Best Shoes of 2023 So Far with Connor from Running Warehouse

DOR Podcast #147: Best Shoes of 2023 So Far with Connor from Running Warehouse

We're more than halfway through 2023, so it's time for some mid-season awards! David, Matt, and Nathan are joined by a very special guest: Connor Blalock of Running Warehouse fame. Not only does Connor, and the rest of the team, give their top five shoes of the year so far, but he gives an insight into working for one of the biggest running retailers. Learn about what it's like to interact with shoe companies and test & review more shoes than just about anyone else. Be sure to let us know what your favorite shoes of the year so far are!

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Sponsor

Be sure to check out this week's sponsor, ⁠⁠⁠Running Warehouse⁠⁠⁠. Summer's all about racking up the miles before a busy fall racing season. Check out some some of our favorite daily trainers like Hoka's 9th iteration on the beloved Clifton series. If you're looking for something soft and bouncy check out Skecher's latest trainers: Go Run Ride 11 and Maxroad 6 featuring their new Hyperburst Ice foam. If you want something that can pick up the pace, take a look at the revamped Adidas Boston 12 with the softer Lightstrike 2.0 midsole.

Chapters

0:00 - Intro
2:21 - Getting to know Connor
5:08 - Connor's process reviewing & making videos about shoes
13:00 - Connor & the team's favorite shoe types & characteristics
17:18 - Shoe trends in the industry
27:54 - Maintaining balance and avoiding bias in reviewing shoes
30:24 - Matt's top 5 shoes of 2023 so far
35:22 - Nate's top 5
39:40 - David's top 5
47:14 - Connor's top 5
57:49 - Connor's thoughts & comparisons on the Nike ZoomX Ultrafly
1:02:20 - Wrap-up

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#145: Managing Running Anxiety around Injuries, Training | Link
(Mental Health Consultant Shannon Thompson joins to share strategies)

#144: From Sketch to Final Product with Shoe Designer Richard Kuchinsky | Link
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Recently at Doctors of Running

Asics Magic Speed 3 - A big update offers a softer, more versatile platform
Asics Kayano 30 - Big changes bring Kayano into the future, creating a geometric stability option
Adidas Adizero Boston 12 - Lightstrike 2.0 lightens this trainer a great deal
Saucony Triumph 21- The excellent Triumph from last year gets a new upper that dials in the fit for an excellent overall ride
Mizuno Wave Rider 27 - Retooled to feel a little lighter underfoot and with a greatly improved fit
Saucony Sinister - Sub 5ozs of speed

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NEXT: How Long Do Shoes Last?