Reebok Forever Floatride Energy Smack Down -- 2.0 vs the OG

Reebok Forever Floatride Energy Smack Down: 

2.0 vs the OG

In the red corner, we have the OG Reebok Forever Floatride Energy (FFE) which dropped last year and became an instant hit with its lightweight and responsive cushioning system that made for a smooth ride. Best of all, in a world of increasingly more expensive quality running shoes, this FFE OG was available at a listing price of $100, making it nearly irresistible to at least give it a shot. Now, in the blue corner, we have the FFE 2.0, which is available (at the same price point!) and ready to rock. Question is, who is going to win this lightweight trainer smack down?

Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2.0 Review

Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2.0

Dr. Brown reviewed the Reebok Forever Floatride Energy original earlier this year (REVIEW) and described to the rest of us what an incredible lightweight trainer that shoe was.  Setting PRs from 5k to half marathon in it, he raved about this new $100 lightweight trainer.  In the age of $150 trainers, this caught our ears.  Along now comes version two, with the same incredible Floatride foam but a far more adaptive fit.  The Reebok Forever Floatride Energy 2.0 is a lightweight neutral trainer that blends daily plush training with workout like responsiveness. Bang for buck, this is one of the best lightweight trainers on the market featuring a new flexible upper that folds around the foot well!

361 Spire 4 Multiple Tester Review

361 Spire 4 Multiple Tester Review

The 361 Spire 4 is responsive daily trainer featuring a carbon fiberglass midfoot shank to help with propulsion. The shoe fits snug and and also breathes well during long efforts. The shoe rides very firm initially but smooths out as mileage breaks the shoe in. The midsole has a new QU!K Spring+ midsole coupled with the usual QU!KFOAM midsole to give a more springy and comfortable to ride to the 4th update of the Spire.

HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 Review

HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 Review

The HOKA ONE ONE Arahi 4 is a uniquely designed daily trainer geared toward creating dynamic stability from initial contact to toe off. The shoe features a surprisingly responsive ride for a stability trainer with a 5mm drop ratio and a relatively firm landing with maximalist like protection. The dynamic stability system also acts as a full length platform, rather than just a single posted region. Weighing only 9.6 ounces, this may be one of the faster true daily stability training shoes out there. 

DPT APPROVED - Best Running Shoes of 2019

DPT APPROVED - Best Running Shoes of 2019 

The quest for the perfect running shoe. What a fun and never ending adventure. 2019 delivered some great shoes from both expected and unexpected companies. Our team of Doctors of Physical Therapy have selected their DPT APPROVED Awards for several categories for the 2019 calendar year. Check out the entire awards list below!

Hoka One One Elevon 2 Multiple Tester Review

Hoka One One Elevon 2 Multiple Tester Review

The Hoka One One Elevon 2 is the most cushioned shoe of the Hoka Fly collection, now in its second iteration.  A firm riding but highly cushioned and responsive ride for such a maximalist shoe.  The upper is surprisingly volumous for a Hoka shoe and an interesting tongue provides an anatomic fit.  Best used as a daily or uptempo trainer, the Hoka One One Elevon provides a unique and very stable ride that may work for a variety of people.

Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 HYPER Multiple Tester Review

Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 Hyper Multiple Tester Review

The Skechers GOmeb Speed series has varied significantly in design over the years.  Initially, the shoe was a versatile long distance racer that was designed for the marathon.  That evolved into version 4 and 5, which each became lighter and more aggressive.  The Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 HYPER manages to drop even more weight while going back to the original versatility thanks to the addition of a full length HYPER BURST midsole.  An almost complete redesign (save for the pebax plate in the midfoot), the Speed 6 HYPER should be on your radar.

The Use of Maximal Shoes for Recovery

     The use of maximalist shoes for recovery is a common understandable thought process and logical conclusion.  However, reviewing the current evidence, one must realize that the use of maximal shoes for recovery will only apply to a certain subset of runners.  While conventional wisdom would suggest that maximal shoes would provide additional cushioning, protection and allow for muscle recovery while maintaining mileage, that does not appear to be supported by the literature.  The literature is still evolving on the subject (most evidence has surface in the last few years) but what is out there has not supported what people think maximal shoes do. 

Image from Oregon State FORCE LAB

   

Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 Hyper Initial Review

Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 Hyper Initial Review

The GOmeb Speed line has been my go to racers for some time.  From the versatility of version 3 to the speed of version 5.  The Skechers GOmeb Speed 6 Hyper was released quietly as a complete revision of the shoe and was a surprise to many.  The performance and improvements are no surprise.  Highlights include a snugger upper, an increase in cushioning, lighter weight and the ever amazing HYPER BURST cushioning.  Best described as a cushioned track spike for the road, you will want to try this shoe, but make sure you check the sizing (see below).

Skechers GOrun Speed TRL HYPER Multiple Tester Review

Skechers GORun SPEED TRL HYPER Multiple Tester Review

Karhu Fusion Ortix 2020 Multiple Tester Review

Karhu Fusion Ortix 2020 Multiple Tester Review

Karhu is currently updating their entire line of running shoes with new uppers and complete reshaping of the shoes based on FIT ID measures from Fleet Feet stores. For the Fusion 2020, this meant slimming the heel, decreasing the volume of the toe box, and putting in the ortix insole in order to fit the "typical foot" based on these 100,000+ foot scans. We also reviewed the new Ikoni Ortix this year (and loved it), and that review has a lot of details regarding Karhu as a company as well as the research they have been conducting in conjunction with Fleet Feet. You can check out that review HERE. Does the Fusion 2020 live up to the hype that the Ikoni delivered? Read on to see what we thought.

Specifications (per Fleet Feet)
Weight: 10.9oz (men's), 9.3oz (women's)
Drop: 10 mm

Skechers GOrun Ride 8 HYPER Multiple Tester Review

Skechers GOrun Ride 8 HYPER Multiple Tester Review

The Skechers GOrun Ride series came alive with version 7.  A light, bouncy, protective trainer that despite wear on the outsole, never seemed to wear out (I had 600 miles on one pair, which is unheard of for how hard I am on shoes).  A great fitting upper with the perfect offset (6mm), it was a shoe that I compared all other trainers to.  Now we have version 8, that somehow managed to improve every aspect of the shoe without ruining anything.  The GOrun Ride 8 HYPER has been seen on the feet of Edward Cheserek for some time now as his go to trainer.  Finally after months of teasing, it is finally coming to market.  This is a shoe I have been excited for and it lives up to the hype.  Or in this case the HYPER (BURST).

Saucony Ride ISO 2 Review

Saucony Ride ISO 2 Review

Simple often works well.  As complex as we often make life, getting down to the fundamentals should be what guides us.  This is how I view the Saucony Ride ISO 2. For all the bells and whistles footwear companies put in shoes, finding a reliable trainer can be difficult.  All you need is a shoe that fits well and is moderately response for both mileage and uptempo workouts.  It doesn't need to be super light and responsive like a racing flat.  It needs to be comfortable and able to handle the hard miles of life and training.  While this shoe doesn't blow me away, it has impressed me with being consistent throughout all the variables we look for in footwear.  As many with great wisdom will tell you, consistency is important for success.

MIzuno Wave Duel GTZ Review

Mizuno Wave Duel GTZ Review

For the number of Mizuno racing I have used (Ekiden, Universe, Musha, Emperor), I have always wondered why there was never a full wave plate utilized.  While these full plates are becoming more popular (Nike Vaporfly, Hoka CarbonX, Skechers Speed Elite Hyper), Mizuno was had a plate for years, but it only extended into the midfoot at the farthest.  This call has been answered in the form of two new, Japan only racing shoes: the Wave Duel series.  The Wave Duel is the more sturdy version with a little more midsole underneath and the Wave Duel GTZ is the lighter more aggressive racing shoe.  I decided to grab a pair through Global Rakuten to see how a non-carbon fiber, full length Mizuno Wave Plate felt.  I have not been disappointed.  For those looking for a responsive shoe without the excessive stiffness of carbon fiber but still featuring a full length plate, these are two shoes well worth checking out.  Let's start with the Wave Duel GTZ.

361° TAROKO Multiple Tester Review

361° TAROKO Multiple Tester Review

The 361 TAROKO is a new trail/trainer hybrid with a durable knit/mesh upper that shines across nearly all terrains.  The trail shoe market is full of shoes that span from minimalist to maximalist, but the TAROKO finds a happy medium that makes it versatile and fun to run in. When in the market for a trail shoe, finding one that is comfortable and is going to suit the needs of trails around you is important. This shoe may be one of the more versatile options out there, so let's check out how.

SKECHERS GO RUN SPEED XCR & XCS ULTRA Review

SKECHERS GO RUN SPEED XCR & XCS ULTRA Review

In recent years, SKECHERS has been elevating its game and becoming a serious contender in the racing arena for footwear.  The XCR and XCS are no different.  These incredibly light cross country racers are ready to attack and want to push the pace as fast as possible no matter the terrain.  Skechers has bridged the void between track spike and XC flat with the XCR and XCS.

Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Multiple Tester Review

Mizuno Wave Rider 23 Multiple Tester Review

Mizuno Wave Shadow 3 Review

Mizuno Wave Shadow 3 Review

Mizuno has a vibrant history of elite racing flats including the likes of the Wave Emperor, Aero, Wave Cruise, and Ekiden series. However, most of these shoes don't end up selling well in the United States (sadly) and have either been discontinued or only sold overseas. The Wave Shadow 3 may not be a racing flat, but it is a stripped down, lightweight trainer that can handle some race paces and is suitable for a wider audience. This is one of the lightest shoes available in the US from Mizuno and is worth checking out for those of you who want to pick up the pace.

Asics Sortiemagic RP4 Tenka Initial Review

Asics Sortiemagic RP4 Tenka Initial Review

For those that know this website and myself, I have a thing for Asian market racing shoes.  Ask most shoe reps from Adidas, Asics, Mizuno, New Balance or Nike, and they will tell you about a large market of racing shoes available there that are not available in the US.  Why?  There is very little market for extremely lightweight racing flats in the US.  In Japan, racing is taken very seriously.  The lighter the shoe, the better.  It is not uncommon to see someone use a shoe we in the US would think of as a 5k flat for a marathon.   The Asics Sortiemagic RP4 Tenka is one of those shoes.  The Asics Sortie series is a group of extremely lightweight racing flats that are almost exclusive to Japan.  Some of them have been fairly unchanged over the years, whereas as others like the Sortiemagic RP4 are very modern.   I was lucky enough to notice that a few pairs suddenly appeared on the Asics US website and saw the opportunity to try a pair.  So of course I grabbed one.

Skechers GO RUN MaxRoad 4 Hyper Multiple Tester Review

Skechers GO RUN MaxRoad 4 Hyper Multiple Tester Review

The evolution of shoes is also an interesting thing to watch.  The Skechers GO RUN Max started as the GOrun Ultra.  A uniquely light maximal shoe, the shoe evolved with a knit upper in version 2 that didn't always breath well, but continued to have that lightweight ride that allowed the shoe to double as a long run and tempo shoe.  Version 3 took that further with subtle changes (REVIEW).  A wider fit, stable ride, breathable knit upper and super smooth ride made it a shoe that could tackle any type of run (even long distance races as many readers reached out to tell me).  Now, the long awaited, full Hyper Burst maximalist Skechers shoe has now arrived.  With what seems like inspiration from the design of the original podded outsoles of the OG GOruns, the GO RUN Max Road 4 has been completely redesigned.  Armed with a fantastic knit upper and a full length Hyper Burst sole, the Skechers GO RUN Max Road 4 is a very unique ride that is well worth checking out and talking about.

361 Degrees Strata 3 Review

361 Degrees Strata 3 Review

The number of high level stability shoes is on a slow decline as we begin an exploration into what exactly stability means and how we (if at all) influence the motion of the foot.  With further understanding of foot mechanics, it is exciting to see companies listening and further implementing other methods to create a stable ride.  The Strata 3 is a fantastic example of companies like 361 listening to this.   The 361 Degree Strata 3 is a complete redesign that improves the ride, fit and stability without the addition of extra posting or traditional measures.

Running Movement Impairments: Overstriding

A great deal of attention in the running, biomechanics and medical world is being paid to how people move and how that can affect performance and injury rates of various athletes.  More research and attention recently has been paid proximally at the hip and knee in relation to factors related to impact forces, soft tissue injuries, stress related injuries and more.  Overstriding is a term that is frequently discussed and seen commonly among a variety of runners.  The implications of this movement impairment are worth discussing as it is multi-factorial and may even be decreasing your running efficiency.

361° FEISU Multiple Tester Review

361° FEISU Multiple Tester Review

In a time of fancy foams and carbon fiber plates, it is rare to see a shoe or racing shoe that holds to the concept that simple sometimes work best.  Inspired by the lightweight, tried and true designs of many of Japanese racing shoes, the 361 Feisu feels anything but simple.

HOKA ONE ONE Rincon Review

HOKA ONE ONE Rincon Review

Lightweight cushion often sounds like a contradiction.  Runners will often comment that forms of the Hoka Clifton came close for them, but seemed to be missing the mark.  Enter the Hoka Rincon.  A lightweight, highly cushioned trainer with your traditional Hoka feel minus the weight.  This is a shoe that can run long easy miles in equally as well as you can race a half to full marathon in.

Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3 Multiple Tester Review

Mizuno Wave Sky Waveknit 3 Multiple Tester Review

Welcome to a completely new feel to the Mizuno line. For as long as humans have had feet, Mizuno has rolled out their shoes with a midsole directed by the wave plate. Well now there is a new way to "ride the wave". The Wave Sky Waveknit 3 is the first Mizuno shoe to debut their new XPOP midsole and Foam Wave cushioning system. This shoe has a completely different feel than their previous models. Let's check it out.

New Balance Hanzo U Review

New Balance Hanzo U Review

New Balance, Asics, Nike, Adidas and more are known for racing shoes that are only available in the Japanese or International market.  I have discussed this frequently on this website but became intrigued regarding some of the trainers available.  The Hanzo series is a Japan only set of racing shoes (except the Hanzo S and the Hanzo C, which is called the 1500 elsewhere) that includes the U, T, C, R, S.  The Hanzo U is the lightweight trainer of the Hanzo series, a number of New Balance Japan shoes meant for faster running.  Previously called the 1040 series, the Hanzo U is billed as a lightweight mild stability trainer and marathon/ultra marathon shoe for the masses.

Hoka One One Cavu 2 Review

Hoka One One Cavu 2 Review


Introduction:
The Hoka One One Cavu 2 is a lightweight neutral trainer recently released by Hoka with a different approach than most of their other models on the market. This shoe is designed to be light and responsive. This defers from the maximum cushion model normally seen from Hoka.

361 Degrees Sensation 4 Multiple Tester Review

361 Degrees Sensation 4 Multiple Tester Review

Matt: Good light stability shoes were rare not too long ago.  The market was polarized between the more popular neutral shoe category with a smattering of moderate stability to motion control shoes.  As motion control shoes slowly start to die out, a small resurgence is being seen the light stability category.  These are the shoes for people who like picking up the pace in a lighter shoe, but want just a little guidance.  The 361 Sensation series made a great turn at version 3 (review) and returns with a little beefier but better fitting shoe that continues this trend. 

David: The 361 Sensation 4 is a lightweight stability daily trainer that goes back to the roots of what makes a stability shoe great. It is simplistic while also adding some new bells and whistles to accompany advancing technology, such as carbon fiber plating.

Running Performance: Foot and Ankle Intrinsic Muscle Training

Running Performance: Foot and Ankle Intrinsic Muscle Training

Image from Liberal Dictionary of Zola Budd, known for racing and training barefoot.

She likely has/had good foot intrinsic muscle function doing all miles like that.

A great deal of focus in the rehab and performance world has been on core stability.  Core training is commonly prescribed or utilized to improve proximal stability, reduce supposedly abnormal movements of the spine and pelvis and a variety of other reasons.  I would go so far as to call this quite the fad in the fitness industry, as often the absurdness of the exercises can cause more issues than solutions (Sahrmann, 2010).  As anyone with a decent understanding of kinesiology will know, the key is balancing the movements from the larger extrinsic muscles with the stabilizing forces of the small intrinsic muscles.  For the longest time, core stability was considered to be the most important aspect of performance and contribution of the extrinsic muscles was largely downplayed.  Everything is important.  Balancing out the forces is key.  We know understand that everything is important.  Core stability is important to create a stable proximal foundation for the extrinsic muscles to generate appropriate force and movement.

361 FANTOM Multiple Tester Review

361 FANTOM Multiple Tester Review

Matt:  The 361 Spinject remains one of my favorite simple neutral trainers.  A great fitting upper, a slightly wider base and a firm but responsive QU!KFOAM sole made for a versatile lightweight trainer that kept me going for miles on trails and road.  The Fantom is not an evolution of that shoe.  Per 361 it is a new shoe that replaces Spinject moving forward (although the spirit moves on).  The Fantom is 361's newest simple neutral trainer.  QU!KFOAM pods in the heel and forefoot remain with an all new knit mesh upper that provides a snug and breathable fit.  In a world of complex shoes, the Fantom is worth discussing.

Brooks Ravenna 10 Review

Brooks Ravenna 10 Review

The Brooks Ravenna 10 has gone through a major update.  After years of being fairly similar, the last two versions and been drastic overhauls.  From version 8 to 9, the Ravenna transformed into a fairly standard moderate stability shoe into a true lightweight stability shoe that could handle mileage and uptempo runs with ease.  The latest version sees a continuation of this trend.  A snugger fit, new stability system and a quick nimble ride continue the trend of being one of the top lightweight stability trainers on the market.

Hoka One One Evo Rehi Review

Hoka One One Evo Rehi Review

The Hoka One One Evo Rehi is the continued evolution of Hoka's road racing line.  From only the Tracer to now the Evo Carbon Rocket, Evo Rehi and (technically) the Carbon X (REVIEW).  Consistent with having multiple models that are different and similar at the same time, the Rocket and Rehi are both the choice for faster races and workouts, but have completely different rides.  The Rehi is the cushioned, flexible and super light Hoka ride, the likes of which are completely new to the market.  The ride and fit are very unique, and are certainly worth discussing and checking out.

Hoka One One Carbon X Review

Hoka One One Carbon X Review

Carbon fiber plates are becoming more and more popular, particularly among road racing shoes.  The Nike Vaporfly series, the Hoka Evo Carbon Rocket, the New Balance Fuelcell 5280, the 361 Chaser 2 and unnamed Saucony and Brooks racing shoes are either on the market or have been seen on feet of elite runners.  Almost all of these shoes have been limited to marathon races and below.  Hoka One One is one of the first to market and create a carbon fiber based ultramarathon racing shoe.  The Carbon X, advertised on full blast at the Project Carbon X, was on the feet of Jim Wamsley as he broke the 50 mile road record.  This is a unique shoe and has been a blast to run in.  A shoe for both ultra distance racing and long runs, yet still fast enough for workouts and speed.

adidas Terex Swift R2 GTX Initial Review

adidas Terex Swift R2 GTX Initial Review

I was really looking forward to these shoes. They were recommended by Timothy Olson, who is a well-renowned ultra runner (sponsored by Adidas of course) and was friends with my brother-in-law back in college at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. I was intrigued because these are marketed as hiking shoes, but given his experience in ultra running and trails, I thought it was definitely worth giving them a try for some running and was really hopeful. Let me give you my thoughts on this shoe so far.

361 MERAKI 2 Multiple Tester Review

361 MERAKI 2 Multiple Tester Review

Matt: The original Meraki was an interesting shoe.  It was one of the rare trainers that I could do workouts in well while still providing enough protection for longer efforts and recovery days.  I use the phrase "do it all" shoe far too often, but the original Meraki successfully managed to live up to that.  The Meraki 2 maintains a great deal of the sole while completely updating the upper.  The fit has changed for the better while the midsole has remained similar with one of the few trainers with carbon fiber plates.  This creates an interesting ride with pluses and minuses.

Nathan: Finding a good high milage trainer can be tough. The increased cushion and materials typically added to shoes typically brings the weight a bit too high for successful tempo runs or faster performance. However, I have found the 361-MERAKI 2 to be a great balance of substance without sacrificing its ability to handle a bit of speed as well. This shoe would be a great "do-it-all" shoe for the right person. What makes it that way? Let's check it out.

Nike Vaporfly Next% Review

Nike Vaporfly Next% Review

The Nike Vaporfly Next% is the latest evolution of the Vaporfly series.  Inspired by input from Eluid Kipchoge, Mo Farah, Shalane Flanagan and other elite athletes, the Next% is a version of the Vaporfly Elite available to the masses.  Redesigned from the ground up, the Vaporfly Next% is different in almost every way from the previous version, the Vaporfly 4% Flyknit.  While the essence of the Vaporfly is obviously felt, this is a true evolution of the shoe, not just an upper date.  The sole has more ZoomX, the outsole has better traction and durability, the drop is lower (8mm)  and the upper is drastically different (and better).  Let's talk about this update.

Salomon Predict RA Review

Salomon Predict RA Review

As further research is produced and reviewed on footwear and foot mechanics, the concept of stability are constantly being redesigned.  Since the beginning of my career and schooling, I have admired Simon Bartold's work first at Asics then progressing to others including Salomon.  The Predict RA is influenced by both his work as a world renowned podiatrist and biomechanist as well as other great minds at Salomon.  The goal was to create a smooth, stable and cushioned ride that adapts to your foot (not the other way around).  Let's discuss how the Predict RA lives up to that goal.

Running Injury Prevention: Calf Muscle Power Deficits

Running Injury Prevention: Calf Muscle Power Deficits 

The calf muscles are an important source of shock absorption and propulsion during running gait (Hamner, Seth, Delp, 2010).  They function primarily as plantar flexors (extension) of the ankle and are made up of the gastrocnemius, soleus and plantaris (sometimes).

Image from Shutterstock

Strength testing standards currently involving using the calf raise test: a series of repeated single leg heel raises.  A systematic review in 2009 (Herbert-Losier et al) demonstrated that the normal number of single leg calf raises that healthy individuals should be able to perform are 27 repetitions for men and 19 repetitions for women.  25 repetitions is a commonly used standard, although the literature varies as evident by the above systematic review.

Skechers GOrun Razor 3 Hyper Multi-Tester Review

Skechers Gorun Razor 3 Hyper Multi-Tester Review

The Skechers GOrun Razor has always been a do it all shoe.  Version one was very similar to other classic lightweight 4mm drop trainers.  Version two slimmed down and had a much faster feel to it.  The GOrun Razor 3 Hyper continues that tradition, further defining the lightweight trainer/racer category.  A new Hyper Burst midsole, a newly designed upper and a more durable outsole make this a great update.  Let's jump into the details.

Skechers GOrun 7 Hyper Review

Skechers GOrun 7 Hyper Review

The GOrun 6 was an odd shoe for me.  The midsole/outsole was similar to the very successful GOrun 5 that gave a lightweight responsive feel for both training and uptempo days.  The addition of such a flexible mesh in version 6 made for a great casual shoe, but an unsupportive upper lockdown.  Along comes version 7, my first experience with the new Hyper Burst midsole material.  Which absolutely blew me away.  Boost and ZoomX have both been good midsole material upgrades, but they either had weight or durability issues.  The Hyper Burst midsole combined with a slightly secure but flexible upper has brought this shoe back to life for me.  Let's talk more.

Saucony Fastwitch 9 Review

Saucony Fastwitch 9 Review

The lightest stability racing flat on the market returns lighter than ever.  The Saucony Fastwitch 9 has been a favorite of mine for years.  The light stability combined with a light ride that started only a few versions ago makes for a fast and versatile shoe.  Now in the 9th version, the weight has dropped further but still remains a snappy, supportive and responsive ride that is my personal first choice for speed workouts and shorter races.  Although many will be able to use this for a variety of distances, let's dive into the latest release of the Fastwitch.

New Balance 1500v5 Review

New Balance 1500v5 Review

The New Balance 1500, now on version 5, has been a stable stability racing shoe for many years now.  Having run in the original, little has changed in the concept of this shoe.  The 1500v5 retains a similar midsole with a medial post, T-Beam and RevLite foam.  The upper has evolved over the years to the now sleek and awesome looking mesh.  As one of the few stability racing/lightweight training shoes still on the market, let's discuss whether you should give this one a try.

Adidas Adizero RC Review

Adidas Adizero RC Review

(Looking for the latest RC3 review? Find it here at Doctors of Running: RC3 REVIEW)

The Adidas Adizero RC is not the same Adizero RC seen years ago.  This is a Japan, Asia and Europe Adidas Racing flat that is a replacement for the long lost Adizero Rocket.  The RC is not an evolution of the Adidas Aerobounce PR, but a completely separate shoe with inspiration from the Hagio, Rocket and the many predecessors.  A versatile racing and minimal training shoe, let's talk more about a shoe that should be more available in the US.

Adidas Adizero Bekoji Review

Adidas Adizero Bekoji Review

Bekoji is a town in Ethiopia know for producing some of the fastest distance runners in the world.  The Adidas Adizero Bekoji is named in honor of this town and is a Asian market only racing flat.  I was unaware of this until I heard about some Adidas elite runners testing it.  As with many racing flats, the Bekoji was not brought to the US, but debuted in Asia, where runners are known to train and race in far lighter and faster shoes than their US counterparts.  A new mesh upper, a Bounce midsole and a Japan specific fit make this a unique and fast racer.  Let's talk more about why you might want to check out this shoe.

Adidas Solar Glide ST Review

Adidas Solar Glide ST Review

The evolution of the Adidas Supernova Sequence series, the Adidas Solar Glide ST is a moderate stability trainer for long and easy miles.  I have run in the Sequence series before, but have always dislike the fit and heaviness of them.  The Adidas Solar Glide ST, while similar in classification, is a completely different shoe.   A new upper, a new addition of stability (solar propulsion rails) and a somewhat different sole design make for a new concept on cushioned stability.

Specifications (per Running Warehouse)

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 Review

Adidas Adizero Adios 4 Review

The Adidas Adizero Adios Boost 4 continues the tradition as one the most decorated distance racing shoes.  The 6th version of the Adios and 4th with Boost features a welcome upper change with a similar sole design.  The upper is a fantastic update that finally fixes the sizing issue and the forefoot fit.  The sole remains the same with a design that works well (but I still prefer the extended forefoot torsion system of the originals).

Saucony Guide ISO 2 Review

Saucony Guide ISO 2 Review

I always want to love Saucony.  I was one of the early adapters to the original Kinvara, running through 8-10 pairs before moving on to running in true racing flats.  I have run in a few Saucony trainers but two always stood out to me.  The Mirage and the Guide.  Both I had success with, although I always had some trouble with the narrow toe box.  The current iteration is the second generation of a massive upper change which I hoped would alleviate that issue while retaining that firmer and responsive Saucony ride (not referencing their neutral shoe).  Did the Guide ISO 2 live up to my hopes?  Surprisingly yes.