Reebok Floatzig X1 Review (2024)

Reebok Floatzig X1 Review
By David Salas

The introduction of the Floatzig line has brought a few new shoes to the table for Reebok. Floatzig has built upon Floatride Energy and has given it a new geometry named Floatzig. The midsole remains very similar, though there are some slits and gaps in the midsole to make the shoe lighter and more responsive. The X1 adds a carbon plate and a more streamlined upper for a more performance-ready package. 

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Review (2024)

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 Review
By Matthew Klein

While super stack racing shoes have continued to progress, none previously had been able to match the weights of the minimal racing era. Shoes like the Mizuno Wave Universe, RC 5000 and others were classic fast shoes that were all in the sub-5 oz range. Since the debut of the maximal stack height carbon plated super shoes, it appeared the focus was less on how light a shoe could be but instead how responsive and stiff it could be. The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 is the first (somewhat) commercially super-racing shoe to finally go back under that mark. Debuted as a specific tool for elite Adidas runners to chase records, it has stirred up great debate with its massive price tag and low availability. Whether it is worth that price tag or is just a concept shoe for the future remains to be discussed. 

Inside the New Brooks Hyperion Lineup | DOR Podcast #201

Inside the New Brooks Hyperion Lineup: Why was the Hyperion Max Redesigned? What is DNA Flash Exactly? and How Stability is Approached in Neutral Designs
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 201

On this episode, Andrea is joined by long time friend of the pod, Tina Danforth, Footwear Product Line Manager for Brooks Running. They take a deep dive into Brooks's latest updates to their Hyperion line, specifically the Hyperion 2, Hyperion Max 2, and Hyperion Elite 4. Tina breaks down the specific science of their foams (DNA Flash & DNA Loft) and how they formulate them for different uses. They also take a look at the upcoming Ghost Max 2, an update to the massively popular debut.

New Balance Rebel v4 Review (2024)

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 Review
By Matthew Klein, Andrea Myers, & David Salas

While still a relatively young series, the FuelCell Rebel line has garnered a following similar to the Hoka Mach and Saucony Kinvara. The popularity of simple, moderate stack height, light, performance trainers continues to stay high despite every increasing footwear complexity and stack heights. The newest Rebel reverses course from the narrow platform of v3, featuring a wide, inherently stable base. This fairly large change comes with maintenance of the incredibly low weight thanks to a brand new PEBA-based FuelCell midsole. This additional takes the Rebel series to new heights, adding faster workouts and races to its already versatile ride. 

Saucony Hurricane 24 Review (2024)

Saucony Hurricane 24 Review
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

The slow drop in stability shoes has been a constant over the last several years. Great models like the Mirage, DS Trainer/Racer, Fastwitch, Forza and others have disappeared from the market. The majority have been on the lighter stability end but the discontinuation of the long-standing Hurricane line at version 23 was a shock. Although we have seen losses like the Mizuno Wave Prophecy, the loss of a popular premium stability shoe was shocking. The Hurricane series was unique as it showed that a premium stability trainer could have some bounce and not just be the classic slogger most of the shoes were/continue to be. For that reason, many runners (including the DOR team) were disappointed with the news of the Hurricane's discontinuation. Additionally, the supposed replacement with the Saucony Tempus was met with mild confusion even though we liked the Tempus. For those still wondering how to replace their beloved Hurricane, the series has returned to life with version 24. While still in line with the Hurricane concept, the new version is quite different from the past. Featuring a maximal stack height and a bouncy sole, the new Hurricane moves to keep the foot centered without a post, taking up the call for high-level guidance shoes. Whether it is enough to appease Hurricane fans is up for debate. 

Brooks Hyperion 2 Review (2024)

Brooks Hyperion 2 Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

The Brooks Hyperion 2 brings significant updates to the original Hyperion. Hyperion 2 has lost half an ounce in weight, despite gaining 4mm of stack height and getting a redesigned knit upper. Hyperion 2 features DNA Flash v2, which Brooks says is 10% more responsive then DNA Flash v1 (listen to our podcast with Brooks Running to learn more about the foam). These changes have made Hyperion 2 a truly versatile lightweight performance trainer and a nice companion to the also redesigned Hyperion Max 2, which is now better geared towards uptempo and easy paces. 

Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Review (2024)

Mizuno Wave Rider 28 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

The Mizuno Wave Rider has been the flagship neutral training shoe for Mizuno for many years now. Known as one of the few remaining high-drop training shoes, its history of being slightly firmer and snappier has continued through most of its lifetime. Although fairly consistent over the years, prior versions saw in increase in weight that was confusing given prior marketing that the use of a wave plate for cushioning could save weight. The newest version continues to get back to that with the addition of Mizuno's new ENERZY NXT midsole foam. This is interesting in that it adds more cushioning while maintaining the slightly firmer ride the Rider has been known for. So while there are many updates, the Rider continues on as a Rider. 

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Shoes of 2024 for Flat Feet

 

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Shoes of 2024 for Flat Feet
By Bach Pham

It's mid-year, which means it is time to update my list of favorite shoes for flat feet runners. If you have not checked out my Shakeout about the do's and don'ts to flat feet shoes, check that out first before reading on!

200th Episode Mailbag Special! 1000+ Mile Shoes? Building Our Dream Shoe, Our Running Celebrity Bestie, and If This Shoe Were a… | DOR Podcast

200th Episode Mailbag Special! 1000+ Mile Shoes? Building Our Dream Shoe, Our Running Celebrity Bestie, and If This Shoe Were a…
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 200

It's the 200th episode of the Doctors of Running Podcast! For this milestone episode we've put together a mailbag from some of our favorite running-world friends like Connor Blalock (Running Warehouse), Elisabeth Jennings (Running Explained), Victoria Sekely (Train Smart Run Strong), and more! Nathan, Matt, and David get together to tackle their questions about dream running celebrity friends, 1000mi shoes, the future of racing shoes, and so much more. We're so thankful for each one of you for supporting and following along with our work for this long, and we're looking forward to the next 200 episodes!

Diadora Equipe Nucleo Review (2023)

 

Diadora Equipe Nucleo Review
By Bach Pham

We've only just barely dipped into the Italian footwear brand's running shoe lineup at Doctors of Running. Diadora makes a variety of sporting good products, with running footwear becoming a modern major focus in the 2000s. The company was particularly prominent when AC Milan's Marco van Basten became the brand's leading sponsor in the 80s and 90s along with all-star Robert Baggio. Today's review focuses on their daily cruiser, the Equpie Nucleo.

New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 Review (2024)

New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 Review
By Matthew Klein, David Salas, and Andrea Myers

The New Balance Fresh Foam X Balos v1 is a new premium daily trainer from New Balance that features a PEBA/EVA blended midsole and extreme rocker geometry that New Balance calls cambered geometry. With a higher stack 38.5mm/32.5mm midsole and relatively light weight at 9.2 oz for a men's size 9 and 7.3oz for a women's size 8, the Balos provides a soft and protective ride without feeling heavy underfoot. The Balos v1 is an interesting addition to New Balance's maximal daily trainer lineup, including the SC Trainer v3 and More v5, with a lower weight than both shoes, no plate, and extreme rocker geometry.

Best Shoes for People with Posterior Tibial Tendinopathy (Shoes with Medial Support)

Running Shoes for Posterior Tibial Tendon Problems
(shoes with stability and medial guidance)

Our perspective on stability and guidance are one of the many things that make Doctors of Running unique. I, Matt Klein, generally need at least mild stability in my footwear. Like many of our readers, I have continued to navigate and understand what a stability shoe is, what options there are out there, what actually provides stability/guidance and who stability actually works best for. Recent research has suggested that stability shoes tend to benefit those with a history of pronation-related injuries or who are unable to control the natural pronation motion during gait (Malisoux et al., 2016; Williems et al., 2021). One of the primary muscles responsible for controlling and that can be injured with poor control of pronation is the posterior tibialis. Those who experience pathology in this muscle/tendon often find relief and comfort with stability shoes and we have put together a guide on shoes that may help those who struggle with injuries or problems with this tissue.

Monday Shakeout: How Much Taller Can Running Shoes Get?

The Monday Shakeout: How Much Taller Can Running Shoes Get?
By Matthew Klein

In this week's shakeout Matt talks about the growing stack heights of shoes in the market. What is the impact of this taller growth? Is there a point of diminishing returns?

What Makes Super Shoes “Super” with Dr. Wouter Hoogkamer (Researcher, Leader of The 4% Study) - DOR Podcast #199

 

 

What Makes Super Shoes “Super” and Interpreting Results for Individuals with Dr. Wouter Hoogkamer (Researcher, Leader of The 4% Study)
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 199

On this episode, Nathan and Matt have the privilege of interviewing Dr. Wouter Hoogkamer about his research on super shoes and how they affect running performance. They discuss what makes a super shoe "super" (the plate, the geometry, the foam, or all three?). They also discuss Wouter's latest writing and research on getting the best results from running research trials. They get Wouter's take on training in super trainers/plated shoes and how they may effect biomechanics. Be sure to listen to this fascinating discussion on super shoes and research!

Best Topo Athletic Running Shoes | Buyer's Guide (2024)

Topo Cyclone 2

Topo Athletic is a brand that's quietly grown since its inception in 2013. Known for their low drop, wider fitting footwear, they've garnered a following for their comfort. In recent years, they've also been expanding their line into the performance trainer forum, releasing some exciting new shoes that have elevated the brand into the future. With their focus on fit, natural running shoes to "move better," and newfound interest in competitive midsole foams, it's an exciting time to get to know Topo.

Nike Pegasus 41 Review (2024)

Nike Pegasus 41 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

When most of the public thinks about a "running shoe", the Pegasus is often a shoe brought up or thought of first. A series that is now over four decades old, despite some minor changes over the years, its purpose has stayed consistent as a neutral daily training shoe. While it was protected (for the most part) from the minimalist footwear trend many years ago, the current maximalist trajectory has begun to seep into the building blocks of this consistent shoe. A large increase in stack height is one of the many updates this shoe sees, but the Pegasus 41 still remains a Pegasus. 

Adidas Adizero SL 2 Review (2024)

Adidas Adizero SL 2 Review
By Matthew Klein

The original Adidas Adizero SL 2 was a unique lightweight trainer due to its simplicity, great performance and solid price. A solid amount of Lightstrike combined with a small puck of Lightstrike Pro made for a great durable shoe that could handle training and workouts. Version 2 returns as a completely redone shoe that features all the upgrades you could imagine. A full-length layer of superfoam Lightstrike Pro, an increased stack height, a decreased weight and a snug upper are all part of the slightly super additions typical of shoes in today's world. The question is whether these upgrades keep the SL series true to the original or if this is now a completely different shoe. 

Monday Shakeout: The Impact of Footwear on Masters Runners

The Monday Shakeout: The Impact of Footwear on Masters Runners
By Matthew Klein

This week Matt reviews the limited research on the impact of footwear on masters runners. Having just completed his PhD on the impact of aging and the biomechanical factors that contribute to Achilles tendinopathy in masters runners, Matt's focus on aging and running encouraged him to look at the literature on footwear in masters runners. The results suggest that data is limited but there are a few things that can be used to guide future research.

All About Foot Injuries, and Reviewing Asics Latest Super Trainer | DOR Podcast #198

 

All about Foot Injuries and a Review of the ASICS Superblast 2
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 198

As any runner knows, injuries are all too common. On this episode, Nate & David look to bring some education and aid if you've got a foot injury. They look at the anatomy of the foot, common pathologies, and more. Tune in for some practical strategies for minimizing your injury risk and assessing & gaining mobility. On the back half of the show, they review the brand new ASICS Superblast 2, an update to one of our team's favorite shoes.

New Balance Hierro v8 Review (2024)

New Balance Hierro v8 Review
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

The New Balance Hierro line was one of earlier New Balance trail shoes to feature a Fresh Foam midsole. Originally debuted as a softer trail trainer, it evolved over the years with varying weight levels. Version 8 returns as one of the lightest in the series, dropping under 10 oz for men's size 9 with a new blend of Fresh Foam X midsole. The Hierro v8 now returns as a slightly lighter, yet taller stack height trail shoe with a softer ride and excellent Vibram Megagrip outsole and small lugs that provide plenty of grip for a variety of trail efforts and even some road crossings.

Brooks Hyperion GTS 2 Review (2024)

Brooks Hyperion GTS 2 Review
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

Not long ago, there existed a decent group of mild stability racing shoes. The Brooks Racer ST series was a staple as the higher drop, longer distance contender, while the Saucony Fastwitch sat as the lower drop firmer racer and ASICS DS Racer rounded everything out as the lightest of the group (6.6 oz for men's size 9!!). Those days are long gone as most of those shoes were discontinued years ago and many mild stability shoes in general were discontinued. Those who still wanted stability in a faster package were at a loss until the Hyperion GTS was debuted. Although not a super shoe, the Hyperion GTS provided that missing mild stability, lightweight trainer/racer. Version two returns with a completely redone look but subtle updates that update the shoe in every way while keeping the best parts that provide good responsiveness and stability for faster days. 

Brooks Hyperion Max 2 Review (2024)

Brooks Hyperion Max 2 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

The original Hyperion Max was a different shoe from what Brooks had been previously offering. A great alternative to the stiffer Hyperion Elite series, it stood out as a popular shoe for Brooks given the increased but not quite maximal stack height and the smooth rockered ride. Andrea got well over 200 miles on her pair and it may have even replaced the once-coveted Beacons as a favorite shoe for her. The only challenge was that there was a great deal of overlap with the Brooks Hyperion, which along sitting at a slightly lower stack height had a similar weight and function. The Hyperion Max 2 now differentiates itself as a truly maximal stack height plate daily training shoe, increasing in stiffness, weight and stack height. The result is a clear place in the Brooks Speed line up alongside the Hyperion 2 and Hyperion Elite 4. How it sits in that space is where things get interesting.

The Monday Shakeout: David's Top Shoes of 2024

The Monday Shakeout: David's Top Shoes of 2024 So Far
By David Salas

We've reached the halfway point of the year (whaaaaat). Recently Matt and Andrea shared their top shoes of 2024 so far. This week we bring on David Salas to share his favorite, which includes a very new release at Doctors of Running.