Way beyond the run of the mill
Most running shoe models, with their various cushioning technologies long established, don’t change much from season to season. But the shoes tested here offer differences beyond color and style, addressing functional issues of running form, fit and feel in unique ways.
Roy M. Wallack
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Pump it up
Reebok Premier Pump Paris Trainer: Lightweight neutral trainer with an inflatable air chamber around the heel/ankle area.
Likes: Although Reebok’s re-release of this decade-old technology seems gimmicky at first, the Pump actually works -- adding real comfort and stability. It’s easy to use; after tying your shoes, just push the Pump button a few dozen times (press the release valve to empty the air chamber and exit the shoe). The shoe’s snug, lightweight (12.2 ounces in size 9) fit is enhanced by the inflatable collar, which comfortably locks the heel in place. The Pump has no apparent weight or bulk penalty.
Dislikes: None.
Price: $100. www.reebok.com.
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Barefootin’ it
Newton Gravity: Shoes designed to make you run on your forefoot, mimicking barefoot running.
Likes: The feathery weight (10.2 ounces in size 9) and wide, airy mesh upper make the shoe as comfortable as a sock. The design does manage to produce a pronounced tipping forward of the foot that puts you on your toes and the ball of your foot (like barefoot running, which studies have found naturally reduces impact forces to the knees by 50%). Three-month-old Newton says this is due to its “active membrane technology” -- a stretchable membrane buried in the midsole that bends upon initial foot strike, then springs you forward somewhat like a minitrampoline as it returns to shape. Price includes socks and a mesh carry-bag.
Dislikes: The price tag’s so high that it makes you actually want to run barefoot.
Price: $175. (877) 865-9572; www.newtonrunning.com.
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More power and weight
SpringBoost B-Train: Swiss-made shoes with a built-in lowered heel, which supposedly helps you gain strength and explosiveness.
Likes: The claims of increased power, higher jumping and better posture over time seem credible, based on studies showing more muscle recruitment while the foot is in the dorsiflexion position (in which the heel is slightly lower than the ball of the foot). A system of three progressively thinner insoles modifies the angle of dorsiflexion gradually, allowing your body to slowly get used to the new position over a few weeks, avoiding the potential muscle strains of an instant change in position.
Dislikes: The shoe feels like an army boot -- too bulky, heavy and clunky for distance running. Probably better for short runs (a couple of miles, max) and other activities -- the gym, basketball, etc. Each shoe weighs a mammoth 16.5 ounces (in size 9).
Price: $140. (866) 726-6781; www.springboost.com.
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As comfortable as a slipper
Pearl Izumi Syncrofloat2: Cushioned trainer with minimal internal stitching and a wrap-around lacing system.
Likes: Slipper-comfortable due to the clean, almost seamless upper. The 360-degree lacing system (the laces pull on six cords that go down the sidewalls to the soles) shrink-wraps your foot, making shoe and foot feel as one. Weighs 12.75 ounces in size 9.
Dislikes: The firm plastic toe cap extended too far back, rubbing a bit against the nail of my big toe (compared with no rubbing on the soft-topped Newton and the Reebok).
Price: $95. (800) 328-8488; www.pearlizumi.com.
