Again I’m probably going to sound like a shill but for $140, you’d be hard pressed to find anything better to run in.
What they are: a lightweight, versatile runner that should fit most people’s needs and more.
What the are not: a CrossFit shoe, probably not a marathoner or long distance shoe but I’d never test that.
Unlike the R-1 that was billed a runner then adopted to training, these are pure runner. Sure you could do some lifts in them (like any shoe)if you’re so inclined to, but I don’t think they envisioned that in this shoes development – It feels like a true running shoe. Swellfoam midsole feels peppy and responsive, not soft underfoot, not UFO bouncy. Geometry is more relaxed than something like EVO SL, but not like it wants you to slow down. They’d be as good at a day at the park as they would putting down some threshold runs.
The upper fits well, breathes well, flexes well with no hotspots and the ankle collar is comfortable. The tongue isn’t gusseted but stays well enough and hasn’t bothered me at all. The grip is excellent on these shoes, at least just walking around and on the runner.
What’s bad about them? A lot of this comes down to preference. The tongue may bother you more than it bothers me. It’s certainly better than EVO SL, but not leagues better. The bounce also isn’t as perceivable (compared to EVO) and they’re not as soft as some other shoes (rebel/novablast/evo) if that’s what you wanted. I also think they fit my feet perfectly and that tells me they’ll probably be narrow for some people. Fits similar to R-1, a little wider than V2.
If you didn’t want to sift through the intricacies of running shoes, something like this is for you.
Leave a ReplyCancel reply