProGrid which feels better against the plantar fascia. The reshaped and lightened shank still provides the necessary structure.The outersole looks different, but it’s the same effective combination of blown rubber in the forefoot and durable XT-900 car-bon rubber in the heel. The overall feel, quality, and performance of the ProGrid Omni 8 earned it our Best Renovation award.

“Great comfortable fit, no pressure on my bunion. Good support, good stability, but also quite cushy. Got me through training for the SanFrancisco Marathon very solidly. I was quite satisfied with the upgraded feel, and think it is better than the previous version, which I also liked.”

Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 •Weight:Men 12.9 oz. (size 11); Women 11.0 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, HRC Strobel board

Somnio Exact Change $120Somnio is a new brand that customizes the fit and function of its three models (Stability, Neutral, and Motion Control) with 12interchangeable parts to match your foot shape and biomechanics. The Exact Change is its moderate motion-stabilizing modelbuilt on a semi-curved last. The upper is airmesh in the forefoot with tight mesh and overlays in the rearfoot. The dual-densi-ty CM-EVA midsole features chambers in the medial forefoot and lateral heel that can be filled with one of three densities offoam. The FEAT (Functionally Engineered Adaptable Tricomponent) system does its best work inside the shoe with three inner-sole choices that allow you to select more or less volume and cushion. Overpronation can be offset by choosing from threethicknesses of Varus wedges. Authorized running dealers (www.somniorunning.com/about-the-shoes/dealer-locator/) canmeasure and set up a runner in 5 to 10 minutes. So, how do the shoes run? Think high-quality training shoes adapted to you.

“Adaptable system made the fitting better than any shoe I’ve used. Was able to adapt the shoe to my foot—just right on the cushioning—instead of my foot to the shoe. Same with stability: a little was built in, the rest was up to me. Performed as well as any of my recent shoes.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 •Weight: Men 13.6 oz. (size 11); Women 11.5 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

ASICS Gel-Evolution 5 $120The best of the ASICS motion-stabilizing shoes, the Gel-Evolution 5 has an unchanged dual-density Solyte midsole that pro-vides good cushioning, heavy-duty stability, and durable, effective traction. The upper has received a bit of refining. The fit isimproved by shaving off a few millimeters of PHF ankle foam and slightly extending the BioMorphic Fit panels to enhance thecomfortable feel. Performance has been enhanced by a 2% reduction in the overall weight—not big numbers, but definitely amove in the right direction. The shoe feels better balanced thanks to an update in the Gel cushioning elements. Bottom line?Runners who expect ASICS’ best IGS performance will get comfortable fit, stability, and cushioning from the Evolution 5.

“The shoe fit well. There are no pressure points and no loose or sloppy areas that allow excess movement. These shoes continue to main-tain their soft pillowy feel when first putting them on. From heel-strike, to load, and through the push-off, I feel secure in this shoe.”

Recommended for: low- to medium–high-arched feet with moderate to maximum overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16,17 (D,2E);8–13,14,15,16,17 (4E); Women 6–13 (B,D) •Weight: Men 14.4 oz. (size 11); Women 11.8 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

New Balance 1225 $140The 1225 features small but important fit changes. The medial forefoot has improved metatarsal shaping and the top lace eye-lets now cinch down at a more comfortable angle to improve security and work effectively with the N-lock system to provide abetter volume fit. The DTS crashpad is upgraded to N-ergy and the TS2 variable-density sidewall has been replaced byStabilicore, a thermoplastic component that reduces overpronation as well as weight. In fact, this shoe is almost 4% lighter, abig change in a maximum motion-stabilizing shoe. The ride is more dynamic now that the elements interact better with yourfoot motion. Runners looking for support and stability will be pleased with the responsive ride and quality feel of the 1225.

“I really love the fit; snug around the arch and ankle with plenty of toe space. Great cushioning. They’re bouncy and feel great! I felt plen-ty of stability, and they had good traction whether running on trails or pavement. Especially comfortable and well-fitting from the first run.”

Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with moderate to maximum overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E);Women 6–12,13 (AA,B,D) •Weight: Men 13.7 oz. (size 11); Women 11.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobelslip-lasted, Abzorb Strobel board

adidas adiZero Aegis $110The Aegis splits the difference between a racer and a trainer. Stability and running efficiency have been improved with a newvery low-profile midsole. The upper is a thin airmesh with synthetic overlays providing support. The tongue is open only onthe lateral side, with a webbing loop at the top of the medial side and an elastic band inside to secure the foot; the logo stripesprovide additional support. The very low-profile midsole has a particularly responsive feel to it, and the ForMotion cassette andflat contour of the sole make for a noticeably smooth transition. Consider easing into the Aegis with shorter, periodic runs. Theimproved fitness and efficiency that develop as your muscles adapt make this small (and temporary) accommodation worth-while. Its fit, light weight, and ride earned the adidas adiZero Aegis top honors as our best shoe in the Performance category.

“Great fit, roomy toe box, snug heel. Fairly neutral feeling...no wobble, good stability for something so light. Durable, no observablesigns of wear at 75–100 miles. These are fast, light, awesome.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation, for faster-paced running • Sizes:Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 10.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.5 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobelslip-lasted

MOTION STABILIZING | PERFORMANCE

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Brooks Launch $90The Launch is Brooks’ new speed shoe and that’s clear right from the get-go. A thin, light airmesh is particularly well vented inthe forefoot. The midsole is BioMoGo with Hydroflow in the heel and offers a nicely cushioned, flexible ride. For the über-effi-cient runner, the low-profile Launch may be used as a cushy daily trainer. Whether you race or train in it, nearly all neutral-foot-ed runners will recognize its fast feeling. The outersole is durable HPR, Brooks’ carbon rubber formulation, with enough blownrubber in the forefoot to offer a bit more cushioning than is typical in a speed shoe. Runners looking for a fast, versatile, neu-tral shoe should consider the Launch.

“Great shoes! I like them light, and these were light and well cushioned. They are perfect for the track or tempo runs. I wore them for ahalf marathon and plan on using them for long races.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation, for faster-paced running • Sizes:Men 8–13,14,15; Women 6–11,12 • Weight: Men 10.2 oz. (size 11); Women 8.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction:Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board

Brooks Ravenna $100The Ravenna is a new shoe from Brooks, but many will see a strong resemblance to its grandfather, the Axiom. The upper isairmesh with sparse overlays. A pair of elasticized eyelets across the instep improve the shoe’s ability to move as the footmoves. The interior has a smooth, comfortable feel. The BioMoGo midsole has a low but not a super-low profile, and featuresa small but effective second-density through the arch to provide support. True to its heritage, the Ravenna is stable, respon-sive, and light. Though not designed as a racer, we think it can be an excellent choice for longer races and is definitely suitedto faster training. Many runners will find that it meets their daily running needs.

“Fit well, close and tightly around the middle of my foot (which I prefer). Well cushioned with decent stability, pretty light for this muchshoe. Versatile enough for daily training even speedwork, like it says on the heel: a go-to shoe.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation, for faster-paced running and everydaytraining • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15; Women 6–12 • Weight: Men 11.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board

Mizuno Wave Precision 10 $95When updating the award-winning Precision 9, the Precision 10 kept what worked in the mid- and outersole, while improvingcomfort and support up top. Retained are the plush interior of the heel and tongue. The airmesh is functionally the same, butthe overlays have been consolidated, the Runbird logo is larger and takes on more supportive duties, and is now repositionedbelow the Dynamotion insert for a better fit. Down under, the midsole and outersole are indistinguishable from the Precision 9and that’s a good thing, as it continues to provide a great blend of responsive cushioning and protection. The Precision 10 willsatisfy runners looking for a durable, lightweight, neutral shoe, and Precision fans have an even better shoe to look forward to.

“With the roomy toe box, the cushion from heel to toe, and the flexible bee-hive (honeycomb), breathable fabric, these shoes kept my feetsecure whether I was scrambling up a dirt hillside or pounding asphalt downhill. These have been my go-to shoes for any type of training.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–11• Weight: Men 11.4 oz. (size 11); Women 9.5 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Newton Sir/Lady Isaac $149With the new Sir and Lady Isaac, Newton Running broadens the scope of its shoes by making the technology originally devel-oped for forefoot strikers now available to heel strikers. This was done by modifying the Action/Reaction membrane so that it’sa little sturdier to accommodate the increased impact of heel strikers, and tapering the shape of the forefoot actuators just a bit.Carbon rubber has solved the durability issues of the forefoot outersole seen in previous models. The upper features the qual-ity, stretchy airmesh used in other Newton shoes, with good support provided via the well-placed overlays. This has added alittle weight, though they are still among the lightest training shoes available. The midsole is well cushioned EVA shaped toencourage rolling onto the toes for take-off. Now heel strikers have a tool to improve their gait’s efficiency. (Men’s pictured.)

“Very comfortable fit, good room in the toes. Light shoe, but I wouldn’t say light like a racer. At first, I didn’t particularly enjoy running inthis shoe, but the more I ran in it, the more I liked it and got used to the feel/ride of the shoe. Sometimes while running I felt as if the

shoe helped with a quick turnover. Made me feel faster and as if I was helped being ‘moved along’ or ‘propelled forward.’ ”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–11• Weight: Men 11.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Nike Lunar Glide $100 This may be Nike’s most versatile shoe yet. The key to the Lunar shoes is the very resilient Lunar Lite foam which requires sup-portive containment in a firm Phylite shell. The new idea? Reshape the shell and the foam to work with the biomechanics of thefoot. Basically, the firmer shell is thicker on the medial side to curb overpronation, while the inlay is thicker on the lateral sideto cushion heelstrike and allow for lateral release. The upper is plush, breathable mesh with a saddle of Flywire and a premold-ed, external heel counter. The two-part midsole works for all runners whether they overpronate or not. Its flexibility and weightmake the shoe ideal for faster running, but its stability and cushioning make it great for high mileage. Its resourceful approach,use of materials, adaptability, and reasonable price earned the Lunar Glide our Best New Shoe award.

“Super comfortable; snug fit; very smooth ride. Don’t ‘sink’ into cushion; good balance between feel of road and cushioning. Not crazyabout how they pick up gravel: on one run 7 pieces got stuck in the grooves. Couldn’t really feel them through the cushion, though.”

Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation, for faster-paced running and every-day training • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 11.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

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