Saucony Ride 17 Review (2023)

Saucony Ride 17: New but Familiar
By Matthew Klein, David Salas, and Andrea Myers

The Ride series has been a flagship neutral training shoe from Saucony for years. For the longest time, it held its place with gradual changes that kept a similar formula to continually produce a lighter than average training shoe that maintained the versatility to handle both easy and faster runs. This was maintained with a somewhat firmer but snappy EVA midsole and a secure upper. While version 17 maintains the comfort in its upper with a new mesh, the midsole and outsole have seen complete overhauls. Now featuring full-length PWRRUN+ in the midsole similar to the Triumph 21, the new update provides a lot more bounce with a little more weight. While still maintaining the essence of the Ride 17, some of the changes certainly alter the shoe in ways that take this series in a new direction. 

Saucony Guide 17 Review (2023)

Saucony Guide 17: True Guidance
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

For years, the Saucony Guide series has had a fairly standard stability shoe design. A medial post or medial plastic piece has been a core part of this series as a medial stability-based shoe. Version 17 is a complete redesign that involved a new geometry both externally and internally without the use of traditional medial-based stability methods. Pulling from current concepts in guidance, Saucony has embraced a new Center Path Technology, which aims to keep the foot and the runners lower extremity moving through a central path unique to the runner. A new maximal geometry adds to the smoothest riding Guide yet, signaling a new era for this series. 

Best Running Shoes of 2023, Part 2: Racing and Trail Shoes | DOR Podcast #171

 

Best Running Shoes of 2023, Part 2: Racing and Trail Shoes
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 171

2023 is quickly coming to a close, so it's time to pick our favorite shoes from the past year. Matt, Andrea, and David get together to share their picks for the best shoes. Tune in to hear their choices for long distance (half marathon/marathon) racing shoes, short distance (5K/10K) racing shoes, and trail shoes. This is our last episode of the year and we can't thank each of you enough for the support al year long! We want to hear from you: what are your favorite shoes of the year? Message us on Instagram or email us at ⁠doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com⁠.

Best Running Shoes of 2023, Part 1: Daily Trainers, Stability Shoes, and Performance Trainers | DOR Podcast #170

Best Running Shoes of 2023, Part 1: Daily Trainers, Stability Shoes, and Performance Trainers
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 170

2023 is quickly coming to a close, so it's time to pick our favorite shoes from the past year. Matt, Andrea, and David get together to share their picks for the best shoes. Tune in to hear their choices for daily trainers, stability/stable neutral shoes, and performance trainers. And get ready for the next episode where they'll share their favorite racing shoes! We want to hear from you: what are your favorite shoes of the year? Message us on Instagram or email us at doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com.

Nike Structure 25 Review (2023)

Nike Structure 25: Not Dead Yet
By Matthew Klein, Bach Pham and David Salas

The Nike Structure series has been through a ton. Once one of the staple stability training shoes, it began to gain weight and then seemed to disappear from the market. Many of us assumed it had been discontinued until new versions would randomly show up, then disappear again. Version 24 was its first somewhat noticeable return in a while, but it had strayed from the 10 oz, somewhat versatile structure of the long past. Instead of the stability shoe we once knew, it was a stable neutral shoe/mild stability shoe that while able to tolerate daily miles, was still a bit heavy/dead. The Structure 25 stands as a return for the series as the stability increases and the weight SLOWLY begins to come down. The improved guidance/stability, firmer but bouncier ride and classically lugged outsole signal a breath of life into a series we thought might have passed on. How exactly that breath of life takes form is what we need to talk about.

Xero Shoes Glenn Review (2023)

 

Xero Shoes Glenn: Minimalism Meets Oxfords
By Matthew Klein

With the fantastic progress in the footwear industry, as runners we have been spoiled by the number of products that match a variety of needs. From super shoes to zero drop/minimal shoes, there is something for everyone. While the running industry has progressed forward quickly, other parts of the footwear industry have stayed fairly traditional. Dress shoes are one such area, where until the last few years, options were limited to narrow, pointed, uncomfortable that many people were forced to tolerate due to work place dress codes. Fortunately, many people took notice of the comfort experienced from more anatomic, minimalist shoes and there has been a dramatic increase in the number of dress shoes that feature wide toe boxes, natural soles and lower stack heights. The Xero Shoes Glenn is an example of such a shoe, carrying over the designs seen from their running and active shoes into a full leather, Oxford-style men's shoe that doubles as a casual or dress shoe. 

Should I Buy Orthotics For My Running Shoes?

Should I Buy Orthotics For My Running Shoes?

By Nathan Brown, Senior Contributor & Chief Editor Matthew Klein

A question we are frequently asked is "what is the value of orthotics, custom inserts, or 'upgraded' insoles?" The root of this question may come from various experiences. Some are due to having custom fabricated insoles created by a podiatrist or physical therapist after a specific injury or for a specific condition. Some may be from people who have been to running shoe stores and have been told to pair their new pair of shoes with a nicer insole to maximize the shoe. Some are from those looking to prevent injury and fend off things like plantar fasciopathy, "shin splints", or posterior tibialis pain. Regardless of the reasoning, the literature does provide some insight into these questions. As you may expect, it isn't crystal clear and will depend on the circumstances. However, the large majority of people do not have a need for custom (created specifically for the runner) or prefabricated (mass-produced without specific individual model) inserts to pair with their running shoes. Let's talk about why.

Monday Shakeout: Andrea's Favorite Shoes of 2023

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Shoes of 2023 for Training and Racing
By Andrea Myers

One of the great things about testing shoes for DOR is that I try shoes that I would probably never have tried on my own accord. 2023 was a year not only being surprised by shoes that weren't on my radar, but also finding a some new favorites that I wouldn't have otherwise. I have run 2800 miles this year, a number I could have only dreamed of a few years ago when I made the switch from cycling to running. Nearly 900 of those miles have been on one model, which definitely was not on my radar. I would encourage everyone to be open to shoes that you wouldn't normally consider - you might end up finding a new favorite, just as I have this year.

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Review (2023)

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 26 Review: Better Fit, Better Grip!?
By Matthew Klein & David Salas

The ASICS Gel-Nimbus series has always been a stand-out premium cushioned daily trainer. For years it remained fairly consistent until Version 25 came along. This shifted the series away from traditional footwear designs to current maximal stack height, rockered design trends. A rockered heel was a welcome change (at least for me) but with all the changes, the series remained a premium cushioned, daily training shoe. Version 26 continues with the changes of Version 25 with a few updates to refine the upper and outsole for a better fit and grip. While this does result in some minor weight gain, it is well-worth the improved comfort. Especially for a shoe meant for long and easy mileage.

Topo Athletic MT-5 Review (2024)

Topo Athletic MT-5: Versatile Trailin'
By Matthew Klein

While David may be known for taking road shoes on trail, I have been known to take trail shoes on road. Having shoes that are versatile enough to handle a variety of surfaces is important in the area I live, where transitions between road and trail are common if you want to do interesting routes. The majority of surfaces are road here in Monrovia, CA, but the trails can get quickly technical depending on recent rainstorms. Thus, my favorite shoes recently for transitioning been these surfaces have been Road/Trail Hybrid shoes. This unique class of shoes typically features additional upper reinforcements, sturdy outsoles and lugs. However, the lugs are often smaller to handle road. The Topo Athletic MT-5 is a solid example of this, with a vibram outsole, smaller lugs and good reinforcements throughout an anatomic upper. Several updates bring this shoe a little closer to mainstream footwear concepts, while a more traditional stack height helps this shoe stand out as something different among the towering shoe stack heights commonly seen today.

Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 Review (2024)

Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 2: Wild Territory
By Matthew Klein

The first Puma Fast-R was (is) an incredibly unique racing shoe. Its geometry was completely different than standard shoe design with two completely separate and different midsoles locked together by a visible carbon plate. A slab of bio-based Nitro Elite foam sat in the front, providing a fast bouncy ride while an EVA heel created a firmer, quick and somewhat abrupt transition in the back. Although designed as a long-distance racing shoe, the DOR team found that it worked better as a shorter-distance racer as it seemed to work better for faster and shorter efforts that got you more onto your toes. This was the opposite to the Deviate Nitro Elite, which still could move quickly but had versatility across a variety of footstrikes and distances. The similarity in shorter distance use between the Fast-R and the Fast-FWD may have motivated Puma to move the Fast-R 2 in a different direction. It now returns as a completely different shoe despite sharing some similar visuals to the original. A taller stack height, softer and homogenous cushioning in both the rear and forefoot, lower volume but wider upper and an extended and an extended plate make for another unique addition to the super distance racing shoe category.

Monday Shakeout: David's Favorite Shoes of 2023

 

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Shoes of 2023 for Training and Racing
By David Salas

2023 was an awesome year! In some ways we had progressions of the classics and in other ways some completely new models and concepts. Every company brought the heat and gave me some new favorites. 

Mailbag! The Role of Plates in Shoes, Matching Super Shoes to Your Own Mechanics, the Best Shoes for Bunions and More

 

Mailbag! The Role of Plates in Shoes, Matching Super Shoes to Your Own Mechanics, the Best Shoes for Bunions and More
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 169

This week's episode is all about your questions! We love hearing from you and fielding your questiosn, so Nate and Matt are here to answer more. They discuss the role of plates, foams, and more in super shoes, and the possible efficiency of the Nike Alphafly's Zoom Air Pods. They give tips for finding comfortable shoes when dealing with bunions, training your body for shoes with different heel drops, and much more. Keep the questions coming by hitting us up on Instagram or at doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com!

Best Running Socks for Winter and Summer, Editor Picks (2024)

Farm to Feet Greensboro

Socks are one of the most underrated things a runner can do to help reduce things like blisters. There are a variety of qualities that socks can bring: whether it's adding grip so you aren't slipping and sliding in the shoe, providing warmth for winter runs, improving fit when the volume is larger than normal for you or sometimes add more cushioning depending on the thickness and material of the sock. A good running sock can also bring really great durability and odor control. Socks can also be overwhelming because there are a million and one choices available to runners today. In this feature, our team's testers share their favorite socks for winter and summer running to help narrow down your choices so you can find the best sock for your needs.

Adidas Supernova Rise Review (2023)

Adidas Supernova Rise: The Next Step in Adidas Footwear
By Matthew Klein

While Adidas is known for its speedy/race-ready Adizero line, its road training lines have been fairly quiet for years. Various lines have been present, like the Solar and Adistar series, but all have suffered from being incredibly heavy, clunky and certainly not versatile. While once the top training line for Adidas, the Supernova series appeared to be delegated to budget trainers. That now looks to completely change with the introduction of the first shoe in a new series of high-level Supernova training shoes, the Supernova Rise. With a new midsole material and lightweight design, Adidas has finally returned to creating high-performance daily training shoes and it looks like they may be just getting started.

Monday Shakeout: Matt's Favorite Shoes of 2023

 

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Training and Racing Shoes of 2023
By Matt Klein

2023 has been an interesting and challenging year for me. I started the year out with a toe fracture (unrelated to running, I tripped on my barbell while carrying my cat), supported my wife through pregnancy and the birth of our daughter, progressed through the methods and data collection of my PhD (almost done!!) and redid three courses from scratch as a brand new professor. Fortunately, this did not slow down my shoe testing despite having to readjust my training. So I was still able to enjoy the many unique shoes that came out this year. Several companies refined their shoes to make them even better, while many others either debuted new ones or completely redid shoes for the better. Stability shoes finally saw some massive progressions and even a new addition. Several companies finally debuted true super shoes into the market (some good, some needing some adjustments). With 2024 just around the corner (which we are all extremely excited for), 2023 had some incredible shoes that are still worth talking about. 

What Runners Should Do IMMEDIATELY Post-Marathon to Kickstart Their Recovery | DOR Podcast 168

 

What Runners Should Do IMMEDIATELY Post-Marathon to Kickstart Their Recovery
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 168

This episode is your quick guide to post-race recovery after a season of training and racing with Andrea and Megan (who are fresh off marathons themselves). From immediate post-race steps to nutrition, hydration, and mental recovery strategies, Andrea & Megan share valuable insights. Get tips on travel, changing training, and downtime activities. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner, this episode covers adjusting nutrition, building a base training phase, and its ideal duration.

Topo Athletic Magnifly 5 Review (2023)

Topo Athletic Magnifly 5 Review: 0 Drop, 0 Problems
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

The Topo Athletic Magnifly has always been the moderately cushioned zero drop trainer from the company. The shoe maintains a very neutral profile and a no nonsense build. The Magnifly also uses the traditional anatomic fit that Topo Athletic is known for, having a streamlined heel and midfoot with a wider forefoot and toe box. Updates to this model include the engineered mesh upper. 

Altra Provision 8 Review (2023)

 

Altra Provision 8 Review: Easy Going
By Bach Pham

Altra is a company known for their zero drop footwear and wide toe box shoes. These signature elements have been the foundation of their running lineup until the recently released FWD Experience. The Provision is a long running model in their lineup, providing a support option alongside the Paradigm. In this review, we take a look at their latest model and where it sits in the Altra lineup.

On Cloudeclipse Review (2023)

On Cloudeclipse: The Most Stacked On Yet
By Matthew Klein

On has been making some solid progress. The On Cloudmonster, which debuted in 2022, signaled a change from the brand. It was actually cushioned and finally showed what the Cloudtec could do when utilized appropriately. As per On's style though, it was still a little firmer and snappier than other shoes in its category. The On Cloudsurfer came next, with an even taller stack height, softer ride, and lighter weight. The lessons from both of these have clearly resulted in the On Cloudeclipse, On's first above 40mm stack height shoe. Maintaining a similar weight to the Monster with 10mm more of stack height, it seems On is finally understanding how to utilize their clouds in order to provide a high level of cushioning while increasing stack height. The first truly maximal shoe from the brand, the On Cloudeclipse continues to give us a glimpse into what the future holds for this company. 

All Your Strength Training Questions Answered, with Dr. Victoria Sekely | DOR Podcast 167

 

All Your Strength Training Questions Answered, with Dr. Victoria Sekely
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 167

This episode is all about strength training. Some runners love it, most runners avoid it, but almost everyone knows they should be doing some of it. Nathan's joined by Victoria Sekely, DPT to answer all your strength questions. How do you best integrate it with your training? Where do you get started with lifting heavy? What are some generally beneficial exercises? What shoes should you wear? Tune in for answers to these and more.

ROKA Review: Prescription Glasses for Athletes

 

ROKA Prescription Review: I can see clearly now
By Nathan Brown

In my current stage of life, most of my running occurs in the wee hours of the morning right after rolling out of bed. I've used glasses and contacts daily since I was in 7th grade, and until recently have done all of my running in contacts. For the past 6 months, I've been testing two pairs of ROKA prescription glasses, and here are my thoughts on their performance and how they've changed my habits.

Ideal Gifts for Runners, by Runners (2024)

PRACTICAL GIFTS FOR RUNNERS
DOCTORS OF RUNNING STAFF ROUNDUP

Welcome to our Gift Guide for Runners! We think about running 24/7 and tried our best to give a good range of non-shoe related gifts for both the holiday season and year-round, because while shoes are fun, it's also the stuff that we go to time and time again before, during, and after the run that can make a run as well.

Monday Shakeout: ChatGPT Reviews, Volume 2

The Monday Shakeout: AI Wrote this Shoe Review, Volume 2
By ChatGPT, with some help from Content Manager Bach Pham

Bach: When ChatGPT started becoming popular, we tested the waters to see what it could do with the early version (find Volume 1 here). While the results weren't impressive then, many generations of the robot later we wanted to revisit to see how the program has evolved. In this week's Monday Shakeout, ChatGPT reviews the Nike Pegasus 40. I follow up with some thoughts about its performance and where things are in the running world with AI.

Mailbag! How Long Do Shoes Last? How Do I Stay Healthy During Marathon Training? and the Best Stability Shoes for Race Day | DOR Podcast 166

 

Mailbag! How Long Do Shoes Last? How Do I Stay Healthy During Marathon Training? and the Best Stability Shoes for Race Day
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 166

On this episode we Nate, David, and Matt answer more of your questions! They cover the life of midsoles and foams over miles and time, overuse injury prevention, the most stable marathon shoes, and more. We always love fielding your questions, so let us know what you want answered on our next mailbag show by emailing doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com!

FitVille Footwear Review (2023) - Cloud Wanderer v7, JetCore, Explorer

 

FitVille Review: Trying Footwear Made for All-Day Comfort
A Doctors of Running Team Editorial

Recently FitVille reached out to Doctors of Running for a review of their products. The brand aims to provide more comfort through a wider toe-box design. The products are In this feature, Andrea Myers and Matt Klein offer some insights into a few models we received to provide some initial thoughts about the brand and provide some feedback on the designs. Let's dig in!

Monday Shakeout: How Forefoot Rockers Help with Big Toe Mobility

The Monday Shakeout: Hallux Mobility and Forefoot Rockers
By Matthew Klein

In this week's Monday Shakeout, Matt talks all about shoe characteristics for those with limited toe mobility.

The Runner's Guide to Achilles Tendinopathy | DOR Podcast 165

The Anatomy, Function, and Rehab of the Achilles Tendon: Lessons from Matt’s PhD Dissertation
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 165

Achilles tendon injuries plague many a runner, but Matt is here with findings from his PhD dissertation to help us understand what's going on and find the path to recovery. Matt dives into the anatomy and function of the Achilles in the gait cycle. Then he explains tendinopathy, the most common injury to that tendon, and what puts runners at a higher injury risk. Finally, he gives rehab and strength-building tips and strategies to get you on the road to running at full strength again. If you or a fellow runner have ever suffered from Achilles pain, this is the episode for you!

Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2 Review (2023)

 

Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2: Can Their First Super Shoe Hit the Mark?
By Matthew Klein

Salomon has made several attempts over the last couple years to get into the road running scene. The majority of their shoes have been a little behind, firmer and not the most exciting, an incredible contrast to their excellent trail line. Their first racing shoe, the S/Lab Phantasm, was shockingly behind as it was more in line with the minimal racers a decade ago rather than featuring the super foams and plates of current day performers. The S/Lab Phantasm CF was much better but again fell short due to lacking a super foam and a carbon plate (they used a composite fiber). Finally, Salomon decided to launch a true super shoe with the early and brief release of the S/Lab Phantasm 2. Featuring a PEBAX midsole, a full-length carbon fiber plate, a maximal stack height and the rare higher drop, Salomon finally has a true super shoe. Before you get excited, there are a few things that need to be discussed in regards to whether this shoe will FIT your needs.

Nike Vomero 17 Review (2023)

Nike Vomero 17 Review: Excitingly Predictable
By Matthew Klein, David Salas, and Andrea Myers

The Nike Vomero 17 has always been the premium daily trainer for the company for many years. It has not always been a consistent shoe, with massive changes, swings, ups and downs over the years. There was even a time when we were concerned that the Vomero line had been continued. Like the mileage and endurance shoe that it is, despite everything, the Vomero continues on stronger than ever. As it really returns to the market, Nike has made some big updates in the 17. The Vomero now uses a top layer of Zoom X midsole to give a bouncy and cushioned ride, providing a more premium shoe than any prior Vomero. 

Altra VIA Olympus 2 Review (2023)

Altra VIA Olympus 2 Review: Mt. Cozy
By David Salas, Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

The Altra VIA Olympus 2 continues upon the max cushion offering aimed at bringing improved comfort to each step. The shoe uses EGO MAX midsole and an updated footbed to give a softer step in experience, as well as a little more cushion upon loading the shoe. The shoe uses the ORIGINAL FOOTSHAPE design from Altra and their classic 0mm drop platform.

Monday Shakeout: The Science of Running with Backpacks

 

The Monday Shakeout: The Science of Running with... Backpacks?
By Matt Klein

We have written a lot of DPTs here at Doctors of Running. One that stood out as a bit unique was this discussion on backpacks and running a few years ago by our founder Matt Klein.

Altra Vanish Carbon Review (2023)

 

Altra Vanish Carbon: Can it Withstand Matt Miles?
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

While there have been an increasing number of high stack height, plated racers, only one shoe has managed to combine that with a more natural foot position and fit. The Altra Vanish Carbon has been out for some time but still remains the solo "natural" higher stack-plated racer. The Vanish Carbon has torn me more than any shoe this year. While not a true super shoe, it blends elements extremely well to create a moderately bouncy, fast shoe for workouts and races that also happens to feature a wide toe box and a zero-drop midsole. However, its price tag and lack of durability have challenged me a great deal. Whether this shoe will match you and your needs is something you should carefully consider as you read this review.

The Science of Cardiac Health for Runners, with Dr. Tamanna Singh | DOR Podcast 164

 

The Science of Cardiac Health for Runners, with Dr. Tamanna Singh
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 164

Heart health is complicated and can be scary, even for runners. Andrea is joined by Dr. Tamanna Singh, MD to unravel the mysteries of cardiac health for endurance athletes. They discuss the biological benefits that running provides the heart, and how we as runners can expect our hearts to change as we train. Dr. Singh gives advice on what to do if you start experiencing cardiac issues, and how to find the right physician for your unique needs as an athlete.

Monday Shakeout: How Much Does Doctors of Running Make? | Report #5

 

Happy Monday runners! Each year since 2022 we try to release two reports a year to share how much the team is making. We believe in transparency and want to highlight where our sources of income are coming from. In our fifth report, we're keep it simple with a quick update on our midyear growth. If you'd like to check out our previous report, find it here.

“Great, but when can I Run Again?” Breaking Down Various Injury Timeframes for Returning to Running | DOR Podcast 163

“Great, but when can I Run Again?” Breaking Down Various Injury Timeframes for Returning to Running
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 163

The majority of runners will get injured every year, and the first question we often find ourselves asking is, "how long until I can run again?" In this episode, Matt & Nathan broadly explore the healing timeframes for a variety of common injury types. They give an insight into what's happening at a cellular level when we get injured and then heal over time. Then they dive into how long it takes common tissue types (muscles, tendons, bones) to heal from differing severities of injuries. Finally they give you some practical tips and tests to asses your own healing process from their hands-on experience as PTs.

Beginner's Guide to Nutrition and Hydration for Runners

 

Beginner's Guide to Nutrition and
Hydration for Runners
By Guest Writer Jennifer Giles (MS, RDN, CSSD)

All runners, from new to experienced, have to fuel. Learning to balance your nutrition is essential for engaging in any sport, allowing you to perform at your very best. We're excited to welcome guest writer Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist Jennifer Giles to Doctors of Running to help provide some basics to think about on the subject of fueling for your daily running, races, and more. In this beginner's guide, Jennifer covers the "why" on learning how to fuel, and discusses some basics for you to keep in mind as you think about your own nutrition needs.

Stable for Who? We Rank Shoes By Stability and How it Varies for Runner | DOR Podcast 162

Stable for Who? We Rank Shoes By Stability and How it Varies for Runners
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 162

If you've been a follow of Doctors of Running for a while, you know we like discussing stability in our shoes. As we've talked about at length, stability is not a monolithic term, but something that will vary between shoes and runners; everyone's experience of a shoe's stability will be different. On this episode, Matt and David rank ten different shoes from least to most stable. You'll get an inside look at how they judge the stability of different shoes. Have you run in any of these shoes? What shoes are less or more stable for you? Send us an email at doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com!

On Cloudflow 4 Review (2023)

On Cloudflow 4 Review: A Super-Inspired Overhaul
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

The On Cloudflow line can be viewed as the lightweight training/performance shoe for the company. The shoe has always had a relatively low-profile design and versatile build. The Cloudflow 4 continues upon this tradition with a few updates. This new model has a lot more toe spring in the forefoot to help with maintaining a forward-rolling sensation while maintaining the classic low profile the lineage has had. The Cloudflow 4 pulls some inspiration in part from the Cloudboom Echo 3 with a training focus.
 

New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Review (2023)

New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo v6 Review: Not Your Average Vongo Anymore
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

In a stability landscape that has drastically changed over the last several years, the Vongo series had remained a unique option that had all but disappeared. Featuring a soft, medial wedge design integrated into the midsole, it provided a moderate to higher level of stability while maintaining a soft, comfortable ride. An alternative to medial posts, wedges were designed to keep the medial side of the foot higher than the lateral side. This was a group option for those with positional faults or those who needed a higher level of support. As mentioned, the Vongo was a unique option on the market. Although the Vongo v6, which changes to more of a guidance-based mild stability shoe, is drastically different than the prior versions, it remains a very distinctive option with the new transition. Who it will work for is the question. 

Monday Shakeout: Unique Things Brands are Doing that We're Excited About (That Others Maybe Should Too)

The Monday Shakeout: Unique Things Brands are Doing that We're Excited About
By Bach Pham

In this week's shakeout, Bach explores some niche things running brands have started doing that could be a big benefit for all runners. Each Monday we share a new shakeout piece on things that have been on our mind. Send us ideas at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com today and you might see your idea in our next shakeout!

Altra Torin 7 Review (2023)

 

Altra Torin 7 Review: Their Moderately High Cushioned Neutral Trainer
By Andrea Myers

Altra started back in 2009 with the purpose to build around zero drop, anatomically wide toe box shoes. The company's name was modeled after the Latin word for Altera - "to fix or mend something that is broken." The Torin 7 is a bit deceptive, as the shoe has been around for a full decade (Altra used to use a .5 model yearly model update system to indicate how the size of the changes biannually). The Torin first dropped in 2013 as lightweight, cushioned model that for a long time acted as their highest cushion shoe until the recent Olympus release dethroned the Torin. The new Altra Torin 7 is no slouch though, now joining the 30mm+ stack club and gaining 2mm of Altra EGO MAX midsole foam over the previous version.

Altra Paradigm 7 Review (2023)

Altra Paradigm 7: Zero Drop Stability
By Matt Klein and Bach Pham

The Altra Paradigm 7 has held the unique spot of THE moderate stability zero drop daily training shoe. While the majority of higher-level stability shoes have an 8-12mm heel drop (Horizon, Kayano, Adrenaline, etc), the Paradigm series serves as the only one of the group to be zero drop. It fits in more now as more of this group have moved away from traditional posts and have gone toward guidance-based stability. The sidewalls in the Paradigm are less unique given their integration into mainstream shoes like the Kayano. However, it still holds a special place in the market for a specific population looking for this combination of features.

Altra Escalante 3 Review (Updated)

Altra Escalante 3: The Best One Yet?
By Contributor Andrea Myers and David Salas

The Altra Escalante is a popular zero drop, road-running daily trainer thanks to its anatomical toe box, soft and accommodating upper, and lightweight cushioning. The Escalante 2 and 2.5 quickly became my favorite daily trainers as I got back into running a few years ago, but as I increased my mileage, my feet wanted a little more cushion, upper stability, and protection than the shoes provided. With a firmer midsole and more structured upper, the Escalante 3 sounded like an update I would like. I bought a pair at my local running store and was excited to put them to the test.

Editor's Note: David Salas review added 10/19/23

Mailbag! Do Super Shoes Cause Hip Issues? Tapering 101 and More | DOR Podcast

Mailbag! Do Super Shoes Cause Hip Issues? Tapering 101 and Could Kiptum Run Sub 2 in the Adidas $500 Shoe?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 161

Mailbag show means it's all about your questions. At DOR we love hearing from you! On this episode, Nathan and David tackle your shoe, training, and injury questions. They take a look at comparing daily trainers and super shoes. They give some tips on how to taper for different lengths of races, and explore strength-training and injuries like proximal hamstring tendinopathy and hip impingements. We're always open to questions, so send us emails at doctorsofrunningpodcast@gmail.com.

AltraFWD Experience Review (2023)

AltraFWD Experience Review: A Step FWD
By David Salas, Andrea Myers, and Matthew Klein

For as long as anyone can remember Altra has always been the zero drop company with a wide toe box. With the Altra FWD Experience, they shake things up. The FWD Experience is the first Altra shoe to incorporate a drop ratio north of 0mm at 4mm to include a larger variety of runners that can comfortably run in their product. The shoe is a lightweight trainer aiming to compete with shoes in the likes of the HOKA Clifton, On Cloudgo, and ASICS Novablast.

Monday Shakeout: Why Heel Bevels are Natural

The Monday Shakeout: Why Heel Bevels Are Natural
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt explains why he frequently discusses the presence and design of heel bevels in running footwear based on the relationship to the shape of the heel bone.

Topo Athletic ST-5 Review (2023)

Topo Athletic ST-5: Minimal, Yet Familiar
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

While a small number of companies have continued to provide zero-drop shoes to the market, many of them have continued to gain weight and stack height. Finding a low stack height, lightweight, zero drop shoe is actually somewhat difficult, especially if you don't want it to be absolutely bare bones against the ground. The ST-5 is one of the few shoes that maintains a lighter weight while having enough cushioning to keep the edge off the road. Functioning either as a minimally cushioned extremely light trainer or potentially as a traditionally cushioned, wide-toe boxed racing flat, the Topo Athletic ST-5 maintains its unique place in the market. 

The Science of Bone Health for Runners ft. Rich Willy | DOR Podcast #160

The Science of Bone Health for Runners ft. Rich Willy, DPT, PhD
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 160

Bone injuries such as stress reactions and fractures plague many a runner. It's often a challenge to find their source and rehab can be long. Matt is joined by Rich Willy to discuss his research and work in bone health and injuries in runner (particularly ultra-runners). Rich's insights will help you better understand the cause of common bone stress in the foot, lower or upper leg, hip, etc. He and Matt discuss the critical role food and fueling play in our bone health. Rich also gives some practical exercises to try to reduce your injury risk. Finally, what role do shoes play in bone injuries? Not as much as you may think. Tune in and be sure to check out Rich's work!

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 Review (2023)

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 Review: Fresher than Fresh
By Matthew Klein and Andrea Myers

Premium, highly cushioned neutral shoes have been around for a long time. They are typically characterized as being more expensive due to having softer/more cushioned soles with higher-quality uppers. In the past, that usually meant heavier shoes where lightness was sacrificed for protection and comfort (supposedly). The New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13 flips this concept, bringing a highly cushioned premium shoe to market with an astoundingly low weight for this category. Not only is it one of the softest shoes in its category, but it is also (currently) the lightest premium neutral training shoe on the market. It is even lighter or as light as many of the more in-line daily trainers, making it a shoe certainly worth talking about.