Wednesday 24 December 2008

Shoe Review


OK, time for a review of the running shoes I have been using for the last few weeks. Thanks to fitnessfootwear.com for supplying them. Please understand that reviews do not come easily to me – in fact I find reviews the most difficult writing task to get right.
These top of the range New Balance trainers are packed with technology including ABZORB FLo midsole housing a full length perforated ABZORB strobel sock with ABZORB DTS in the heel and ABZORB SBS in the forefoot. Also features a midfoot stability web, a supportive N Lock unit, breathable Lightning Dry fabric and a seamless Phantom liner throughout.

Very good but what does it all do ? Well, ABZORB is an innovative foam which, according to the New Balance website "cushions and hugs your feet, effectively removing all excuses for you not to spend a few more minutes with running." After a few runs of different length in these I would say that the cushioning is indeed very good, ideal for neutral runners out on long runs. One Runner’s World reviewer wrote "You could run all day in these and then some without your feet feeling the effects." Perfect for me then …

Midfoot stability web … rigid arch support preventing midfoot flex. Very good but I wasn’t aware of this at all when running. N Lock unit … a novel idea integrating the lacing system into the fit around the foot – I like this idea which means that all runners will have a good around the top of the foot. Lightning Dry fabric is for moisture transfer keeping the feet dry and comfortable throughout the run – not for running through puddles.

Other useful things to know include the fact that like most New Balance shoes they are available in a range of width fittings which is good as my feet are on the wide side. The unusual laces are a fantastic innovation which really do keep them tied – no more stopping to re lace shoes.

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