Mizuno Wave Creation 13 Upper

I’ve come to expect a good fitting upper when testing Mizuno shoes and the Creation 13′s upper does not disappoint.  A breathable mesh covers most of the upper reinforced by synthetic overlays which kept my foot feeling supported and locked down.  The mesh throughout the upper has some elastic properties, but especially in the toe box giving the wearer a customized fit.  

The lacing system is simple, yet effective, and the tongue is sewn into the upper which keeps it in place.  The fit hits that sweet spot for me between being too tight and too loose hugging the mid foot but allowing plenty of toe box room typical for Japanese shoe companies.

Mizuno Wave Creation 13 Midsole

The upper of the Creation 13 sits immediately on a bed of soft and responsive EVA foam which runs the length of the shoe.  Mizuno uses their AP+ copolymer midsole material (think of a denser EVA foam) throughout the forefoot of the shoe providing a firm but responsive ride.  

Heel cushioning is mostly provided by the extended Wave Plate technology which runs from the heel through the arch of the shoe.  I would describe the heel cushioning as very plush and responsive with a firmer forefoot feel.  The Wave pattern in this shoe consists of a plastic base structure underneath the softer EVA foam and upper which is reinforced by four pillars of EVA foam connected to a lower wave plate.  The overall effect is very plush heel cushioning that is also rigid and inflexible.

The shoe features an 11mm heel to toe drop which is 1mm lower than the industry standard.

Mizuno Wave Creation 13 Outsole

Mizuno uses its X10 carbon rubber throughout the outsole.  In the heel area of the shoe it is used sparingly to save weight and the forefoot is given a bit more liberal coating of carbon rubber.

Overall Impressions and Performance

I have to think that if you were to dismantle the Mizuno Wave Creation 13 piece by piece it would amass the largest pile of gadgetry in the world in a single shoe.  Is that a bad thing?   Not necessarily as long as the shoe functions.  

I tested this shoe  primarily on easy days hoping to get the most out of the maximal cushioning for my beat up legs.  While the plush upper feels great the shoe is simply overbuilt in my opinion.  At 12.3 oz it is nearly one ounce heavier than its competitors and the the extended wave plate makes for a very stiff neutral shoe.  Any running on cambered (slanted or crowned roads) left me sliding off the platform of the shoe or feeling like I would turn my ankle due to the hard edges of the outsole.

For heel strikers this shoe delivers fantastic, responsive cushioning and a smooth transition into toe off.  Mid foot or forefoot strikers will likely find that the heel structures of the Creation 13 simply gets in the way.  I think that big guys and gals will love this shoe as the cushioning is firm and durable and will likely take all the beating that can be dished out.

Pearl Izumi Kissaki First impressions:

The first thing that caught my attention was the very vivid color scheme. Initially I didn’t care for the color, but after some time it grew on me. Especially after previewing other shoes with even louder color schemes, like the Boston 3, made these even more palatable. I also quickly noticed the shoes smooth appearance that comes from its seamless upper. Once I put the shoes on I noticed right away how the mono tongue wrapped my foot hugging it in the shoe.

Pearl Izumi Kissaki Upper:

The most Unique feature of the Kissaki is the seamless upper. Pearl Izumi has diverted from the norm and used a taped seam versus stitching. This seamless upper was very smooth, as I mentioned earlier, which settled in around my feet fairly nice without creating any pressure points, chaffing, or hot spots. In order to further reinforce the taped seams a bonded overlay has also been used. This gives strength and support to the shoe and protection as well.

The only fault I found was that a strip bonding was placed vertically toward the center of the toe box on the lateral side, and not the medial. This imbalance in the bonding created a lack of support on the medial side that caused the bonding to the front and rear of the toe box to close in on one another and created a pinch point during toe off. Although it never caused any particular discomfort it definitely created an awkward feeling. This may be noteworthy to runners with foot disorders, such as bunions, as it may cause discomfort in those runners.

The upper is built out of an open basket type mesh that is seated on top of a thin mesh screen. This leaves the upper very open, airy, and flexible. I would definitely recommend a nice pair of wool socks for those headed out on cold days as I found out the hard way.

Another unique feature of the Kissaki is the semi-mono tongue. The tongue is a one piece construction that is anchored to the medial side of the foot and wraps over the foot to the lateral side where it ends unanchored. This allowed the tongue to hug my foot, again giving that smooth feeling. During all of my time in my shoe I rarely noticed that the tongue was even there.

The lacing system of the shoe is comprised of a series of tight rigid loops that are spaced close together. I found it very difficult to tighten up the laces, and one I was able to get into the laces themselves it was very easy to over tighten the shoe. This definitely caused some discomfort at points early on to the top of my foot. Once I was able to figure out the best adjustment the pressure was not as noticeable.

Wether due to the lacing system or just construction I found the midfoot to be a little roomy. For me and possibly to others, aside from those with a wider foot, it lends itself to be a little loose. The toe box of the shoe is nice and wide allowing ample room for my toes to splay and move comfortably. I did notice the toe box to be a bit shallow. My toes definitely hovered close to the front of the shoe, but I never experienced any trauma or discomfort as a result of it. Point being is if you are considering these shoes I would definitely order a ½ size up, I know that I would have benefited.

Moving to the heel where we find a memory foam collar. The collar was a nice addition and did not cause any excessive pressure or chaffing. However, the rest of the heel has room for improvement as I found it to be wide. I have a normal width heel and the rear of the shoe was a bit sloppy especially when going downhill, and on semi-technical trails.

Finally, the upper is topped off with a set of flat laces that have two reflective bands woven into them, a nice added touch. The laces remain secured and tied on all of my runs with no discomfort.

Pearl Izumi Kissaki Midsole:

Pearl Izumi has constructed the Kissaki midsole from its 1:1 energy return foam. This absorbs shock and rather than displacing it into the ground the foam returns it back to the runner. The 1:1 foam has been strategically placed in the forefoot and heel crash pad. This along with the three flex zones in the forefoot helped give me a nice smooth, responsive, firm ride. Midfoot and forefoot strikers will appreciate the firm ride and the pleasant heal to toe transition.

The kissaki is built with a plastic bridge in the midfoot section. This provided nice mild stability without being over the top. Mild overpronators, like me, will enjoy this while those seeking out additional stability might want to reconsider this as a daily trainer and more of a race day shoe.

The sole has a 19mm heel and a 10 mm toe giving it a 9mm drop. This was a nice change I thought from the standard 12mm making it a sound choice for both midfoot and forefoot strikers alike.

Pearl Izumi Kissaki Outsole:

The kissaki is constructed with a full blown rubber outsole with a carbon rubber heel crash pad. With about 125 miles on the shoe it is showing very little signs of wear, and I say with confidence that that it could go another 300. Something I did enjoy with this shoe was the tread pattern that was used. Not only did it grip the road well, but I found it also to grip and hold well on mild to moderate trails. I found it also to hold fairly well in the snow, and packed snow.

Pearl Izumi Kissaki Opinion:

So weapons for the feet? They could be if future improvements can be made to upper of the shoe. For now the shoe is really going to fit a limited number of runners well, but not the majority. What it does have going for it is the ability to transition between the road and packed trail very well. The energy return through the toe is also hard to beat, as is its durability.

This would be a great high mileage shoe for efficient runners or mild pronators. Those looking for a little bit more stability or heavier runners should look to the Kissaki just as a solid race day shoe.

We thank the nice guys at Pearl Izumi for sending us a pair of Kissaki to try. This did not influence our review of the shoes!

Saucony Powergrid Triumph 9 First Impressions

When I first tried the Triumph 9 on I noticed the roomy toe box, snug mid foot and great overall fit.  The cushioning felt plush and I appreciated the feel of the lower heel drop.  The only fit issue I noticed was a slight rubbing on my heel where extra cushioning was sewed into the heel collar around the Achilles notch, creating seams and a little abrasion.  Turned out that I didn’t even notice them during my runs in the shoes.

Powergrid Triumph 9 Upper 

Breathable dual density mesh is utilized throughout the shoe and supported by the liberal use of stitched on, synthetic overlays to increase support.  The Triumph 9 features the Sauc-Fit overlay in the mid foot area which provides great lockdown and a snug fit.  Overlays also cover the toe area and reinforce the heel of the shoe.  I felt my heel slip intially when walking around in the Triumph but did not experience any issues with slippage while running.  The upper seemed to move well with the foot and I didn’t have any issues with rubbing nor did I need a break-in period.  The Triumph 9 upper seemed to do well to keep my feet dry running through slush and snow as well and will make an excellent winter training shoe.

For those familiar with the Saucony line, the Triumph 9 upper is more similar to the Progrid series shoes such as the Ride and Guide rather than the lighter, more flexible material seen on the Kinvara or Cortana.

My favorite part of the upper, believe it or not, is the shoe laces.  Saucony utilized flat laces with a bit of stretch to them which helped them stay tied during the run.  The flat laces really cut down on pressure on the tops of my feet as did the well cushioned tongue.  Reinforced eyelets add to durability to the lacing system and aided with a secure fit.

Powergrid Triumph 9 Midsole

There is a great deal of responsive cushioning in the Triumph 9 midsole made possible by the Powergrid system which uses Saucony Powerfoam to dissipate footstrike shock throughout the midsole.  Powerfoam is very lightweight and responsive and Saucony’s SSL EVA is featured throughout the midsole.  The heel cushioning is substantial in the Triumph with a nice transition to ample forefoot cushioning which I appreciated a great deal.

There is a Midsole Support Bridge, a thermoplastic unit, which runs from the heel to the mid foot and decreases torsion through the foot strike.  Saucony made the wise decision to not extend this plastic bar too far into the mid foot section of the shoe as to inhibit forefoot flexibility.

Powergrid Triumph 9 Outsole

As with the rest of Saucony’s Powergrid shoes, the outsole of the Triumph 9 features minimal cutouts which increases surface area contact with the ground.  In fact, the Triumph even handled moderately technical trails fairly well and the durable carbon rubber outsole will likely wear well past 500 miles. Saucony also placed IBR+  in the segmented forefoot to increase flexibility and ride overall.

Powergrid Triumph 9 Overall Impressions

I think that Saucony is moving in the right direction by decreasing the drop of the Triumph from 12mm to 8mm but maintaining the overall stack height of the shoe (the amount of midsole/ outsole material facilitating cushioning and support).  The ride of the Triumph 9 is incredibly smooth and I was able to take this shoe for 12 miles on roads and trails right out of the box without any discomfort.  Runners looking for maximum cushioning with a bit of medial support will love this shoe and the fit is fantastic, especially the wide toe box.  The durable upper takes a good beating and shouldn’t wear out before the midsole.

Saucony has added another star to its lineup with the Powergrid Triumph 9, which is definitely the best Triumph yet.  With so many well cushioned neutral shoes to choose from in their line the only decision is which shoe to go with.

Adidas Adizero Boston 3 First Impressions

After I got over the very loud color scheme of the new Adizero Boston I slipped them on and felt like I had just put on a marathon racing flat.  The feeling of the Boston 3 is low to the ground due to reduced stack height from the Boston 2, and the cushioning initially felt very firm and minimal.  The fit felt fantastic and I could tell that Adidas reduced weight in the upper making it more minimal.  But, I was concerned that maybe they’d stripped the shoe down too much.  Due to the fact that I try on LOTS of shoes each year and I get to review quite a number of them, I rarely change my mind from my first impression.  However, my initial feelings about these shoes were absolutely wrong.

Adidas Adizero Boston 3 Upper

Stripped down, flexible, and breathable are a few words I would use to describe this well fitting upper.  Adidas changed the overlays a little for this third incarnation but kept a mostly mesh upper with synthetic reinforcements in the toe and heel cup.  The mesh of the Boston 3 seems to be a bit thinner and more breathable but maintains durability.  Adidas uses their usual fit and last for the Boston 3 with a narrow heel, snug mid foot, and wide toe box.  The loose and comfortable mesh does allow some give and really seemed to form to my foot the more I ran in the shoes.

The heel collar and tongue of the Boston 3 is thin, pliable, and very comfortable.  Adidas keeps the tongue thin and lightweight and uses flat laces which do not cause any discomfort on the tops of my feet.

Adidas Adizero Boston 3 Midsole

Adidas used its Adiprene EVA foam cushioning, which is firm yet responsive, throughout the entire length of the Boston 3.  I especially appreciated the increased cushioning throughout the forefoot and the full length Adiprene really gives the Boston 3 a nice ride.  Midfoot and forefoot strikers will especially love the firm ride which gives a sense of proprioception and feel for the road.  Heel strikers will like the decoupled and well cushioned heel which also aids in a smooth transition through the foot plant.

Adidas uses its Torsion Bar in the mid foot which helps stabilize the shoe.  Mild overpronators, like myself, can get away with wearing the Boston 3, while those needing more stability will likely find it a great marathon racing shoe but too minimal for daily training.

Adidas Adizero Boston 3 Outsole

The Boston 3 has very durable carbon rubber on the heel and Continental Tire rubber on areas of high wear from mid foot through toe off.  The Continental rubber is advertised to improve grip and I can’t attest that it performs better than typical outsole rubber.  The outsole doesn’t have any major cutouts or grooves which could pick up large rocks or mud and after approximately 150 miles on the shoe the outsole does not show any wear and does grip quite well.  I often ran on packed snow and I wasn’t slipping around as much as with other trainers.  The low stack height also increases agility on snow or icy roads.

Adidas Adizero Boston 3 Overall Impressions

As I stated before, I rarely feel differently about a shoe after running 100 miles in it then I do when trying it on.  But, every once in awhile a shoe surprises me.  The Boston 3 impressed me most with its firm and resilient cushioning, fit, and very lightweight feel.  In fact, the more I wore them I found myself subconsciously reaching for them each morning and neglecting my other trainers.  I’ve worn the Boston 3 on several longer runs (12-16 miles), short tempo runs, and fartlek on trails.  In each situation they responded very well and the very smooth transition of this shoe lends itself to fast running.  I was never surprised that my pace crept faster and faster into unintentional progression runs when wearing the Boston 3.

This is a perfect shoe for high mileage efficient runners with neutral or slight pronating gaits.  For those who need a little bit more support I would highly recommend this shoe for racing, especially the marathon distance, as the Boston 3 can take a beating.  Right at 10 oz for my size 9.5 the Boston 3 feels lighter than it is due to its minimal upper and low profile and after 150 miles I’m continually impressed with its performance.

We thank the nice people at Adidas for sending us a pair of the Boston 3 to test. This did not influence our review, written after running more than 150 miles in them

Adidas Supernovea Glide 4 First Impressions

Past runners of the Glide will take comfort that at first glance the shoes look fairly similar to its predecessors. It still holds that same durable simple design that requires no extra flash or added accents. However, after closer examination users will find that the shoes upper profile has been reduced slightly giving it a slimmer profile. The Midsole is also less substantial than the Glide 3, giving the shoe a slightly more streamlined look.

The Glide 4 feels true to size with a comfortable interior and EVA sockliner (which when removed revealed the compartment for the mi coach system accessory), roomy toebox, and snug comfortable fit lacking maybe some arch support. Adidas remained with the comfortable, snug, and well-padded GEOFIT heel. Tubular oval laces secured the shoe nicely that remained tied on all my runs causing no discomfort.

Adidas Supernova Glide 4 Upper

The upper is composed of a stitched-on microsuede similar to the Glide 3. The pattern to the 4 is different being a tighter closed honeycomb mesh than before. This new pattern may allow for greater flexibility, breathability, and weight reduction. This mesh covers the majority of the midfoot area in the same fashion as the 3. The overlays continue to remain very simple and basic providing strength, reinforcement, and support to those areas that need it. Reflective highlights have also been added to the heel and toe that appear to not have been present on the 3.

“GEOFIT” construction still remains a solid performer in the Glide 4. For those unfamiliar with GEOFIT it is a technology developed by Adidas where padding lining is placed in exact areas where it is needed. GEOFIT offers greater stability and distribution of pressure offering better heel fit. The heel was built up enough to provide great support without heel slip, and did not create any unnecessary pressure around my Achilles. I found my heel to feel very centered and locked in over most terrains that I covered. I did find it to be a little stiff in my initial outings with the shoe, but as time went on this became less noticeable.

Adidas Supernova Glide 4 Midsole

Adidas has changed up things in the midsole department a bit in the Glide 4 from the 3. Fans of the 3 will remember a 30mm heel and an 18mm forefoot with a 12mm drop altogether. The Glide 4 still has kept the same 12mm drop, but has reduced the overall height of the heel and forefoot by 0.5mm down to 23.3 and 11.5. This has allowed for reduced weight, but also drops the profile of the shoe lower to the ground. This lower profile allows for a more natural foot position leading to a more natural midfoot to forefoot foot strike, and thus greater running efficiency.

The midsole contains very minimal arch support that may pose problems to those needing additional support. This lack of arch support may be helpful to the true neutral runner as it provides that additional flexibility that we are looking for.

The Heel is decoupled (separated from the rest of the midsole) to allow it to be built using Adidas FORMOTION technology, which is a unique sliding plate technology that absorbs shock in three dimensions. This decoupled design did make for a nice heel to toe transition.

The remaining sole is still comprised of Adidas own adiPRENE + EVA foam material. I found this to be not too soft and not too firm, so if you are a runner seeking a more cushioned ride this is definitely not your shoe. This is also the same foam used in the Glide 3 and the rest of the Supernova line.

A plastic “TORSION SYSTEM” bridges the midfoot to provide torsional stability. This torsional system may interest those that enjoy the added stability, but I found it to be a bit much and I missed some lateral movement from time to time.

The outsole is comprised of blown rubber with a non-marking carbon rubber finishing off the heel. The outsole provided durable good traction on pavement and crushed gravel surfaces both of which were the primary surfaces that the shoes were wear tested on.

Adidas Supernova Glide 4 Opinion

In this runner’s opinion, Adidas has once again created a nice high mileage shoe for the neutral runner. I put this shoe though several miles of testing at varying distances and speeds over varying terrain. The shoe was very stable and kept my foot in a very nice neutral position.

The ride was smooth with outbeing overly cushioned, but leaning more to stiffer and firm. I found the Glide to not be overly bulky and was suprisingly lighter than I would have given it credit for.

In conclusion, the Glide 4 is a good durable daily high mileage shoe fans of Glide can still count on the same durable high mileage shoe that they have always found comfort in, and will probably love it even more with the reduced weight and midsole.

We thank the nice people at Adidas for sending us a pair of Glide 4 to test. This did not influence our review, written after running more than 50 miles in the shoe

New from Brooks is the PureProject collection, and Brooks’ advertising campaign for the Pure Connect describe the experience of running in the Pure Connect as “Pure Joy”.  

After logging some training miles (100 miles for Jim, 48 miles of Tom) in the Pure Connect we have to say that this statement isn’t far off.  Brooks completely broke the mold of what was considered a successful running shoe in their line to make the Pure series, the closest relative of which is the Brooks Green Silence.  

This Radically new and impressive line of minimalist shoes has began to create a lot of buzz within the running community.  With its anatomical fit and use of lightweight flexible materials the collection has definitely impressed us along with many other runners, and raised the bar for what a minimalist shoe should be. The PureConnect is the lightest and most flexible shoe in the line, and at its core is designed to put as little as possible between you and the surface you’re running on.

Brooks Pure Connect First Impressions

Tom:  When I first took the Pure Connect out of the box it reminded me of old Nike Waffle racers or even a cross country racing flat. There isn’t a sharp edge on the sole;  all rounded corners that you would typically see on a cross country or trail shoe than one engineered for the road.  The shoe is featherweight at 7.2 ounces and when I slipped them on I noticed several things.  First, the Pure Connect is fairly narrow, especially in the mid foot, which may make it a problem for runners with wide feet.  Second, there is a noticeable arch cushioning feature which really hugs the arch.  This may upset some pure minimalist runners who prefer absolutely flat shoes.  Third, the Pure Connect runs 1/2 size small and I was lucky enough to have both my usual size 9.5 US and access to a size 10.  The 9.5 gave me blisters on both heels and felt constricting.  After sizing up to the 10 my feet felt like they had ample room and any friction issues disappeared.

Jim:The PureConnect uses very minimal Overlays, and is primarily composed of open mesh.  It was refreshing to see that the use of plastic on the upper was almost non-existent.  Slipping on the shoe for the first time was amazingly different than anything that I have worn up to this point.  The Shoe was glove like and hugged every contour of my foot almost as if it had been tailored just for me.  The sole was also much of the same lying firmly against my foot and traveling its contours nicely.  By this point I am guessing that many of you can tell that the shoe locks your foot down well, and for myself ran true to size.  However, many runners have complained that the shoe has run too small and did have to order a ½ size up.  Right away I could notice the midfoot support that was created by a large support pod placed midfoot on the sole.  The toe box was snug but very flexible giving it a roomy feel.

Brooks PureConnect Upper

The upper of the Pure Connect is very simple, breathable, and functional.  It is comprised of an open sandwich mesh on the inside, and then covered by a thin tight mono-mesh.  At first glance the shoe appears thin and weak, but surprisingly it has been able to take some abuse.  A micro suede underlay sandwiched between the two layers reinforces most of the open mesh.  This undlayment rays or fingers out from the laces and splays out into the midsole.  

Simple overlays with reflective accents band the heel and toe with the Brooks logo incorporating itself into the lacing system all providing additional strength and support.   Running bilaterally up the sides of the shoe and across the top of the tongue, and unique to the PureProject line, is the Nav Band.  This elastic band that wraps the instep is intended to provide a more glove like fit.  Runners complained of this feature being useless on the Brooks Pure Grit, the Pure Connect’s trail cousin, but the Nav band on the Pure Connect is taut and does hug the mid foot a bit better. After wearing the shoe on a couple of runs I really didn’t seem to notice that band made that much of a difference.  Don’t get me wrong there was definitely not a lack of support or a sloppy feeling.  I was just expecting to feel something a little more additional above what the rest of the shoe already provided.

The heel collar is comprised of a thin well-placed layer of foam that provided the right amount of protection and support without being overly bulky.  The actual heel of the shoe is also a new design unique to the PureProject collection that they have deemed the Ideal Heel.  The idea of the this new design is to shift contact points forward aligning your center of gravity, and encouraging a more natural midfoot to forefoot foot strike. The heel was very form fitting and did align my foot perfectly causing no discomfort or slip.

The toebox of the shoe fits well and as we mentioned earlier is snug.  However, with the uniqueness of its materials and flexibility the toebox is nice and airy and allows for ample movement.  A thin microsuede tongue fit and protected my foot without rolling off center and bunching up which I appreciated.  Tubular oval laces with a beaded pattern starting at the aglet, helping avoid lace slippage, secured the shoe and remained tied causing us no discomfort.

Brooks PureConnect Midsole

The first thing we noticed about the full length Bio MoGo midsole is that there isn’t a hard edge or corner on the shoe.  Every aspect of the midsole is rounded which seems to promote a more natural footfall and transition through the gait cycle.  The Bio MoGo midsole also contains Brooks DNA gel like cushioning material  and it is a soft, responsive cushioning which seems very resilient.  Despite continued pounding on the roads and trails the cushioning seems to stay fresh and not compacted.

Being that the Pure Connect is a neutral running shoe with minimalist features there are not any stability features or interruptions to the natural stride.  The 4mm heel to toe drop (the industry standard is 12mm for road shoes) helped keep us running on our mid feet with a high running cadence.  This felt to us like the right amount of cushioning which didn’t leave us feeling beat up after long runs.

As with all of Brooks shoes the PureConnect uses Brooks unique Bio MoGo midsole.  This for those of you new to the technology it encourages anaerobic microbes to eat away at the sole once it hits an active landfill.  This makes it the most biodegradable midsole on the market.  Along with the Bio MoGo midsole Brooks DNA, a non-Newtonian cushioning gel, has been blended in eliminating the use of drop-ins.

Brooks PureConnect Outsole

The Outsole of the Pure Connect is fairly simple.  Brooks placed durable carbon rubbers over the cushioning “pods” in high wear areas of the shoe.  Our favorite feature is the “Ideal Heel” which apply describes how Brooks created a rounded heel to aid in natural foot strike.  Having taken these shoes on trails which are cambered and uneven the PureConnect really adapts due the the rounded nature of the midsole and outsole.

We can tell by looking at the outsole that the (medial) inside of the heel is slightly higher than the outside (lateral).  This is common for many road shoes and it does offer some medial support for slight overpronators.

What we both really enjoyed about this sole what its Anatomical Last construction. The detailed anatomical form really seemed to fit the shape of our feet well, and moved and flexed throughout the run unlike anything we have ever experienced.  Brooks also uses an individualized sole pod design versus a traditional one piece sole.  This sole pod design really helps adjust to your individual impact points and really gives you that barefoot feel.

Toe Flex technology helps to finish off the rest of the sole.  A split placed in the front of the sole lateral of the big toe is designed to encourage your natural balance.  The thought is that by freeing the big toe and allowing it to splay and move independently the foot will allow the foot to move, as it should naturally as if barefoot.  We were initially skeptical during but found that the split allows the big toe to splay during toe-off.  We really noticed this during tempo runs and intervals, as it really seemed to give me a more powerful push-off.

Brooks PureConnect Opinion

Jim:  Brooks have definitely taken the minimalist shoe one step further with the PureConnect.  The simple, flexible, lightweight, and airy design really give this shoe a good balance between barefoot minimalism and the cushioning required for daily training.  I found the shoe to be super responsive and fun to run in.  I have put approximately 100 miles on the shoe over varying terrain and have not have had any durability issues or discomfort whatsoever.  The PureConnet has been a pleasure to wear and run in, and I would encourage those looking for a solid minimalist shoe to look no further that these.

Tom:  The PureConnect fills a gap in the current shoe market between what is truly minimalist and what can be utilized as a performance training shoe.  The PureConnect feels like a racing flat/ cross country flat with better cushioning and durability.  They are simply a joy to run in and I find myself neglecting other shoes for the feeling of freedom inspired by the PureConnect.  Speed work, tempo runs, long runs…whatever.  The PureConnect can do it all.

On a safety note, be careful when transitioning to a shoe with a 4mm drop.  If you have been running in a bulkier, traditional trainer with stability or motion control, this transition should be very gradual.

For those runners unfamiliar with Mizuno’s running shoes it can be quite easy to become a convert.  Mizuno lovers speak of great fitting shoes with a smooth natural feeling transition through the gait cycle.

Mizuno Wave Rider 15 First Impressions

The 15th edition of the popular Wave Rider features an improved fit with a lower heel collar after many runners complained of abrasions on the too high heel collar of the last edition.  The first thing I noticed about the fit of the Wave Rider 15 is that it runs true to size and the fit feels excellent.  An ample toe box is supported by a snug fit throughout the mid foot and heel, and the overlays throughout the upper of the shoe give a nice locked down feel.  The cushioning feels firm, consistent with Mizuno’s wave technology, and initially the Wave Rider 15 felt a bit stiff and inflexible.  I needed to put the shoe through the paces to truly assess performance.

Mizuno Wave Rider 15 Upper

The Wave Rider 15 upper features a breathable mesh and lightweight construction. The lacing system is straightforward with standard oval laces and the tongue is adequately cushioned. What I liked most about the interior of the shoe was the fairly thin and minimalist feeling and open mesh.  The upper is pliable and there aren’t any overlays which feel extraneous.  Mizuno uses a durable micro-mesh  to reinforce areas on the lateral side of the upper where runners often wear holes, like the pinky toe area.

The fit is pure Mizuno with a snug heel and forefoot giving way to a roomier toe box.  The length is true to size and I was impressed with how locked down my foot feels on down-hills and even trails in the Wave Rider 15.  This is a shoe which most runners will be able to wear right out of the box without having to spend an annoying break-in period. Overall, the Wave Rider 15 has a durable but lightweight upper with a fantastic fit.

Mizuno Wave Rider 15 Midsole

The Wave Rider 15 features Wave Technology which provides a very smooth transition from heel to toe.  The Wave Rider 15 also features an extended wave plate through the mid foot and almost up to the metatarsals of the foot.  While this improves the ride of the shoe it does add some rigidity in the mid foot.  The toe box of the shoe past where the wave plate ends is flexible which gives a nice toe-off for mid foot and forefoot strikers.

The Wave Rider 15′s cushioning feels soft on top with the firmer wave plates on the bottom creating a pleasantly firm yet responsive cushioning.   Mizuno uses its AP+ EVA foam on top of the wave plates and the AP+ feels has maintained its feel and seems to perform well in temperature variations from 20 F to 75 F.  The wave plate in the heel is reinforced with more cushioning courtesy of Mizuno’s VS-1 material.

Mizuno also uses Smooth Ride technology which is a gender specific series of grooves that minimize acceleration and deceleration of the foot to even out the ride.  Honestly, I didn’t notice this feature in any way but as stated earlier the Wave Rider 15 is a smooth ride.

Mizuno Wave Rider 15 Outsole

The Wave Rider outsole features a large cutout in the heel of the shoe, presumably to save weight, and durably  carbon rubber lines the entire outsole of the shoe.  The wave plate is exposed in the mid foot area of the shoe which did get fairly beat up after 20-30 miles of dirt/gravel running.  Nothing too avant garde in the lug pattern of the Wave Rider 15 and I’m happy to report that the sole does not pick up rocks while running.

Mizuno Wave Rider 15 Performance and Overall Impressions

Mizuno advertises the new Wave Rider as an amalgam of all of the positive aspects of past Wave Riders molded into one shoe.  While they manage to hit the mark in fit, cushioning, and support they missed in the flexibility department for me.  Lovers of the Wave Rider 13 will be disappointed with this shoe.  Instead of feeling like a built up responsive racing flat (like the 13) the Wave Rider 15 feels and functions more like a lightweight stability trainer.  This lack of flexibility throughout the heel and forefoot was especially noticed on trails where the shoe had difficulty negotiating cambered surfaces and rocks, and I even rolled my ankle twice.  To be fair, this shoe is not a trail shoe but it really did give me an indication of the rigidity of this shoe.

Now, for those who aren’t looking for Mizuno to remake a previous model, the Wave Rider 15 is a fantastic shoe.  This is a great all-in-one shoe for those looking to run long, do tempo work, and have a race day shoe in one package.  Many runners will like the stiffer mid-foot as it does seem to propel the wearer forward when feet are tired.  With a near perfect fit, lightweight and lower profile feel, and great cushioning the Wave Rider 15 is definitely worth a try on!

Please comment with your own suggestions regarding the Mizuno Wave Rider 15. We are always open to differing opinions!

We thank the nice people at Mizuno for sending us this shoe for testing. This did not influence our review of the shoes, written after running 60 miles in it.

The 33 collection is Asics first foray in ligther and less constructed high mileage running shoes. The running industry has been waiting for a while to see what Asics’ response would have been to the recent minimalistic wave that shook the industry.

I had the chance to meet and question some of the Asics footwear team and listen first hand to what the company’s take is on the subject.

The first thing they mentioned was that Asics is a company who bases their products on science and not on market trends and so, even if it would have been easy enough for them to build a zero drop shoe in a lightweight package and market it, they stuck to their studies of the thousands of runners who have their gaits and biomechanics assessed in their flagship stores around the world, their pro athletes and testers.

Further, they recognize there are some advantages in pairing some lightweight, flexible and deconstructed shoes to a runner’s main high-mileage shoe and they believe that there are some runners who benefit from barefoot running. But based on their analysis and their long history and knowledge – they say that the percentage is much lower than the barefoot running enthusiasts seem to advocate.

Long story short here comes the Asics Gel Excel 33, flagship shoe in the new 33 collection.

Asics Gel Excel33 First Impression

First impressions were that the shoes were very light , flexible and uncomplicated looking… The shoes were instantly comfortable, so I took them on a 21 km run straight from the box.

Asics Gel Excel33 Sole Unit

The midsole of the Excel 33 is lower than usual Asics shoes. The Excel 33 has a 10mm heel drop (height difference between heel and forefoot) which Asics believes to be the best biomechanical position, reducing the load on the Achilles tendon, calf muscles and hamstring.

The midsole is composed of two different EVA (foam) materials. Right under the foot there is spEVA (Asics softer EVA) for comfort. Under that, the bottom layer is made of SoLyte – a harder foam material that offers better energy return and stability. The logic is that you want a soft material to land on to reduce impact and stress, but at the same time you want a harder material to be in contact with the ground to return your energy (think about running on sand… all your energy gets absorbed by the sand). Between the two are sandwiched visible Gel (cushioning) units bot the in heel and forefoot.

The main performance element that differentiates the Excel 33 from the previously released Asics Gel Blur 33 is the Propulsion Trusstic system: a plastic shank that extends from the arch all the way under the forefoot. By mimicing the action of the foot’s plantar fascia, this element returns the energy accumulated through the gait and propels the foot forward.

Contributing to the natural feeling and added flexibility (and carving out a lot of weight) are deeply carved flex grooves and the presence of the Guidance Line, a vertical groove.

The one color outsole, with minimal lugged grip, was absolutely great for the road. The blown rubber gave a very quiet stride, unlike many shoes where I slap. The durability has not been great, after only 150km the shoes were showing significant wear under the forefoot.

Asics Gel Excel 33 Upper

A great fore part, with tight mesh that was durable and breathable. Once laced the shoe was snug to the foot, felt supportive, but at the same time extremely soft and supple. The collar padding and underfoot was fantastic, you can instantly tell its a quality shoe.

The Excel 33 features the Heel Clutch system: instead of the traditional heel counter, a lighter plastic counter is now outside the shoe to lock your heel in position, while memory foam on the internal lining gives comfort and shapes to your heel.

Asics Gel Excel 33 Ride and Opinion

Immediate impressions on the road was the soft feeling midsole, which created a fantastic smooth ride, and instantly gave you the feeling that you wanted to run faster. The shoes really promoted a feeling that you wanted to get on your toes and pick up the pace. The flexibility was superb in the forefoot, really allowing you to ‘feel’ the ground without ever lacking cushioning.

The mid foot support bridge extends into the forefoot, and really gives a sensation of energy return when you flex the shoe and it snaps back into its original shape, and I am sure this was the main reason why this shoe was so fast feeling.

Over all, a fantastic trainer / racer for the neutral runner that wants a pure road running shoe that’s extremely flexible, super light, yet cushioned enough to put in some serious mileage.

We thank the nice people at Asics for sending us a pair of Gel Excel 33 to review. This did not influence our review, written after running more than 150 km in them!

The idea behing ON shoes is that current running shoes only absorb the vertical forces of an impact with the floor, but running exposes the runner to both vertical and horizontal forces. These are both taken care of by their Cloudtech system: 3 Dimensional elements in the outsole (called “Clouds”, you can’t miss them by looking at the pictures) that absorb both vertical and horizontal shocks and return both kinds of energy to the runner.

The result? A shoe that is both soft and fast. ON backs these claims with independent studies (here) that revealed that runners running in ON shoes saved on average 2 BPM vs running in their favourite running shoes and reduced lactate acid in their blood by an average 5.4%. This translates in a 9 minutes faster marathon time.

But… how do they feel ? Read on..

On Cloudsurfer First Impression

The first impression upon receiving and opening the ON Cloudsurfer box was very good. The Cloudsurfer comes in a very nice and sturdy black box that contains, in addition to the shoes, an “ownership card” and an extra pair of laces. The standard laces are in a lime green color, the extra ones are black in case you want to go for a more understated look. Little, great touch.

The shoes. The shoes look nice, they look great. Simple black with internal lining, laces and 3D Cloud elements in lime green. They look unusual and they did turn heads on my trial runs.

On Cloudsurfer Sole Unit

The Sole unit is where the magic of the Cloudsurfer is. Thirtheen “square tubes”, 4 in the heel and 9 in the forefoot are the cushioning and energy return system of this shoe.

There is no stability element. The midsole itself is quite sturdy and hard (it does not twist easily if squeezed with both hands).

I admit it is difficult to talk about this sole unit. It is unlike anything I have ever run in and I believe the pictures speak for themselves. The only thing to talk about is the ride. I want to talk more about it later (in the opinion section) but let me summarize it in one word: amazing.

On Cloudsurfer Upper

Consistent with the overall construction of the shoe, the upper is quite simple – and I believe this is the shoe’s major drawback.

Don’t get me wrong. There is nothing wrong with the upper itself. Very open mesh, little to none unnecessary overlays – great open toebox. A quite sturdy heel counter makes the heel feel securely locked in the shoe and the “o ring” clearly gives away that this shoe was designed by a triathlete: its function is to be able to quickly slip the shoe on during transition.

The Cloudsurfer includes a nicely cushioned and shaped insole with a mid to high arch shape.

On Cloudsurfer Opinion

I need to admit that I am usually skeptical when I read of new running shoes technologies that promise major performance improvement or breakthrough injury protection. So you can imagine my surprise when I put on my Cloudsurfers and went to a first 10km test run.

I was IN LOVE with the shoes. Nothing exceptional for the first 5k, but the more I was running the faster I wanted to run, and it felt quite effortless. It was actually a joy to run. So far I logged approximately 100 km in the Cloudsurfer, a good half of them behind the running stroller with my daugther in it, and I still enjoy them as much.

So what is my verdict on the Cloudsurfer? I am very glad I was given the chance to run in them. They are different and while I cannot test for myself the gains the company claims, I can surely say that they do feel fast and comfortable to run in.

I am an overpronator and I don’t feel the Cloudsurfer offers any relevant pronation control. That’s what keeps me from running more in them. I really enjoy 10km a week but I wish some degree of support could let me take them on a longer run. I don’t know how the company can adapt this technology to offer more support, but be sure I’ll keep a close eye on future releases.

The second, and main, issue I have with the shoe is that for 150$ the upper could be more “fancy”. I understand that you pay for the performance and not the bells and whistles, but for 150$ I would expect to find a seamless upper, softer lining and so on.. I know, simplicity and consistancy is part of the philosophy of the shoe and probably adding too many details would look of feel odd. But then I can’t justify the 150$ price tag.

Well, if the price is not an issue for you and you don’t need support – by all means give the Cloudsurfer a try. I really enjoy my pair and racing results from some the athletes the company sponsors make me believe we will hear more from ON – and we’ll definitely be listening.

We thank the peple at ON for sending us a pair of Cloudsurfer to test. This did not influence the review of these shoes, written after running more than 100km in them

As a follow-up to the popular Kinsei 3, the Kinsei 4 has quite a lot to live up to, and fans of the line will not be disappointed. The Kinsei 4 builds up on the technology found in the Kinsei 3 in a more flexible, lighter package.

Asics uses the Kinsei line to introduce their latest technologies, resulting in a shoe that has an incredibly long list of features, with no element overlooked. With all of the features and add-ons packed in, the Kinsei weighs in a little heavier than the average neutral shoe, though this is something that Asics is working to improve. For the Kinsei 4, Asics managed to shave roughly one ounce off of the overall weight, which is a noticeable advantage over previous models, and adds to the overall performance. In all, the Kinsei 4 is best suited for runners that prefer a cushioned, supportive shoe and who don’t mind a little extra heft.

Asics Kinsei 4 First Impressions

Having heard quite a bit about the Kinsei line, I was eager to give the latest model a try. So eager, in fact, that I pulled them on as soon as they arrived, in the middle of my office. The fit and feel of the Kinsei 4 is fantastic; I felt like the upper hugged my foot just right and my arches felt secure and supportive from the start. After using Asics exclusively for about a year when I began running, I was expecting a solid fit, and I was impressed right away with the fit of the Kinsei 4.

Given my experience with Asics in the past, I decided to take them out for their first test run the next morning, a five-mile route along Central Park’s main loop. My initial impression of the Kinsei 4 was great — they have a smooth ride with plenty of cushioning throughout. While they didn’t have that speedy feeling I’ve grown accustomed to in my daily trainers, my overall comfort over those first few miles made up for it. After about four miles, however, the extra weight (as compared to the other shoes in my rotation) began to show.

Chalking it up to tired legs, I decided to give them another try following a rest day. Unfortunately, the weight of the shoe caught up to me again, and I felt likey were dragging me down on my tempo run. While runners accustomed to slightly heavier shoes won’t notice a difference, those who are used to running in shoes under the 10-ounce mark may have some issues with the weight on long or tempo runs. The Kinsei 4, however, could also be a great option for short recovery runs, when the best parts of the shoe can shine.

Asics Kinsei 4 Sole Unit

The most noticeable element of the sole unit is the discrete Asics GEL Cushioning System in the heel, intended to provide ample protection and comfort for heel strikers. The rear of the sole unit is also helps create a smooth transition through the stride. In fact, the Kinsei 4 provides an incredibly smooth ride, especially when considering the overall rigidity of the sole. Gel cushioning is also on the forefoot.

The sole of the Kinsei 4 also features their Guidance Line: a deeply carved longitudinal (from heel to toe) groove that promotes the right gait by guiding the foot trhoughout its natural center of gravity . Adding to the flexibility of the sole unit is a lower midsole and a new modular pod design in the front of the sole, which consists of rows of small boxes with deep grooves between. These grooves make the forefoot more flexible and at the same time help shedding weight.

While more flexible than in previous incarnations, the sole still provides ample protection from the road and heel strikers need not worry about the Kinsei 4 not providing enough shock absorption.

Asics Kinsei 4 Upper Unit

One of the major changes to the Kinsei 4 can be found in the shoe’s upper. While the Kinsei 3 used a multiple-layer design, the updated version features mesh construction and is a major element of the shoe’s one ounce drop in weight and added flexibility. This added flexibility, paired with a slightly off-centered lacing, makes for a more natural ride and also reduces the risk of chafing and blisters on the top of the foot. Longtime fans of Asics shoes will also notice a wider toe box, also adding to the overall flexibility of the shoe.

As in previous incarnations, the mesh overlay consists of Cuprothermo, a type of mesh which is designed to add to the shoe’s temperature control. Testing the shoe in both the final weeks of summer and the initial chilly weeks of fall in New York, I found that the Kinsei 4 performed well in both cases, keeping my feet cool on warm days in the early fall and holding onto warmth when the weather got colder.

Another distinctive element of the upper is the Clutch Collar, an outer heel counter designed to reduce heel slippage. While I was initially a little wary about this part of the shoe, it actually turned out to be one of my favorite features. Holding the shoe securely across the back of my foot, it added some stability and to the overall feeling of security of the shoe.

Overall, the upper on the Kinsei 4 is great: it’s flexible, manages temperature and moisture well, and wraps the foot nicely without interfering with movement.

Asics Kinsei 4 Opinion

The Kinsei 4 is a shoe packed with technology, and clearly Asics hasn’t left any element of shoe to chance. The result is a shoe that continues to morph as the line progresses, and is definitely for a runner looking for something that spares no expense.

An important consideration about the Kinsei 4 is the price. Coming in at nearly twice the price of some of the most popular shoes on the market today, most runners will expect a superior ride and amazing performance out of the shoe.

Runners seeking a neutral shoe with a little extra support and cushioning could definitely benefit from the Kinsei, but for those looking for something a bit more pared down and lighter, this wouldn’t be the best choice of shoe.

We thank the great people at Asics for sending us a pair of GEL Kinsei 4 for testing. This did not influence our review of the shoe, written after riding more than 50 miles in it

Brooks Glycerin 9 First Impressions

Runners who have enjoyed past editions of the Glycerin will appreciate the plush cushioning and will only notice minor changes between the Glycerine 8 and 9. However, the best surprise about the 9 is that Brooks cut a full ounce off the shoe while retaining the same plush cushioning and I can’t figure out how they did this.

The Glycerin 9 runs true to size and features a plush interior, roomy toebox, and a snug but comfortable fit. Brooks kept the barely there arch of the Glycerin 8 and the well padded heel collar and tongue. Simple oval laces stayed tied and did not cause any discomfort on the top of my foot. The mesh pattern and overlays of the 9 is almost identical to the 8 save for the heel cup which features rigid plastic overlays.

Brooks Glycerin 9 Upper

The upper features a breathable “Element mesh” throughout and the mid foot area has an especially breathable rubber mesh designed to help the foot air out. Overlays are pretty basic and provide a great deal of support throughout the upper. Brooks changed very little about the upper from the 8 to the 9. Reflective highlights are a nice added touch for winter running and they are strategically placed on the toe and heel of the shoe.

The heel of the Glycerin 9 is significantly stiffer and more built up than in past incarnations. This is very noticeable at first, but less so once I had a few runs logged in the shoe. Overall, this is the kind of construction and durability that any Brooks wearer has come to expect over the years.

Brooks Glycerin 9 Midsole

Brooks changed things up a bit by offering full length DNA cushioning gel pods throughout the entire shoe rather than just in the heel and forefoot of the 8th edition. The midsole also contains Bio Mogo, Brooks environmentally friendly EVA foam which is both resilient and highly responsive.

The midsole contains very little arch support which may bother some runners needing some additional support. True neutral runners will likely appreciate that the lack of arch in this shoe improves its flexibility a great deal. The softer Bio Mogo is cradled within the firmer DNA layer which creates a nice energy return on foot strike.

I have been impressed with the DNA cushioning in the past and it does live up to its billing as an adaptable cushioning technology. It is designed to firm up for heavier runners and stay malleable for lightweight runners.

The midsole also features a thermoplastic unit right in the mid foot of the shoe which is aimed at decreasing twisting throughout transition from heel to toe. This is a feature used by many shoe companies on their high end models and unfortunately this “DRB Accel” greatly deceases flexibility in the shoe. The positive aspect of this feature is that a minimal pronator could get by with the Glycerin 9 as it offers a touch of support.

Brooks lowered the overall height of the shoe by 2mm but maintains the same heel drop of 12 mm, which the running shoe industry at large is now seeming to question. A heel striker will appreciate this feature but a mid foot or forefoot striker may feel that the bulkiness of the heel gets in the way.

Brooks Glycerin 9 Outsole

The outsole of the Glycerin 9 is almost identical to that of the 8. The outsole is split into compartments to aid in flexibility which is impeded by the rigidity of the plastic midfoot shank. The carbon outsole is very durable and I did not notice any significant wear on the outsole.

Brooks Glycerin 9 Performance and Overall Impressions

The Glycerin 9 is a maximum feature neutrally cushioned shoe designed to provide the runner with a plush ride and some support for high mileage. Brooks states that this newest version adds more cushioning with improved flexibility over the 8th version.

What Brooks did that is very impressive is that they designed a very plush shoe and cut an entire ounce off the last version. The full length DNA in the midsole does seem to add additional firm but responsive cushioning However, the claims at increased flexibility appear to be just a placebo effect in my opinion. The segmented outsole is completely impeded by the torsion bar placed in the middle of the shoe and flexibility test comparisons to other high end neutral trainers put the Brooks Glycerin 9 a bit on the stiff side. Brooks has always made fairly substantial, and might I say stiff trainers (save for their trail shoes and racing flats), but it would seem that in the current climate of running shoe manufacturing towards allowing for more natural foot movement this torsion bar may be overdoing it.

The Brooks Glycerin 9 may offer more support than other top of the line neutral cushioning shoes which may make it an option for runners needing some structural support.

Brooks continues to be the leader in ecologically designed running shoes as they are the only running shoe manufacturer with biodegradable midsoles in their entire line of running shoes. Their BioMoGo material biodegrades 50 times faster than those of other manufacturers and the knowledge that your worn out trainers aren’t existing in a landfill for the next 20,000 years should make you feel good.

Similar Shoes to the Glycerin 9

Nike Zoom Vomero+ 6
Asics Gel Nimbus 13

We thank the nice people at Brooks Running for sending us a pair of Glycerin 9 for testing. This did not influence the review of the shoe, written by running more than 100 miles in it.

When I first opened the shoebox I wondered if I had, by mistake, opened the box of the Vomero 6 instead (Pegasus’ most expensive sister model). I might have been decived by the presence of Flywire – a technology that just a year ago was reserved to Nike’s newest and most expensive models. But in general the look and feel of the Pegasus is of a simple but well designed shoe.

Nike Pegasus+ 28 Upper Design

As I mentioned earlier, the Pegasus 28 sports Flywire both on the medial and lateral side of the upper, around the midfoot. Flywire was introduced in 2008 and at first reserved for racing shoes. Its purpose is to hold and support the foot with a very resistant but very lightweight material. Shoes commonly use overlays of different materials (usually plastic) to connect the tongue area to the sole of the shoe – think of Adidas’ three stripes – Flywire replaces that.

Ok – we are impressed by the Flywire, but how does the Pegasus feel on the foot? No thrills there. The shoe fits very well and locks the foot in the right position. Snug but not too tight. An external heel collar contributes keeping the foot in its position. The tongue, the heel collar are simple and not too cushy.

The Pegasus is breathable but quite rigid. For sure will hold your foot in position.

Nike Pegasus+ 28 Sole Unit

The sole of the Pegasus 28 is virtually identical to the one of the Vomero. Cushlon EVA material is soft and absorb quite a lot of shock. In addition to this, Zoom Air (Nike’s trademark bags of compressed air placed within the midsole) has been placed in the heel, making for a quite soft heel landing.

Decoupled heel (heel divided in different cuboid pads that absorb the shock differently during the different phases of the gait) contributes to a smooth heel landing – which is how most beginners will land during their stride.

The Pegasus also sports a small shank under the arch, providing torsional rigidity so to prevents ankle injury when you land your foot awkwardly. This is a great feature for a high-mileage shoe as the Pegasus, as it will both correct the mistakes of beginners and help support the foot when the mileage piles up and the gait can become a little sloppy.

Outsole is in the classic Nike Waffle pattern in BRS rubber – known for being durable and providing a good grip also on wet terrain.

Nike Pegasus+ 28 Opinion

I am very impressed with this Pegasus. I believe it’s one of the best beginner’s running shoes. It combines superb cushioning with stability elements (the arch shank, the Flywire upper) to protect and forgive mistakes. Sturdy construction will withstand lots of miles.

I recommend the Pegasus without hesitation. If you are in search of a similar shoe but with a much much softer ride (some say the softest of them all) you might also want to check the Nike Zoom Vomero 6.

Similar Shoes to the Nike Pegasus 28

Asics Gel Cumulus 13
Brooks Ghost 4

After the highly-successful Ghost 3, Brooks went with a more conservative update for the Ghost 4, only improving on the Ghost 3’s advantages. Leaving the overall fit untouched, Brooks rebuilt the sole unit while trying and leaving the feel unchanged. The most noticeable changes from the Ghost 3 are the heel and forefoot cushioning, and the crash pad in the heel, which is more segmented allowing for additional flexibility. Another key change to the Ghost 4 is Brooks’ DNA system -a patented cushioning system that is designed to adapt to a runner’s foot. Overall, Brooks has created a more balanced and lighter trainer, which allows the foot to move naturally without sacrificing support and cushioning.

Brooks Ghost 4 Impressions

I admit that I was really excited to try the Brooks Ghost 4 from the beginning, and I wasn’t disappointed once I began wearing them. From my very first run in them I was hooked, and found myself reaching for them again and again. The Ghost 4 has a nice blend of support and flexibility, which is evident immediately. The soft, flexible sole and lightweight upper make for a smooth heel-to-toe transition, providing plenty of bounce and a great kick throughout the entire run. After running in them for about a week, I decided that they would be the shoes for my next marathon.

The Ghost 4 held up great throughout my 20-mile training runs, and even better during 26.2 miles through the streets of New York City. Never once feeling heavy -even through the long runs -the Ghost 4 was soft enough to protect my legs from the pounding, yet still allowed me to feel the road beneath me. I put them through quite a bit this summer, running through rain and heat, on pavement and trails, and the Ghost 4 never let me down. Brooks has struck a great balance with the Ghost 4, blending support with a lightweight construction. The end result is a trainer that protects runners from the impact of the road without interfering with the wearer’s gait.

Brooks Ghost 4 Sole Unit

The sole unit of the Ghost 4 has been updated for the new version to create a smoother heel-to-toe transition and a smoother ride. The caterpillar crash pad at the heel is more segmented in this version than in the Ghost 4, with wider “Omega Flex Grooves,” adding more flexibility to the heel section. The flex grooves are narrower at the top and are designed to open out with each step, allowing the shoe to flex with the runner’s foot and provide a more natural feel.

Replacing the HydroFlow system (plastic packets of a viscous fluid) as the primary cushioning in the sole, Brooks DNA cushioning is slightly lighter and is much more responsive. Unlike the older HydroFlow system, DNA actually adapts to each runner, reacting to the impact of an individual’s gait. The midsole also features the DNA system as well as a small plastic shank, meant to provide additional support by keeping the foot stable. When taking my first look at the shoes, I admit that I was concerned that they would make for a clunky ride, but Brooks has made the lateral side less stiff than the medial side, allowing for support without interfering with the ride. Ultimately, the sole unit is flexible and cushioned, allowing wearers to move naturally while remaining supportive enough for long runs.

Brooks Ghost 4 Upper Unit

Brooks has kept the upper unit simple on the Ghost 4. The upper consists of a microfiber layer, topped by an additional mesh layer. Overall, the shoe handles moisture well, and performs well under all conditions. Running through humid summer days -and even sudden October snowstorms in New York City -the upper held strong, and kept my feet dry in all but the soggiest of conditions. Even on a hot day, my feet stayed cool and comfortable. In the middle of the long hours put in while marathon training, this comfort makes a world of difference. The Ghost 4 performed well even on long tempo runs through the rain. Even more importantly, the upper dried quickly, and the shoes were ready for another session the very next morning.

Brooks Ghost 4 Opinion

The Ghost 4 would be a great option for a variety of runners—ranging from beginners and veterans alike. While the upper is without many of the bells and whistles so common in running shoes today, the sole unit has clearly been the focus of the design process, and Brooks has found a great balance between support and flexibility. Perhaps best of all, the Ghost 4 is a versatile shoe that performs well in a variety of conditions. I felt just as comfortable in them on the track as I did on my favorite roads or a light trail.

Similar Shoes to the Brooks Ghost 4

Nike Pegasus 28
Asics Gel Cumulus 13

Asics always seems to be the company that sticks to its guns the longest when creating, or recreating, models of their running shoes. Any runner trying the ever popular DS-trainer or 2100 series can basically find the same shoe from year to year, only having to stomach aesthetic changes to their favorite workhorse trainer. However, this time Asics breaks the mold to create a refreshing and responsive shoe without many bells and whistles. The Marketing for the Blur 33 included the descriptor that it was a “minimalist shoe”, and while the Blur 33 does not live up to that moniker it will appeal to a broader audience looking to move in that direction.

Asics Gel Blur 33 First Impressions

The Blur 33 may strike some as Asics version of the Nike free due to the segmented and highly flexible outsole. This is simply not true, and the feel of the Blur 33 is a fully realized trainer stripped down to allow greater flexibility in the mid foot, a lower heel drop (10mm), and surprisingly soft and responsive cushioning. While there are days that I wish I could strap on a racing flat and hammer out a long tempo run, the carnage to my body would simply be too great. The Blur 33 is a shoe that gives me the free and flexible sensation of wearing a minimalist shoe with the protection of a neutral daily trainer.

Asics Gel Blur 33 Upper Design

The Blur 33 uses an open mesh design that is highly breathable with supportive underlays, something which is becoming the industry standard for most shoe companies. Overlays are kept to a minimum outside of the supportive Asics logo which hugs the mid foot area securely but not too tightly. The heel collar of the shoe uses memory foam designed to maintain the shape of one’s heel and provide a form fit. The toe box of the Blur 33 is wide, typical of Asics accommodating fit, and allows plenty of room for toe splay.

One complaint that I have about the Blur 33 is the seemingly plush, yet ineffective, cushioning throughout the tongue of the shoe. Asics uses fat oval shaped laces which are far too short to double knot. The combination of these laces and poor tongue cushioning led to some metatarsal discomfort when lacing the shoes, and I often had to stop and retie them to alleviate pain. Once I found the correct about of tension they never needed to be readjusted.

Asics Gel Blur 33 Midsole

Solyte, Asics soft and responsive EVA cushioning material, runs throughout the midsole of the Blur 33 providing a responsive and springy feel. A gel cushioning pod is located in the heel but what I found pleasing about the Blur 33 is how well is accommodates forefoot and mid foot strikers just as well as those prone to heel strike. The Blur 33 does not have any motion control devices within the midsole and those runners needed additional support should steer clear of this shoe. Neutral runners and supinators will delight in how simple and unconstrictive this shoe feels, allowing the foot to move freely and functionally.

Asics Gel Blur 33 Outsole

The segmented nature of the Blur 33 makes it the most flexible Asics trainer in their line. This segmentation is hardly noticeable during runs and doesn’t effect the transition from the heel to toe of the shoe during the runner’s gait. Noticeable absent is the Trusstic System, a thermoplastic device placed in the mid foot area of most Asics shoes which greatly reduces flexibility. A new version of the Trusstic System will be implemented in newer models of the 33 line, such as the Excel 33 and Hyper 33 to be released shortly.

Looking at the shoes outsole one can clearly see how deep the flex grooves are and can notive the Guidance Line, a carved vertical flex groove that extends from the heel to the toe, allowing the foot to align to its most efficient gait and forgiving some of the runner’s mistakes.

Asics Gel Blur 33 Overall Impression

Asics departed from the norm with the production of the Blur 33 and I think they have found a simple, yet elegant design. I will call this shoe “pseudo-minimalist” as it has a lower heel drop (10mm verses Asics typical 12mm), a flexible feel due to the segmented outsole, and soft responsive cushioning without extraneous motion control devices. Having put approximately 100 miles on these shoes I have not experienced any durability issues and I imagine that these shoes would hold up fine for 500 miles of normal wear.

Asics complimented this shoe with a modest price tag that won’t break the bank of some blue collar mileage hogs. Furthermore, with aesthetics that are reminiscent of Asics trainers from the early 1980s, the Blur 33 is a simple pleasure to wear on your next run.

We thank the nice people at Asics for sending us the Blur 33 for review. This didn't influence our review of the shoe, written after running more than 100 miles in them.

Asics changed very little with the Cumulus 13 and those familiar with the shoe will appreciate Asics philosophy of not fixing what isn’t broken. Fewer overlays give the Cumulus 13 a more breathable feel and a “guidance line” was added to aid in transitioning through the foot strike. Overall, this is exactly what you would expect from a shoe that has become an industry standard for great cushioning, durability, and a competitive price.

Asics Gel Cumulus 13 Upper Design

The Cumulus 13 upper features soft and pliable, dual density mesh with a few less overlays than what you have come to expect from an Asics shoe. Every part of this upper feels functional and the fit is sock like around the foot while still providing some wiggle room for those runners with higher volume feet. The tongue and heel collar of the shoe are made of soft moisture wicking mesh which did not rub anywhere. The heel cup of the Cumulus uses memory foam and molds to your heel after a few runs. I didn’t experience any slipping during any runs and the fit of the Cumulus has improved with more wear. A fairly standard lacing system is complemented nicely by thinner than normal oval laces which stayed tied throughout each run without having to double knot them. Kudos to Asics for thinning the now industry standard oval laces down a bit and making them more functional.

Asics Gel Cumulus 13 Midsole

Asics created a very well cushioned shoe in the Cumulus, using Gel units in both the heel and the forefoot which are visible on the shoe. With winter approaching it is important to have a cushioning technology which maintains it’s softness and does not freeze up in cold temperatures. Asics Gel cushioning really keeps it’s properties and doesn’t seem to compress or freeze as other brands do. The Gel is made from a silicone rubber compound which maintains it’s properties down to -55F!

The Gel cushioning is bolstered by Solyte EVA foam cushioning which gives the shoe a molded feel to your foot. The best way to describe the Cumulus cushioning is soft, but firm. Support in the midsole comes by way of a thermal plastic unit in the midfoot which reduces lateral movement and torsion throughout footstrike. Due to this, the Cumulus is not an especially flexible shoe. Asics tried to increase the forefoot flexibility in the Cumulus 13 by deepening the groves in the sole of the forefoot ever so slightly. Still, the Cumulus is not for a runner looking for a minimal, low to the ground, flexible feel. One aspect of this shoe I was quite surprised about was it’s feeling of a great deal of stability. The Cumulus 13 is built on a Strobel last which lends stability and durability to the shoe. A mild overpronator would have no problems in this shoe as the trusstic system in the shoe really provides a good deal of medial support.

The Cumulus has a 12mm heel-toe drop with a midsole which is quite a bit higher than average. Runners who enjoy maximum shock absorption will revel in the Cumulus’ ability to stay responsive for many miles.

Asics Gel Cumulus 13 Outsole

Asics cut down weight using a compartmentalized outsole with is both durable and effective. I remember when the Cumulus weighed nearly 13 ounces and each version of this shoe gets lighter. I was able to run on gravel without picking up rocks and having run over 40 miles in this shoe there is really no wear on the sole. Tough carbon rubber lines the outsole of the shoe.

Asics Gel Cumulus 13 Overall Impression

The bottom line is you can’t go wrong with a shoe like the Asics Cumulus. Great cushioning, fairly lightweight, and an extremely durable ride make it the training shoe of choice for American marathon record holder Ryan Hall, who chooses this model over the higher end Nimbus, Kinsei, or Kayano. If you’re looking for a high mileage trainer that you can get 500 miles out of then look no further. Another great aspects about Asics is that once you find a model you like you can stick with that model for many incarnations because Asics seems to change little from year to year, something which I’ve found most runners find appealing.

Similar Models to the Asics Gel Cumulus 13

Brooks Ghost
Nike Pegasus
Saucony Progrid Triumph

We thank the nice people at Asics for sending us a pair of Cumulus 13 to review. This did not influence our review of the shoes, written after running more than 100 miles in them.

Out of the box, the VOMERO 6 looks understaded – and it is not a negative . At 130$ price tag, many competitors have more bells and whistles. The Vomero has a simple no-nonsense upper and a sole unit that just looks exactly the same of the one on the Pegasus. But Oh boy! it’s different.

Nike Zoom Vomero+6 Upper

The Vomero looks so plain because the comfort solutions are quietly inserted everywhere in the design instead of screamed out loud. There is a plastic “net” element that you can find both on the midfoot and around the heel. This is at the same time stretcheable and sturdy, able to flex around the foot while still securing it in the right position.

The tongue is padded and soft (I personally hate the feeling of the laces on my foot therefore I love padded tongues) and it is sewed to the rest of the upper. I feel this extremely comfortable and for me it’s always a plus in a shoe – especially when I expect to run hundreds of miles in them. Also soft (and softer than in the Pegasus) is the padding around the heel.

Fit is great. The Vomero feels as snug as the Pegasus, but much more flexible. Perhaps this is the reason while even though it weights almost an ounce more, it feels ligther.

The toebox overlays are different in the men and women version of the shoe.

Nike Zoom Vomero+6 Sole Unit

There’s one word to describe the Vomero’s sole: soft. You really need to try it on to understand it. It is amazing to me how this sole can be practically the same as the one in the Pegasus (same size and shape, same cushlon EVA midsole material) and the only difference being Zoom Air being both in the heel and forefoot as opposed to just in the heel.

The heel is decoupled (split into different cuboid pods) to offer different cushioning to different parts of the heel while landing – the Vomero is definitely a shoe with the heel-striker as target user.

A midfoot shank (or bridge) provides torsional stability and makes this shoe enjoyable even for moderate overpronators like me.

Outsole is in BRS rubber – standard Nike rubber, very durable and good traction also on wet terrains.

Nike Zoom Vomero+6 Opinion

First of all, if you are a heavyweigth runner looking for a cushioning shoe, seriously consider this Vomero. It’s not a lightweight shoe but it just rides so smooth and it’s so flexible that feels much ligther.

In general – it is a very well balanced shoe and we are sure it won’t disappoint the fans of the previous versions.

Similar Shoes to the Nike Zoom Vomero+ 6

Asics Gel Nimbus 13
Brooks Glycerin 9

Asics Gel Nimbus 13 - Pair

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 General Info:

The GEL Nimbus series is among Asics’ most popular offerings. The latest incarnation seeks to reduce weight while still providing maximal cushioning throughout the shoe. Overall, the Nimbus 13 provides a conservative reboot of the model, offering few major overhauls in favor of minor tweaking. The GEL heel cushioning system, along with the guidance line and trussic system, aims to guide foot gait. Overall, the newest iteration should feel familiar towearers of earlier versions of the shoe—the principle difference being weight reduction. For newcomers, the shoe is a good option for runners who need extensive cushioning, are heel strikers, or wish to diminish the impact of the road on joints while running.

Asics Gel Nimbus 13 - Heel

In order to reduce weight, the Nimbus 13 features newer, lighter materials which seek to provide the same amount of cushioning and support as those foundin previous models—all while boasting less bulk and weight. The heel crash padon the new model is composed of a lighter, high-carbon rubber which provides ample heel support while reducing heft. As a result of these efforts, the shoe shed three-quarters of an ounce in its latest version, which helps legs stay fresh.

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 First Impressions:

First and foremost, I must admit that I tend to run in lighter shoes. As a result, the shoes took some getting used to for the first few miles. As I became better-acquainted with them, however, I noticed many strong points within the model, and began to understand their popularity. The cushioning in the heel would provide sturdy, unobtrusive protection for heel strikers, and the mild corrective features could help provide support for runners with slight pronation issues. Heavier runners or runners with a history of injury would also find the shoes to provide a great amount of support to keep joints from bearing the shock of road and trail running, as there is ample cushioning from top to bottom.

Asics Gel Nimbus 13 - Medial View

At times, the shoe admittedly began feeling heavy — particularly at the end of long runs. This is an important consideration for potential purchasers, as any shoe of this nature will run the same risk of feeling weighty during long workouts. Put simply—this is a symptom of a corrective shoe, and is not a detriment to the Nimbus 13. In order to include the type of features of a more cushioned shoe, one has to live with some additional weight on their feet. Helpful features, such as the great cushioning ,come at a cost — but many runners may find the improvement in movement to beworth the trade-off.

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 Sole Unit:

The Nimbus 13’s outsole unit features a newly-crafted material, LiteAHAR (Asics High Abrason Rubber), which is a cross-over from the company’s crash pads on other trainer models. The high-abrasion rubber provides great traction, grip, and movement throughout a variety of surfaces. What’s more, the inclusion of the new sole material helps reduce weight — an essential feature this upgrade. Minimizing weight in the sole allows the midsole and upper to absorb the impact while still reducing the general heft of the shoe, which should come as welcome news for under-pronating runners. The outsole provides firm support for runs on various terrains: running on trails was a breeze, as was navigating uneven sidewalks and potholes while running on roads. The sole design provides plenty of grip during wet weather as well, providing firm traction that does not wear down quickly.

Asics Gel Nimbus 13 - Outsole

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 Upper Design:

The upper unit of the Nimbus 13 also underwent a weight-loss regimen in its latest iteration, slimming down by five grams. This weight reduction is the result of the fully-revamped heel construction, which removes the internal heelcounter (the portion of the shoe which cradles the heel and reduces pronation issues) by replacing it with a lighter external heel counter system. Cushioning in the forefoot is also improved, creating a comfortable, firm platform for push-off and landing. Additionally, the Nimbus 13 features a synthetic mesh which provides a cushioned, comfortable fit throughout the foot which keeps dry despite the elements. New to this year’s design is the shoes’ asymmetrical lacing design which more accurately follows the pattern of the foot’s skeletal structure. The lacing design helps reduce friction and follows a more naturalpath along the foot, helping create a smooth ride along with the othercushioning elements found throughout the shoe.

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 Opinion:

Shoe companies always take a gamble when it comes to making alterations to immensely-popular shoe models. The Nimbus line has proven to be a success for the Asics, and any changes could dramatically impact runners’ impressions of the shoe. In the Nimbus 13, Asics has managed to improve on an already-popular design by shedding weight and adding low-key features — all elements which could go unnoticed by most wearers that make a large impact nonetheless. Without making drastic changes, the Nimbus 13 provides a great update to a popular model which should leave current wearers and newcomers to the model satisfied.

As the shoe is designed to feature high-level cushioning, there is some unavoidable weight to the model. While this is greatly improved in the Nimbus 13, shoes of this type always weigh more than their less-supportive counterparts. Wearers of cushioned or supportive shoes will not likely notice any weight concerns, and will more likely find the shoes to be more comfortable than other models due to weight reduction efforts in the latest incarnation of the Nimbus 13. Overall, the Nimbus 13 is a great option for runners who enjoy a soft ride, ample cushioning, and a comfortable fit.

Review by Brian O'Connor

We thank the great people at Asics for sending us the Nimbus 13 for review. This didn’t influence the review of the shoe, written after running more than 30 miles in it.

Let us know what you think of this shoe in the comments!

• Asics Gel Nimbus 13 Price Comparison:

	Asics Gel-nimbus 13 Shoes (lightning/white/fire) - Men's Shoes - 10.0 2e shoes.com Free shippings, Free returns	$123.45
	Asics Men's Gel-nimbus 13 Running Shoe endless.com FREE overnight shipping, FREE return shipping (for 365 days).	$124.95
	Asics Gel-nimbus 13 - Men's - Shoes - Grey Onlineshoes Free shippings, free exchanges, 365 days returns.	$124.95
	Men's Asics Gel-nimbus 13 Running Shoe - Charcoal/red 7 RoadRunnerSports EXTRA 25% OFF WITH CODE CX12J120 UNTIL Feb 8th ! Free shipping, 60-day perfect fit guarantee: possible to exchange shoes after using them for two months.	$124.95
	Asics - Gel-nimbus 13 (lightning/white/fire) - Footwear Zappos Free shipping both ways (free return shipping), 365 days returns	$130.00

New Balance 880 Lateral View

• New Balance 880 General Info:

A follow up to the popular 759, the 880s will feel familiar to any fan of its predecessor. After making extensive changes when developing the 759, New Balance was conservative with this update, making minimal changes to the overall fit and feel of the 759, and shaving a little weight off of the overall design. While the 880 doesn’t have the long list of brand-specific technology that comes along with so many trainers on the market, they are solid, versatile shoes that are comfortable even in rough conditions. For runners looking for a dependable, no-frills trainer for everyday use, the 880 could make for a great match. Ultimately, the 880 makes for a great all-around shoe for runners that prefer a stiffer shoe with a little extra support than a typical neutral trainer.

• New Balance 880 Impressions:

Not having worn a pair of New Balance running shoes since my high school gym days, I was excited to see what had changed in the past few years with my old favorites. Immediately after lacing them up, I remembered why I loved them so much at sixteen–the snug but unrestrictive fit felt natural from the start. Hitting the road in them for the first time was definitely an adjustment period, however, as the 880s feature a stiffer sole unit than my everyday trainers. Feeling clunky on the roads for the first few miles, I decided to see how they would feel on a softer surface, moving over to the dirt path along my favorite loop. Off of the pavement, the stiffness in the sole turned out to provide much-needed stability to my weak ankles as I passed over gravel and loose dirt meant to smooth the path.

New Balance 880

• New Balance 880 Sole Unit:

New Balance 880 Outsole

The rubber outsole provides much more traction than expected, making it possible to run over all but the slickest conditions without worry of slipping. The 880s were great over slippery sidewalks, including the slippery marble sections of sidewalk in front of office buildings and museums. After putting in roughly thirty miles on streets, sidewalks, and trails, the outside showed no evidence of wear and tear–an excellent sign of their overall durability.

• New Balance 880 Upper:

The upper unit is comprised of a synthetic mesh, which does an excellent job of managing moisture and dries quickly post-run when the weather takes a turn for the worst. New Balance was generous with adding extra cushioning in the tongue and around the collar, adding to the overall comfort and wearability. The collar contains a blend of a softer, dense foam against the foot for comfort and a firmer foam for added support beneath that layer, to provide the best of both worlds. The upper wraps the foot nicely, and is especially snug around the midfoot, providing an extra bit of support, which doesn’t go unnoticed on longer runs.

• New Balance 880 Opinion:

Every runner has their own preferences about the stiffness or flexibility of their trainers, and both types of shoe have their advantages and disadvantages. The 880s are a great option for runners that prefer a stiffer shoe that offers a little more protection. They provide a soft landing, protecting the legs from the wear and tear of long runs, keeping legs feeling fresh throughout. For those that tend to opt for more flexibility, they can also be a great choice for days on light trails or dirt paths, especially for runners that find trail-specific shoes to be a little too heavy for non-technical trails.

The strong point of the 880 is definitely the fit and the upper unit. The upper wraps the foot securely, and provides plenty of soft cushioning all around. From the beginning, it is clear that the 880s are shoes that aren’t going to blister, even on hot, humid, or rainy days. The construction of the upper manages moisture well, and keeps everything dry, cool, and comfortable on a hot day. Even after a run in the rain, the 880s dried out quickly, and were ready to go the next morning with no evidence of the soggy run from the day before. Rounding out the overall solid fit is the base, which supports the arch nicely, adding to the overall sense of security and comfort. Overall, the 880s are a great option for beginning to advanced runners that prefer a little more support and protection from the road.

Review by Courtney Roy

We thank the great people at New Balance for sending us the Cortana for review. This didn’t influence the review of the shoe, written after running more than 30 miles in it.

Let us know what you think of this shoe in the comments!

• New Balance 880 Price Comparison:

	Men's New Balance 880 Running Shoe - Yellow/black 10 RoadRunnerSports EXTRA 25% OFF WITH CODE CX12J120 UNTIL Feb 8th ! Free shipping, 60-day perfect fit guarantee: possible to exchange shoes after using them for two months.	$98.95
	New Balance The 880 Shoes (yellow) - Men's Shoes - 12.0 4e shoes.com Free shippings, Free returns	$99.99