Hello runners! We are cruising into the mid-year fast. May was a busy month for the team as we released some of our biggest - and longest - reviews of 2021 so far. Just the past week and a half alone we dropped reviews of the Nike React Infinity Run 3, New Balance Tempo v2, Saucony Ride 15, Asics Noosa Tri 14, Asics GlideRide 3 and the brand new Saucony Tempus. It's been a super fun, jam-packed month of podcasts, big releases, and some of our biggest personal growth as a team yet. Check out our ten favorite things from May, including some unique Q&As from our mailbag along with huge Running Warehouse deals you have to see to believe in our latest Round-Up.
Ten Things To Check Out From May 2022
at Doctors of Running
at Doctors of Running
1. Kicking It with Kofuzi
Our team at Doctors of Running have been Michael Ko - aka Kofuzi - fans for years. It was a tremendous honor to sit down with him and talk a bit about his background and recent achievement of hitting 100k subscribers on YouTube. Of course, we also had to talk about shoes, and go indepth on a conversation about flexible vs. rigid forefoot footwear. Watch the video above, or listen on the run:
2. DOR Giving, May 2022: A Rainy Day Fund SC
Each
month at DOR starting in 2022, a member of our team selects a charity
of their choice to donate 10% of our monthly profits to.This month we're excited to donate 10% of our earnings for May - $119 - to Content Manager Bach Pham's selection: the Rainy Day Fund in Columbia, South Carolina.
Leanne and Kieley (Ky-lie) Sutton are a mother daughter team who started the organization in 2021 after seeing the financial challenges that Kieley's clients faced through her work as a Public Defender. Kieley found that many clients needed help with small fees for things like birth certificates, DMV costs, hygiene, temporary housing and food. Not having these small fees paid could rapidly cause a spiral effect leading to more fees and seemingly unrecoverable situations.
The Rainy Day Fund helps prevent that by covering these small costs to help clients get to the next step and prevent the spiraling that could take place. Through covering simple fees we may take for granted, the nonprofit helps clients have a better chance at success long term. We hope you join us in helping kickstart their work by visiting their website rainydayfundsc.org to learn more and donate to their work. There are plenty of cases where as little as $10-20 can make a world of difference in a person's life, which is why a donation to their work feels particularly impactful upfront.
Learn more about Kieley and her work through the following interview with Bach here.
Leanne and Kieley (Ky-lie) Sutton are a mother daughter team who started the organization in 2021 after seeing the financial challenges that Kieley's clients faced through her work as a Public Defender. Kieley found that many clients needed help with small fees for things like birth certificates, DMV costs, hygiene, temporary housing and food. Not having these small fees paid could rapidly cause a spiral effect leading to more fees and seemingly unrecoverable situations.
The Rainy Day Fund helps prevent that by covering these small costs to help clients get to the next step and prevent the spiraling that could take place. Through covering simple fees we may take for granted, the nonprofit helps clients have a better chance at success long term. We hope you join us in helping kickstart their work by visiting their website rainydayfundsc.org to learn more and donate to their work. There are plenty of cases where as little as $10-20 can make a world of difference in a person's life, which is why a donation to their work feels particularly impactful upfront.
Learn more about Kieley and her work through the following interview with Bach here.
3. Run in Scandinavian Style
Over the past two months we've had the great pleasure of testing Saysky, an apparel company out of Copenhagen, Denmark. The brand combines quality, lightweight performance with Scandinavian street styling and classic regional minimalism. There are so many fantastic running apparel companies out there now. We really appreciated the combination of curb appeal and quality with the products tested from the brand.
Find the full team review of Saysky here: LINK
Find the full team review of Saysky here: LINK
4. Meet the Modern Stability Trainer You've Been Waiting For
We, not only as a team, but as part of the running community have been waiting for a shoe like the Tempus for a long time. The Tempus from Saucony introduces the first modern super foam trainer for stability runners. Injecting a core of PWRRUN PB, Saucony uses a regular PWRRUN frame to help stabilize the shoe, offering the pop of their signature foam in the middle while also giving a protective cage to keep you centered. It's a unique build that offers a surprisingly light, very fast underfoot experience.
Read the review of the Saucony Tempus here. LINK
We, not only as a team, but as part of the running community have been waiting for a shoe like the Tempus for a long time. The Tempus from Saucony introduces the first modern super foam trainer for stability runners. Injecting a core of PWRRUN PB, Saucony uses a regular PWRRUN frame to help stabilize the shoe, offering the pop of their signature foam in the middle while also giving a protective cage to keep you centered. It's a unique build that offers a surprisingly light, very fast underfoot experience.
Read the review of the Saucony Tempus here. LINK
5. Q&A: Burning Through Outsoles, a True Matt Question
Question: I’m new to your website and find your thoroughness fascinating. I’m wondering if you could offer me some advice. A little background first. Just turned 77 and still run 6 days a week approx. -4 miles a day at a state park in Rockland County, NY. Completed 10 marathons in the past and currently only do 5 and some 10K’s. I weigh 172 pounds and I alternate my shoes daily. My problem is the wear and tear on my shoes especially the outer heel on my right shoe and eventually on my left one. I generally get 200 miles out of the shoe when the outer part is flat and the white starts showing through the black rubber. I’ve worn Kayanos primarily and this has happened with all 27 models. I’ve tried the Brooks Adrenaline, same result and also the Saucony Hurricane same thing. Much to my surprise I’ve worn several versions of the Mizuno Wave Inspire and on them the outer heel doesn’t wear out but the center of the heel does. Finally I gave the Hoka Gaviota a shot and they didn’t feel comfortable knowing it has a 5 heel much different then I’m used to. Perhaps I didn’t give it a long enough trial but from the onset didn’t feel right. What’s one to do is my question and if you could steer me in the right direction I would be most grateful.
Answer, from Chief Editor Matt Klein: I could not pass this question up! I also tear through the outer heel on my left side and some degree on my right. This has been going on for years and has made durability a huge issue. It is rare that I get more than 100-150 miles out of a shoe at this stage.
It is normal to wear out the outer (lateral) heel with running gait. That is where most people land. They land at the outer rear heel and roll in wards. This is normal for both walking and running mechanics. It does not surprise me that the Mizuno Wave Inspire is wearing in the center. That shoe is highly stable and has been doing a great job of keep people centered for a long time using the wave plate. I do not think you are wrong on the Hoka Gaviota. I have actually found Hoka outsoles to not be durable at all. So your instincts may have told you that already. Plus, I too have found that shoe uncomfortable. Another option you may want to consider is the Mizuno Wave Horizon series. It has an extremely durable outsole plus a more centered stability approach. A little less aggressive than the inspire, but a solidly cushioned stable option from Mizuno.
While shoe companies are certainly making less durable shoes, a major factor is the unique biomechanics of the user. I would encourage you to seek out someone to do a full-body gait analysis. The reason for the excessive wear may be in your mechanics, which could be adjusted slightly. This must be done carefully, as any change done too quickly risks injury.
Common reasons for wearing out that part of the shoe include a short stride with a shuffling gait that may cause one to scuff their heels (added friction accelerates wear) and landing extremely hard (more force, more compression/friction). These both can come from a variety of things:
Shorter Stride: This normally happens in masters/older runners. We don't yet know why and that is actually the basis of my dissertation for my PhD. This could be from decreased lower body strength, so the body compensates by shortening the stride which decreases impact with each footstrike but increases the number of footstrikes. This in essence is compensating for poor shock absorption.
Scuffing the heel: This could be due to the above, it could also be from inadequate foot clearance during the swing phase of gait. If you do not push off enough with your calves or lift your feet high enough, there is a risk of scuffing your feet. Masters/Older runners tend to lose strength significantly at the calf muscles and the hamstrings (but this can be built back).
Landing harder at the heel: Masters/older runners often have increased ground reaction forces. What that means is that they are landing, but not absorbing the shock as well. This leads to more compression/friction on the landing point, which for you and I is the heel.
There are many reasons those occur. Which one specifically I do not know as I have not evaluated you in person. If you do not already, I would encourage you to work on your lower body strength and some gentle drills to help with lifting your feet (A skips, High Knees, etc). I would also encourage you to specifically work on ankle strength, including the ankle plantarflexors (Calves) and dorsiflexors (anterior tibialis). This will further help with foot clearance. There are many other things to consider, but this is where I would start.
Answer, from Chief Editor Matt Klein: I could not pass this question up! I also tear through the outer heel on my left side and some degree on my right. This has been going on for years and has made durability a huge issue. It is rare that I get more than 100-150 miles out of a shoe at this stage.
It is normal to wear out the outer (lateral) heel with running gait. That is where most people land. They land at the outer rear heel and roll in wards. This is normal for both walking and running mechanics. It does not surprise me that the Mizuno Wave Inspire is wearing in the center. That shoe is highly stable and has been doing a great job of keep people centered for a long time using the wave plate. I do not think you are wrong on the Hoka Gaviota. I have actually found Hoka outsoles to not be durable at all. So your instincts may have told you that already. Plus, I too have found that shoe uncomfortable. Another option you may want to consider is the Mizuno Wave Horizon series. It has an extremely durable outsole plus a more centered stability approach. A little less aggressive than the inspire, but a solidly cushioned stable option from Mizuno.
While shoe companies are certainly making less durable shoes, a major factor is the unique biomechanics of the user. I would encourage you to seek out someone to do a full-body gait analysis. The reason for the excessive wear may be in your mechanics, which could be adjusted slightly. This must be done carefully, as any change done too quickly risks injury.
Common reasons for wearing out that part of the shoe include a short stride with a shuffling gait that may cause one to scuff their heels (added friction accelerates wear) and landing extremely hard (more force, more compression/friction). These both can come from a variety of things:
Shorter Stride: This normally happens in masters/older runners. We don't yet know why and that is actually the basis of my dissertation for my PhD. This could be from decreased lower body strength, so the body compensates by shortening the stride which decreases impact with each footstrike but increases the number of footstrikes. This in essence is compensating for poor shock absorption.
Scuffing the heel: This could be due to the above, it could also be from inadequate foot clearance during the swing phase of gait. If you do not push off enough with your calves or lift your feet high enough, there is a risk of scuffing your feet. Masters/Older runners tend to lose strength significantly at the calf muscles and the hamstrings (but this can be built back).
Landing harder at the heel: Masters/older runners often have increased ground reaction forces. What that means is that they are landing, but not absorbing the shock as well. This leads to more compression/friction on the landing point, which for you and I is the heel.
There are many reasons those occur. Which one specifically I do not know as I have not evaluated you in person. If you do not already, I would encourage you to work on your lower body strength and some gentle drills to help with lifting your feet (A skips, High Knees, etc). I would also encourage you to specifically work on ankle strength, including the ankle plantarflexors (Calves) and dorsiflexors (anterior tibialis). This will further help with foot clearance. There are many other things to consider, but this is where I would start.
6. Q&A #2: Stability for the Summer
Question: Really love the channel, the detail you go into really helps me make informed decisions in a saturated market of running shoes.
Just as a foreword, I wear running shoes almost exclusively, but I don't run. I have chronic plantar fasciitis (over 5 years) and a related chronic bilateral lower leg pain syndrome (also 5 years). I find running shoes (especially those with a slightly more generous heel toe drop) keep me moving and give the best balance of stability and cushioning. I'm wondering what shoes you would recommend within the stability umbrella that are still breathable and light enough for warm summer months?
Normally I wear my Brooks GTS 20s. Besides the fact they need replacing because the outsole has almost gone, I feel like I want more breathability from my next stability shoe. I should also mention that I actually like to switch between neutral stability/guide shoes and traditional stability shoes, hence why I'm interested in both. You all gave rave reviews of the New Balance Vongo V5 so I was considering buying those, but will it be appropriate for sweaty summer days out for hours chilling with friends etc?
Answer from Chief Editor Matt Klein: The new Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22s have a lighter upper and do a better job with breathability. The higher drop maintains so don't worry. The Vongo V5 has a fairly average upper in regards to warm. The knit does retain some heat, yet breathes at the same time.
Got a question? Let us know at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
Just as a foreword, I wear running shoes almost exclusively, but I don't run. I have chronic plantar fasciitis (over 5 years) and a related chronic bilateral lower leg pain syndrome (also 5 years). I find running shoes (especially those with a slightly more generous heel toe drop) keep me moving and give the best balance of stability and cushioning. I'm wondering what shoes you would recommend within the stability umbrella that are still breathable and light enough for warm summer months?
Normally I wear my Brooks GTS 20s. Besides the fact they need replacing because the outsole has almost gone, I feel like I want more breathability from my next stability shoe. I should also mention that I actually like to switch between neutral stability/guide shoes and traditional stability shoes, hence why I'm interested in both. You all gave rave reviews of the New Balance Vongo V5 so I was considering buying those, but will it be appropriate for sweaty summer days out for hours chilling with friends etc?
Answer from Chief Editor Matt Klein: The new Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22s have a lighter upper and do a better job with breathability. The higher drop maintains so don't worry. The Vongo V5 has a fairly average upper in regards to warm. The knit does retain some heat, yet breathes at the same time.
I personally would go with the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22s as the upper is the lightest of the ones listed.
Give your PF history and using these for walking, I am more likely to suggest you stay with the Adrenaline series given that a sudden change to a lower heel drop may irritate your PF. It may not if you transition slowly, but do not know enough about your biomechanics and tissue.
The medial post in the Adrenaline is so well integrated that it is rare in today's world. The Mizuno Inspire series is another to consider, but it is also significantly heavier. The foam is far more bouncy, but may be a consideration!
Hope that helps!
Got a question? Let us know at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
7. Stability from a Brand Perspective, with Dr. Matt Trudeau from Brooks Running
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Matt Trudeau, who leads the Future Concepts Team at Brooks Running. We spoke about his background and all about his thinking when it comes to footwear design for the company. We also go into a wonderful deep dive on stability vs. support.
8. Current Shoe Deals at Running Warehouse
Our friends at Running Warehouse are having a huge Memorial Day sale this weekend! Check out some of our favorite picks from the event, including a massive deal on a fan favorite. Note: the following are affiliate links that support Doctors of Running.
Sacuony Endorphin Speed 2
Deal: $96 | Review
The Endorphin Speed 2 gets a massive sale this break, dropping over $60! For folks looking for a long run, workout, and even mild racing shoe, this is an absolute steal.
Hoka Mach 4
Deal: $103.95 | Review
One of our favorite trainers of 2021, the Mach 4 is a versatile do-it-all that we enjoyed. As one of the best non-plated performance shoes of 2021, you get a lot of great running in one package here.
Craft Ultra 2
Deal: $123.74 | Review
This is a sensational offer for a shoe that can do both trail and road with ease and crush long mileage. If you are looking for a marathon or ultramarathon shoe to just pour the miles with, this is an incredible option.
Deckers X Lab Ko-Z Slide
Deal: $97.50 | Review
Recovery in absolute comfort with this high stacked, ultra cushioned slide from Deckers. This slide is all about cushion and comfort in a street-style package.
Our friends at Running Warehouse are having a huge Memorial Day sale this weekend! Check out some of our favorite picks from the event, including a massive deal on a fan favorite. Note: the following are affiliate links that support Doctors of Running.
Sacuony Endorphin Speed 2
Deal: $96 | Review
The Endorphin Speed 2 gets a massive sale this break, dropping over $60! For folks looking for a long run, workout, and even mild racing shoe, this is an absolute steal.
Hoka Mach 4
Deal: $103.95 | Review
One of our favorite trainers of 2021, the Mach 4 is a versatile do-it-all that we enjoyed. As one of the best non-plated performance shoes of 2021, you get a lot of great running in one package here.
Craft Ultra 2
Deal: $123.74 | Review
This is a sensational offer for a shoe that can do both trail and road with ease and crush long mileage. If you are looking for a marathon or ultramarathon shoe to just pour the miles with, this is an incredible option.
Deckers X Lab Ko-Z Slide
Deal: $97.50 | Review
Recovery in absolute comfort with this high stacked, ultra cushioned slide from Deckers. This slide is all about cushion and comfort in a street-style package.
9. Run Light as a Feather | Running Gadget of the Month
Saysky Track Combat Singlet
$55 at Running Warehouse
$55 at Running Warehouse
The Saysky Track Combat Singlet is a performance singlet that still blends a little bit of lifestyle flare. The material is a lightweight mesh with a little bit of texture that is light on skin and doesn’t weigh you down. The singlet certainly leans running but could double as a tank if you feel inclined. The fit throughout is true to size in my Men’s M but does lean a tad wide through the shoulders. Thanks to the textured feel of it there is not much sliding around at all. The light weight and moisture wicking properties have done great for me when running in situations that normally make me sweat much more. I have been really happy with the weight and ability to wick moisture. One thing that is a tiny bit annoying is there is a side stitch with the logo that occasionally I have some abrasion with when running as my shoulder moves into extension. It feels almost like brushing the side of your bib in a race, but a little more pleasant. It’s not all the time and I can live with it though.
10. Footwear Science: Orthotics
We released our first official Footwear Science feature in a long time with the release of a piece from Senior Contributor Nathan Brown on the use of orthotics. We VERY frequently get questions about how orthotics work or should work and decided to help provide this general outline on how we feel about it based on the science and our past experiences. Learn about the misconceptions about orthotics and how you should use them - if you absolutely need them - in Nathan's feature here: LINK
Coming Soon at DOR
Have questions? Send us an email at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
Thanks for reading!
We have a HUGE June ahead with a new guide incoming along with another spotlight feature from our Sustainability series. We also have some big racing shoe reviews coming in and a very exciting week of releases for the last week of June that we are very excited to share. In the meantime, please stay safe and have remember to have fun on the run.
Have questions? Send us an email at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com
Thanks for reading!
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