ShoE REvIEWS: Motion Stabilizing—iii | Neutral—iii | Performance—v

Each new season brings with it the anticipation of improved design and new materials. The shoes that endured our weartest-ing process represent the best shoes for a variety of feet and runners. The influence of “Natural Motion” and a reexamination

of design and available materials can be seen in the changes that have been made in a number of the shoes. Many shoes in allcategories have been lightened up and have lower profiles, though there are still a number of heavyweight shoes with heavy-duty motion stabilizing technologies, or multiple layers of plush cushioning.

Such changes have further established some best practices that improve overall comfort. All brands have their own lasts andformulations of basic materials that allow them to address the majority of runners’ requirements for fit and feel. The number ofofferings in the Neutral and Performance shoe categories continues to grow, while those in the Motion Stabilizing category,though smaller in number, are becoming more precisely tuned to give better support and a more efficient transition from heelto toe-off. While there are some new patents in both design and use of materials, a number of innovations have spread through-out the industry so rapidly that they have already become best practices, and the consumer is the ultimate beneficiary.

Shoe companies use slightly different lasts (the foot-shaped forms on which shoes are made) and proprietary midsole formu-las, and those result in a wide range of offerings on the market and improved chances that runners can find a shoe to matchtheir fitness and biomechanics. It may take a bit of time to check out all the options, but you’ll know the right shoe for you whenyou try it. We offer this Review as a starting point.

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Welcome to the Running Network’s 2010 Spring Shoe Review!

Barefoot running has been a hot topic of late: Should you run in shoes or do they hinder your

natural movement? This discussion surfaces every decade or so, and in my 30+ years in the

sport, I’ve developed my own take on this, which was corroborated by Cregg Weinmann at last

year’s Running Network meetings. All things being equal, a runner should run in the least amount

of shoe they can, depending on their biomechanical needs. It’s true that some people can run

barefoot or in minimalist shoes on long runs, etc., but others risk injury that way. I suggest what

my college coach, Dan Durante, had me do: Take a varied approach. I ran on grass, dirt trails,

roads and tracks. I ran on beaches barefoot or grass tracks once in a while. I ran in light shoes

during fast sessions and had my favorite (heavier) training shoes for long runs and easy days. I

also noted that the better shape I got in, the lighter the shoes I could successfully train in. Just

remember that this is a personal decision about what works for you in your own set of circum-

stances. Find the right shoe or shoes for you, and add some variety to your training surfaces—

you’ll have healthier feet for it!

As always, thanks to Cregg Weinmann, our RN footwear reviewer, Kristen Cerer, our design-

er, Marg Sumner, our proofreader, and Christine Johnson, our RN project manager. We ask you

to use the Running Network’s Shoe Review as the starting point in your journey to find your per-

fect running shoe. Go to your local running store (we track 683 of them at runningnetwork.com’s

Store Locator) to finish the journey!

Larry EderPresident, Running Network LLC

ii | Running Network 2010 Spring Shoe Review

American Track & Fieldwww.american-trackandfield.com

Athletes onlywww.atf-athlete.com

Athletics (Canada)www.otfa.ca

Austin Fitwww.austinfitmagazine.com

California Track & Running Newswww.caltrack.com

Club Runningwww.rrca.org/clubrunning

Coaching Athletics Quarterly www.coachingathleticsq.com

Colorado Runnerwww.coloradorunnermag.com

Get Active!www.getactivemagazine.com

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

Latinos Corriendowww.latinoscorriendo.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 ProjectCoordinator/Editor: Christine JohnsonDesigner: Kristen Cerer Proofreader:Marg Sumner, Red Ink Editorial ServicesShoe Photography: Daniel Saldaña,Cregg Weinmann Advertising Sales:Running Network LLC, Larry Eder, President,920.563.5551, ext. 112, larry.eder@gmail.comPublisher: Larry Eder, 608.239.3785 Website: www.runningnetwork.com For a Media Kit, please visit our website.

This 2010 Spring Shoe Review is produced inde-pendently by Running Network LLC for its partnerpublications. All shoes reviewed were tested byexperienced, competitive runners who werematched to the biomechanical purpose of eachshoe model.

Copyright © 2010 by Running Network LLC. AllRights Reserved. No part of this publication maybe stored, copied, or reprinted without prior writtenpermission of Running Network LLC.

Running Network LLC and its partner publicationssuggest that, as with all fitness activities, you meetwith a healthcare professional before beginning orchanging your fitness regimen.

Runn

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LLC

Part

ners

K-Swiss Keahou IISaucony ProGrid Triumph 7Best Shoe—Neutral

Scott Makani IIBest Shoe—Performance

Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13 Best Shoe—Motion Stabilizing

adidas adiStar SolutionBest New Shoe

Brooks Glycerin 8Best Renovation

AWARD WINNERSBEST NEW SHOE

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ASICS GT-2150     $100The best-selling technical running shoe enters the back half of its second decade with a plan: Be consistent. The design staysas near as possible to previous versions, only tinkering with improvements to materials, especially those at the top of ASICS’impressive line. The similarity with the 2140 extends from the upper, with minor adjustments in the overlays and a loweredankle collar for better fit, to the midsole, through to the shank and outersole. The great cushioning and stable ride are welldialed-in, providing long-time users what they expect: a well-protected, securely delivered run. Runners with stability needsshould seek out the GT-2150 and give it a test run.

“Snug, comfy and feels good. Cushioning is great; my feet are fine even after a 12-mile run. They seem a little lighter than their predeces-sor: keep what works and fix the little things.”

Updates the GT-2140 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 6–14,15,16,17(D), 7–14,15,16,17 (EE), 8–14,15,16,17 (EEEE), 7–14,15,16 (B); Women 5–13 (AA,B), 6–13 (D) • Weight: Men 13.2 oz. (size 11); Women11.3 oz. (size 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel)

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 10       $105Brooks’ go-to shoe (what did you think GTS stood for?) passes the decade mark with a few new twists. The upper elicits thedesign ethos established more radically in the Trance 9. Here the supportive overlays are effectively distributed to keep the meshopen where needed, while holding the foot over the midsole with the help of a sturdy new saddle overlay on the medial side.The midsole hints at more open segmentation, especially in the heel, improving the transition from heel to toe (a weakness withprevious versions). The forefoot maintains its great flexibility, and the heel and forefoot are bridged by a brawnier TPU shank.The overall weight is more than half an ounce heavier, but the improvements to the support and ride seem worth it.

“The Adrenaline has worked well for me, I know what to expect: comfortable fit, plenty of cushion, and great stability. Still a great shoe, inmy opinion. There’s not much that needs improvement on this series of shoes.”

Updates the Adrenaline GTS 9 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men7–13,14,15; Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 13.2 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: CombinationStrobel slip-lasted, Texon heel board

Nike Zoom Structure Triax+ 13     $100Formerly one of a trio of Triax shoes, the Zoom Structure is the only survivor, though any resemblance to the original is lost in themists of time. The goal of the Bowerman series is to maintain the essence of each shoe while incorporating improvements as theybecome best practices. The upper now sports simplified overlays, with more effective rearfoot strapping to lock the heel into itscradle in a manner similar to the Equilon. The mesh is open, especially across the metatarsals, freeing the bunion window. Themidsole is essentially unchanged, except for more pronounced flex grooves in the lateral crashpad that improve the touchdownand transition to toe-off. The remaining changes are largely cosmetic, but this scaling back has shaved nearly an ounce from theshoe. Its combination of great fit, ride, and stability earned the Zoom Structure our Best Motion Stabilizing Shoe award.

“Slipping these shoes on, I like the snug fit and the sturdy support. The first run proved the fit was good, especially the new supports inthe heel. There is a noticeable amount of cushioning in these shoes. Overall, my foot felt secure and ‘well liked’ in this shoe. The balance,

stability, and support are first-rate.”

Updates the Zoom Structure Triax+ 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes:Men 7–13,14,15; Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 12.4 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobelslip-lasted, Cushlon board

Pearl Izumi Fuel       $100The Fuel is a new shoe for Pearl Izumi and features some new approaches with its technology. The fit of the upper is glove-likefrom the heel to the midfoot—almost a racing shoe fit—but the forefoot has a roomy feel across the metatarsals to the toes,which, while common, is not standard fare. The ride is firm and responsive, a nice blending of quality EVA and Skydex ele-ments in the heel and forefoot. The abbreviated Syncroframe is as effective as previous versions while lightening the shoe a bit,though it’s still no lightweight. Overall, the shoe provides just enough support and stability for overpronators looking for lessbulky control.

“I love the fit of these shoes! The one-piece upper distributes security across the entire foot and helps to reduce the overall weight of theshoe. The ride was firm but not clunky, very stable without being too stiff. These are the best of the Pearls I’ve tried.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14; Women 5–11,12 •Weight: 13.1 oz. (men’s 11); 10.9 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

adidas adiStar Solution $120The new Solution is aimed at runners who want a responsive ride with a little stability and a measure of comfort. Part of theadiStar family, it features a performance fit in a heavy-duty daily trainer. The upper feels plush, thanks to the cushioned butsleek tongue and the smooth finish of the interior. The midsole is substantial and nicely responsive and protective, while theForMotion cassette provides a smooth transition and good stability. The adiWear heel and blown rubber forefoot are typicalsetups and are well executed. The versatility and ride of the adiStar Solution earned it our Best New Shoe award.

“Good overall feel, comfortable fit, nice cushioning underneath. The upper is padded where needed, but not overdone. The midsole is firm,but responds well; not mushy. Great stable feeling, and a durable, reliable shoe.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15;Women 5–12 • Weight: 14.5 oz. (men’s 11); 12.4 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved to curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted,adiPrene+ Strobel board

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adidas Supernova Glide 2 $100In its second outing, the Glide takes a direct aim at performance without sacrificing the quality of the original. The upper usesa very breathable, engineered mesh that’s constructed with openings in some areas and is more solid in others. The midsolehas a little softer feel—still quite flexible—but more solid. Thanks to the multiple layers of midsole/innersole materials andthe Strobel board, the shoe has a cushy feel while still being resilient and responsive—a fine line that this shoe negotiates well.The new blown rubber forefoot has a little better traction than the original Glide did and a rubbery, resilient bounce. The fit andride will be familiar to adidas fans.

“Great glove-like fit, but enough room in the toe box to wiggle toes! Wore them on long runs, were great on the hills. They were definite-ly bouncy and squishy. Very comfortable and holding up well.”

Updates the Supernova Glide • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation •Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20; Women 5–12 • Weight: 13.3 oz. (men’s 11); 11.3 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved tocurved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, adiPrene+ Strobel board

Brooks Glycerin 8 $130Brooks introduces a new technology with its flagship neutral shoe. DNA is a rubbery cushioning element with the unique abil-ity to respond according to the force applied to it: softly when a little pressure is applied, more firmly when more pressure isapplied. DNA not only outperforms Brooks’ longtime HydroFlow technology, it’s also more environmentally friendly. The upperclosely mimics the familiar fit of the past few iterations, with open mesh and a supportive saddle design. The midsole retainsmuch of the feel of its predecessor but with a little better transition and a more responsive feel. Minor adjustments to the shankand outersole maintain the Glycerin’s support and durability and sports the inscription in German: “Laufen ist in meiner DNA”or “Running is in my DNA.” The performance, upgraded materials, and execution earned the Glycerin 8 our Best Renovationaward.

“The fit is familiar: secure with a good feel around the ankle collar and roomy in the toes. The cushioning is quite good, but the reboundand responsiveness are a big improvement. I was certainly impressed.”

Updates the Glycerin 7 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15 (B,D,2Ewidths); Women 6–12 (2A,B,D widths) • Weight: 14.6 oz. (men’s 11); 12.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction:Strobel slip-lasted, S257 Strobel board

K-Swiss Keahou II $100The K-Swiss line has expanded to six serious shoes; the Keahou is the quality neutral model. The upper is a low-key combi-nation of quality components, including air mesh and synthetic overlays, which draws attention purely by performance: it fitsand supports the foot. The midsole is single density EVA with a couple of nifty dampening inserts of Superfoam in the heel andStrobel board, and GuideGlide in the forefoot, all providing a responsive, cushioned ride. The blown rubber forefoot, TPUshank, and carbon heel are expected and best practices, but they’re done well in the Keahou. The combination of ride, execu-tion, and value earned the Keahou II a tie for our Best Neutral Shoe award.

“Roomy fit up front, but nice and snug in the heel. Premium shoe. The quality really came through with its consistent, protective cushion-ing and design. It performed very well for me.”

Updates the Keahou • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 6.5–13,14,15; Women5–11,12 • Weight: 13.5 oz. (men’s 11); 11.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, SuperfoamStrobel board

Puma Complete ventis $100The new Ventis is a sibling to last season’s Velosis and is a surprisingly plush addition to the lineup, especially consideringthe price difference between the two. The upper is open mesh, which effectively handles the job of securing the foot while keep-ing it cool, along with well-placed synthetic overlays for support. The midsole is responsive, combining DuoCell and ldCellcomponents with the polyurethane innersole and EVA Strobel board for good, step-in comfort, as well as overall cushioning.The outersole of carbon rubber in the heel and blown rubber in the forefoot is well designed for flexibility and smooth transi-tion from heel to toe. A solid shoe for neutral runners, the Ventis offers another fit option, as well as Puma’s unique look.

“Fit great in the heel, enough toeroom, though on really long runs the overlays across the metatarsals rubbed a bit. The cushioning wasvery good; no sore feet even with half-marathon training.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes:Men 7–13,14; Women 5.5–12 • Weight: 14.0oz. (men’s 11); 12.0 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Saucony ProGrid Triumph 7 $130The Triumph 7 makes several gains over the Triumph 6. The step-in comfort and cushioning are noticeable right out of the box.The upper sports a few more millimeters of memory foam in the ankle collar, which provides a very plush feel, and a soft, mois-ture-wicking lining that adds to that sensation. Though reworked, the midsole is familiar and suited for high mileage and pro-tection. The outersole is a new configuration of blown rubber under the ball of the foot, which is a little more durable withoutsacrificing cushioning. While some of the shoes in this category have pared things back, the extra weight and price here makea significant addition to the Triumph’s deluxe fit and feel. The blend of design, componentry, and comfort earned the ProGridTriumph 7 a tie for our Best Neutral Shoe award.

“Nice fit, supports the middle of my foot; toe box adequate; heel snug, but not too snug. These are comfortable shoes and my foot feelsprotected from feeling rocks/pebbles underfoot. Good compression of the midsole, but [does] not get bogged down in too much cushion-

ing. I like these!”

Updates the ProGrid Triumph 6 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15;Women 5–12 • Weight: 14.4 oz. (men’s 11); 12.9 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, HRCStrobel board

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Under Armour Apparition II $95The second round of running shoes from Under Armour addresses some issues of the first round and builds on its strengths.The upper is open mesh similar to that of the original, with adjustments made to the Fit-Sleeve that improve the fit and com-fort. The midsole and outersole are just a bit better than round one, with a good transition, durability, and a responsive, resilientride. The weight is toward the beefier end, but acceptable in a heavy-duty trainer. The Apparition sports a price adjustment thatmakes it a decent bargain. Though not a dramatic change, the performance and upgrades show the Apparition II is headed inthe right direction.

“They feel really nice, slipper-like. No problems straight from the box for a 6.5-mile run. The cushion on this particular shoe was not dis-appointing, but not exceptional either, though no sore feet, which, for me, is saying something.”

Updates the Apparition • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–13,14,15; Women6–11,12 • Weight: 14.3 oz. (men’s 11); 12.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobelboard

Karhu Forward Fulcrum $130The new Forward Fulcrum employs the expected top quality components. The upper is a lightweight, perforated mesh that’swelded to eliminate seams and open across the metatarsals to nicely accommodate bunions or a wide forefoot. The midsole isa resilient and responsive EVA, which has a good level of cushioning. The ratio of midsole material in the heel vs. the forefootpitches the foot forward for a quick toe-off, but the exaggerated lean may not suit all neutral runners as it does run “downhill”a bit. The outersole is the same effective carbon and blown rubber of other Karhu shoes and is executed at its usual high stan-dard. Its light weight is a bonus.

“The upper has a smooth, comfy feel and good, secure fit. Unexpectedly light, especially for such a well-cushioned running shoe. Greatheel cushioning, and the flow to the forefoot really keeps you on your toes, even when you are tired. I think it is about as good a shoe as

I have worn.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to very mild overpronation • Sizes: Men 8–13,14;Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.6 oz. (men’s 11); 11.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Mizuno Waverider 13 $100The Waverider 13 maintains the momentum of its predecessor, balancing light weight with protective cushioning. The uppershows typical Mizuno design caution by making subtle alterations to overlays which seem almost cosmetic, but are wellthought-out. The most noticeable change is the new lining material, which is softer and cradles the heel better. The midsole isessentially unchanged, though new tooling always subtly affects the ride; here a little foam has been added under the Waveplate to better cushion the touchdown. The outersole is unchanged, providing effective durability and traction.

“They proved to be one of the most reliable daily trainers in my rotation. They fit snugly where needed, roomy in the toes. They have agood level of cushioning, but when I was fit, they were super efficient—a great extension of my feet.”

Updates the Waverider 12 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16;Women 5–12,13 • Weight: 11.9 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Zoot Ultra TT 3.0 $130The third round of the Ultra TT maintains effective performance without rocking the boat. The upper is little changed, adding abit of reflectivity—TT does stand for Triathlon Training, after all—but leaving the lacing and entry points unchanged. The TPUat the heel and toes was overkill and has been replaced by lighter weight HF-welds that do the job. The midsole and outersolehave no changes, save cosmetic, since the cushioning and performance were well dialed-in last season. Very light for a neu-tral training shoe, the Ultra TT 3.0 can handle a good share of mileage, as well as faster running and racing.

“Fit like a sock, very smooth. Surprisingly, they had a good deal of cushion. I especially enjoyed the impact on landing with my heel. Theywere great for tempo runs and races.”

Updates the Ultra TT 2.0 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics • Sizes: Men 8–12, 13,14;Women 6–10,11 • Weight: 9.3 oz. (men’s 11); 7.4 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

ASICS Gel DS Trainer 15 $110Perhaps the most iconic model of this category, the Gel DS Trainer turns 14. The bulk of the changes (though there aren’t a lot)are in the upper, where the overlays have been altered at the toe and reduced in the heel, and the mesh is a bit more open.Support and fit, however, are indistinguishable from last season. The midsole and outersole are the same, with slight adjust-ments to the Trusstic support in the shank. The overall effect adds up to a quality, stable, well-cushioned ride that fans of theseries will be pleased with. Runners looking for a great blend of lightness, stability, and cushioning should consider the DSTrainer 15.

“Great fit. It’s shaped somewhat to fit perfectly around the mold of your actual foot. Nice cushioning and no hard spots anywhere. A sta-ble ride; no need to worry about any wobble. Excellent lightweight trainer, good for mid to long training runs or races.”

Updates the Gel DS Trainer 14 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men6–13,14,15; Women 5–12 • Weight: 11.3 oz. (men’s 11); 9.1 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: slip-lasted

NEUTRAL | PERFoRMANCE

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Mizuno Wave Elixer 5 $105This Elixer is the best yet, expertly blending lightness, stability, and ride. The upper sports minor changes to the overlays andnew support straps of stretchy synthetic material shoring up the medial side. The base of the entire upper is a uniformly shapedairmesh. The Wave plate is unchanged, but the midsole is AP+—the old AP with new polymers added for a better rebound—which softens the cushion of the shoe, while making the ride much more responsive. The outersole features a new configura-tion of G3, moving from the dots of PU to a combination of chevrons and fins that improve traction and durability. The Elixerhas always been a good choice in the performance category; now it’s even better.

“They fit well, like Mizuno always does. I was surprised how comfortable the shoe was, especially the cushioning. I felt like I was in closecontact with the ground but still able to have the protection and ‘spring in my step’ that the shoe afforded me. I liked the shoe style and

function. It has become one of my favorites.”

Updates the Wave Elixer 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation •Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobelslip-lasted

New Balance 740 $85Despite the number reset, the 740 is the second round of last season’s 749. There’s also some resetting of the upper design,making a visual alignment with the NBx firmament. The upper shows a subtle change in fit and support; while still built on theNew Balance performance last, the shoe feels wider, and the N-lock lacing has been internalized and lacks the separately-adjust-ing feature of the external version. The midsole has been slightly resculpted to better incorporate the N-Ergy cassette, but ismuch the same as the previous heel setup. The more supportive shank and the adjusted flex grooves allow a very responsivetoe-off. This version has more forefoot volume with the responsive cushioning and stability of its predecessor.

“Roomy fit, but seemed to work OK. Good amount of cushioning, yet allows you to feel the road. Keeps the foot stable and pace quick.Was a good tempo shoe, but I’d rest these on easy days. Above average sole durability; the heel plug is very wear-resistant.”

Updates the 749 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15,16(D,2E,4E); Women 5–11,12,13 (B,D) • Weight: 11.7 oz. (men’s 11); 9.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobelslip-lasted

Nike LunarElite+ 5 $100 The Lunarlite foam has been working its way through many of Nike’s established performance shoes, transforming them intonew shoes. The LunarElite+ 5 retains only the mission of the Elite+ 4: to provide a light, responsive, stable ride. The re-vampedupper is now a no-sew, seam-free combination of mesh and synthetic overlays, with Flywire for midfoot support. The close fitis not quite racer-like, but it’s secure and comfortable. The Lunarlite midsole features Nike’s Dynamic Support which is softenough for neutral feet and stable enough for mild to moderate overpronators. The ride is typically cushioned and responsive—the snappiest Lunar shoe yet.

“The fit was pretty good and the smooth interior was appreciated. Not as snug in the arch as some tempo shoes or racers. The cushion-ing and weight are where the shoe really shines and durability has been great, the cushioning really holds up.”

Updates the Elite+ 4 • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to moderate overpronation • Sizes:Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11 • Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board

Reebok Premier SF Attack $90The SF Attack is new to the Reebok Premier line, and a bit of a sleeper with a unique design. The upper is open airmesh withthe toe cap as the only forefoot overlay, making them light and bunion-friendly. The Smoothfit upper (the “SF” in the name)supports the midfoot without interior seams, securing heel and midfoot with a soft, sueded feel. The midsole is responsive anddurable injection-molded EVA, with a second density adding a good measure of stability. The DMPRTek outersole providesgood flexibility with proven durability and a bit of extra cushioning. For performance, stability, and its great light feel, thePremier SF Attack deserves serious consideration.

“Great fit. I ran a half marathon in these three days after I got them and had no blisters or sore spots. Right amount of cushion for runningon the road, and nice and straight and stable. These are probably the lightest shoes I have been able to run in and feel like I have good

cushion and support, and can run some longer miles in.”

NEW • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with very mild to moderate overpronation • Sizes: Men 7–13,14,15; Women 6–11• Weight: 11.4 oz. (men’s 11); 9.5 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted

Scott Makani II $110After a start with European triathletes, Scott brings a range of training and racing shoes to the U.S. market. Of these, the MakaniII may be the most versatile, managing the wear and tear of training while being light enough to race in. The upper is the typ-ical lightweight mesh, but with a stretchy inner sleeve through the midfoot and a supportive saddle that cinches separately. Themidsole is a new EVA blend known as UltraLyte, which provides a nicely responsive ride. The midfoot features a second den-sity of EVA, as well as a shank of a carbon fiber element beneath a TPU window which, in concert, provide torsional rigidity byresisting excessive twisting. A combination of blown rubber in the forefoot and carbon in the heel and high-wear regions roundsout a familiar construction. It’s ultra light weight, responsive ride, and good stability earned the Makani our Best PerformanceShoe award.

“This is a very good-fitting shoe which snugs up nicely around my ankle and the toebox allows enough room for my toes to dig in duringspeedwork. This shoe is very responsive feeling with a nice flexible forefoot and a very stiff arch. The heel area absorbs shock well, and

the forefoot allows a feel of the ground while pushing off.”

Updates the Makani • Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral biomechanics to mild overpronation • Sizes: Men6–12,13; Women 5–11 • Weight: 10.8 oz. (men’s 11); 8.7 oz. (women’s 8) • Shape: semi-curved • Construction: Strobel slip-lasted,UltraLyte Strobel board

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