Shoe ReviewS: Motion Stabilizing iii Performance iv Neutral vi

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1 Shoe ReviewS: Motion Stabilizing iii Performance iv Neutral vi T he minimalist craze that began several years ago has worked its way through the entire running footwear industry. In the absence of industry standards, brands have developed competing definitions of minimal, as runners and retailers watch with fascination. This minimalist groundswell has resulted in entirely new brands, brands new to running, and the revitalization of several companies that, by all appearances, were defunct. No major running brand remains untouched by this new category. Over the last several years, the Running Network has looked at Minimal shoes as a distinct category, and we reviewed them separately. However, the shoes we looked at and tested for this cross-category review made it clear that the minimalist philosophy now influences all running shoe design. Half the shoes in this review are Performance shoes, more than in any previous review. Lighter materials and the focus on geometry have redefined what constitutes a Performance shoe. Light weight used to be the primary distinction of Performance shoes. Now it s actually the shape of the midsole that s more important, as real performance comes from efficient. The shoes with the best shape encourage better running form. Heel-to-toe drop the difference between the height of the heel relative to that of the toe has also become an important design consideration because of the efficiency of running in a lower profile shoe. One more characteristic of Performance shoes is the stack height: the amount of foam between the foot and the ground. It significantly determines comfort in Performance (and Minimal) shoes. This trend toward the minimal has affected even the heavier Motion Stabilizing and Neutral shoe categories. Most of these shoes have trimmed down, focusing on achieving their original functions with less bulk. Christopher McDougal s 2009 book, Born to Run, was a catalyst of this Minimalist trend, but its vigorous growth continues because runners are enjoying less. Oh, they aren t enjoying running less they re enjoying the feel of less on their feet. It s a new take on the old adage, Less Is More. Cregg Weinmann, Running Network Footwear Reviewer

2 welcome to the Running Network s 2013 Spring Shoe Review Cregg Weinmann has been the Running Network s footwear reviewer since His reviews have evolved from biannual reviews Spring and Fall to additional two-page reviews on specific categories such as Minimalist, Road Racers, Track & Field, Trail, Best Shoes Under $85, and Kids Shoes. I m amazed how well the projects come together. The team we have Kristen Cerer and Alex Larsen in design, Marg Sumner as proofreader, Cregg as footwear reviewer helmed by project coordinator/editor Christine Johnson, has found a way to share an immense amount of information in an easy-to-read format. In the end, content is king. The Running Network s Shoe Reviews and features provide access to our carefully researched information on running footwear to more than 4 million readers via print, the Web, digital and mobile formats, and social media (FB and Twitter). Where is running footwear going? Here, Weinmann and researchers like Simon Bartold and Jack Daniels are in agreement: Lightweight will not be going away. Minimalism is a great tool really, training equipment to improve your running experience and performance. At the end of the day, the Running Network s Shoe Reviews and features, along with our partners magazines, websites, and social media, are here for just one reason: to enhance your running experience and relationship with your local running community. So take a run, cool down, and then enjoy reading our 2013 Spring Shoe Review, and continue your quest for the perfect running shoe for you! Larry Eder President, Running Network LLC MOTION STABILIZING asics gel-kayano 19 Saucony Mirage 3 Mizuno wave Rider 16 adidas energy Boost NEW SHOE AWARD WINNERS PERFORMANCE New Balance 890 v3 RENOVATION NEUTRAL RuNNiNg NetwoRk LLC PaRtNeRS American Track & Field Athletes Only Athletics (Canada) Austin Fit California Track & Running News Club Running Coaching Athletics Quarterly Colorado Runner Get Active! Greater Long Island Running Club s Footnotes Latinos Corriendo Marathon Guide Michigan Runner Missouri Runner & Triathlete Running Journal & Racing South RunMinnesota RUNOHIO Track & Field News USATF s Fast Forward USATF New England s Exchange Zone The Winged Foot The Winged M Youth Runner 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, , larry@runningnetwork.com Publisher: Larry Eder, Website: For a Media Kit, please visit our website. This 2013 Spring 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 to the biomechanical purpose of each shoe model. Copyright 2013 by Running Network LLC. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be stored, copied, or reprinted without prior 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 before beginning or changing your fitness regimen. Running Network 2013 Spring Shoe Review ii

3 motion stabilizing MOTION STABILIZING asics gel-kayano 19 $150 As ASICS flagship shoe for plush stability, the Gel-Kayano continues to set the bar high for this category. Now sleeker and lighter weight, Round 19 is worthy of the attention it will surely attract. The upper features an almost tailored fit, as ASICS continues to dial in its well-established technologies of separated Discrete eyelets and Bio-Fit stretch inserts. The shoe supports and moves with the foot better than ever. The upper trades the previous open mesh for a closed mesh and welded overlays, giving the shoe a more unified feel. The midsole features the same basic profile but is more rounded, as has been adopted by other shoes in ASICS line. The generous Gel pad has been reshaped and the Dynamic DuoMax a stabilizing medial support effectively curbs overpronation. The outersole is AHAR in the heel with DuraSponge rubber, ASICS proven rubber compound, in the forefoot. With its combination of fit, stability, and stylish performance, the Gel-Kayano 19 earned our award for Best Shoe in the Motion Stabilizing category. Fit just right; stable and secure. Plenty of cushion. What s not to like? The Kayano is predictable and effective. Sizes: Men 6 14,15,16 (D), 8 14,15,16 (2E,4E); Women 5 12 (B,D) Weight: 11.3 oz. (men s size 11); 9.4 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: combination Strobel lasted, Solyte Strobel board (heel) Recommended for: low- to medium higharched feet with mild to moderate overpronation Brooks adrenaline gts 13 $110 Brooks go-to shoe has risen to the level of industry icon. The Adrenaline is evidence of Brooks commitment to consistency: Round 13 maintains what works. The upper has undergone a shift to a smaller mesh, and the details welded forefoot overlays and a series of adjustable eyelets that improve the midfoot fit of the shoe have been fine tuned, resulting in a more refined fit. In the midsole, there have been some minor adjustments to the look of the sidewall molding, but the crashpad and medial support remain essentially unchanged. The outersole still has its proven configuration of HPR carbon rubber in the heel and Flextra, a blown rubber compound, in the forefoot. By offering a substantial array of features and holding the price steady, Brooks has made the Adrenaline an even better value. And that s good news for loyal Adrenaline fans and an invitation to potential fans. They hugged my foot very nicely. The cushioning was more responsive than plush, but they were protective. The stability is what the Adrenaline is all about. Sizes: Men: 7 13,14,15; Women: 5 12,13 Weight: 11.5 oz. (men s size 11); 9.5 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: combination Strobel lasted, S257 Strobel board (forefoot) Recommended for: low- to medium high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation Brooks Ravenna 4 $110 Overshadowed by its flashier siblings, the plush Trance and the bestselling Adrenaline, the Ravenna is often seen as Brooks workhorse stability shoe. However, runners who give it a try will discover that it delivers real performance. The upper features slight modifications: a round mesh similar to that in the 3; a small, reworked saddle in the midfoot to lock the foot down over the midsole; and an enhanced, hinge-like articulation in the eyestay that flexes as the foot bends. The BioMogo midsole has Brooks DNA cushioning insert in both the heel and forefoot to attenuate the foot s impact through the gait cycle. The outersole is the simple and proven HPR-and-Flextra-carbon/blown rubber combination for durability, yet it softens the ride. The Ravenna s light weight is a plus, but stability is its strength. Great fit and light as a feather. I was impressed by the comfort. The Ravenna is very balanced and secure. I could not expect more. Sizes: Men: 7 13,14,15; Women: 5 12,13 Weight: 11.1 oz. (men s size 11); 9.2 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip lasted, S257 Strobel board Recommended for: low- to medium high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation Mizuno wave inspire 9 $115 Mizuno has earned its reputation for providing comfort and performance due to shoes like the Inspire. Round 9 provides all that with a bit of added oomph. The upper is a new, closed mesh that improves support and breathability, and it s enhanced by no-sew overlays, so the fit remains familiar though a bit more supportive. The midsole is AP+ foam, and the asymmetrical Wave plate inhibits overpronation. This configuration always has been a good combination, but testers seemed even more aware of its performance in this round. The outersole of X-10 rubber provides traction and durability, and the hinge-like Smooth-Ride sole design provides a smooth transition through ground contact. The result is a stable, responsive shoe that delivers high-mileage performance. Good fit right from the box; very stable and secure feeling. Good cushioning and stability. The Inspire has been consistently well done. Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15,16 (D,2E); Women: 6 12 (2A,D) Weight: 10.4 oz. (men s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: low- to medium high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation Saucony Progrid hurricane 15 $140 The Hurricane is Saucony s most reliable motion stabilizing shoe and, with Round 14, was the first of its mainline models to feature the lowered geometry of an 8-millimeter heel-to-toe drop. Here, it keeps that geometry and its efficient heel-to-toe transition. Also retained in the upper are the Sauc-fit insert and flat laces to secure the foot, a similar breathable mesh, and reflective accents. The midsole is PowerGrid, a foam formulation that s responsive and resilient, and offers a firm ride and good durability. The outersole is XT-900 carbon rubber in the heel, with ibr+, a formulation of injected rubber, in the forefoot for good durability with the cushioning of blown rubber. The result is a durable shoe that can handle the miles and the long, hard road. Perfect fit, and stable. Lots of bounce and great support. The Hurricane was an outstanding shoe for me. Sizes: Men: 7 13,14,15,16 (B,D,2E,4E); Women: 5 12 (2A,B,D,2E) Weight: 10.4 oz. (men s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: low- to medium high-arched feet with mild to moderate overpronation Running Network 2013 Spring Shoe Review iii

4 performance asics gel-excel 33 2 $125 The Gel-Excel, ASICS flagship shoe of the 33 series, has undergone its first update, and Round 2 introduces a new approach to the geometry of the series, Fluid Axis, which debuts in two shoes this season. The upper has been dialed in to provide just enough structure to line up the foot over the midsole, particularly in the heel, while the no-sew overlays provide security. The midsole is composed of Solyte foam topped by SpEVA, and features Fluid Axis geometry, which allows flexibility in two planes under the heel. Here, it s firmer than the version in the Gel-Lyte 33 2, so it offers a different and more supportive ride. The outersole is spare, though there s more of it here than on the Gel-Lyte. It s enough to contribute a touch of structure and a bit of cushion where the rubber is bonded to the midsole. The net effect is a lightweight, mid-mileage shoe for faster running or daily training for efficient runners who are speedy and lightweight themselves. They fit very nicely and are comfortable from beginning to the end of the run. They have lots of cushioning, though the heel is noticeably less bouncy than the forefoot. Updates the ASICS Gel-Excel 33 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15; Women 6 13 Weight: 10.3 oz. (men s size 11); 8.6 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, Solyte Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral asics gel-lyte 33 2 $90 The roots of this shoe reach way back, and Gel-Lyte is a welcome addition to ASICS 33 series. Round 1 had significant strengths, but its upper had a few issues. Round 2 addresses those and also debuts Fluid Axis, ASICS new midsole geometry designed to work efficiently with the foot s motion. The upper has been completely redesigned, with a minimesh and synthetic overlays but no additional structure. The midsole is Solyte foam with flex grooves beneath the heel s main joint (one of 33 joints in each foot) to allow its movement without excessive hindrance. Some weartesters found this movement uncomfortable, though it may just take getting used to. The outersole is a minimal carbon rubber/blown rubber setup only in the highestwear areas to allow the foot to take advantage of the Fluid Axis system. The result is a shoe for faster running that will make your feet stronger, though you may need some time to adapt to it, and it may not be a shoe you can wear every day. Felt like my feet were in moccasins.... The shoe feels good to run in. I always felt like my feet were landing properly, but they were a little tiring to get used to. Not super durable, but they are useful for my faster runs. Updates the Gel-Lyte 33 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15; Women 6 13 Weight: 9.2 oz. (men s size 11); 7.7 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved to curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to higharched feet with neutral Brooks PureFlow 2 $100 Round 2 of the PureFlow sports a few key changes along with a bump in the price, which is a sign of the times. The upper has been completely reworked. The tongue is gone, in favor of a continuous lateral-side opening with a medial flap. Support over the instep is provided by the Navband and no-sew overlays on each side that create a midfoot saddle. Paint the whole thing in dayglow colors and reflective accents, and you have built-in, eye-catching safety features. The low-profile midsole continues with a 4mm drop that can handle some serious mileage. The outersole is carbon rubber, used sparingly on numerous pods (especially the pod under the fifth metatarsal), allowing the foot to support and balance itself in midstance. Succinctly put, the PureFlow 2 is low-slung, light, and responsive. Comfortable while running, neither too snug nor [too] loose. The toebox does not feel confining, plenty roomy. A lot of days, this is my Go-To shoe for all types of training. I like the way the shoe feels while running. Updates the PureFlow Sizes: Men 7 13,14; Women 5 12 Weight: 9.8 oz. (men s size 11); 7.9 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral karhu Flow Light Fulcrum $110 The Flow Light Fulcrum represents the latest iteration of Karhu s Fulcrum technology, and we think it s the most effective one to date. The midsole combines the Fulcrum element here, a second-density foam with a softer density of EVA to deliver an effective ride that s responsive and resilient. The geometry is a low heel-to-toe drop with a shallow stack height that lightens the shoe while still providing good comfort and cushion. Spare rubber on the outersole lends a little traction and durability without adding much weight. The upper is airmesh with welded overlays that wrap the foot in a minimal design that isn t skimpy. One particularly nice touch are twin lobes of memory foam in the ankle collar that enhances the fit and adds the touch of comfort needed to complete the shoe while keeping the weight down. The result is an excellent performance shoe for faster running or racing. Great fit, light, and just barely enough cushion, but they are light. Good go fast shoe for faster training and racing. New Sizes: Men 8 13,14; Women 5 12 Weight: 8.9 oz. (men s size 11); 7.5 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, perforated EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral, for faster running Mizuno wave elixer 8 $120 The Elixer continues to be a flashy bauble in Mizuno s line, but it s a bauble with plenty of muscle. The upper is a closed mesh, but with attention-grabbing, sublimated graphics. Like other Mizuno shoes this year, the midfoot is supported by no-sew overlays and anchored by heel and toe overlays of traditional synthetics. The low-profile midsole has a single asymmetrical Wave plate setup, but the real surprise is the responsiveness and resilience of the AP+ foam. The outersole continues with X-10 rubber in the heel and a forefoot combination of blown rubber laterally and fabric-backed TPU medially, improving the durability of the shoe. The result is a snappy, lightweight shoe for faster and more stable running. Very good fit, secure and supportive. The ride is firm but well cushioned, and the stability is surprising for a shoe this light. Very versatile you could even race in them. Updates the Wave Elixer 7 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15; Women 6 11 Weight: 9.8 oz. (men s size 11); 8.2 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral to mild overpronation Running Network 2013 Spring Shoe Review iv

5 performance Newton gravity $175 The Gravity is the original Newton shoe, now thoroughly dialed in and rolling along. Designed for neutral runners interested in performance, its technology encourages forefoot striking via its cushioning lugs, but it benefits all neutral runners by storing and releasing energy for toe-off. Though the upper utilizes traditional airmesh and synthetic suede overlays, they are of really high quality. (And at this price, they better be!) The midsole is also top-grade EVA, but a secret resides here: A membrane of Hytrel plastic absorbs energy at impact and then releases it at toe-off as the foot rolls forward, contributing an extra little push. The outersole is a typical setup of carbon rubber in the heel and lower-density rubber up front to keep the weight down. Overall, the Gravity is all about efficient running, and they ll go as fast as you can. Comfortable fit and quite light. The lugs feel funny, but get better as you run on them. Surprisingly, heel strikers can actually use these quite well. Good shoe, but $175 seems a bit expensive. Updates the Gravity Sizes: Men 6 13,14,15; Women 5 12 Weight: 10.3 oz. (men s size 11); 8.8 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved to curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral Nike Flyknit Lunar1+ $160 The Flyknit Lunar1+ is a new shoe for Nike. Well, it is new, though maybe a bit of a hybrid. With all of the fanfare over the Flyknit Racer and Trainer, the Lunar1 s upper will probably look familiar. It s knit and shaped in a single process without wasted material. With only a seam at the ankle collar and the Strobel board, there s little to irritate; not surprisingly, it fit our testers well. The lacing doesn t come up as high as usual nor does it permit you to select which eyelets to use, but it securely wraps the foot. The midsole is Lunarlon foam similar to other Lunar shoe configurations; it s done well here. It s responsive and nicely cushioned, but the ramp angle though it s a couple millimeters lower than typical Nike shoes feels a bit steep when compared to many of the shoes in this review. On the upside, it s also better cushioned than many of them. Ultimately, it s a matter of whether it suits you. The outersole is minimal but sufficient, keeping the weight down and the foot protected. I was impressed with the ride more than the fit (nice and cushy), and the performance more than the durability (really light and fast). They seem to be worth the price, but I might not buy a second pair. New Sizes: Men 5 13,14,15; Women 5 12 Weight: 9.6 oz. (men s size 11); 7.8 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral Puma Mobium elite $110 The Mobium is a new shoe for Puma, and it takes its name from the Möbius Strip. (Remember that twisted strip of paper from your geometry class that looked like the infinity symbol?) Mobium describes the technology used here: an elastic cord shaped like a figure- 8 and positioned flat in the bottom of the shoe. As the foot flexes, the cord returns the sole to its original position before the next step, better supporting the foot by ensuring the foam is in the right spot at the footstrike. The closed mesh upper has well-positioned foam in the ankle collar, and offers a snug, though not constricting, fit. The midsole is durable injectionmolded EVA with rounded edges mimicking the rounded shape of the heel, with a 4mm heel-to-toe drop that s firm but responsive. The segmented outersole covers little more than the contacting surfaces to save weight. This is a shoe for faster running that gives the foot a workout as much as it provides support in a macro sense. While running, the shoe works to accentuate the natural motion of my feet. The middle of the shoe snugs up very tightly around my foot. Responsive cushioning, and a nice light shoe. New Sizes: Men ,13,14; Women ,12 Weight: 10.0 oz. (men s size 11); 8.3 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral, for faster-paced running Saucony Mirage 3 $110 The Mirage has been a top performer for Saucony, straddling the categories of minimal drop shoes and supportive shoes with a generous stack height; it s well cushioned and efficient. The upper returns to an open mesh with welded, no-sew overlays providing just enough support for the foot with hardly a weight gain. The midsole is responsive and well cushioned enough to handle high-mileage training the one constant in all three rounds. The TPU medial support in this iteration is the least obtrusive version yet and is effective at curbing overpronation (thanks, in part, to the low heel-to-toe drop). The outersole is still just enough pieces to cover the high-wear areas of the sole; it s pared back a bit, even from previous rounds. The combination of responsive cushioning, light weight, and great fit earned the Mirage 3 our Best Performance Shoe Award. Usual great Saucony fit: snug in the heel and midfoot with a roomy toebox. Nicely cushioned, very comfortable. It s like a sleek racing shoe upper on a training shoe bottom. Updates Mirage 2 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15; Women 5 12 Weight: 9.8 oz. (men s size 11); 8.4 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral PERFORMANCE Skechers gorun 2 $80 The update to the GoRun brings Skechers a bit closer to the mainstream, while retaining its unique story. The entire shoe has been revised, and we think the revision is successful. The upper retains its stretch mesh, keeping the slipper-like feel and low-slung, racer fit. No-sew, welded overlays support the saddle as before. The midsole geometry has been altered with slightly lowered lugs under the arch, reducing the awkward midfoot feel of the last round. The ride is resilient and cushions the foot well, but it s very flexible and may require some adaptation prior to regular wear. The outersole is almost nonexistent: about a dozen carbon rubber dots spread over a road-grade EVA sole. As a racer or a shoe reserved for faster-paced running and speedwork, it s very good. Super-light and efficient runners might get away with daily wear, but all runners can benefit from a shoe like this for some of their faster runs. Snug, racerlike fit. I get a hit the gas feeling when I put this on, so I use them for my fastest runs. Updates the GoRun Sizes: Men ,14; Women 5 10,11 Weight: 7.5 oz. (men s size 11); 6.5 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved to curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral, for faster-paced running Running Network 2013 Spring Shoe Review v

6 neutral NEW SHOE adidas energy Boost $150 The Energy Boost has succeeded in firing up the imagination of runners, even though so far it s those runners who happen to own running specialty stores. The reason? The Energy Boost is light and really fun to run in. The upper is a sleek, black, stretchy woven textile, with minimal, no-sew overlays that moves effectively with the foot. The innovative midsole employs a new foam formulation (created in collaboration with chemical company BASF) that seems to last forever and provides surprising bounce to the shoe (hence, the Boost in its name). Though the geometry is traditional, the shoe has a fast feel, even if it s not exactly outright performance oriented. The outersole is minimal with the extra material carved away, though not at the expense of durability. The combination of innovation, ride, and cool factor earned the Energy Boost our award for Best New Shoe. The fit was a little tight in the toes, but secure overall. The cushioning is almost trampoline-like, but not out of control. The shaping of the midsole makes it track pretty well. New Sizes: Men 7 15; Women 5 12 Weight: 10.2 oz. (men s size 11); 8.8 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral adidas Supernova glide 5 $115 The Supernova Glide has been a comfortable cruiser dating back to the earliest Supernova neutral offerings. Though not as light as many other neutral shoes, it provides a plush feel to its ride, something that s missing in some lighter shoes. The upper is a smallweave mesh that s a touch more supportive while still breathable. Effective overlays secure the midfoot while opening up in the forefoot for a more comfortable and accommodating fit. The toe bumper offers good protection and adds durability. The midsole continues with adiprene handling extra cushioning, though with different formulations in the heel and forefoot. The ForMotion cassette stabilizes the foot while also serving as an effective crashpad. The outersole continues with Continental rubber for durability and traction. Runners should expect continued performance from this proven high-mileage shoe. Snug heel and arch, roomy toes. Responsive and stable cushioning. Durable high-mileage shoes what I ve expected from the Supernova Glide. Updates the Supernova Glide 4 Sizes: Men ,16,17,18,19,20; Women Weight: 12.2 oz. (men s size 11); 9.6 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semicurved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral to very mild overpronation NEUTRAL Mizuno wave Rider 16 $115 It s hard to remember when Mizuno s lineup didn t include the Wave Rider. That longevity is due to Mizuno s laser-like focus on providing both a great fit and a great ride. In this round, the upper looks new with a closed mesh that seems stiffer, enabling the traditional midfoot overlays to be replaced with fewer (and lighter) welded ones. Overlays at the heel and toe continue to provide the same structure as before. The shape of the midsole has been subtly altered, though our weartesters confirm that it provides the same performance as did the 15. The outersole is X-10 rubber with the SmoothRide hinged element in the forefoot, encouraging a snappy toe-off. Fans won t be disappointed, and new users will likely join the ranks. The triple threat of responsive ride, great fit, and highmileage durability earned the Wave Rider 16 our award for Best Shoe in the Neutral category. Fit well; comfortable; no loose or tight spots. Nice cushioning, not overly squishy, with a responsive feel. They are comfortable, durable, light, and cute. Highly recommend! Updates the Wave Rider 15 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15,16 (D,2E); Women 6 12 (2A,B,D) Weight: 11.7 oz. (men s size 11); 9.1 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral New Balance 890 v3 $110 By focusing on aesthetics, performance, and durability, the 890 has contributed a lot to New Balance s running shoe success. This is due in large part to NB s use of the surprisingly light and well-cushioned midsole foam, RevLite, which started and continues the franchise. Not messing with success, Round 3 arrives with no dramatic changes, which will be good news to its many fans. In the upper, changes are not simply cosmetic. The repositioning of the no-sew overlays wrap the foot more securely, especially in combination with the ankle collar foam. The midsole continues with single-density RevLite and well-sculpted geometry, particularly in the crashpad. The outersole retains thin, but tough carbon rubber in the heel and a blown rubber forefoot. The net effect is a light, durable, highmileage trainer with a comfortable fit, as expected. The continued fusion of lightness, comfort, and supportive fit earned the 890 v3 our award for Best Renovation. Felt great out of the box and continue to impress. [They] feel light and fast. It is a key shoe in my rotation because it fits well, feels great, and is reliably versatile. Updates the 890 v2 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5 11,12 (2A,B,D) Weight: 10.4 oz. (men s size 11); 8.1 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, PU Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral RENOVATION Saucony Progrid triumph 9 $120 This time out, the Triumph joins Saucony s 8mm parade, featuring the same performance geometry as many of its mainline shoes and rounding out the Saucony performance lineup. The upper is wide-open air mesh with midfoot overlays sandwiched between the mesh layers, and pared back to minimize weight. The overlays at the heel and toe feature a traditional construction and are positioned to anchor the upper to the midsole. The midsole is a paradox a generous stack height (read: well cushioned) with a low profile feel, thanks to its 8mm heel-to-toe drop. The outersole is the proven carbon rubber heel/blown rubber forefoot. Overall, the plush, midweight Triumph 9 is a high-mileage trainer with a smooth feel for the road. Very comfortable fit. Wrapped my foot nicely and flexed well. Surprising low-profile feel, but pretty plush cushioning. They took what I dished out, and handled my higher mileage runs great. Updates the ProGrid Triumph 8 Sizes: Men 7 13,14,15 (D,2E); Women 5 12 Weight: 11.8 oz. (men s size 11); 9.2 oz. (women s size 8) Shape: semi-curved Construction: Strobel slip-lasted, EVA Strobel board Recommended for: medium- to high-arched feet with neutral Running Network 2013 Spring Shoe Review vi