Buy/Sell: Are Super Trainers WORTH IT? Should Shoes Have NO Outsoles? Super Shoes for 5ks, and Post-Race Beer | DOR Podcast #190

 

Buy/Sell: Are Super Trainers WORTH IT? Should Shoes Have NO Outsoles? Super Shoes for 5ks, and Post-Race Beer
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 190

It's time for another found of buy/sell, no maybes, no caveats here. Nathan, Matt, and David debate the utility of plyometric training, the value or supertrainers, running "slow", a post-race beer, and more. Hot takes only here!

Anta C202 5 GT Review (2024)

Anta C202 5 GT Review: $180 Super Shoe
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

Today we're excited to review our first shoe from Anta Sports. Based out of China, they were founded in 1991 and grew enormously after the 2008 Beijing Olympics. They are particularly known in the basketball space, sponsoring several NBA players today. They made a big commitment into the running scene with their sponsoring of running legend Kenenisa Bekele over the past year. Their running shoe lineup itself is small, but packed with interesting technology. We're diving straight into the thick of Anta things with a look at the C202 5 GT, their super shoe engineered for racing performances ranging from the half marathon upwards of the marathon. The numbering of 202 came from the conception of the shoe, when the marathon world record was 2 hours and 2 minutes.

Monday Shakeout: Why Our Legs Feel Different Using Super Shoes

The Monday Shakeout: Why Our Legs Feel Different Using Super Shoes
By Matthew Klein

How do super shoes affect our bodies? In a lot of ways, it turns out. Matt tackles one of them in today's Monday Shakeout, exploring some of research that's come out on super shoes in the past few years.

How to Approach Running, Exercise During Cancer Treatment | DOR Podcast #189

 

Racing Against the Odds: The Science of Running with Cancer (feat. Scott Capozza, Oncology-Certified PT)
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 189

On this episode, Andrea is joined by oncologic physical therapist, Scott Capozza for a practical and scientific approach to running while fighting and surviving cancer. Scott shares his own journey with testicular cancer. He and Andrea discuss the role of physical therapy for oncology patients, recommendations for maintaining running during cancer treatment, and practical advice for returning to fitness after treatment is over. Whether you or a loved one is battling cancer, or you're healthcare professional caring for cancer patients, this is a must-listen!

Super Trainers

 
Super Trainers!
By DOR Editorial Team

While carbon plated running shoes become an essential fixture of every brand, super trainers have suddenly become the next wave of footwear that each brand feels the need to deliver on. Super trainers are shoes that take the key elements of a super shoe - stiffener (carbon plate or similar feel), Peba foam, and aggressive rocker. The major difference is that they are a bit more relaxed often (heavier, more stable for daily use) and can break convention by adding a stack height over 40mm - the maximum legal stack height for professional marathon road racing shoes. The trend as we know it broke open with the Adidas Prime X which completely shattered convention in 2021 with a massive 50mm stack height and somewhat scary platform that many adored. Today, super trainers have become a bit more refined for stability while providing the intended comfort for long run training, and for some, a wildly cushioned race day shoe.

HOKA Skyward X Review (2024)

HOKA Skyward X Review
By David Salas, Andrea Myers, and Matt Klein

With the Skyward X, HOKA is jumping into the super trainer game. What started with shoes like the Prime X from Adidas and New Balance SuperComp Trainer, the category of super trainers features characteristics similar to a super shoe - Peba midsole, carbon fiber plate, aggressive shaping - along with breaking the legal stack height amount with over 40+ mm of midsole in the heel.What was a novelty has become a necessity in each brand's lineup. The Skyward is a big leap forward for HOKA who continues to impress with their recent super shoe releases.

Best Affordable Running Shoes Under $100 (May 2024)

The Best Affordable Running Shoes Under $100
By Bach Pham, Content Manager

There is an age old saying that the best thing about running is that you just need a pair of shoes. Well, the reality is that running shoes are expensive. That's just a fact no matter where you are. Especially as you get more and more into mileage, the cost of shoes and rotating shoes is starts adding up fast. There are a lot of ways to help navigate this though, and in this guide we offer a few strategies and get into some of the best finds available now.

Saucony Peregrine 14 Review (2024)

Saucony Peregrine 14 Review: A Different Bird
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

The Saucony Peregrine series has long been a staple trail shoe. Released at a similar time to the Kinvara and Kinvara Trail, the Peregrine has maintained a good combination of having a lower drop, being a bit lighter but still being durable enough for a variety of trails. The Saucony Peregrine 13 was a favorite and was one of the times the series felt like a trail racing shoe. A slightly snug, nimble ride felt great for a variety of trail runs and even when picking up the pace. Despite having similar designs and materials to version 13, version 14 is different. A slightly wider fit, slightly softer ride, a higher stack height and a little more weight make version 14 a more relaxed, easier and longer-effort trail shoe compared to prior versions. 

Monday Shakeout: How Much Does Doctors of Running Make? Report #6

 

Happy Monday runners! Each year since 2022 we try to release two reports a year to share how much the team is making. We believe in transparency and want to highlight where our sources of income are coming from. In our sixth report, we recap our biggest six month period ever. This report is a bit late because we've been trying to sort some info out these months, but before we got to mid-2024, we wanted to get this out so we could share a bit about what's been going on for the team.

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Analysis: Differing Opinions! | DOR Podcast #188

 

 

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Analysis: Differing Opinions! and Customizing Review Searches for Optimal Running Performance
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 188

If you've been following Doctors of Running for a while, you know we don't always agree on shoes we test. Today Matt & Andrea host a special episode to discuss their differing opinions on Saucony's latest racer, the Endorphin Pro 4. Andrea loves it at 5K/10K pace while Matt enjoys it most at marathon/tempo paces. They dig into what make their experiences different, how biomechanics influence our perception of shoes (especially super shoes), and how to find the best racing shoe for you.

Best On Running Shoes | Buyer's Guide (2024)

 

Formed around 2010 and launched in 2012, the Swiss company centers their running around a technology known as CloudTec which aims to deliver "soft landings" and "firm and stable push off." In this guide, we talk about the brand and discuss the running shoes offered by On. We also provide a few recommendations for those interested in trying their unique offerings.

On Cloudsurfer Trail Review (2024)

On Cloudsurfer Trail Review
By Matthew Klein

The On Cloudsurfer 7 was one of the first well-cushioned On models. Since that time, their models have been continually refined, improved and closing in on their "running on clouds" tagline. Unexpectedly, On has decided to release a trail version, although this is not uncommon among popular companies. Although often fairly good shoes, this is always surprising coming from companies that have excellent trail shoes. What is most surprising is that the On Cloudsurfer Trail is almost a better road shoe than its road counterpart. A hybrid road/trail shoe that leans more road than trail, the Cloudsurfer trail is for those who run mostly run with an occasional venture onto softer, well-groomed surfaces.

Best Hoka Running Shoes: Buyer's Guide (2024)

 

Welcome to our buyers guide for the footwear company, Hoka! Hoka has been one of the fastest growing footwear companies globally and is known for their high stacked, rockered shoes. In this guide we will discuss some of the beginnings of the brand, their proprietary technologies, as well as their current shoe lineup. 

Brooks Caldera 7 Review (2024)

Brooks Caldera 7 Review
By David Salas

The Brooks Caldera is the highly cushioned trail running shoe for the company. The shoe has always been characterized by having large amounts of foam, decent traction, and no rock plate. The shoe continues its lineage with a few tweaks in the midsole and fit. 

Salomon Index.03 Review (2024)

Salomon Index.03 Review
By David Salas and Bach Pham

The Index series from Salomon was created as part of Salomon's major sustainability initiative to try and create a fully recyclable shoe that performed. The project focuses on designing a model that could both serve the original purpose and find a new afterlife rather than going straight to the trash yard. The Salmon Index.03 is the third in the line, designed to be repurposed into ski boots for a second life.

Monday Shakeout: What Happens to Midsoles As They Wear Out?

The Monday Shakeout: What Happens to Midsoles As They Wear Out?
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt takes a look at the life of a midsole, and what happens as they are run in over time. We release a Shakeout each Monday focusing on a new topic from the team. Have an idea for us? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com

Matt's Masters Runners Research, In-Depth | DOR Podcast #187

 

 

Matt's Masters Runners Research, In-Depth
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 187

Our very own Matt Klein is approaching the finish line on his dissertation research on masters runners. On this episode he and Nathan break down his findings! Matt's research takes a look at biomechanical changes in masters runners and the prevalence of Achilles and calf injuries. Matt explains the methodology of his two studies and what conclusions can be drawn from them. They also explore how the average runner can maximize their longevity and performance as they age.

Best Shoes for People with Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy (Shoes with Medial Support)

Running Shoes for Posterior Tibial Tendon Problems
(shoes with stability and medial guidance)

Our perspective on stability and guidance are one of the many things that make Doctors of Running unique. I, Matt Klein, generally need at least mild stability in my footwear. Like many of our readers, I have continued to navigate and understand what a stability shoe is, what options there are out there, what actually provides stability/guidance and who stability actually works best for. Recent research has suggested that stability shoes tend to benefit those with a history of pronation-related injuries or who are unable to control the natural pronation motion during gait (Malisoux et al., 2016; Williems et al., 2021). One of the primary muscles responsible for controlling and that can be injured with poor control of pronation is the posterior tibialis. Those who experience pathology in this muscle/tendon often find relief and comfort with stability shoes and we have put together a guide on shoes that may help those who struggle with injuries or problems with this tissue.

Guide to Saucony Running Shoes (2024)

Welcome to our guide to Saucony footwear! In recent years, Saucony has made a surge to being a leading brand given its variety of options, integration of foam technology into footwear, and ability to democratize high-performance materials in packages appropriate for all runners. They offer a vast array of footwear both for the road and the trails. In this feature we will cover Saucony’s history, unique technology, and their current running shoe lineup.  

On Cloudmonster Hyper Review (2024)

On Cloudmonster Hyper Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

The On Cloudmonster Hyper is a maximum cushioned training shoe that is meant to tackle everything from daily mileage to long runs and workouts. The shoe introduces Helion HF, the midsole from the CloudBoom Echo 3, into a training shoe that is encapsulated and surrounded by their traditional CloudTec foam. An interesting expansion from the Cloudmonster line that is quite different and an obvious entry into the Super Trainer category, the On Cloudmonster Hyper is something new while still being classically On.  

Altra Vanish Carbon 2 Review (2024)

Altra Vanish Carbon 2 Review
By Matthew Klein, Andrea Myers, and David Salas

I have mixed feelings about the original Vanish Carbon. As someone who loves an anatomic toe box, I was so excited to experience a zero drop, anatomic super shoe. Although it was still a fun shoe, there were a few draw backs. Durability was one as I ripped the posterior lateral outsole off within 15 miles. The other issue was that the foam, despite being fun and supposedly PEBAX, did not feel super. It was a great shoe that I continued to train in, but the above reasons never made me consider it for a race. The second time is the charm in this case, as much of that has been fixed in the Altra Vanish Carbon 2. Despite still having "EGO PRO" foam, the material looks, feels and smells like PEBAX. The fit is still amazing, the outsole has improved a little and now we finally have a zero-drop, anatomic super racing shoe on the market. 

Monday Shakeout: Do Super Shoes Reduce Muscle Soreness?

The Monday Shakeout: Do Super Shoes Reduce Muscle Soreness? 
By Matthew Klein

In this week's Shakeout, Matt explores a question runners have reported on and off since super shoes have been in the market: do super shoes actually reduce muscle soreness, allowing us to run more? Matt looks at a recent study that helps provide some considerations.

Mailbag! Best Daily Trainers of 2024 So Far, Rehabbing Bone Stress Injuries, and Flat Foot Pain | DOR Podcast 186

 

Mailbag! Best Daily Trainers of 2024 So Far, Rehabbing Bone Stress Injuries, and Flat Foot Pain
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 186

It's another DOR mailbag: time to answer more of your questions. Nathan, David, and Matt tackle your questions about bone stress injuries, rehabbing from them, youth athletics, flat feet, and more. We want to hear from you! Let us know what your favorite daily trainer this year has been. Have more mailbag questions for us? Email us at doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com or DM us on Instagram.

Brooks Catamount 3 Review (2024)

Brooks Catamount 3 Review
By Matthew Klein

With the continued trend of maximal stack heights and the recent injection of super foams onto the trail scene, finding moderate stack height, lighter trail shoes has been challenging. Most shoes are either minimal and extremely light or high stack with super foams. The Catamount series has stayed consistent over the last few years in weight and design, sticking to a moderate stack height and a mid-9 oz weight. Version 3 looks similar to Version 2, but boasts some upper updates that greatly improve the fit of the shoe. Brooks clearly thinks they have a winner and have attempted to carefully refine the shoe to not disappoint those who have run in prior versions. 

Brooks Glycerin 21 Review (2024)

Brooks Glycerin 21 Review
By David Salas

The Brooks Glycerin series receives a new DNA Loft V3 midsole aimed at creating a more plush and comfortable experience. The upper has also been altered to allow for a more streamlined fit without sacrificing the plush nature of the shoe and breathability. The Glycerin is the premium neutral trainer for the company. It also features a counterpart in the Glycerin GTS 21, which is the premium stability trainer of the duo.

For Matt's Brooks Glycerin GTS 21 Review, visit Page 2

Topo Ultrafly 5 Review (2024)

Topo Ultrafly 5 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Topo Ultrafly series has been a favorite clinical suggestion of mine for years. The wider anatomic toe box, mild medial post, good stability integration and moderate to lower drop fit the bill for many different pathologies, but primarily for walking and standing. The firmer ride made it slightly challenging to suggest as a running shoe except for those who want the additional firmness, which can add to the inherently stable ride. Version 5 fixes this issue with a taller stack height and a slightly softer ride This dramatically improves the shoe on the run, which may make this Ultrafly as popular as it deserves to be. 

Monday Shakeout: Are Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitors as Good as Chest Straps?

The Monday Shakeout: Are Wrist-Based Heart Rate Monitors as Good as Chest Straps?
By  Andrea Myers

In this week's Monday Shakeout, Andrea talks about a much-debated subject in the running world - that of watch-based vs. chest strap heart rate monitor. What's best? Are wrist-based accurate? Andrea looks to research in today's article to see what the science says.

How is it Stable? Breaking Down the Parts of the Shoe that Create Stability | DOR Podcast 185

 

 

How is it Stable? Breaking Down the Parts of the Shoe that Create Stability
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 185

If you know anything about Doctors of Running, you know we care a lot about stability and helping you find the best shoe for you. On this episode, Matt Klein breaks down stability, both in shoes and in biomechanics. He also breaks down different methods brand use to add stability to their shoes. Ever been told you need a stability shoe? Ever wondered what sidewalls or sole flair are? This is the episode for you.

Brooks Anthem 6 Review (2024)

 

Brooks Anthem 6 Review
By Bach Pham

There's no question that the price for shoes today is high. The market has shifted each year higher and higher than the last, with shoe costs between $120-$180 for the most popular training models. To find a quality budget running shoe new in the market today is quite difficult. Almost every major company has a line of running footwear in the budget category today, ones that you can find at most box stores in the US. The quality of this category is incredibly wide ranging though, and can be hard to navigate. A perfect example of this is today's shoe, the Brooks Anthem 6 - their $85 trainer.

inov8 Trailfly Review (2024)

inov8 Trailfly Review
By Matthew Klein 

Inov8 has been making some big changes recently. From the debut of a maximalist shoe (Ultra G 280) to some updated TPU foams, the company traditionally known for being more minimalist was clearly trying some other things. The only weird part about a more minimally/naturally inspired company is that the toe boxes were not the most anatomic and the shoes often ran on the narrow side. Beyond this company, wide-footed trail runners have always struggled given that most trail shoes tend to be narrow and snug. Outside of Altra and Topo, wide-toe box trail shoes are rare, making it challenging for wide-footed runners to find their Goldilocks fit. Two new options for them have now entered the market from Inov8. The Trailfly and Trailfly Speed both come in wide options, providing not only anatomic toe box but a ample fit throughout to accommodate those with wider feet or those who experience swelling over a variety of distances. 

Hoka Mach 6 Review (2024)

Hoka Mach 6 Review
By Matthew Klein & David Salas

The Mach series has taken over Clifton's spot as Hoka's main shoe with a cult following. An extremely popular model for the combination of lightness and cushioning, it changed from its original few confusing models to something consistently good in Versions 4 and 5. The Mach 6 makes some drastic changes, dropping some weight, adding a solid amount of responsiveness, revamping the geometry and completely changing the upper. It is always a bit scary to dedicated consumers of a popular shoe when it is changed. While its overall function has remained, whose feet it will fit may be a different story. 

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Review (2024)

 

Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

Since version 2, the Saucony Endorphin Pro series has undergone major changes. Part of that is the company switching to two-year cycles, allowing for greater development time. Version 3 was a drastic change that finally brought an incredibly bouncy midsole to this series. Although said to still be PWRRUN PB, the mixture was clearly different. Some liked the snug fit and bouncy ride, while others were torn. What was challenging was the similar specs to the Endorphin Elite, despite the two shoes being different. The Endorphin Pro 4 changes the entire shoe while keeping some elements around. A new geometry, a top layer of PWRRUN HG, and a brand new upper with more volume are just some of the changes to Saucony's most recent version of its original super racer. 

Monday Shakeout: Everything Is Becoming Maximalist and Super

The Monday Shakeout: Everything is Becoming Maximalist and Super
By Matthew Klein

In this week's Monday Shakeout, Matt discusses the latest trend in running shoes that we're seeing from companies. What happens when everything becomes a mini-super shoe? Matt provides an answer to a common question we get around training in super footwear.

Kara Goucher on Living with Dystonia, the Nike Oregon Project and Protecting Female Athletes | DOR Podcast 184

 

Kara Goucher on Living with Dystonia, the Nike Oregon Project and Protecting Female Athletes
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 184

On this episode, Matt & Andrea have the privilege of interviewing Olympian Kara Goucher. Kara's just released her book, the Longest Race, Inside the Secret World of Abuse, Doping, and Deception on Nike's Elite Running Team. They cover many facets of Kara's story, from her current struggles with runner's dystonia to her integral part in exposing the Nike Oregon Project and Alberto Salazar. They also discuss how excel at any fitness level, finding joy in running by feel, and encouraging female runners of all ages.

Guide to Brooks Running Shoes (2024)

Welcome to our guide to Brooks Running footwear! Brooks has been a leader among specialty running for years thanks to their focus on the recreational runner and step-in comfort. Their technology focuses on maximizing the runner's unique movement path, providing semi-customized cushioning and a variety of fits for each runner's individual needs. They have a vast road line with variations on the same shoe for different fits and levels of stability. Brooks continues to have the most extensive line of stability shoes on the market from faster shoes up to motion control shoes, which is rare in today's footwear landscape. Being a Seattle-based company, they also have a strong focus on sustainability and keep the environment in mind with the development of their footwear. In this feature, we will cover Brooks's history, unique technology, and their current running shoe lineup.

Altra Mont Blanc Carbon Review (2024)

Altra Mont Blanc Carbon Review
By Matthew Klein

While the road super shoe market has become saturated, the trail super shoe market is just beginning to take off. Several companies have made attempts at combining superfoams, plates and maximal geometries for offroad and unstable surfaces. While the first few have been interesting, there is a clear need for continued development. Ahead of many footwear companies, Altra has taken the popular Mont Blanc and turned it into a super shoe, adding a Carbitex plate and full-length EGO PRO. The result is the only zero drop, anatomic super trail shoe on the market.

Brooks Ghost 16 Review (2024)

Brooks Ghost 16 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

The Brooks Ghost is one of the long standing daily trainers that most runners can name off of the top of their head. The shoe has always had a classic ride and profile. The shoe features a high drop heel to toe ratio and a neutral ride. The Ghost 16 receives some updates, with the big update being a new midsole. 

Monday Shakeout: Do We Adapt to Shoes or Do Shoes Adapt to Us?

The Monday Shakeout: Do We Adapt to Shoes or Do Shoes Adapt to Us?
By  Matthew Klein

In this week's Monday Shakeout, Matt shares a late night thought he had about footwear and whether it is about us breaking into the shoe or the shoe breaking-in to the runner. He looks at both sides of the coin in this feature and talks about adaptation. Check out all of our Monday Shakeouts at the end for more think pieces from the team!

Running Science! Breaking Down Three Studies on Running-Related Injuries | DOR Podcast 183

 

Running Science! Breaking Down Three Studies on Running-Related Injuries
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 183

We’re excited to launch the first episode in our running research series! We want to share with runners important studies related to running and hope this series is a good way to dip into the research that stands out to our team.  In today’s podcast, Nathan talks about the science of running injuries. He breaks down three different studies looking at the science behind injuries, their risk factors, and more. If you're looking for a science-backed approach to reducing your injury risk and optimizing your training, tune in!

Best Shoes for People with Haglund's Deformity (Shoes without Rigid Heel Counters)

 

Running Shoes for People with Haglund's Deformity
Or, the Shoes without Rigid Heel Counters List

Heel counters are one of the many footwear components that are commented on here at Doctors of Running. Heel counters are (usually) a rigid piece of material embedded in or molded around the upper of the rearfoot. The purpose is to provide structure to this part of the shoe and potentially stabilize the heel. There are now several variations, going from ones that wrap completely around the heel, to split heel counters (a piece left out at the rearmost portion) and even super thin heel counters just to keep the upper from collapsing. While many people do well with these stiffening agents, some with sensitivities at or around their heel sometimes do not.

Hylo Athletics Impact Review (2024)

Hylo Athletics Impact Review
By Bach Pham and Matthew Klein

There is increasing talk about sustainability in the footwear world. As the realization has come regarding the excessive waste that occurs with the production and disposal of shoes, particularly running shoes. A few companies have debuted bio-based shoes, but most did not completely push into the performance realm. Hylo Athletics came onto the scene in 2022 with a fully green, bio-based shoe that was a learning experience. It was a firm, thin-soled shoe that served as a proof of concept for the company. The Hylo Impact is a completely different, serious performance running shoe. Featuring a large amount of nitrogen-infused sugarcane-based midsole with a competitive daily training weight and a comfortable fit, the Hylo Impact certainly lives up to its name.

Monday Shakeout: Research on Finding Optimal Shoes and the RUN-CAT

The Monday Shakeout: Research on Finding Optimal Shoes and the RUN-CAT
By Matthew Klein

We've talked about RUN-CAT a few times at Doctors of Running. Matt provides a full overview in this week's Shakeout to discuss why it is such a powerful tool for selecting shoes.

How Much Faster are Super Spikes? Weight vs. Stack Height, and Super Shoe Benefits for Elites vs. Non-Elites | DOR Podcast 182

 

How Much Faster are Super Spikes? Weight vs. Stack Height, and Super Shoe Benefits for Elites vs. Non-Elites
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 182

Our own David Salas is heading into a season of track racing and that got Matt Klein and him wondering...what's better for track racing: super shoes or super spikes? From there they spin off into debating whether our bodies plateau in their adaptation to super shoes, how super shoe adaptation may be effecting elite marathoners, and what this all means for the recreational runner.

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes (2024)

Carbon Plated Running Shoe Resource Page

The current trend in racing shoes has been toward super foams and carbon fiber plates. Although plates have been used in the past, their popularity has surged. A new age of fast shoes has come about and now a variety of companies have released their products (some in small batches). For the first time (almost ever) there is an interest from the general public (and not just the competitive runners) in finding the fastest shoe to get them across the finish line. We at Doctors of Running thought it would be helpful to have a guide to all the current models to help you choose if and which one may be right for you.

Altra Rivera 4 Review (2024)

Altra Rivera 4 Review: An Altra Shoe for the Narrow Footed Runner
By Andrea Myers & David Salas

The Altra Rivera 4 is a neutral daily usage shoe aimed at giving the user versatility to wear it how they want to. The goal for the shoe is to have the ability to be used from daily walking upwards of daily running and even speedwork. The Rivera series is a mild-to-moderate cushioned neutral shoe that gives you a very natural feel underfoot. 

Monday Shakeout: What is Proprioception and Best Shoes for Ground Feel

The Monday Shakeout: What Do We Mean When We Talk About Proprioception?
By DOR Editorial Team

In this edition of the Monday Shakeout, we're doing a bit of a round-up of sorts on a topic we've talked a lot about: proprioception. Pulling together some selected pieces our team has wrote about proprioception, we hope this piece helps readers get a better understanding of why it can be important to runners when looking for a shoe.

How to Train and Adapt to Super Shoes, Calf Strain Management, and Thoughts on the Metaspeed Edge and Sky | DOR Podcast #181

How to Train and Adapt to Super Shoes, Calf Strain Management, and Thoughts on the Metaspeed Edge and Sky

Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 181

As super shoes become more widespread and accessible, more runners are using them for the bulk of their training. We're often asked about the safety & implications of this, so that's what Matt, David, and Nathan dive right into. They take a look at the biomechanical and training impacts of training in super shoes over the long term, as well as how they could impact your performance. They also give their first thoughts on the newest entries to the super shoe market: the ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris and Edge Paris. Finally, they wrap up with a look at calf strains, how to diagnose, manage, and rehab from them.

Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 Review (2024)

Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 Review
By Bach Pham and Matthew Klein

While not the lightest shoe on the market, the Mizuno Wave Horizon series has been a favorite premium high-stability shoe at Doctors of Running. Its early use of guidance principles with a well-integrated medial post has made it an excellent shoe for those wanting more cushioning and a stable ride. Version 6 was unique in today's market as it reintegrated a medial post, upon which version 7 continues to build from. In addition to maintaining the medial post and an updated stretch-woven upper, the Mizuno Wave Horizon 7 adds more stack height, making it tallest and heaviest of this class of shoes. How that performs is worth discussing. 

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 Review (2024)

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 Review: A Super Shoe for Everyone?
By Matthew Klein

The New Balance SC Elite series has been a favorite among recreational runners starting with version two. Although not the fastest shoe, it has continued to be one of the more comfortable super shoes on the market. Part of this has been the lack of aggressiveness due to a non-PEBA foam, an incredibly soft foam and a little extra upper room that often all translated to additional comfort over long miles. The newest version changes some of this with a complete redesign including a new PEBA-based midsole and a redesigned upper. Despite the changes, it still remains one of the most comfortable and less aggressive super shoes on the market. So while not the fastest shoe, it may be one of the more accessible for the majority of the population. 

ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris Review (2024)

ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris Review: Lightest Super Shoe in the Market!?
By Matthew Klein & David Salas

The ASICS Metaspeed Edge is a late bloomer. The original version paled in comparison to the Sky Tokyo and was not even in the conversation of super shoes. The Edge Plus was a massive improvement and superior to the Sky Plus (in my opinion) due to the better transition and stack height but still seemed like it was missing something. The Edge Paris not only improves on the prior Edges but the entire Metaspeed series. It now sits as the lightest super shoe on the market along with the Metaspeed Sky Paris (185g and 183g respectively), featuring an incredible PEBA midsole and a geometry that makes you want to run fast. From something barely worth mentioning to a stand-out racer clearly in the running for the best super shoe of 2024, the Edge Paris steals the show and is worth considering if it matches your needs and mechanics.