HOKA Arahi 8 Review (2025)

HOKA Arahi 8 Review
By Matthew Klein

Like many recent Hoka shoes, the Arahi series emerges with a complete overhaul in its eighth version. The long standing standard stability shoe of the Hoka line-up, the Arahi has been known for its unique J-frame stability set up. Essentially a medial post that ran the entire length of the shoe with a small wrap around the lateral midfoot. This feature provided medial support from the heel to the forefoot, something most companies only extended into the midfoot. The relatively lighter weight for a training shoe also set the Arahi series apart, with many people using the original versions as long distance racing shoes before the era of super shoes. While still a stability shoe, the Arahi 8 moves in a slightly different direction than its prior version: the J-frame is exchanged for a more central H-frame, the stack height increases, the weight increases and the sole softens. The Arahi stays in line with current trends, making it a slightly softer, more central daily trainer. 

Altra Paradigm 8 Review (2025)

 

Altra Paradigm 8 Review
By Bach Pham, Content Manager

 

Altra is unique in that it helps fill a very specific niche in the running world: zero drop stability shoes. Between the Provision and Paradigm, these two models help provide a variety of things that the market does not offer in the stability realm including no heel counter designs and wider fitting options. The Paradigm 8 is the higher stacked, guidance-based option of the two trainers. This latest edition upgrades the midsole and fit.

Between Two Feet: Hoka Rocket X 3 and What Happens When There's Too Much Stability | DOR Podcast #253

 

 

Between Two Feet: Hoka Rocket X 3 and What Happens When There's Too Much Stability
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 253

Matt & Andrea are back with another installation of Between Two Feet, where they contrast their different experiences in a shoe. In this edition, they share another polar experience they had with the Hoka Rocket X 3, a super shoe that features a surprisingly good amount of stability. See why these two feet felt differently about this new release.

Altra Experience Flow 2 Review (2025)

Altra Experience Flow 2 Review
By Nathan Brown 

It wasn't too long ago when Altra introduced their first non-zero drop shoes. The first model was the original Experience Flow, and now we have the first update! In my opinion, this is the most unique trainer that Altra has ever released when comparing their line-up, as they have taken the reality of having 4mm drop as a green light to play with a bit of changes to their foam. It's also the first Altra trainer that I can genuinely consider in the "soft" category. This is a daily trainer that fits the current market while staying true to Altra roots.

Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Review (2025)

Salomon Aero Blaze 3 Review
By David Salas

 

Salomon has been stepping up their game big time over the last couple of years. We have seen some big jumps in foams, weight, and offerings in general from them. The Salomon Aero Blaze 3 is a neutral training shoe that is meant to be able to do a little bit of everything. The shoe is very lightweight for a trainer and uses a PEBA and EVA hybrid midsole to give you a bouncy and durable ride. 

We Share Our Running Injuries and How We Have Managed Them, Vol. II (Foot and Knee Pain) | DOR Podcast #252

 

 

Mailbag! Can a Foam Cause Pain? The Shelf Life of Shoes? The Science Behind Shoe Rotations?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 252

Foot pain and knee pain are all too common ailments for runners, but it can be hard to pin down the source or figure out how to treat it. Nathan and Matt team up to take a look at some common sources of forefoot, heel, plantar, and anterior knee pains. They explore different possible causes, strategies for rehab/strengthening, and things to look for in shoes.

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes (2025)

 

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes
By DOR Editorial Team

↓ Jump to Carbon Plated Shoes A-Z |  ↓ Jump to Best Plated Shoes for 5k to Marathon

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.

HOKA Rocket X 3 Review (2025)

HOKA Rocket X 3 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matt Klein

The HOKA Rocket X series, starting with version 2, was HOKA's first foray into super shoes. While the Rocket X 1 was a super low drop, carbon plated, EVA shoe, the Rocket X 2 was HOKA's first super shoe to feature A PEBA midsole, finally qualifying the series as a super shoe. While the fit was a little off (a little short for some people), the midsole and geometry made it one of the few stable neutral racing shoes in an era when stability racing shoes had disappeared completely. It was also one of the few low drop super shoes at a time when most sat at 8-10 mm. The Rocket X 3 returns with as a completely updated shoe that fixes the upper, smooths out the transitions and moves to a more moderate drop of 7mm, although it still feels low. The revisions still keep it in the stable neutral racing category, but move it to a faster and lighter ride than previous.

On Cloudsurfer Max Review (2025)

On Cloudsurfer Max Review
By David Salas

On returns with another debut model in the On Cloudsurfer Max. The On Cloudsurfer line sets themselves apart from the other on models by using CloudTec Phase, a midsole that does not utilize the Speedboard. They have the On Cloudsurfer Next (the lightweight trainer), the On Cloudsurfer 2 (the daily trainer), and now the On Cloudsurfer Max (premium/max cushion neutral trainer). 

Monday Shakeout: How Do I Choose Running Shoes for Two Different Feet?

The Monday Shakeout: How Do I Choose Running Shoes For Two Different Feet?
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt discusses how to navigate fitting shoes for two different feet. It is common to have different needs on each foot, which can make choosing shoes difficult. Matt does his best to provide a simple guide for choosing them. 

Mailbag! Can a Foam Cause Pain? The Shelf Life of Shoes? The Science Behind Shoe Rotations? | DOR Podcast #251

 

 

Mailbag! Can a Foam Cause Pain? The Shelf Life of Shoes? The Science Behind Shoe Rotations?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 251

Join Nathan, David, and Matt as they continue answering you the mailbag questions they started on our 250th episode! They explore how different foam compositions can affect injury pathologies, the science behind shoe rotations, adapting to super shoes, and much more. We love hearing your questions, so email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Best Running Shoes for Beginners (2025)

The Best Running Shoes for Beginners:
In-depth Guide to Choosing Your First Running Shoe
By the Doctors of Running Editorial Team

At Doctors of Running, we frequently get questions from new runners or those who are interested in starting running about footwear. There are so many companies and shoes that looking for a place to start can be overwhelming. Additionally, the amount of marketing jargon and advertising that is immediately thrown at any new runners can either lead to decision paralysis or choosing an inappropriate shoe that causes the person to end up in one of our offices.

Nike Structure 26 Review (2025)

Nike Structure 26 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Nike Structure has been a long standing but quiet stability series. While once a prominent member of the stability category, recent years saw it dropped from many local run retailers as it moved to stable neutral. Version 25 moved back to its medial stability roots but a heavier, firmer ride and a thicker upper likely kept it from competing with other more popular stability shoes. 2025 is the first time in years Nike appears to be refocusing on the stability. With the hint of a Structure Premium and Structure Plus, the Structure 26 features tons of updates that make it a far more comfortable shoe with better stability that should help it compete with the rest of its peers. 

adidas adizero Prime X3 Strung Review (2025)

adidas adizero Prime X3 Strung Review
By Matthew Klein

The original super trainer is now in its fourth iteration. When the adidas adizero Prime X originally debuted, its massive stack height, incredibly narrow platform, insane bounce and amazingly light ride for its size was mind-blowing (at the time). It was so tall and narrow that people won marathons in it (and were disqualified) while others rolled their ankles so badly their ankle bones broke (tibia/fibula... and maybe others). Version two showcased the first iteration of the Strung upper, becoming the Prime X Strung. Version 3, the Prime X Strung 2, was a massive departure from the series. While retaining the tall stack height, it gained a ton of weight but drastically improved stability. This made it more of a super trainer than a super trainer/racer hybrid. Version 3, the Prime X3 Strung , returns as another complete overhaul of the series. While still retaining the basic chemistry, including the stack height, Lightstrike Pro and multiple stiffness layers, the fit, ride and geometry have once again changed. While this moves the series a little closer toward being fast, it retains its super trainer categorization and unique position as one of the crazier shoes on the market.

Monday Shakeout: How Do I Know If I Can Use a Shoe for a Marathon?

The Monday Shakeout: How Do I Know If I Can Use a Shoe for a Marathon?
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt talks about how to choose a racing shoe for longer distance events. While shoes may feel good for a few miles, half and full marathon veterans (and beyond) will tell you how comfort can drastically change in the later miles. 

250th Episode Mailbag Special! What's the Impact of 40+mm Stack Height Shoes? All-Time Best Shoe Rotation? Worst Shoe Color EVER? | DOR Podcast #250

 

 

250th Episode Mailbag Special! What's the Impact of 40+mm Stack Height Shoes? All-Time Best Shoe Rotation? Worst Shoe Color EVER?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 250

We've got a special mailbag episode for our 250th episode! We've put together tons of questions from long times friends of the podcast (Drew from Weartesters, Tina & Evan from Brooks, and more!) and from our listeners. Matt & David discuss pre-race rituals, post-run snacks, their worst shoe color, GOAT shoe rotations, and much more (shoes as ice cream?!). Want to hear your question on our next mailbag? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com.

Reebok FloatZig 2 Review (2025)

Reebok FloatZig 2 Review
By Matthew Klein

Reebok has had an on/off history with running. While being a solid running shoe company prior to and  during the early 2000s, it went quiet for years. Back when Doctors of Running started to truly organize as a team in 2019, Reebok was one of the first to reach out and they sent us some awesome shoes. Our first YouTube video featured the Panthea, a shoe Nathan still holds dear. From the super light Run Fast Pro to the great Floatride Energy training series, a solid variety of shoes were available. A company buyout changed things with a refocus on the Floatzig concept and while there is still a range from the Floatzig training option, to the Adventure trail shoe and the Floatzig X1. The Floatzig 2 returns with refined midfoot geometry and upper comfort, improving guidance and comfort. Whether it still "Floats" along is worth discussing.

rabbit Dream Chaser 2.0 Review (2025)

rabbit Dream Chaser 2.0 Review
By David Salas

rabbit, primarily known as an apparel company, has broken into the shoe market! The Dream Chaser was their debut flagship shoe aimed at being a plush neutral daily trainer. The first version had some things to work on, but had some promise. They now update the Dream Chaser 2.0 with a more ventilated and secure upper, as well as some adjustments to the cushioning in the heel. The Dream Chaser 2.0 is a neutral daily trainer. 

Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 6 Review (2025): Bringing Lightweight Trainers BACK!

Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 6 Review
By Andrea Myers

The Topo Athletic Fli-Lyte 6 has the second lowest stack height of any Topo shoe, with only the ST-5 coming in lower. Version 6 features an updated mesh upper while maintaining the same 23mm/20mm stack height. With a firmer ZipFoam midsole and muted forefoot rocker, the Fli-Lyte 6 is an ideal shoe for those who prefer a shoe that is closer to the ground and has a lower drop. While most shoe companies are maximizing their shoes' midsole heights, the Fli-Lyte 6 is reminiscent of the original Saucony Kinvara. The low stack and firmer midsole also makes the Fli-Lyte 6 a great option for strength training, making it a highly versatile option, and a great value at $125. 

Monday Shakeout: What Shoe Should I Use for a Downhill Race?

The Monday Shakeout: What Shoe Should I Use For a Downhill Race?
By Matthew Klein

This week we attempt to answer a common question we receive via email. Several readers have asked about the optimal shoe choice for downhill races, so we try to bring in some science and biomechanics to help you decide what may be best if this type of race is on your schedule. 

Our Top Running Shoes of 2025 So Far | DOR Podcast #249

 

 

Our Top Running Shoes of 2025 So Far
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 249

As we head into the back half of the year, it's time to make our picks for our favorite shoes of the 2025 so far. Matt, Andrea, David, and Nathan put together a 4-shoe rotation from their 2025 favorites: daily trainer, long run, workout shoe, and race shoe. We want to hear your picks! Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com or leave a comment.

Best Stable Running Shoes for Racing (2025)

Best Stable Racing Shoes For Those With Stability Needs
By Matt Klein

In this feature, Matt Klein shares his experience trying to find stable racing shoes in a super stack, less stable footwear landscape. He outlines the current status of stability and super shoes, alternatives and a few hopes for the future. While there are no true super racing shoes on the market and technically only 1 mild stability shoe meant for faster efforts, there are a few stable neutral options that may work for those with mild to moderate stability/guidance needs. 

361 Degrees Flame 4 Review (2025)

361 Flame 4 Review
By Matthew Klein

The original Flame was interesting. It was one of the few stable and affordable super racing shoes out there, but was so stiff and firm we questioned it really could be considered a super racing shoe. The durability was fantastic but the upper fit was huge, leaving us unsure what size to recommend. Fast forward four years and 361 has taken the time to improve this budget super shoe. A better upper still provides plenty of room, an incredibly durable outsole sits below, a better midsole provides a balanced responsive ride and a unique plate / geometry provides a stable platform, making this new version a rare, affordable, versatile and surprisingly stable shoe. 

Monday Shakeout: Summer 2025 Trail Shoe Round-Up

 

Monday Shakeout: Summer 2025 Trail Shoe Round-Up
By David Salas

In this week's Monday Shakeout David shares a round-up of several trail shoes that have released this year and discuss their pros, cons, and our favorite uses for them. We're excited to talk about some of the companies that we don't see as often!

Our Top 3 Keys for Strength and Conditioning for Runners | DOR Podcast #248

Gotta fuel up right?

 

Our Top 3 Keys for Strength and Conditioning for Runners
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 248

Strength training and cross training are some of the best things runners can do to help their performance, and we're passionate about them here at DOR. Nathan, Matt, and David join up to share their keys when it comes to strength & conditioning. They'll give you practical strategies on how to approach strength training in a way you can consistently accomplish, because the best routine is the one you can do on the regular!

Best Shoes for People with Hallux Rigidus (Shoes With Stiff Forefoot Rockers)

 

Best Shoes for People with Hallux Rigidus
Or, the shoes with stiff forefoot rockers.

One of the more commonly affected joints in the foot is the first toe. Also called the "Hallux", the major joint where the toe bends can be impacted by a variety of pathologies. Bunions (Hallux Valgus), gout, turf toe, and sesamoiditis are a few of the conditions that may impact this area. One of the more common problems is a stiffening of this joint, called Hallux Rigidus. This is a fancy term for loss of motion at this joint, which may be caused by a variety of things. 

Mizuno Neo Vista 2 Review (2025): 45mm Super Trainer!

Mizuno Neo Vista 2 Review
By Matthew Klein & Andrea Myers

The original Neo Vista, along with the Rebellion Pro series, was one of the many powerful statements signaling that things were changing at Mizuno. Since that time, we have continued to see interesting models and updates come from this company, including the Neo Zen, the even crazier Rebellion Pro 3 and massive updates to the Rider series (we are excited for v29). The original Neo Vista was a Mizuno's first super trainer, featuring max stack of a unique EVA blended midsole that I (Matt) originally thought was PEBA combined with a full length wave plate. The fully knit upper needed some finessing to secure, but the shoe was enjoyable overall and solidly competed with other super trainers on the market. Version two amps up everything from the original. A slightly taller stack height, a softer ride and a revised knit upper showcase the changes that despite being small, make for a different feeling shoe.

Saucony Hurricane 25 Review (2025)

Saucony Hurricane 25 Review
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

Prior to the return of the Hurricane series, we at Doctors of Running lamented what we thought was the death of another stability shoe. The Hurricane series had been a deservedly popular due to a well-cushioned and bouncy midsole that always made it feel lighter than its listed weight. Add a super tough outsole that lasted forever and we were sad the possibility of the series ending came about. A few years later, version 25 was released, making it the first premium stability shoe to feature a superfoam midsole. While the Tempus was the first stability shoe to feature a superfoam, its more aggressive ride did not fit the premium, easier going ride of the Hurricane. The Hurricane 24's return was good, but a bit awkward. A tapered toe box and awkward fit combined with a heavier-than-expected ride for its foam combination, didn't leave the impression we were hoping for with its return. Fortunately, version 25 has corrected a ton of this with a better fit, a lighter ride and an even bouncier and softer feel underfoot. 

Monday Shakeout: Can I Run in Neutral Shoes If I Have Stability Needs?

The Monday Shakeout: Can I run in Neutral Shoes if I have Stability Needs?
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt talks about whether runners who normally run in stability shoes or have stability needs can run in neutral shoes. While the answer may seem easy, there are some nuances that are helpful to consider when it comes to injury risk and staying healthy that many should consider. The human body is quite adaptable, but how far it can adapt and for how long may be different stories. 

Our Best Stable Neutral Shoes of 2025 | DOR Podcast #247

 

Our Best Stable Neutral Shoes of 2025
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 247

You know we love stable neutral shoes at DOR. Matt & David join up to take a look at the state of stable neutral shoes in 2025 and give their favorite picks. They define some key terms like sole flair and sidewalls, then share their favorites for daily training, speed work, and races.

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 Review (2025)

New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matt Klein

For the introductions of the last several iterations of the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite, similar statements have been made. This series has been a steadfast, comfortable, friendly super shoe that has been deservedly popular. While not the fastest super shoe and certainly far from it, the SC Elite has repeatedly made up for this by being incredibly comfortable and a great option for newer or recreational runners using it for everything from long runs to ultramarathon races. The higher volume fit, rockered, less stiff and more comfortable cushioning made it drastically different from other companies offerings. For version 5, this introduction takes a different turn. New Balance has come to the table with something new, more aggressive and faster. A slimmer platform, snugger fit, lighter weight, much stiffer and aggressive ride make for a shoe that loses the friendly approach. The question is, how does this new approach compare to other current day super racers?

Skechers Aero Burst Review (2025)

Skechers Aero Burst Review
By Nathan Brown

In the last 10 years, Skechers has had a few bouts of success regarding its run performance line of shoes. Most notably, the Razor series and Maxroad series gained traction within the running community. However, it has been a few years since we've seen significant updates from Skechers. 2025 is their year for their next major update to shoes with the Aero line. The Aero Burst is the perceived replacement for the Maxroad, filling the space of a maximally cushioned trainer.

Skechers Aero Spark Review (2025)

Skechers Aero Spark Review
By David Salas

Several years ago Skechers gained big popularity for their supercritical EVA Hyper Burst midsole. This was in notable models, including the Skechers GORUN Razor 3, Ride 8, and in other models. This year, Skechers is making a push towards a new lineage of shoes using their Hyper Burst Ice midsole. The series includes the Aero Spark, Aero Burst, and Aero Tempo. The Aero Spark is the versatile lightweight trainer of the bunch that is supposed to give you a little bit of everything.

Mailbag! Shoe Fit of the Metaspeed Edge Tokyo, Minimalist Shoes in 2025, Our Favorite Running Apparel | DOR Podcast #246

 

 

Mailbag! Shoe Fit of the Metaspeed Edge Tokyo, Minimalist Shoes in 2025, Our Favorite Running Apparel
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 246

David & Nathan are here with a mailbag, where we answer your questions. They discuss the upcoming Metaspeed Edge Tokyo, the latest in minimalist/zero-drop shoes, running store shoe fitting, and more. They also share the shoes they've got in for testing and some clothing picks that have stood the test of time. Want your questions answered? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 Review (2025): Forefoot Runner's Dream Racing Shoe?

Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 3 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

For a company that took a decent break from running and jumped back in not too long ago, Puma has been aggressively pushing their performance product forward. The craziest among these has been the Fast-R series. Debuting in version one with a split midsole and an exposed plate, this series has seen complete transformations between each version. The challenge with previous versions has been that version one functioned better at shorter distances and version two had a massive weight gain and design that kept it from being a top contender. Puma clearly did their homework this time (literally too with the research involved in this product) and have produced a racing shoe that easily pushes its way into the top tier of of super shoes. As with most elite tools, who will benefit most from this shoe is worth discussing. 

ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 Review (2025): 8mm Drop!

ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Kayano series is one that everyone knows. Whether you have seen them or they have seen you, this has been an incredibly popular premium stability shoe for years. For walking or running, this has been the staple of anyone with stability needs wanting a more luxury ride than the GT-2000 or GT-1000 series. While somewhat consistent for years, version 30 was the biggest change for the series maybe ever. The medial post was removed, the narrow platform widened, the snug fit opened and what emerged from the ashes was a maximal, wider fitting, guidance shoe with a stability system that adapted to the runner. Version 31 was similar with a mild upper update yet what continued to pervade despite the update was a clunky heel transition. Despite the demonstration of great bevels in their faster shoes, ASICS still seemed hesitant to take the full leap to improve their heel transition. That has changed with Version 32. While appearing similar at first glance, the Kayano 32 makes several subtle tweaks that add up to a significant change. Being the first Kayano with an 8mm drop and a smooth transition, maybe these are not so subtle...

Brooks Glycerin 22 Review (2025)

Brooks Glycerin 22 Review
By David Salas 

The Brooks Glycerin is fan favorite neutral daily training shoe. The Glycerin series has complemented the Ghost model as the premium companion for many years now. The big update for the Glycerin 22 includes a move to DNA Tuned for the midsole. DNA Tuned is a nitrogen infused midsole, with tweaks in the Glycerin 22 specifically to be softer in the heel and more responsive through the forefoot. 

ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo Review (2025)

ASICS Metaspeed Sky Review
By David Salas

The new Metaspeed series is here! The ASICS Metaspeed Sky and Edge have been the respective super shoes for ASICS over the last few years. These shoes are aimed going fast and having enough cushion to tackle the marathon. The two shoes have slightly different designs with the Sky focusing on the "Stride" runners and the Edge focusing on the "Cadence" runners. The big update to the Sky this year is the inclusion of a new ATPU based midsole named FF Leap. This helps make the shoe even lighter and bouncy than the previous versions. 

Brooks Ghost 17 Review (2025)

Brooks Ghost 17 Review
By Bach Pham and Matthew Klein

The Brooks Ghost is what we call a run retail store special. This neutral daily trainer is classically the model that is often recommended to new runners due to its middle-of-the-road nature. It's never featured the best of the best midsole or crazy geometries or dynamic cutouts that some of the higher tier performance trainers in the Brooks line-up may have, making it a very consistent option for runners. That means those who like the Ghost can keep coming back to the latest model, even years later, and find a similar performance. The Ghost 17, however, breaks the mold a touch by offering one of the best midsoles yet in the series. Is the Ghost finally out to play?

Between Two Feet: Brooks Hyperion Max 3 and Do Super Trainers Make Good Racing Shoes? | DOR Podcast #245

 

 

 

Between Two Feet: Brooks Hyperion Max 3 and Do Super Trainers Make Good Racing Shoes?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 245

Matt & Andrea are back with another installation of Between Two Feet, where they contrast their different experiences in a shoe. Last time it was the Nike Vaporfly 4, and this time it's the Brooks Hyperion Max 3. Brooks completely overhauled the Hyperion Max, one of Andrea's favorite shoes of the past few years, and turned it into a true max-stack supertrainer. With a Pebax plate & a dual-density DNA Flash/DNA Gold midsole, this one's meant for the long miles. Matt & Andrea discuss how their different mechanics affect how they experienced the foam, weight, and geometry of the shoe. They wrap up by offering some supertrainer options as alternatives to super racing shoes.

Saucony Triumph 23 Review (2025)

Saucony Triumph 23 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Saucony Triumph series has had some significant personality changes over the last several years. While continuing to be the premium cushioned model in the Saucony line-up, it has continually switched between a lighter weight, faster feeling shoe and heavier, highly cushioned shoe. With the addition of PWRRUN PB in version 22, the series returned to being a heavier, highly cushioned shoe meant for higher mileage and easy paces. The PWRRUN PB was not responsive, instead tuned specifically to provide higher cushioning for slower efforts. True-to-form with the series' personality changes, the latest version moves somewhat in the opposite direction, debuting as one of the lightest Triumphs ever. With that comes a new, soft and responsive PWRRUN PB midsole, a snug upper and surprising mild medial heel stability. To say that version 23 is different from 22 is an understatement. 

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.

Nike Streakfly 2 Review (2025)

Nike Streakfly 2 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

With the explosion of super racing shoes in the last 6-8 years, there has been a complete disappearance of super light racing shoes. While many shoes used to flirt with the sub 5 oz and even 4 oz range, the new category of super racers have mostly stayed in the 7 oz to mid 6 oz at the lightest. Even as the next generation of super marathon shoes starts to dip below the 6 oz range, they are still heavier than where older racing flats left off. That all changes with the Nike Streakfly 2. Featuring a 4.5 oz weight with a full length carbon fiber plate, the Streakfly 2 is the answer for those looking for a superlight super shoe meant for fast races from the mile to 5k (and 10k for more durable runners). 

Buy/Sell with Yowana! The Best Long Run Day? Soft or Firm Midsoles? Favorite Shoes to Review?

 

 

Buy/Sell with Yowana! The Best Long Run Day? Soft or Firm Midsoles? Favorite Shoes to Review?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 244

Matt & David are joined by Yowana for a special episode of hot takes only: Buy/Sell and This or That! We put ourselves on the hot seat here–no gray area, no middle ground. We pick between, and argue over EVA midsoles, $500 shoes, long run days, soft vs. firm midsoles, and much more.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 Review (2025)

Saucon Endorphin Speed 5 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 has been an incredibly popular shoe since its debut. It was originally designed as a more flexible, nylon plated alternative to the carbon plated Endorphin Pro. This stemmed from research Saucony participated in, suggesting that different people respond best to different levels of stiffness. Rather than just being an alternative racing shoe, the Endorphin Speed became incredibly popular as a lightweight trainer. The lighter weight, mild stiffness and PWRRUN PB that provides a high amount of cushioning has carried this shoe for years. Like many shoes, its personality has changed over its lifetime. Version 4 was more aggressive, with a firmer feel than was faster but bottomed out over longer distances. Version 5 corrects that, improving the transition and cushioning while staying true to the Speed line. 

Best Running Shoes for Walking (2025)

Beginner's Guide to Walking,
and the Best Running Shoes for Walking

By DOR Editorial Team

While this website is called "Doctors of Running," we spend a great time personally either walking in the shoes we test or clinically treating/working with people who are having issues walking. Running usually takes only an hour or two of our day. The rest of the time is spent standing, sitting and walking. Running shoes have become extremely popular for everyday use outside of running due to their comfort. With that in mind, we decided to pull together a guide for those coming here looking for great running shoes specifically for walking or standing. The following guide provides a general overview of walking along with some guidelines you should keep in mind. At the very end you can find a list of recommendations for specific shoes we have found excellent for walking and through personal experience using all-day through our clinical work. 

Our Current Favorite Neutral and Stability Shoes for Flat Feet (2025)

The Monday Shakeout: Our Current Favorite Shoes for Flat Feet
By Bach Pham and BJ McGeever

In this week's Monday shakeout we take a look at some of our favorite shoes available in the market that work for our team's flat feet runners. Our Audio Engineer BJ McGeever offers a neutral flat foot runner's perspective while Bach Pham, our Content Manager, shares his stability favorites so far of 2025.

Between Two Feet: Nike Vaporfly 4 and the Impact of Geometry Changes to a Shoe | DOR Podcast #243

 

Between Two Feet: Nike Vaporfly 4 and the Impact of Geometry Changes to a Shoe
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 243

If you've been following us for a while, you know that Matt & Andrea often experience shoes completely differently, so on this episode they get together to compare & contrast their experiences in Nike's major overhaul to the OG of supershoes: the Vaporfly 4. With a shorter stack height and narrowed down platform, this nimble racer offers a vastly different ride from its big sibling, the Alphafly 3. Andrea loved Vaporfly 3, so how will she feel about the updates? Matt's often found the Vaporflys too unstable, so will that continue? Tune in to see if you side more with Andrea or Matt! Have any shoes you want us to compare/contrast opinions on? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com.

Mizuno Wave Horizon 8 Review (2025)

Mizuno Wave Horizon 8 Review
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

Mizuno's Wave Horizon series has always featured a really unique stability set-up that somewhat predicted the future of stability when it released. Moving away from medial posts, it used the kitchen sink of other stability mechanisms from dual (triple!?) density midsoles to unique geometry and width to create a highly stable ride that suited a large variety of runners. The one issue, however, with past models is that it wasn't exactly the most versatile piece, often being weighty and not very fun to take on the road. The Wave Horizon 8 is a major revamp, however, that amps up cushion and delivers a surprisingly fun ride that can do just a little bit more than its predecessors.

Brooks Ghost Max 3 Review (2025)

Brooks Ghost Max 3 Review
By Matthew Klein

When you test as many shoes as we do, you quickly learn that there are some shoes that you will absolutely love and some that you will not be able to get along with. The original Ghost Max was a risky move for Brooks that paid off. A dramatic departure from the clunky, stale Dyad series, the Ghost Max was supposed to be an orthotic-friendly training shoe that took off given the comfortable transition similar to the old Pureflow series (RIP). Like most second versions ruined because too many people got involved, the Ghost Max 2 was a completely different shoe. A short fit, an absolutely clunky heel, a massive weight gain all but ruined the shoe outside of a more stable neutral and even more orthotic-friendly ride. Version 3 finally corrects most of these issues and brings about a more balanced shoe. A return of a smooth transition, a truly stable neutral, orthotic-friendly ride, and a far better fitting upper brings this series back on track.