Shoe ReviewS: Motion Stabilizing—iii • Performance—iv • Neutral—v

Alook across the landscape of running shoes for Fall 2012 revealsmore product diversity than in any season of the past decade.The potential for confusion points to the need for education, and

we cannot stress this message enough: Runners need to know whattheir feet are like and get the shoes that meet those needs. Thisknowledge is not static. Rather, it’s a constantly changing equationwhere factors such as fitness, injuries, aging, and weight gain/loss,among other things, affect where you are on the running continuum.And you must monitor the role your shoes play in that equation.

Two trends continue, both related to shoe weight. First, 20% of theshoes in this Review are new shoes—all of them in the Performancecategory—so we know that lightweight shoes are readily available.Second, more than 85% of the updated shoes are both lighter and abit more expensive than the shoes they replaced. The maxim of thelightweight trend is apparently true: Less is more. That is, less weightcosts more. The up-side is that the efforts to lighten these shoes havenot compromised performance.

Some of the new shoes follow the path of lower-profile geometry,allowing even more running footwear choices. It has never been moreimportant to know the characteristics of your feet and what footwearchoices will work for your current fitness level and your biomechanics.It’s our hope that this Review will help you make great choices!

—Cregg Weinmann, Running Network Footwear Reviewer

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While History Never Repeats was a hit song for the New Zealand band Split Enz in 1981, that’s not exactlytrue in the saga of performance footwear. In fact, as Cregg Weinmann has shown in his reviews for you overthe past 17 years, running footwear theories rise and fall in cycles of popularity.

In 2005, I visited the University of Cologne in Germany to see some of the research on the Nike Free. It wasfascinating to learn about the science and research that were going into shoes designed to mimic runningbarefoot. And though this barefoot or minimalist running focus has become increasingly prominent over the lastdecade, this thinking has been around before. In fact, I remember my coach, Steve Pensinger, having us do300-meter repeats, circa 1975, in bare feet on the grass oval at DeAnza Community College, specifically tobuild and strengthen our feet. And Cregg recently reminded me of Herb Elliott’s training with coach PercyCerutty, who espoused natural form and running barefoot. In fact, Elliott was pictured running barefoot on thecover of Sports Illustrated in late 1958 and again in May 1960.

Lightweight or minimalist running shoes are here to stay. The innovations made in materials have enabledmanufacturers to lighten shoes, even as their support and performance have been improved. It’s worth repeatingthat you must always factor your own fitness level and biomechanics into the process of choosing shoes. Thelightest weight shoes aren’t necessarily the best for you. Consider your needs as you read the reviews puttogether by Cregg Weinmann and the weartesters who diligently put new shoes through their paces. Ourreviews are the starting point of your search for your perfect shoe.

Enjoy your running!

Larry EderPresident, Running Network LLC

aSiCS gel-Lyte 33 Puma Faas 350 Nike Lunarglide+ 4

Brooks glycerin 10

adidas Supernova Sequence 5

k-Swiss kwicky Blade Light N

Saucony Progrid kinvara 3

American Track & Fieldwww.american-trackandfield.com

Athletes Onlywww.atf-athlete.com

Athletics (Canada)www.athleticsontario.ca

Austin Fitwww.austinfitmagazine.com

California Track & Running Newswww.caltrack.com

Club Runningwww.rrca.org/publications/club-running

Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com

Colorado Runnerwww.coloradorunnermag.com

Get Active!www.healthclubs.com

Greater Long Island Running Club’s Footnoteswww.glirc.org

Latinos Corriendowww.latinoscorriendo.com

Marathon Guidewww.marathonguide.com

Michigan Runnerwww.michiganrunner.net

Missouri Runner & Triathletewww.morunandtri.com

Running Journal & Racing Southwww.running.net

RunMinnesotawww.runmdra.org

RUNOHIOwww.runohio.com

Track & Field Newswww.trackandfieldnews.com

USATF’s Fast Forwardwww.usatf.org

USATF–New England’s Exchange Zonewww.usatfne.org

The Winged Footwww.nyac.org

The Winged Mwww.themac.com

Youth Runnerwww.youthrunner.com

Reviewer: Cregg Weinmann Project Coordinator/Editor: Christine Johnson Designer: Kristen Cerer Proofreader: Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial Services Shoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña, Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales: Running Network LLC, Larry Eder, President, 608.239.3785, larry@runningnetwork.comPublisher: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785 Website: www.runningnetwork.com For a Media Kit, please visit our website.

This 2012 Fall Shoe Review is produced independently by Running Network LLC for its partner publications. All shoes reviewed were tested by experienced, competitive runners who were matched tothe biomechanical purpose of each shoe model.

Copyright © 2012 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted withoutprior written permission of Running Network LLC.

Running Network LLC and its partner publications suggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meet with a healthcare professional beforebeginning or changing your fitness regimen.

awaRD wiNNeRS

welcome to the Running Network’s2012 Fall Shoe Review

RuNNiNg NetwoRkLLC PaRtNeRS

BEST SHOE

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PerformanceBEST SHOE

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PerformanceBEST SHOE

Neutral

F A L L 2 0 12

BEST SHOEMotion

StabilizingF A L L 2 0 12

BEST VALUEFALL 2012

BEST RENOVATIONFALL 2012

BEST NEW SHOEFALL 2012

Running Network 2012 Fall Shoe Review—ii

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Running Network 2012 Fall Shoe Review—iii

adidas Supernova Sequence 5—$115 Round 5 of the Supernova Sequence features a few changes to a franchise shoe. The upper is breathable with soft, weldedmicrosuede overlays, and synthetic leather at heel and toe. The lacing features a saddle-like design integrated with the logostripes, but it’s decoupled near the bottom of the lace throat for better forefoot flexion. Adjustments to the last afford a better fitfor a wider range of foot shapes. The midsole is the familiar, though reconfigured, adiPrene+, which provides a responsive feelto the forefoot. A slightly larger ForMotion unit in the heel provides a smoother ride, thanks to the heel bevel’s new sculpting.The ProModerator+ component has been dialed in to effectively support the sidewall. The outersole retains the provenContinental® rubber with blown rubber in the forefoot. Its combination of stability, cushioning, and size range earned theSupernova Sequence 5 honors as our Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category.

“The fit was surprising. The foam molds comfortably around the ankle and the heel. The under-foot bounce also cushioned the impact well.I felt very pleased with the shoe’s performance.”

Updates the Supernova Sequence 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–15,16,17,18,19,20; Women 5–14 • Weight: Men 12.6 oz. (size 11); Women 10.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Saucony Progrid omni 11—$120The Omni 11 features its most significant changes ever. The upper has a similar open mesh, and a nicely padded tongue andankle collar. The overlays have been reduced, but the full rand supports well and the medial side is shored up by the ArchLockanchor strapping device, which connects the lacing to the midfoot. The outersole continues with the carbon rubber heel/blownrubber forefoot, but the shank has been eliminated in favor of a more stable, full-contact bottom. It retains many characteristicsthe Omni is known for, but the reshaping of the midsole geometry pushes things in a different direction and is responsible forthe improved ride and stability. The full-contact bottom design also reduces the heel-to-toe drop from 12mm to 8. The Omni11 may require a period of adjustment, though the improvement in transition and the shoe’s stability are worth it.

“The fit was perfect and they were good to go out of the box. They felt lighter than last year’s, but just as stable.”

Updates the ProGrid Omni 10 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (M,W); Women 5–12 (N,M,W) • Weight: Men 11.5 oz. (size 11); Women 9.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Mizuno wave alchemy 12—$115 The Alchemy 12 continues to trade on Mizuno’simplied philosophy: Keep what works and make onlyincremental changes. One change that runners cancelebrate here is a weight reduction of nearly 5%, asmall move in the right direction. Round 12 continueswith the same midsole and outersole, one of the mosteffective platforms from any company for runnerslooking for a stable, well-cushioned ride with gooddurability. The upper features a similar mesh that’swide open, and the familiar saddle-like midfoot supporthas been pared back. The hinged top eyelet has beeneliminated in favor of the mid-lace articulation seen inother Mizuno shoes, which flexes better with the footand firmly holds the midfoot over the midsole. Theroomy forefoot fit, gender specificity, and effectivemotion stabilizing performance will continue to pleaseAlchemy wearers, both old and new.

“Good, solid shoe. Excellent fit, but a bit firm in the heel.Very stable, no concerns about the balance or support.”

Updates the Wave Alchemy 11 • Recommended for: low- tomedium-arched feet with moderate overpronation • Sizes:Men 7–13,14,15,16; Women 6–12 • Weight: Men 13.0 oz.(size 11); Women 10.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

New Balance 870 v2—$110 The completely redesigned 870 v2 is a great improve-ment. The upper is a breathable, closed mesh with bothwelded and traditional overlays for a secure fit. The lacing has been separated at each of the lower eyelets,improving flexibility. The textured polyester interiorhandles moisture, and the foam ankle collar provides acomfortable fit. The redesigned RevLite midsole and anEVA Strobel board give the shoe a springy lightnessthanks, in part, to a crashpad layer sandwiched betweenthe midsole proper and the foam layer on the lateralheel. Medial side support via the “fanned” medial postprovides stability without feeling like a wall, noticeablyimproving heel-to-toe transition. The outersole adoptsthe blown rubber forefoot and Ndurance carbon heel ofthe 890, here expertly accomplished. The result is astable, lightweight shoe with good cushioning to handletraining miles and up-tempo running.

“Good cushion around the entire foot. Traction wasgood, and the wear was typical for a New Balance shoe.

Light shoes, these felt good as far as weight is concerned.”

Updates the 870 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5–12,13 (B,D) • Weight: Men11.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

New Balance 1260 v2—$145 The 1260 v2 updates the 1260 by visually blending theolder design with the new and sprinking in some newtechnologies. The upper is a similar open mesh withrepositioned overlays, but now features a welded saddle. The substantial heel counter secures the rearfoot, and the plush interior is lined with effective,moisture-wicking polyester and a soft layer of memoryfoam in the ankle collar. The midsole features the rubbery Stabilicore configuration, here reshaped formore effective stability, extending from the middle of theheel along the medial sidewall. A new crashpad layer ofAbzorb foam and the N2 cushioning element introducedin the 1080 v2 are now used here to good effect, while substantially lightening the shoe. The durable outersoleis blown rubber in the forefoot and Ndurance carboncompound in the heel, with effective forefoot flexibility.The overall ride, plush textures, and outstanding stability make the 1260 v2 worthy of your consideration.

“Great fit, like a gentle hug. Version 2 seems just ascushioned and even more stable than last year. My runs

were great in the shoe!”

Updates the 1260 • Recommended for: low- to medium-arched feet with moderate to maximum overpronation •Sizes: Men 7–12,13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E); Women 6–12,13(B,D) • Weight: Men 12.6 oz. (size 11); Women 10.8 oz.(size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, PU Strobel board

motion stabilizing

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performance

adidas adiPure Motion—$110 Part of the new adiPure series of minimal shoes, the lightweight adiPure Motion has near-traditional geometry that serves itspurpose: transitioning to even less shoe. The upper is a stretchy booty with a rubbery grid printed on for a bit of support and aminimal midfoot saddle. The lightweight saddle of stiffer materials (synthetic suede overlays and mesh) covers the sides of thebooty and welded logo stripes secure it to the midsole. There’s not much protective material under the laces, so don’t overtightenthem. The low-profile midsole has a stack height of 24mm and a heel-to-toe drop of 10mm which, with the reduced structureof the shoe, strengthen the foot while protecting it from the shock of impact. The multi-piece carbon rubber outersole is fairlylow to the ground, flexes well with the foot, and keeps the weight down. In a nutshell, the adiPure Motion is a shoe for improvingrunning efficiency and moving fast while doing it.

“Snug fit, though the thin upper makes it a little tricky to tighten the laces just right. The weight, flexibility, [and] low profile [let you] gofast without trying! They are great for speedwork and faster runs.”

New Shoe • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running and transitioning to minimal shoes • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–14 • Weight: Men 7.5 oz. (size 11); Women 6.4 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Mizuno wave Precision 13—$110 It will come as good news to fans of the Precision that Round 13 is their lucky number. The midsole is the same AP+ blend thatMizuno has so effectively dialed in, and last season’s Wave plate remains. The effective outersole is unchanged—X-10 rubber in the heel and blown rubber up front—and the well-thought-out element of concentric rings positioned under thecuboid bone continues to accommodate the midfoot strikers. Most of the changes are in the upper where the welded supportstrapping has been replaced by synthetic leather and the hinged first eyelet has been eliminated. Instead, repositioned laceeyelets allow for some customization, and the lace throat separates in the middle for better articulation with the foot. Runnersunfamiliar with the Precision are missing out on great cushioning and a light feel, as well as good durability from a real performer.

“Overall, a good balance of the different aspects of shoes. They are lightweight, but durable enough for day-in and day-out training. I likethem. Good protection, good durability, and good ventilation.”

Updates the Wave Precision 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 6–11 • Weight: Men 10.6 oz. (size 11); Women 7.8 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

adidas adiZero tempo 5—$110This time out, the adiZero Tempo sports changes to itsgeometry that have made it lighter and a bit faster thanbefore. The upper is a thin layer of mesh with weldedfilm overlays. Minimal synthetic suede and syntheticleather supports give it both a flexible and breathablecharacter. The midsole is low-profile adiPrene, withadiPrene+ in the forefoot. In the heel, the formerForMotion cassette has been replaced with a wedge ofLightStrike EVA, which serves the same purpose:smooth the touchdown and curb overpronation.Medially, Round 5 now uses the ProModerator supportto add stability to the foot in lining up over the midsole.The outersole has open areas and thin rubber padsjust in the highest-wear areas to save weight. Thecondensed version of the story: a trim-the-fat, go-fastshoe with enough protection to keep you on the roads.

“A great, lightweight shoe for shorter, faster runs, especially in hot weather. Breathes well, feels good,

nicely cushioned for a light shoe. Pretty good in support and stability. I love them.”

Updates the adiZero Tempo 4 • Recommended for: medium-to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5–11,12 (B,D) • Weight: Men7.4 oz. (size 11); Women 7.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

aSiCS gel-Lyte 33—$100 The Gel-Lyte 33 harkens back, if only philosophically, toone of the most popular models in ASICS’ history, theGel-Lyte. The thin, synthetic mesh upper is supportedby welded overlays that provide just enough structure tokeep the foot positioned properly. While spare, it doesn’t feel skimpy under the tongue or in the ankle collar. The resilient, single density Solyte midsole flexeswell and cushions without hindering motion. The newsidewall sculpting aids in the flexibility. The narrowwaist (where the midfoot narrows into the arch) provideslateral support to the fifth metatarsal bone, noticeablebut not uncomfortable. The outersole is carbon rubber,but only where needed for durability (nearly half the solegoes without). Its light weight, sleek design, andexcellent cushioning were responsible for the Gel-Lyte33 receiving our award for Best New Shoe.

“They fit very well. I’m happy they have reduced pressure points with a smooth interior that feels great on

my feet. They have better cushioning than expected. The bestthing is they are really light and really fast!”

New Shoe • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feetwith neutral biomechanics for faster-paced running • Sizes:Men 7–13,14,15 (D); Women 5–11,12 (B) • Weight: Men 9.8oz. (size 11); Women 7.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

k-Swiss kwicky Blade Light N—$135 The new Kwicky Blade Light N is the neutral version ofthe Kwicky Blade Light. They’re equals in every way butone: Here the midsole is a single density. The ride is agood blend of cushioning and responsiveness, thanksto the EVA Strobel board, GuideGlide, and midsolefoam. The upper is an open stretch mesh for a flexible,seamless feel. A full-welded saddle secures the foot andthere’s extra support from the thermoplastic device onthe medial half of the saddle. The interior is cushy at theankle collar, and the Ion Mask treatment keeps the shoefrom absorbing extra moisture in all conditions. Theoutersole is carbon and blown rubber placed effectivelyonly in the high-wear areas, providing durability withoutcompromising flexibility. The mix of lightness,responsiveness, and performance earned the KwickyBlade Light N a tie as our Best Performance Shoe.

“This is an extremely well-balanced shoe. My feet feelwell-cushioned and even pampered, the shoe seemed

to actually adjust to my foot while running. The fit and performance have been about as good as I have tried—and Ihave been running for quite a few years.”

New Shoe • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feetwith neutral biomechanics, for faster-paced running or dailytraining • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women 5–11,12 •Weight: Men 10.1 oz. (size 11); Women 7.9 oz. (size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVAStrobel board

BEST NEW SHOEFALL 2012

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Running Network 2012 Fall Shoe Review—v

performance

aSiCS gel-Nimbus 14—$140The Nimbus has consistently showcased ASICS’ best cushioning technologies in their best executions, and Round 14 epitomizesthat trend. In fact, the upper alone features so much technology that it almost deserves its own review. The interior is a luxuriousblend of mesh and foam that cradles the foot. Though it looks a bit busy, the upper’s combination of stretch mesh and syntheticoverlays both support and flex with the foot as each component has been dialed-in over the past several seasons. The Nimbusnow employs the ASICS’ 33 Series’ Heel Clutching System to reduce unneeded material, making for a lightweight framework thatimproves support. The midsole is a firm formulation of Solyte that we found to be protective and resilient. The usual minor adjust-ments extend to the Guidance Line and reshaped Trusstic midfoot support, while maintaining the plush, but responsive rideexpected of the Nimbus series. The outersole continues with the same effective rubber compound.

“Was surprised by the weight of the shoe. They feel much lighter than they look. The ride is very smooth, great cushion, flexes well. This is avery good shoe.”

Updates the Gel-Nimbus 13 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16 (D),7–14,15,16 (2E,4E); Women 5–13 (B), 6–13 (2A,D) • Weight: Men 11.8 oz. (size 11); Women 9.9 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

Puma Faas 350—$85 The Faas 350 is the latest of the Faas shoes, and one of the most versatile. The upperis a closed, though breathable, mesh, and soft sueded overlays help the upper hold itsshape but provide little more structure than that. The molding in the sole allows the footto flex efficiently. Described as a racing shoe, it actually has more oomph to it. We say,with its light and highly flexible feel, it’s suitable for tempo runs or some shorter trainingruns. The midsole is Faas Foam, a very resilient and flexible EVA formulation. The rideis responsive with a good deal of proprioceptive feedback, and it features Puma’s lowestheel-to-toe drop: 6mm. The low-profile design makes it stable. The outersole is carbonrubber in the high-wear areas, and toughened and textured foam over the rest of the sole.The combination of lightness, fit, and especially the economical price earned the Faas350 honors as our Best Value Shoe.

“Wrap the foot well and have a great low-profile feeling. They are light and tougher than they first appear. Great for faster running and even racing.”

New Shoe • Recommended for:medium-to high-arched feet withneutral biomechanics, for faster-paced, mid-distance running •Sizes: Men 6.5–12,13,14; Women6–11 • Weight: Men 8.7 oz. (size11); Women 6.9 oz. (size 8) •Shape: semi-curved • Construction:Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobelboard

Saucony Progrid kinvara 3—$100 For such a low-profile shoe, the ProGrid Kinvara emerges in Round 3 with a high-profile reputation. The upper is a semi-open mesh supported with Flex-Film weldedoverlays and a synthetic leather toecap. The textured polyester interior and the foam lobesbeneath the ankle have been retained as they effectively reduce weight and improve fit.The midsole features the same heel-to-toe drop (4mm) that’s been responsible for itssuccess. Resculpting has improved the lateral release—the ability of the shoe’s heel toflex to the outside so the foot is discouraged from overpronating—and softened theride a touch. The outersole is still carbon rubber on the heel and selected forefoot lugs,but it’s been redesigned to feel lightweight while providing a better touchdown. Theoutstanding ride, fit, and innovative use of new materials earned the ProGrid Kinvara 3 atie as our Best Performance Shoe.

“The Kinvara has been great for me. The new upper is better because it is so thin and light. The cushion is improved and it feels even lighter!”

Updates the ProGrid Kinvara 2 •Recommended for: medium- tohigh-arched feet with neutral bio-mechanics • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15; Women 5–12 •Weight: Men 8.4 oz. (size 11);Women 7.2 oz. (size 8) • Shape:semi-curved • Construction:Strobel slip-lasted

Nike Lunarglide+ 4—$110The LunarGlide series has been a welcome blend of straightforward stability and innovative solutions. Version 4 overhauls boththe upper and the chassis, lightening up the shoe in the process. The upper is an engineered mesh—smooth on the interiorand designed to maximize evaporation—while providing support where needed. The new lacing system extends the promiseof Flywire more effectively, with new Dynamic Flywire strands that wrap the midfoot securely and gather in groups of three atthe eyestay, providing continuous adjustment based on foot movement. In the midsole, the carrier foam has been pared downon the lateral sidewall to allow the Lunarlon to absorb shock more effectively, and the bottom of the carrier has been openedfor better flexion. The cushioning, light weight, and variable fit earned the LunarGlide+ 4 our Best Renovation award.

“The shoe fits snugly and feels comfortable, and the interior is very smooth. The laces adjusted well to my foot. The cushioning was thebest, a bit surprising because the shoe is very light.”

Updates the LunarGlide+ 3 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: Men 10.5 oz. (size 11); Women 8.1 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

BEST RENOVATIONFALL 2012

aSiCS gel-Cumulus 14—$110 The Cumulus has been upgraded in a number of areas. The upper features an open stretch mesh that conforms to and moveswith the foot. The Discrete Eyelets from Round 13 are now two series of two pairs, with the top pair separate so the lacing bothsecures the foot and flexes well as the foot moves. The midsole is Solyte, here with wavy, articulated pods to absorb the shockand allow good flexibility. The outersole has been upgraded to AHAR+ rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot. TheGuidance Line has been extended the full length of the outersole for better flexibility. Version 13 was a good shoe, adequatein some areas, good in others, and very good in some. Version 14 steps up to good in all areas, very good in comfort, andexcellent in protection, making the shoe a better value despite its price increase.

“Felt light and fit very well. Impressed by the cushion, but more by the responsive feel. These should last well, even with my long runs.”

Updates the Gel-Cumulus 13 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15 (D),7–13,14,15 (2E,4E); Women 5–13 (2A,B), 6–13 (D) • Weight: Men 11.7 oz. (size 11); Women 9.8 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

BEST SHOE

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BEST VALUEFALL 2012

neutral

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neutral

Brooks Dyad 7—$110 The Dyad 7 is the latest round of a shoe for neutral-gaited runners who need a substantial foundation. It’s a bit heavy becauseit supplies both a stable base and ample cushioning. This time out, the upper is a new design, not merely cosmetic changes.The lacing is better articulated to fit well and move with the foot. The open mesh, though a bit different, still offers coolingventilation, and a new, full rand offers better support. The midsole has been re-sculpted for better flexion, and now features theDNA cushioning element instead of the HydroFlow cassette of the last six incarnations. DNA’s adaptable and rubbery feel offersa smoother ride than did the HydroFlow. The outersole sports new flex grooves but maintains the midfoot pods that give theshoe its full-contact stability. The Caterpillar Crashpad that has been used in many of Brooks’ models finally debuts in the Dyad.

“The combination of fit, cushioning, and support is great. My runs are usually up to 45 minutes, but in these I feel that I’m just gettingstarted by the end.”

Updates the Dyad 6 • Recommended for: medium- to low-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (D), 8–13,14,15 (2E,4E); Women 6–11,12 (B), 7–11,12 (D,2E) • Weight: Men 13.9 oz. (size 11); Women 11.8 oz. (size 8) •Shape: semi-straight • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Nike air Pegasus+ 29—$100 The Pegasus has a legacy that stretches back three decades—easily the longest run in the industry. The new upper is an engineered mesh, alternating open areas for breathability and closed areas for support. Welded supports—both internally andas an external saddle—provide security to the fit, and the eyestay is segmented into three pairs of eyelets, allowing them to flexseparately as the foot moves. The midsole is Cushlon, and the crashpad has been removed in favor of a new geometry withsidewall grooving that allows a smooth lateral release and streamlines the transition. The outersole features a well-segmentedlayer of “environmentally preferred” rubber with waffles medially and a texture of tiny fins on the lateral side that add tractionand a tactile feel to the ride. The net effect is a versatile neutral shoe for high-mileage training.

“Very comfortable right away. Perfect width, nice rounded toe box, soft upper with no seams, excellent ankle room. I noticed the cushionmore towards the front of the foot vs. the heel, but was pleased by how cushiony it felt on my foot.”

Updates the Pegasus+ 28 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6–13,14,15; Women5–12 • Weight: Men 11.2 oz. (size 11); Women 9.0 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Combination Strobel lasted, EVAStrobel board (forefoot)

Brooks ghost 5—$110 The Ghost is the workhorse of Brooks’ neutral shoes. Themidsole has been resculpted, extending the crashpad andeliminating the lateral TPU shank. The ride is resilient andample, if not plush, and designed for comfortable highmileage. The outersole lugs are now linked togetherlaterally from the heel to toe, for better grip and flex. Theheel articulates well, with the extended CaterpillarCrashpad allowing the lateral side to accommodate avariety of footstrikes. The thickness of the sole makes theride a little firmer with a bit more stability and support.The upper features a similar two-layer, breathable, openmesh. The interior has a healthy layer of foam at the anklecollar and tongue, and a corduroy-like texture in the heeland under the tongue wicks moisture away and keeps thefoot from shifting. A new, elasticized lace loop at theinstep provides better security yet still flexes well. TheGhost is even better at providing neutral, long-lastingcushioning.

“Loved the fit. It had cushion when I ran on the street.Overall, they felt balanced and secure. The weight of this

shoe is awesome. I don’t feel like my feet are dragging orworking extra hard!”

Updates the Ghost 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (D), 8–13,14,15 (B,2E); Women 5–12 (B), 6–12(2A,D) • Weight: Men 12.3 oz. (size 11); Women 9.6 oz.(size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Brooks glycerin 10—$140 The Glycerin is Brooks’ premium neutral shoe, and the10 focuses on “premium-izing” a few areas. The upperadopts a full rand for support, but in a scaled-backapproach that relies on suede straps to provide a softer,but surprisingly tough structure. The midfoot TPUcage allows the lacing to flex where needed whileeffectively supporting the foot. The mesh is a newdesign with a more weather-repellent microfiber element.Inside, a foot-conforming layer of foam with a texturedsurface keeps the foot in place. The midsole cushioningis now a plush blend of responsive performance andcushy protection. The sidewall grooves essentiallyturn the entire lateral side into an extended crashpad.The outersole has good longitudinal flexibility. Theheel clefts are gone, but the keyhole-shaped openingsin the pods allow articulation. Its combination ofprotection, plush comfort, and great cushioningearned the Glycerin our Best Neutral Shoe honors.

“Really enjoyed this shoe, and would recommend it.Good comfort, good fit, held up very well. The look was

nice; the feel was better.”

Updates the Glycerin 9 • Recommended for: medium- tohigh-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15 (D), 8–13,14,15 (B,2E); Women 5–12 (B), 6–12(2A,D) • Weight: Men 13.9 oz. (size 11); Women 10.0 oz.(size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Mizuno wave enigma 2—$135The Enigma reaches Round 2 with the usual soft-touchupdating that Mizuno is known for. The upper is a new,open stretch mesh, a bit different in weave, but with theflexible and adaptable fit of the original. The saddleoverlays are completely redesigned; however, they stillprovide the supportive fit of Round 1. The DynaMotionarticulated top eyelet is now attached to the saddleoverlay, but the thin, suede material on the eyestaygives it almost as much mobility as before and allowsa snug fit at the ankle. The sueded overlays at the toeand midfoot are soft against the foot and supportive.The well-loved AP+ midsole and its cushy feel arepresent and accounted for, and the minor alterations inthe full-length parallel Wave plate continue to providethe responsive ride that impressed many testers whenit debuted. The X-10 outersole is still tough carbon rubber in the heel and a blown rubber forefoot.The Enigma 2 adds up to responsive cushioning forsignificant training mileage.

“Good durability, and the shoe provided good support.Just a little heavier than others. The biggest plus of the

shoe was its cushioning, and that is the one very big up-side.”

Updates the Wave Enigma • Recommended for: medium- tohigh-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: Men 12.8 oz. (size 11);Women 10.0 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved •Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

BEST SHOENeutral

F A L L 2 0 12

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