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The Skechers GOrun Forza 4 is a good lightweight and sturdy stability road running shoe.
★★★★★
More details + $86.85
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Last price update was: March 8, 2021 3:46 am
The fourth in the famous Skechers line of stability shoes, the GOrun Forza 4 is surprisingly lightweight given its chunky yet vibrant style. It's considered one of the "workhorse trainers" of Skechers. While its design makes it more likely to be used as a road shoe, some runners also used it on easy trails. The Forza 4 features two types of midsole material: UltraFlight and Hyperburst, which work in conjunction to ensure runners "bounce" through every stride, while their feet are well-supported by the denser, firmer fabric that UltraFlight provides. The entire midsole section is thick, cushioned, and exceedingly stable, making it fantastic for moderate to longer runs. Meanwhile, the upper part of the Forza 4 is a mix of mono mesh and polyester, which adds to a soft, comfortable ride from heel to toe. The outsole features Goodyear rubber, which — although it appears excessive and thick — runners appreciate for its durability and traction. With the many elements of comfort, support, stability, and style that runners have noted, the Forza 4 wasn't notable for many downsides. However, some users stated that the tongue sits relatively lower on the foot, making tight lacing a bit uncomfortable (and challenging to get snug). Additionally, while the sturdiness of the shoe is a plus, the Forza 4 seems to retain its rigidity over time, even after the break-in process. Unfortunately, this minimizes the ability of the foot to "roll" through each step, according to the testers. Coupled with this response is also the remark that the shoe is "too firm," despite its cushioned midsole and flexible upper. Primarily intended for overpronators, the Forza 4 is suitable for runners of all profiles, including neutral runners. Overall, the Skechers GOrun Forza 4 is a good stability road shoe: lightweight and comfortable despite a relatively firm and somewhat rigid platform.
PROS:
- Good general comfort
- Lightweight for a stability shoe for overpronation
- A tightly fitting upper that keeps the foot securely and comfortably in place
- Sturdy shoe
CONS:
- The rigid platform even after a few runs
- Rather firm cushioning that may not be suitable for all runners
- Tongue position is not the most comfortable
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v2 is a daily trainer that offers good value for money.
★★★★★
More details + Buy now
Last price update was: March 8, 2021 6:46 am
The second model in New Balance's FuelCell Propel line will take you anywhere you want to go! Its snappy toe-off response and supportive design make the V2 a practical (and affordable) daily trainer. This new version marks a significant shift that could disconcert fans of the first iteration.
The midsole of the V2 lends itself to a smooth ride that performs on fast days. In fact, the "pop" of this shoe calls to mind the phrase, "...a spring in your step!" Drastically different from its V1 forerunner—no pun intended—this midsole is an entirely different beast. Where its soft, cushiony midsole characterized the V1, the firmer design of the V2 has true rocker appeal. Another noticeable modification is the upper's new design, which has meant a thinner tongue and a stiffer fit for runners. While it still gets the job done, users of the V2 say that the new upper is a step in the wrong direction. Fortunately, the outsole is engineered with NDurance rubber, which provides enhanced durability. The V2 is a road shoe but provides enough traction to grip terrain well on light trails.
While the V2 has many strong qualities for its price point, there are a few downsides to Propel's latest model. For one thing, while it's a great shoe for normal to fast days, it may not be the best recovery option. If shoes were a race, the V1 would be a marathon, and the V2 would be a sprint. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing—it all depends on what you're looking for. Also, as mentioned, the upper is described as a "definite step backward" by users, who preferred the more comfortable V1 design. The overall engineering of the V2 is less flexible and clunkier than its predecessor.
Ultimately, with a very affordable price point of $100, the attractive Propel V2 performs in all the ways it should. For those seeking a shoe that performs well at a value, the V2 might be a fantastic option. However, runners seeking shoes for longer rides should consider other options, as should runners who prefer a softer, more flexible design. Maybe a future V3 model will combine the best of both the V1 and V2!
The midsole of the V2 lends itself to a smooth ride that performs on fast days. In fact, the "pop" of this shoe calls to mind the phrase, "...a spring in your step!" Drastically different from its V1 forerunner—no pun intended—this midsole is an entirely different beast. Where its soft, cushiony midsole characterized the V1, the firmer design of the V2 has true rocker appeal. Another noticeable modification is the upper's new design, which has meant a thinner tongue and a stiffer fit for runners. While it still gets the job done, users of the V2 say that the new upper is a step in the wrong direction. Fortunately, the outsole is engineered with NDurance rubber, which provides enhanced durability. The V2 is a road shoe but provides enough traction to grip terrain well on light trails.
While the V2 has many strong qualities for its price point, there are a few downsides to Propel's latest model. For one thing, while it's a great shoe for normal to fast days, it may not be the best recovery option. If shoes were a race, the V1 would be a marathon, and the V2 would be a sprint. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing—it all depends on what you're looking for. Also, as mentioned, the upper is described as a "definite step backward" by users, who preferred the more comfortable V1 design. The overall engineering of the V2 is less flexible and clunkier than its predecessor.
Ultimately, with a very affordable price point of $100, the attractive Propel V2 performs in all the ways it should. For those seeking a shoe that performs well at a value, the V2 might be a fantastic option. However, runners seeking shoes for longer rides should consider other options, as should runners who prefer a softer, more flexible design. Maybe a future V3 model will combine the best of both the V1 and V2!
PROS:
- Sturdy shoe at this price point
- Firm cushioning that will appeal to runners who prefer this type of padding
- Reasonable weight
- Fast and smooth transitions
CONS:
- Comfortable cushioning but perhaps not as responsive as it was on v1
- Stiffness of the new upper
The On Cloudflow 2.0 is a good Swiss-engineered lightweight road running shoe.
★★★★★
More details + $139.99
The On Cloudflow 2.0 is the 2020 version of the original Cloudflow. Engineered with an innovative design and updated features, the Cloudflow 2.0 is made for 5k, 10k, and even half-marathon races. A few noteworthy qualities of the Cloudflow 2.0 include its Helion super foam midsole, which promotes a snappy ride and a consistently smooth ride with its well-cushioned padding—perfect for ensuring optimal comfort on shorter runs. Additionally, the toe box is an ideal width for accommodating a range of foot sizes, from narrow to wide, and is purportedly quite airy due to its breathable upper mesh material. Runners remarked it was a clear step up from the original Cloudflow design. The outsole of the 2.0 has been updated, as well, offering improved traction for a better grip on wet roads. Runners who tried the Cloudflow 2.0 did report a few of the shoe's disadvantages, including a lack of support, faulty outsole design (rocks and debris lodge easily in the grooves), and even stated that the shoe's design caused some abrasions after running longer distances. However, for short-term use, training sessions, and short to moderate races, the 2.0 did not disappoint, offering runners a speed advantage, breathable fabric, and enhanced comfort with its Helion midsole padding. However, the On Cloudflow 2.0 may be a bit pricier than its performance warrants. The promise of superior quality due to the Swiss design of the shoe just doesn't seem to materialize in the Cloudflow 2.0. On a scale of 1-10, we rank this running shoe an 8.7 for its overall positive feedback and enhanced technology from the original Cloudflow design. Runners looking for long-wear shoes that will persevere on trails and longer distances, however, should consider other options.
PROS:
- Good comfort
- Lightweight shoe
- Responsive ride
- Snug fit, good foot lockdown
- Appealing design
CONS:
- The outsole quickly shows traces of wear
- The design of the sole with its "Clouds" tends to retain small stones and gravel
The Altra Paradigm 5.0 is a good zero drop road running shoe with plush cushioning for overpronators.
★★★★★
More details + $149.95
Buy now
Last price update was: March 8, 2021 6:46 am
The Paradigm 5 is Altra's plush zero-drop stability running shoe. True to the line's reputation, some things never change: the 5 lends itself to a supremely padded ride. Its thick foam and oversized design are a nod to previous models, with one important modification: a reinvention of the upper. Engineered to go the distance, Paradigm 5 makes for a quality and stable ride.
At 12.2 oz/346 grams, the Paradigm 5 has gained nearly half an ounce from last year's model. Runners remarked that they could feel the added weight, referring to the 5 as a "beefy" road shoe. Indeed, with sizing that runs very large (by half-size to a full size), the 5 is definitely not for faster runs. This added weight is owed partially to the EGO foam midsole, which some runners believe is enough to sell the shoe. It's responsive without losing stability, thanks to the addition of Guide Rail and StabiliPods to keep the padding in check. Perhaps the most notable improvement, though, is the 5's new-and-improved upper, designed with more breathable mesh compared with previous models. Still, some runners say the toe bumper is a bit much for a road shoe, adding to the clunky design. Finally, the outsole is similar to preceding Paradigm shoes, with five rubber pods that are good for traction and durability.
It seems that runners have a lot to say about the Paradigm 5, and many of those comments are critiques. The biggest complaint seems to be the shoe's overall size, which simply feels too unwieldy for practical runs. There were also comments about the toe bumper, which is overly reinforced for a standard road shoe and adds unnecessary weight.
Overall, the Paradigm 5 continues to appeal to its fans. Still, many runners don't understand the appeal of this shoe, which is decidedly too heavy to go beyond easy daily workouts and recovery sessions. A good shoe, therefore, but reserved for runners who want to combine XL cushioning, zero drop, and stability.
At 12.2 oz/346 grams, the Paradigm 5 has gained nearly half an ounce from last year's model. Runners remarked that they could feel the added weight, referring to the 5 as a "beefy" road shoe. Indeed, with sizing that runs very large (by half-size to a full size), the 5 is definitely not for faster runs. This added weight is owed partially to the EGO foam midsole, which some runners believe is enough to sell the shoe. It's responsive without losing stability, thanks to the addition of Guide Rail and StabiliPods to keep the padding in check. Perhaps the most notable improvement, though, is the 5's new-and-improved upper, designed with more breathable mesh compared with previous models. Still, some runners say the toe bumper is a bit much for a road shoe, adding to the clunky design. Finally, the outsole is similar to preceding Paradigm shoes, with five rubber pods that are good for traction and durability.
It seems that runners have a lot to say about the Paradigm 5, and many of those comments are critiques. The biggest complaint seems to be the shoe's overall size, which simply feels too unwieldy for practical runs. There were also comments about the toe bumper, which is overly reinforced for a standard road shoe and adds unnecessary weight.
Overall, the Paradigm 5 continues to appeal to its fans. Still, many runners don't understand the appeal of this shoe, which is decidedly too heavy to go beyond easy daily workouts and recovery sessions. A good shoe, therefore, but reserved for runners who want to combine XL cushioning, zero drop, and stability.
PROS:
- Very pleasant plush cushioning
- Wide and stable design effective for overpronation
- Upper is better ventilated than in the past
- Sturdy shoe
CONS:
- Bulky and heavy shoe
- Fits large
The New Balance FuelCell 890 v8 is a good shoe with firm cushioning for speed training.
★★★★★
More details + Buy now
Last price update was: March 7, 2021 8:46 pm
The New Balance FuelCell 890 v8 is a lightweight running shoe made for speed. This new version uses New Balance's latest cushioning technology: FuelCell. It replaces Revlite but testers are mixed on the result. Indeed, the cushioning is very firm. According to them, it's not stiff but lacks some spring to truly feel good. This impression fades during fast sessions such as tempo or Fartlek but, at slower speeds, the lack of responsiveness is much more obvious according to the runners who tested the shoe. For the rest, the 890 v8's platform is wide and stable, which proves comfortable. As for the upper, the testers appreciated the precise and comfortable (true to size) fit of the shoe. Also, the gusseted tongue is ingenious and the toe box is spacious without hindering the fit. However, it should be noted that several runners noticed signs of early wear in the rubber under the forefoot. Finally, the shoe has gained weight with nearly 30 grams since the last model. This is a pity even if it remains light compared to the competition with only 238 grams on the scale for men and 204 for women. In summary, the New Balance FuelCell 890 v8 is a good light running shoe but the lack of responsiveness of its cushioning and the fragility of its sole disappoint.
PROS:
- Comfortable foot support
- Lightweight shoe
- Nice design
- A wide and stable shoe without rigidity
- Firm cushioning that will appeal to runners looking for this type of configuration
CONS:
- Cushioning that lacks responsiveness bounce according to several runners
- Doubts about the durability of rubber under the forefoot
- Higher weight compared to the previous model
The Salomon Sonic 3 Confidence is a good comfortable road running shoe - the most padded of the Sonic family.
★★★★★
More details + $124.95
Buy now
Last price update was: March 7, 2021 7:46 am
The third model in the brand's Sonic series, the Salomon Sonic 3 Confidence, is all about added cushioning, support, and traction. The Confidence gives users an added "spring" in their step with its forward-propelling design, serving to energize runners and make it that much easier for them to achieve their desired speed. The Confidence also provides reliable traction for navigating a variety of terrains —though it is probably best for standard road use. Compared with its siblings, the Accelerate, and the Balance, the Confidence stands out for its optimal padding, which better accommodates long-distance runners with this added cushioning. Also, despite the thick stack height of 31 mm for the heel and 21 mm for the forefoot, the cushioning is rather firm to offer a good pop for a more responsive ride. Confidence also commented that the lacing area and tongue have an elastic quality, which means that the shoe can be molded to each user's uniquely-shaped foot. Overall, it's a supportive and reliable running shoe that works perfectly for most longer outdoor excursions and activities. There are a few potential drawbacks to the Confidence's design, including a restrictive midfoot area and an insecure heel collar, which isn't as supportive as the rest of the shoe. Users also noted that the Confidence's design is much clunkier than the Accelerate or the Balance. Perhaps because of this overall big design, the shoe itself tends to run on the larger side, so it's a good idea for users to size down when purchasing. In addition, the unusually-dense mesh fabric of the Confidence combined with its gusseted tongue takes away from foot breathability, especially when compared with other Sonic options. Pricing for the Salomon Sonic 3 Confidence is $130, which is decent, but perhaps not an excellent value given some of the downsides of the shoe. Ultimately, the Sonic 3 Confidence is a good choice for beginner to moderate runners planning to run medium to long distances, due to its extra padding for absorbing the shock of pounding.
PROS:
- Good overall comfort
- Firm and thick midsole to combine shock absorption and spring
- A sturdy shoe that can last a while
- Good stability (note that it's a neutral shoe)
CONS:
- Heel counter a bit loose that impedes the foot lockdown
- Lacks a bit of breathability
- Runs large
The Altra Lone Peak 5 is a sturdy zero drop trail shoe that offers grip and protection.
★★★★★
More details + $129.95
Integer models are generally synonymous with significant change at Altra. Therefore, trailers expected a lot from the Altra Lone Peak 5. Unfortunately, despite some noteworthy improvements, it's an aging model that's struggling to make its mark beyond the brand's fan base. Explanations.
The Lone Peak 5 is, like the other Altra models, a zero-drop shoe without an offset between the heel and the forefoot. The shoe has a medium stack height of 25 mm. According to the testers, cushioning is comfortable with the right balance between softness and firmness. Also, while the rock plate on the 4.5 version was not very effective, StoneGuard proves to be more useful on the 5 without impacting comfort.
The grip is still at its best with a new and improved lugs configuration. Trailers who have tried the shoe have found it to be effective even on snow. So it's a faultless record on this front. And as usual, Altra delivers a tough shoe that can take a lot of punishment and will last you a while.
It's with the upper that things get complicated. One of Altra's significant strengths—a comfortable lockdown with a large box to splay your toes—is a disadvantage on the LP5. According to the testers, the mesh is too loose and without enough structure to ensure a precise foot lockdown. The shoe is so wide that users recommend sizing down. Therefore, while the shoe may be suitable for people with wider feet, it may be tricky for the rest.
In short, the Altra Lone Peak 5 is a good trail shoe that lives up to the spirit of the brand: a wide upper, flawless grip, and a resilient outsole. However, the tricky loose fit makes it hard to recommend it.
The Lone Peak 5 is, like the other Altra models, a zero-drop shoe without an offset between the heel and the forefoot. The shoe has a medium stack height of 25 mm. According to the testers, cushioning is comfortable with the right balance between softness and firmness. Also, while the rock plate on the 4.5 version was not very effective, StoneGuard proves to be more useful on the 5 without impacting comfort.
The grip is still at its best with a new and improved lugs configuration. Trailers who have tried the shoe have found it to be effective even on snow. So it's a faultless record on this front. And as usual, Altra delivers a tough shoe that can take a lot of punishment and will last you a while.
It's with the upper that things get complicated. One of Altra's significant strengths—a comfortable lockdown with a large box to splay your toes—is a disadvantage on the LP5. According to the testers, the mesh is too loose and without enough structure to ensure a precise foot lockdown. The shoe is so wide that users recommend sizing down. Therefore, while the shoe may be suitable for people with wider feet, it may be tricky for the rest.
In short, the Altra Lone Peak 5 is a good trail shoe that lives up to the spirit of the brand: a wide upper, flawless grip, and a resilient outsole. However, the tricky loose fit makes it hard to recommend it.
PROS:
- Comfortable cushioning
- Effective foot protection
- Great grip
- Very durable shoe
CONS:
- Loose and imprecise fit
- High weight to stack height ratio
Half sneaker, half running shoe, the Adidas UltraBoost 21 is a sleek and comfortable option for your daily runs.
★★★★★
More details + $179.95
Every year, the Adidas UltraBoost is much anticipated but eventually leads to plenty of mixed reviews. The UB21 is no exception and proposes the same formula: a model halfway between a sneaker and a running shoe that tries to combine style and performance.
The sleek design is an achievement on its own and will please runners who like good-looking shoes on their feet. The Primeknit upper and its bootie conception offer great comfort and impeccable foot lockdown, according to the testers. It's both breathable and stretchy for a precise and adaptive fit. Also, the Primeblue material uses 50% of recycled plastic from the oceans. The UB21 also marks the midfoot plastic cage's return that many runners decried in the past on previous versions. However, luckily it's barely noticeable this time.
Then, the cushioning shifts gear with a heel stack height of 31 mm instead of 27 mm the year before. Adidas announces 6% more Boost, and it shows: the small white TPU granules give a massive sole, especially in the heel area. Another significant change, the Linear Energy Push plastic plate, replaces the Torsion System of the previous models. It gives structure to the platform for better stability and a snappier toe-off. However, in practice, testers found the cushioning to be firm and clunky, with little bounce, although the shoe does provide a stable ride. The weight doesn't help with 12.3 oz (348 g) (even more than the previous model), limiting its speed ambitions.
Finally, the outsole also boasts a new design and succumbs to the exposed foam trend (only in the center) without limiting durability or grip, both of which are very good.
In summary, unless you're a fan of the UltraBoost collection, there's little reason to opt for the UB21 other than its comfortable lockdown, good shock absorption, and sleek design. Otherwise, the Ultraboost is too heavy and too stiff for an enjoyable ride, even for daily runs.
The sleek design is an achievement on its own and will please runners who like good-looking shoes on their feet. The Primeknit upper and its bootie conception offer great comfort and impeccable foot lockdown, according to the testers. It's both breathable and stretchy for a precise and adaptive fit. Also, the Primeblue material uses 50% of recycled plastic from the oceans. The UB21 also marks the midfoot plastic cage's return that many runners decried in the past on previous versions. However, luckily it's barely noticeable this time.
Then, the cushioning shifts gear with a heel stack height of 31 mm instead of 27 mm the year before. Adidas announces 6% more Boost, and it shows: the small white TPU granules give a massive sole, especially in the heel area. Another significant change, the Linear Energy Push plastic plate, replaces the Torsion System of the previous models. It gives structure to the platform for better stability and a snappier toe-off. However, in practice, testers found the cushioning to be firm and clunky, with little bounce, although the shoe does provide a stable ride. The weight doesn't help with 12.3 oz (348 g) (even more than the previous model), limiting its speed ambitions.
Finally, the outsole also boasts a new design and succumbs to the exposed foam trend (only in the center) without limiting durability or grip, both of which are very good.
In summary, unless you're a fan of the UltraBoost collection, there's little reason to opt for the UB21 other than its comfortable lockdown, good shock absorption, and sleek design. Otherwise, the Ultraboost is too heavy and too stiff for an enjoyable ride, even for daily runs.
PROS:
- Great knit upper that offers impeccable lockdown
- Good shock absorption
- Stable run
- Durable and grippy outsole
CONS:
- Heavyweight
- Expensive shoe
- Firm cushioning that lacks responsiveness
The Nike Zoom Gravity is a good entry-level running shoe that combines style and comfort.
★★★★★
More details + $56.87
Buy now
Last price update was: March 8, 2021 4:46 am
The Nike Zoom Gravity is a running shoe that features the bold futuristic design of the latest Nike models but at a lower price. The Gravity looks indeed a lot like the Nike Zoom Fly 3 but costs almost half as much. So what is it really worth? The Zoom Gravity offers a comfortable cushioning with a stack height of 31 mm under the heel and 21 mm under the forefoot (the drop is 10 mm). It includes the famous Zoom Air technology at the front of the shoe. According to the runners who tested it, the cushioning absorbs efficiently shocks while being a little firm. The upper is also comfortable and provides a precise support for the foot. However, it’s important to note that the shoe is rather narrow which may not be suitable for runners with wide feet. Generally, a size up is advised so to be safe it may be better to try it in a shop if possible. Finally, regarding quality, the Nike Zoom Gravity is well made and represents good value for money. However, some testers noted traces of early wear. Therefore, it would seem that the Gravity is less resistant than the more high-end shoes of Nike. To summarize, the Nike Zoom Gravity is a good running shoe with an ambitious design and a comfortable overall fit overall but not solid enough.
PROS:
- Good overall comfort
- Effective cushioning
- Affordable shoe
- Rather lightweight
- Appealing design
CONS:
- Narrow fit that may not be suitable if you have large feet
- Some doubts about the durability
The Brooks Divide 2 trail shoe that moonlights as a road shoe (or the other way around).
★★★★★
More details + $100.00
The Divide 2 is Brooks' jack of all trades model that seeks to enable seamless transitions from pavement to trails. As a hybrid shoe, Brooks delivers a reliable shoe with the 2 to continue the first Divide model and its versatility goals. However, by trying to do everything, it may end up not being truly good at anything.
The shoe's midsole is a bit harder than is comfortable for standard road running. While BioMoGo DNA cushioning is usually comfortable, testers found it clunky and too firm on the Brooks Divide 2, overall feeling a bit too heavy for ideal road mileage. The plastic rock plate enhances foot protection but ultimately reduces flexibility and makes the ride stiff. According to users, the upper is made well with an air-mesh material and fits true-to-size, but according to users is nothing special. The outsole is really the star of the show, with a lug pattern and tacky grip that guarantees good traction. Smaller lugs make road running possible while still performing well on technical terrain.
Unfortunately, the Divide 2 fell flat for runners in quite a few areas. Perhaps the biggest complaint among users was that the overall design is simply too weighted and clunky. Weighing 10.3 oz/292 g (M) and 9.2 oz/261 g (W), these numbers aren't atypical for trail shoes but are undeniably on the heavier side for road shoes. Some compared the hardness of the midsole to a "brick-like" feel. Other runners noted that the fit was not secure, as there isn't adequate collar padding for lock-in.
Overall, testers described the Brooks Divide 2 as a good shoe for road runners interested in some trail work (and vice versa). However, for those used to a softer ride, this is one shoe that may prove too firm. One positive point is that it is priced on the lower side, which is great for the versatility it supposedly provides. That said, we wouldn't necessarily recommend the Divide 2 for security or longer road jaunts.
The shoe's midsole is a bit harder than is comfortable for standard road running. While BioMoGo DNA cushioning is usually comfortable, testers found it clunky and too firm on the Brooks Divide 2, overall feeling a bit too heavy for ideal road mileage. The plastic rock plate enhances foot protection but ultimately reduces flexibility and makes the ride stiff. According to users, the upper is made well with an air-mesh material and fits true-to-size, but according to users is nothing special. The outsole is really the star of the show, with a lug pattern and tacky grip that guarantees good traction. Smaller lugs make road running possible while still performing well on technical terrain.
Unfortunately, the Divide 2 fell flat for runners in quite a few areas. Perhaps the biggest complaint among users was that the overall design is simply too weighted and clunky. Weighing 10.3 oz/292 g (M) and 9.2 oz/261 g (W), these numbers aren't atypical for trail shoes but are undeniably on the heavier side for road shoes. Some compared the hardness of the midsole to a "brick-like" feel. Other runners noted that the fit was not secure, as there isn't adequate collar padding for lock-in.
Overall, testers described the Brooks Divide 2 as a good shoe for road runners interested in some trail work (and vice versa). However, for those used to a softer ride, this is one shoe that may prove too firm. One positive point is that it is priced on the lower side, which is great for the versatility it supposedly provides. That said, we wouldn't necessarily recommend the Divide 2 for security or longer road jaunts.
PROS:
- Good protection
- Effective grip
- Affordable shoe
- Versatile for runners alternating between road and trail
CONS:
- Rigid platform
- Clunky and dull cushioning
The New Balance Fresh Foam More v2 is a lightweight and comfortably cushioned trainer that's a good option for recovery runs.
★★★★★
More details + $111.73
The New Balance Fresh Foam More (V2) style is unique, to say the least. With a 33 mm stack in the heel, it's comfortably cushioned but maybe not as much as its name suggests. The truth? The stack height is far less of a concern than other elements of this shoe.
Let's start with the good points. At a mere 9.4 oz (266 g), it's rather lightweight for a shoe of this caliber and should on paper even be suitable for speedwork. The cushioning is described by runners as soft but certainly not mushy. Also, while the shoe doesn't feature a pronounced rocker, it does offer a lively ride. However, while the forefoot has improved in terms of flexibility, some runners critiqued the shoe's overly-firm heel and stiffness. Overall, the More V2 makes a better recovery option than a true daily trainer.
The upper is where things start to go wrong. It's highly breathable, with mesh fabric and a roomy toe box, but the ankle design poses some challenges. The protruding heel pads of the design mean that there's quite a bit of ankle chafing during use. Some runners even found it impossible to run anything beyond a 5k in these shoes for the ankle design alone. The outsole, where most shoes usually are built to last, suffers from quick deterioration and lacks traction on slippery surfaces, according to testers. The flex grooves on the outsole, which were engineered to help with traction, were ultimately too shallow for true grip. As a final note, this is one shoe design that's just too clunky for no reason. The bulky style doesn't add anything to a runner's experience—rather, it seems to detract.
To summarize, the New Balance Fresh Foam More V2 is an interesting recovery option with its lightweight build and decently-crafted midsole that offers a soft cushioning. However, the upper's problems, combined with its fragile and slippery outsole, make it hard to justify the premium price of this model.
Let's start with the good points. At a mere 9.4 oz (266 g), it's rather lightweight for a shoe of this caliber and should on paper even be suitable for speedwork. The cushioning is described by runners as soft but certainly not mushy. Also, while the shoe doesn't feature a pronounced rocker, it does offer a lively ride. However, while the forefoot has improved in terms of flexibility, some runners critiqued the shoe's overly-firm heel and stiffness. Overall, the More V2 makes a better recovery option than a true daily trainer.
The upper is where things start to go wrong. It's highly breathable, with mesh fabric and a roomy toe box, but the ankle design poses some challenges. The protruding heel pads of the design mean that there's quite a bit of ankle chafing during use. Some runners even found it impossible to run anything beyond a 5k in these shoes for the ankle design alone. The outsole, where most shoes usually are built to last, suffers from quick deterioration and lacks traction on slippery surfaces, according to testers. The flex grooves on the outsole, which were engineered to help with traction, were ultimately too shallow for true grip. As a final note, this is one shoe design that's just too clunky for no reason. The bulky style doesn't add anything to a runner's experience—rather, it seems to detract.
To summarize, the New Balance Fresh Foam More V2 is an interesting recovery option with its lightweight build and decently-crafted midsole that offers a soft cushioning. However, the upper's problems, combined with its fragile and slippery outsole, make it hard to justify the premium price of this model.
PROS:
- Comfortable cushioning overall with the right amount of softness
- Lightweight shoe
- More flexible platform than on the first model
- A decent option for recovery runs
CONS:
- Cushioning lacks a bit of responsiveness
- Upper caused discomfort for a few runners
- The exposed foam of the outsole deteriorates quickly
The Asics Gel Quantum 360 6 is road running shoe that combines style and comfort. Review analysis coming soon!
★★★★★
$149.95