2008 Online Buyer's Guide: Run
STABILITY RUNNERS
Mizuno Wave Nirvana 4, $135
7-13, 14, 15; W: 6-11
Mizuno's latest change to the Nirvana is the DynaMotion Fit. With a separate upper from the heel unit/collar and gusseted tongue, the overall fit of this shoe is very noticeable-and in a good way. Our runners noticed a much better fit and the more responsive heel-to-toe transition. The eyelets look a bit closer to one another, which adds to the better wrap around the foot. The shoe does not feel as "clunky" as before. Because of a thicker full-length AP midsole and AP sockliner, the shoe is more cushioned-a very nice improvement. The overlays on the upper have also been cleaned up and improved and the toe box overlays tweaked to create a more open ball-of-the-foot area. Overall, the shoe continues to offer all the amazing cushioning and protection you expect from the Nirvana. http://www.mizunousa.com
Mizuno Wave Inspire 4, $95
7-13, 14, 15, 16 (2E = all sizes); W: 6-12 (D = all sizes)
Like the Nirvana 4, the Inspire 4 also has a DynaMotion (DM) Fit yet offers runners something slightly different. This DM Fit on the Inspire has an independent lateral panel as opposed to the two-layer heel construction of the Nirvana. The midsole and outsole
have not changed for 2008, but this year's model does have a thicker sockliner, adding to the shoe's cushioning. Some runners say that the 4 feels a little wider than previous versions, which may be due to the single piece overlay on the toebox and the mesh upper being more open. However, Mizuno moved the lacing system forward to keep the shoe fitting snug in the midfoot. In all, aside from the few tweaks, you'll notice that the Inspire 4 offers the same responsive ride as its predecessor. Additional sizes have been added to this model-up to size 16 for men and 12 for women. http://www.mizunousa.com
Asics GEL-3000 (NEW), $115
6-13, 14, 15 (2E = all sizes); W: 5-12, (D = all sizes)
Available only in Gold Account running specialty stores, this brand-new shoe is designed with the late-phase over-pronator in mind. With its low-profile Impact Guidance System midsole, Dynamic Forefoot Cradle and molded heel cradle and thicker gender-specific Space Trusstic System (STS), the shoe offers a great fit from heel to toe. The heel has a larger exposed "Twist" gel unit for cushioning. There are also two propulsion plates embedded in the midsole to provide additional support and transitions to a smooth toe-off. Add in the proper mix of dual density, an extended foot cradle, Biomorphic fit in the toe box and a cushioned midsole (SoLyte), you get a very comfortable shoe. This shoe is not as flexible in the forefoot as other Asics shoes because it is designed to reduce late phase over-pronation, but is still a pleasure to run in. http://www.asicsamerica.com
Asics GEL-Kayano 14 (NEW), $135
6-14, 15, 16 (2E; 4E = 8-14, 15, 16"); W: 5-13, (2A & D = 6-13)
New from Asics is the GEL-Kayano 14, one of the company's best-selling shoes. Asics tweaked the Impact Guidance System (I.G.S.) under the midfoot to make the shoe more stable than its predecessor. There is a larger one-piece gel unit under the heel with sculpting clefts in to the sidewall. This gel unit adds more cushioning and with a Pebax, a plastic resin cap, placed on top of the gel unit ensures the impact is not too soft. Placed under the
forefoot is a larger "two-channel" gel unit which is exposed on the lateral side for added cushioning. The heel and midfoot fit better because of a new upper geometry and materials used. The toe box is generous, the upper materials are extremely breathable and there is no pinching from the overlays because of the Biomorphic fit. The "thicker" forefoot outsole and open flex grooves across the ball of the foot make for a smoother transition. Some runners have felt that the shoe feels a little heavier, due to the increased gel units. Overall, this is a better shoe than before. http://www.asicsamerica.com
[nid:70126]Nike Structure Triax+ 11 (NEW), $95
6-13, 14, 15 (narrow, wide, 4E = all sizes); W: 5-12 (narrow, wide = all sizes)
The updates to the Structure Triax are great. Our runners noted a narrower, more comfortable shoe fit. Other notable improvements are the reduced number of overlays on both the men's- and women's-specific shoes. Nike uses stitch-free overlays in strategic spots to create a better fit and good support. The crash pad decouples more than in past models for a better heel-to-toe transition. There is an embedded Zoom Air unit in the heel and forefoot for improved cushioning. The support of the shoe comes from the Footbridge on the medial side of the heel and the dual-density posting with EVA plugs. The new EVA plugs allow the shoe to flex better when transitioning from heel to toe. The blown-rubber Duralon outsole encompasses the whole ball-of-the-foot area for more cushion and protection. Open flex grooves across the forefoot make for a much better transition at toe-off. The women's shoes have gender-specific designs addressed. They are built on a new last and have a different sockliner, crash pad and arch bridge. Did we mention that with all these changes, the Structure Triax is 10 percent lighter than before? That's amazing. Does 10 percent lighter mean you can run 10 percent faster? Maybe not, but go give it a shot. http://www.nikerunning.com
Pearl Izumi syncroPace II (NEW), $95
7-13, 14; W: 5-11, 12
Those of you familiar with syncroPace are going to be pleased that Pearl Izumi did some slight modifications for the syncroPace II. With its new seamless upper, all one color now as opposed to the previous two-tone upper, the shoe just looks better. It still has a 360 degree reflective lacing system and the laces have been pushed forward slightly to help snug up the toe box. The SyncroFrame also offers stability in a lightweight performance package. There is a new sockliner that is more supportive than before. It hugs the heel and midfoot for a better feel. A Skydex heel crash pad with a deep rearfoot channel and a wider forefoot outsole, provide a comfortable, smooth heel-to-toe transition. A partially filled-in midfoot and comfortable ¾ forefoot flex grooves offer stability to the shoe without adding more weight. Some of our runners who have tested the original Pace noticed that the Pace II feels a bit more stable than its predecessor. If you need stability, that's a great thing. While some people didn't like the new height of the toe vamp (toe box height), others were thrilled. What can we say? Overall, this is still a really nice shoe. http://www.pearlizumi.com
MID-STABILITY RUNNERS
Brooks Axiom 2, $90
8-13, 14, 15; W: 6-12
Brooks' lightweight trainer has most of its support located in the middle of the shoe. The independent medial posts of different densities provide just the right amount of support for over-pronators and late-phase pronators. The fit of the Axiom 2 is a little narrower than other Brooks models-sleeker. Because of the open mesh uppers and minimal amount of overlays, the shoe fits like a sock. As always, the openness of the toe box is due large met-head window. The blown-rubber forefoot provides more cushioning and the reduced number of flex grooves provides additional support under the big toe for late-phase pronators. Midfoot strikers really liked the shoe. Lightweight and very responsive has been the consensus of all our testers. http://www.brooksrunning.com
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8 (New Style), $95
7-13, 14, 15 (B, 2E, 4E = all sizes); W: 5-12, 13 (2A = 5-12; D, 2E = all sizes)
The Adrenaline GTS is one of the best-selling running shoes on the market. With its comfortable step-in feel, good-fitting heel, snug midfoot and roomy toebox, Brooks has dialed in this shoe to fit almost any foot shape. With just a few tweaks to the upper and overlays, most updates are hardly noticed. The metatarsal head window is a little smaller than before but
not too small. Runners with a wider forefoot or bunions will still get that great fit as before. The medial support has been improved as well as having a more opened outsole under the heel for more flexibility on initial impact. To further enhance the heel landing, there is an increased number of flex grooves for better heel-to-toe transition. Having the MoGo midsole enhances the comfort of this stability shoe for many miles because of it's cushioning and durability. As more than one runner had stated, "this shoe feels good the moment it is put on." http://www.brooksrunning.com
Saucony ProGrid Guide (NEW), $90
7-13, 14, 15 (wide = all sizes); W: 5-12 (wide = all sizes)
The ProGrid 5, formerly know as the Trigon 5 Guide, may confuse people by switching the shoe's shoe name. This mid-stability shoe has plenty of cushioning to keep your feet very happy. Your heel will be very snug in this shoe and the uppers fit more comfortably than before. There a few overlays on the upper and the met head windows on the uppers create a very pleasant toe box. Even though the Guide does not have the full-length ProGrid midsole, the Ortholite sockliner and the heel ProGrid do create a noticeably softer feel and a improved heel-to-toe transition. The dual density has been shortened slightly and centered under the arch a bit more. The midfoot shank has been modified on both the lateral and medial sides of the shoe. The lateral side is flared out to provide a better midfoot transition. The forefoot outsole is slightly modified to be more comfortable when landing on the outside of your foot while you transition inward. As you roll inward, the outsole becomes more of a one-piece unit to provide extra forefoot stability. This shoe will accommodate many runners, especially if you need a "wider" shoe and a nice roomy toebox. http://www.saucony.com
Saucony ProGrid Paramount, $165
7-13, 14; W: 5-12
Saucony has done it again with a great looking-shoe and a fit to match. Ready to run right out of the box, this lightweight shoe can be used for both training and racing. That great slip-on first impression gets your attention. With a cushioned heel, newer Arch Loch system and the Ortholite sockliner, a smooth ride is sure to follow. The new Comfortemp upper is very comfortable and helps regulate the body temperature within three degrees of 82. This helps keep your feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer. There is also a minimalist amount of overlays on this shoe with the only noticeable piece being placed near the big toe for support. What gets your attention next is the Flexion plate, located on top the midsole. This plate is flexible in the heel and as you transition to the forefoot, it helps propel your foot through the toe-off phase. It helps get you "up on your toes" for that speedy feeling you get when running at a faster pace. Under the plate is the full length ProGrid for added cushioning. Under the heel is more great heel decoupling and the forefoot has a blown rubber outsole with very open vertical channels to help with the toe-off as well as lightening the weight of the shoe. Some runners with more sensitive feet have said that the Flexion plate was a bit stiff for them. For the folks who need just a little bit of support, there is a small area of dual density located from the middle of the heel through the arch. Just enough for some stability without making the shoe lose that lightweight feel. If you're ready for some speedy runs with some great cushioning and a touch of support, lace up this shoe and head out the door. Have fun! http://www.saucony.com
Mizuno Wave Elixir 3 (NEW), $100
7-13, 14, 15; W: 6-11
This shoe was completely redone for 2008. The new Elixir has the DynaMotion Fit (lateral panel) and a lower, closer-to-
the ground midsole profile. There is also a new outsole called the G3, which, in combination with the blown-rubber forefoot, provides superior grip with less weight. The open flex grooves provide a smoother transition. Mizuno has also imrpved the shoe's fit. The eyelets on the upper are a two-piece overlay versus a solid piece of material, which gives the foot a snug wrap, while a thicker sockliner offers more cushion. This new shoe even looks cleaner because of less overlays and the open AIRmesh upper, which is extremely breathable. The clean, brightly colored lines of the Elixir make you look fast just by having a pair on your feet. http://www.mizunousa.com
NEUTRAL RUNNERS
Brooks Cascadia 3 (NEW), $95
M: 8-13, 14, 15; W: 6-11, 12
A trail shoe review for triathletes? We know some of you XTERRA types are lurking out there. And all you roadies will enjoy this shoe as well. For those who have run in the prior Cascadias, hang on-this shoe has been completely overhauled. And, bottom line, it will definitely impress you. For starters, the overall fit of the shoe is much better, not to mention its very cool new look. Full-length MoGo creates a very comfortable ride. The heel fit is better and there is a snug-fitting midfoot. Moving to the forefoot, the 3 has a very noticeable, comfortable toebox. Gone is the "polka-dot" upper that felt tight on some runners. With its Racer ST3-like fabric overlays and clean lines, this shoe just fits better. The Pivot Posting Sytem in both the heel and forefoot now helps to enhance balance on uneven surfaces which should prevent ankle sprains. The outsole is brand new, complete with a symmetrical heel, reverse tread and very open "fell" lugs. The decreased number of lugs helps reduce weight and promotes debris release. Yes, the forefoot Ballistic Rock Shield is still there to help prevent things from bruising the ball of your foot. Brooks' outsole is HPR Green, which has a more environmentally friendly composition and also aids with wet-dry traction and is more durable. Some people will probably buy this shoe on just looks alone. We're not being shallow, just truthful. http://www.brooksrunning.com
Brooks Radius 7, $85
8-13, 14, 15 (2E = all sizes); W: 6-12 (D = all sizes)
The Radius 7 is another great neutral shoe by Brooks. Now with full-length MoGo, that marshmallow-y feel is gone. The shoe has a smooth heel-to-toe transition and a touch of support because of the medial arch pod. The full-length foam under the sockliner adds to the cushioning of this shoe. The midfoot fits snugger than ever before accommodating more foot types. However, a few of our runners noted that the heel collar was a bit too high and rubbed the heel. Overall, a great shoe for the price. http://www.brooksrunning.com
Brooks Glycerin 6 (NEW), $120
8-13, 14, 15; W: 6-12
MoGo, MoGo. With two layers of MoGo stacked in the heel and e-fusion slid between them, you get a very cushioned sandwich your heel will enjoy. There is the ever-present HydroFlow in the heel for added pleasure. The heel decouples more to provide a better heel-to-toe transition and the midfoot TPU shank has been narrowed a bit. The forefoot is all blown rubber with good open flex grooves across the forefoot, and HydroFlow, which also makes for a cushioned ride. Thrown in the forefoot is a enhanced toe spring, meaning that there is a increased angle of the front of the shoe to get you up on your toes a little easier. Some of our runners noticed a slightly narrower toe box-more snug but not tight. There is plenty of cushioning in this shoe. It is definitely designed for the underpronator to neutral runner. These shoes will hold up to any long run you throw at them ...
For those of you not sure what the difference is between MoGo and the prior midsole material, S-257, let us explain: MoGo has been tested to show that it offers a 40 percent increase in cushioning, 22 percent more energy return and 33 percent less fatigue. http://www.brooksrunning.com
Mizuno Wave Precision 8, $85
7-13, 14; W: 6-11
Built on Mizuno's neutral last, this lightweight trainer/racer can cover any distance. This shoe has an improved fit to boast about. The notch at the top of the shoe (eyelets) creates a flex point to give a snugger fit. The midfoot wrap is redesigned to better hug the foot. The new AIRmesh upper is more breathable. The dropped midsole height and welded eyelets reduce the overall shoe
weight. On the outsole, the entire forefoot is cushioned with blown rubber to create a very comfortable ride. This shoe has a fast, clean look. Try it on-you won't be disappointed. http://www.mizunousa.com
[nid:70137]Mizuno Wave Ascend 3, $90
7-13, 14; W: 6-11
This one-color trail shoe is sure to get some attention. The overall fit of the Ascend 3 is the same as with past models with the exception of the added DynaMotion Fit (lateral panel) and a more cushioned sockliner. The AP midsole offers great cushioning and the outsole great traction. Mizuno's Wet Traction outsole is cushioned and slightly sticky, meaning the outsole will grab whatever surface it meets. One difference our testers noticed is that the overlays on the toe box have been moved back slightly on the ball of the foot. This opens up the uppers and gets rid of the pinch that people felt on the prior model. Adding to the comfort level of the Ascend 3 is the very breathable AIRmesh upper. There will be no overheating in these puppies-very breathable and
comfortable. http://www.mizunousa.com
Asics Gel-Trail Attack 4 WR (NEW), $80
M: 7-13, 14, 15; W: 6-12
Very cool-that's what a lot of first impressions are to the latest update to the Trail Attack. The main difference people will notice when slipping on these shoes is the lack of the "sockliner." This is a good change because too many people had difficulty getting their feet and/or their orthotics into the shoe. The new gusseted tongue, or MONO-SOCK Fit System, is a welcome change to the fit of the shoe. The overall look to the shoe is cleaned up by removing some of the overlays on the uppers.
The gilley lacing system is attached to the overlays to create a super-snug fit. A lower profile, more supportive, molded midfoot trusstic device and better heel cushion create a smoother ride. The forefoot outsole is definitely improved. There are no more open flex grooves, which had caused some runners to feel a "bump" across the ball of the foot in the prior model. Now there are deep-channeled reversed lugs on the outsole for great traction as well as a Nylex plate on the forefoot which helps prevent small rocks and other assorted things from beating up your forefoot. Performance-oriented trail runners and all trail runners will definitely like the improvements over the prior model. http://www.asicsamerica.com
Saucony ProGrid Triumph 5 (NEW), $120
M: 7-13, 14, 15; W: 5-12
This is high-mileage trainer for neutral runners. Adding to the great initial response of the Triumph 4, the 5 will not let you down. This new model has a great ooh-aah response because of the ProGrid midsole and Ortholite sockliner, as both add extra cushioning to the shoe. Our runners reported that this shoe hugs the heel and midfoot from the first to the last step of their run. The open mesh upper and new overlay placements give the toe box a more open, comfortable feel. With added flex grooves, the heel (crash pad) offers better cushioning. The blown rubber outsole on the forefoot is an improved design with several drilled-out ports that mimic the movement of the foot. The sculpted midfoot shank is more encapsulated within the SSL midsole and wraps nicely around your foot. Overall, this is a great improvement. http://www.saucony.com
Saucony Grid Sinister, $90
M: 7-13, 14; W: 5-12
The Sinister is the neutral version of its big brother, the Paramount. It is a lightweight neutral shoe designed for speed. A few of our runners noticed a lower toe vamp, meaning that it felt a little snug on the top of their toes. The uppers are extremely breathable and have few overlays. The overlays that there are are located near the ball of the foot and keep the forefoot open without pinching your foot. The Flexion Plate, which allows the runner to transition to the forefoot without using as much energy as a typical shoe, makes you feel like you're being propelled forward. This plate sits on top of the foam midsole to add to the cushioning underfoot. The heel has an exposed Grid system for extra cushioning, while the midsole's Flexion Plate is partially exposed for cushioning and it also lightens up the shoe. In essence, less material equals less weight. The outsole has deep-channeled lateral flex grooves and a closer, slightly supportive, one-piece outsole. As with the Paramount, some of our runners felt the Flexion plate was a bit too firm for them. On the flip side, numerous runners said that for a non-posted shoe, this had great stability. Not too neutral, not too controlling. http://www.saucony.com
