Mailbag! How Do Shoes Help Us Run Farther? Super Shoe Advice? + Breakdown of New Stability Footwear in 2025 | DOR Podcast #232

 

 

Mailbag! How Do Shoes Help Us Run Farther? Super Shoe Advice? + Breakdown of New Stability Footwear in 2025
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 232

Matt Klein and David Salas are here for another mailbag episode where we answer your questions. In this edition, they cover shoes, injury rehab, training advice and more. Are there any firmer super trainers? Do you need to size up your shoes for marathon racing? What are the best strategies for dealing with shin pain? Tune in for answers to these and much more. Want your question answered? Email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review (2025)

Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matt Klein

The original Cielo X1 was a crazy shoe. An above legal stack height, an insanely bouncy ride that made the shoe run faster than its relatively higher weight, a rare laterally biased super shoe that worked well for those with medial stability needs and a design that made it work well for both elite and recreational runners. Its major limitations were the above legal stack height and the higher weight, but it made up for that by being more comfortable than many other super racing shoes. Some argued it was better classified as a super trainer but many people have used it for high-quality races. That feedback was clearly integrated in version two, which returns as a compete overhaul. The Cielo X1 2.0 is a much lighter shoe with a "technically" legal stack height, a narrower sole with a medial midfoot cut out and a far more snug upper that takes the series from crazy to aggressive. 

Xero HFS Original vs. HFS II | Comparison Review (2025)

Xero HFS Original vs. HFS II: A Comparison Review
By David Salas

Xero is a company that prides themselves on creating high quality minimalist shoes. Xero shoes come in a variety of uses for active lifestyles. Some models are performance based, while others lean more towards casual wear. The HFS line focuses on performance and gives you a balanced running and walking experience for daily efforts.  

Adidas Supernova Solution 2 (2025)

Adidas Supernova Solution 2 Review
By Matthew Klein 

It has been 4 years since we reviewed an Adidas shoe with a stability label. The company that once had the best lightweight stability shoe (the Tempo series) and several mild stability racing shoes (most available in Asia) had everything disappear except for heavy, clunky Adidas Solar ST. Recent years has brought a new organization of their shoes, with the debut of the Adistar series (which started off heavy and clunky but improved) and the Supernova Solution series. I did not try the original Solution, although I was curious, given the reported lighter weight and PEBA midsole. After curiosity got the better of me, I purchased my own pair of the Adidas Supernova Solution 2 and have been pleasantly surprised. The company that had seemed to forget its lineage of great lightweight stability shoes has brought something to the table that rivals the Saucony Tempus 2, the only other PEBA-based stability shoe on the market. While not perfect, it is now one of only two lighter options for those wanting a PEBA-based midsole in a stability shoe that can handle training and even workouts and races for some. 

Best Stable Racing Shoes for Those With Stability Needs (2025)

Best Stable Racing Shoes For Those With Stability Needs
By Matt Klein

In this feature, Matt Klein shares his experience trying to find stable racing shoes in a super stack, less stable footwear landscape. He outlines the current status of stability and super shoes, alternatives and a few hopes for the future. While there are no true super racing shoes on the market and technically only 1 mild stability shoe meant for faster efforts, there are a few stable neutral options that may work for those with mild to moderate stability/guidance needs. 

We Rank Our Top 5 Daily Trainers from ’23-’25 | DOR Podcast #231

 

We Rank Our Top 5 Daily Trainers from ’23-’25
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 231

On this episode of the pod, Matt & David get together to rank their five favorite daily trainers from the past two (ish) years. They discuss what made the shoes work for them, what could have ranked them higher, and what to look out for when picking daily trainers for yourself. Let us know what your favorite daily trainers are! Drop a comment or email us at doctorsofrunning@mail.com.

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Review (2025)

Puma ForeverRun Nitro 2 Review
By Matthew Klein

The original Puma ForeverRun Nitro was a conundrum. It was an exciting addition to the stability category in a time when that category was shrinking. It provided several unique guidance components, including a slightly elevated medial 1st MTP joint, a slight elevation in the insole to act as a mild metatarsal lift, a guidance line in the outsole and a medial sidewall. However, a clunky heel, a challenging fit and what ended being a shoe better for forefoot strikers felt like an incomplete package. Fortunately, Puma put some serious work into the newest version, which returns an almost completely different and far better shoe. A far smoother heel transition, a new stability design and a far more comfortable upper takes the ForeverRun Nitro serious from a speed bump to a front line contender among stability shoes. 

On Cloudsurfer Next Review (2025)

On Cloudsurfer Next Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

When On initially came onto the footwear scene, many people dismissed their footwear as athleisure shoes. Though aesthetically pleasing for many, On has continued to push forward and pump out many run specific models. One of the recent lines of shoes that many grew to enjoy is the Surfer line. The Cloudsurfer uses a midsole that they call Cloudtec Phase, which does not use the traditional Speedboard seen in On running shoes. The On Cloudsurfer is categorized as a daily training shoe, while the On Cloudsurfer Next is a lighter training shoe that gives versatility for workouts and long runs.  

Best Running Shoes with a Wide Midfoot (2025)

Best Running Shoes with a Wide Midfoot (Base, Not Fit)
By Matt Klein

In this feature, Matt Klein discusses why midfoot width has become a popular form of stability in the max cushion era of running shoes. He provides insights about the science behind midfoot width and then shares his current top running shoes for training, workouts, and racing that have a good amount of width and stability underfoot - that aren't specifically stability shoes. We will keep this article updated with new shoes that come out that fit the bill.

This or That? Comparing the Best Max Cushion and Super Shoes Available Now | DOR Podcast #230

 

This or That? Comparing the Best Max Cushion and Super Shoes Available Now
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 230

Supplements areeverywhere these days, from ads to influencers, to athletes. Andrea is joined by returning guest Jenn Giles (MS, RDN, CSSD) to sort through the myriad of supplements available to runners. Jenn gives us valuable insight on how to find safe and true-to-the-label supplements, which is harder than it may seem. They take a look at the performance benefits (and risks) of things like caffeine, protein powder, and vitamin D, and explore newly popular possible performance enhancers like ketones and sodium bicarbonate.

The Best Stable Neutral Running Shoes (2025)

When we put together our Guide to Stability, we also helped define a segment of running shoes that we felt existed, but wasn't amplified. We ended up coining the term "stable neutral" to help put a name to the trend. Stable neutral shoes have steadily become a growing part of the industry in recent years. Especially as maximal cushioning as gone from a corner of running to the norm, companies have been working to balance these tall stack heights with a variety of design features to create stable platforms. In this feature, we further define stable neutral shoes and offer our current favorites in the market today.

Brooks Launch 11 Review (2025)

Brooks Running Launch 11 Review
By David Salas and Andrea Myers

As a company, Brooks has always done a good job of having a shoe at a price point that will work for nearly all consumers. The entry level lines have traditionally been the Brooks Launch and Revel. The Revel has focused on easy efforts, while the Launch focuses on having a more lively feel to it. The newest iteration of the Launch uses DNA Flash, a supercritical midsole, as the main base. The forefoot has a touch of DNA Flash V2 for some additional bounce and snappiness. The Launch is an entry level speed day shoe or lightweight trainer. 

Best Running Shoes for Walking (2025)

Beginner's Guide to Walking,
and the Best Running Shoes for Walking

By DOR Editorial Team

While this website is called "Doctors of Running," we spend a great time personally either walking in the shoes we test or clinically treating/working with people who are having issues walking. Running usually takes only an hour or two of our day. The rest of the time is spent standing, sitting and walking. Running shoes have become extremely popular for everyday use outside of running due to their comfort. With that in mind, we decided to pull together a guide for those coming here looking for great running shoes specifically for walking or standing. The following guide provides a general overview of walking along with some guidelines you should keep in mind. At the very end you can find a list of recommendations for specific shoes we have found excellent for walking and through personal experience using all-day through our clinical work. 

Monday Shakeout: Best Racing Shoes that Can Handle Orthotics?

The Monday Shakeout: Best Racing Shoes that Can Handle Orthotics?
By Matthew Klein

This week we talk about whether super racing shoes and orthotics mix. While most do not (we explain why below), there are still some options out there for those that feel most comfortable or prefer to run with their orthotics. We want to remind you that racing shoes are not typically designed with orthotics in mind but as always we will try to provide some guidance on finding a solution. 

From Caffeine to Vitamins: Which Supplements are Best for Runners? | DOR Podcast #229

  

 

From Caffeine to Vitamins: Which Supplements are Best for Runners?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 229

Supplements areeverywhere these days, from ads to influencers, to athletes. Andrea is joined by returning guest Jenn Giles (MS, RDN, CSSD) to sort through the myriad of supplements available to runners. Jenn gives us valuable insight on how to find safe and true-to-the-label supplements, which is harder than it may seem. They take a look at the performance benefits (and risks) of things like caffeine, protein powder, and vitamin D, and explore newly popular possible performance enhancers like ketones and sodium bicarbonate.

A Guide to Running Shoe Terminology

A Guide to Running Shoe Terminology
By Matthew Klein

This week we have decided to define several terms that we use frequently but have begun to realize are not common language. As a group of clinicians and educators, our goal is to help people understand what they are putting on their feet or how they are training. This can include terms and jargon that we may take our understanding of for granted, so to help you along this journey of knowledge, we have laid out several below that we commonly use. This list will likely evolve and we may even move this to a more official page. For now, we hope this helps clarify our language!

Nike Pegasus Premium Review (2025)

Nike Pegasus Premium Review
By Matthew Klein

The Nike Pegasus is the oldest running shoe series currently on the market. There have been a few variations over the 40+ years this shoe including the Pegasus Turbo, Pegasus Trail and most recently the Pegasus Plus. A new move by Nike will now bring us three levels of each of their trainers (Pegasus, Vomero and Structure) including a plus version, the inline version and a premium version.  The Pegasus Premium is the first super stack Pegasus with a superfoam ZoomX top layer, full-length Zoom Air, and a bottom layer of ReactX. This makes for a unique shoe that will also work for a unique runner. 

On Cloudboom Strike Review (2024): Their Bounciest Super Shoe Yet

On Cloudboom Strike Review
By David, Salas, Nathan Brown and Andrea Myers

Due to some recent success from some of their major athletes, such as Helen Obiri, On Running has had a lot more eyes looking at their super shoes. On decided to continue pushing innovation towards a more unique super shoe offering in the Cloudboom Strike by creating what they call a bounce board in the sock liner. This creates a softer and more plush loading experience through toe off on the carbon plate. Was it a hit for the team? Find out below.  

NEW: 100 Mile Review of the On Cloudboom Strike

Mailbag! Best Shoes for Shin Splints? The Role of Flexibility in Shoes? Best Ultramarathon Shoes? | DOR Podcast #228

 

 

Mailbag! Best Shoes for Shin Splints? The Role of Flexibility in Shoes? Best Ultramarathon Shoes?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 228

We're back with a new mailbag episode! The team answers your running and running shoe questions. In this edition, the team discusses shin splints and the best shoes that we'd look for in dealing with them. They also break down their favorite walking shoes and discuss some of our favorite options for ultramarathons. Got a question for our next mailbag? Send it over to doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes (2025)

 

Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes
By DOR Editorial Team

The current trend in racing shoes has been toward super foams and carbon fiber plates. Although plates have been used in the past, their popularity has surged. A new age of fast shoes has come about and now a variety of companies have released their products (some in small batches). For the first time (almost ever) there is an interest from the general public (and not just the competitive runners) in finding the fastest shoe to get them across the finish line. We at Doctors of Running thought it would be helpful to have a guide to all the current models to help you choose if and which one may be right for you.

ASICS Gel Nimbus 27 Review (2025)

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27 Review
By Matthew Klein

The ASICS Nimbus series is one of the longest running premium daily training shoes on the market. When I worked in running stores (long ago), this was the shoe that was requested for those wanting the most or the softest cushioning. This shoe has kept this even in the face of massive changes to the industry, being one of the first shoes in its category to move above 40mm of stack height in the heel. Version 27 continues the trend of increasing the stack height but makes some unique changes that are a first for the series that not only provides a cushioned ride, but a smooth one as well. 

Best Shoes for People with Haglund's Deformity (Shoes without Rigid Heel Counters)

 

Running Shoes for People with Haglund's Deformity
Or, the Shoes without Rigid Heel Counters List

Heel counters are one of the many footwear components that are commented on here at Doctors of Running. Heel counters are (usually) a rigid piece of material embedded in or molded around the upper of the rearfoot. The purpose is to provide structure to this part of the shoe and potentially stabilize the heel. There are now several variations, going from ones that wrap completely around the heel, to split heel counters (a piece left out at the rearmost portion) and even super thin heel counters just to keep the upper from collapsing. While many people do well with these stiffening agents, some with sensitivities at or around their heel sometimes do not.

Which to Choose? Breaking Down Saucony’s Running Shoe Lineup | Podcast #227

 

 

Which to Choose? Breaking Down Saucony’s Running Shoe Lineup
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 227

In this edition of the pod, Matt and David dive deep into the world of Saucony running shoes. They discuss the brand's popular daily trainers, like the Ride and Triumph, known for their comfort and versatility. Next, they explore stability models, such as the Guide and Hurricane. Then the reach for speed with the Endorphin line, featuring the Trainer, Speed, Pro, and Elite (and Sinister, though not technically an "Endorphin" shoe). Finally, Matt and David discuss a few of their trail offerings for when you're ready for some off-road action. What's your favorite Saucony shoe? Let us know at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com!

Saucony Endorphin Trainer Review (2025)

Saucony Endorphin Trainer Review
By Matthew Klein and Andrea Myers

While the Saucony Pro and Speed series have had clear distinctions within the Endorphin line, the last shoe has always had a popular but slightly odd placement. While the Endorphin Shift series was incredibly popular, so much so that we and consumers are still looking for a true replacement, it was slightly out of place in the Endorphin line given the lack of a plate and a full EVA midsole. When the Shift was discontinued, the Kinvara Pro sounded like a replacement with a carbon plate, a top layer of PWRRUN PB and being labeled a trainer for many or a racer for recreational runners. While public confusion around the name may have hampered it continuing (to be fair, the story behind the name did make sense), the Saucony Endorphin Trainer now serves as a much improved replacement that finally rounds out the Endorphin series. Featuring a top layer of the new IncrediRun foam with a 3/4 carbon plate and some outsole rubber, the Endorphin Trainer greatly improves on the Kinvara Pro for those that want a shoe that excels at training, workout paces and even racing for the recreational runner.

Topo Athletic Cyclone 3 Review (2025)

Topo Athletic Cyclone 3 Review
By Matthew Klein

The Topo Cyclone 2 was an outstanding shoe. In 2023, it won our Best Performance Trainer of the Year, which came as a shock to some people. It was a rare shoe, featuring a moderate stack height with a full length, non-plated PEBAX midsole, an anatomic toe box and an incredibly low, sub 7 oz weight. While some of our team (me) hailed it as one of the few options for those wanting a more traditional racing shoe with a super foam, others (David and Andrea) hailed its versatility to handle everything from fast workouts to long runs. For those who loved that shoe and are afraid of change, the 3rd version of this shoe returns as an upper update only. If it ain't broken, only slightly adjust it right?

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Review (2025)

New Balance Fresh Foam X 880 v15 Review
By Matthew Klein

The 880 v14 was a unique shoe because of its simplicity. In a time when even daily trainers were going above 40mm of stack height, the 880 held its ground as a moderate stack height with a consistent (admittedly vanilla) midsole. This made it an excellent option for those wanting something simple or as a great introductory shoe for newer runners. The 880 v15 evolves on this, bringing itself into the maximal category with a now >40mm heel. While it still remains a consistent training shoe, it almost moves into the place of the old More v4, with clear design similarities to the More v5. This signals a clear change in direction for the series and where that is headed is worth discussing.

Topo Athletic Aura Review (2025)

Topo Athletic Aura Review
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

Topo Athletic has been one of the few companies that have continued to use traditional posting in their stability shoes. In the Topo Athletic Aura they are taking a bit of a different approach. The Aura is using a firmed up piece of foam that extends from the medial and lateral rearfoot into the medial midfoot, creating a little bit of rigidity to the platform as you transition into that direction. This is what they are calling "Y-Frame." This is complemented with a posterior lateral bevel to create some guidance through the gait cycle.  

The Monday Shakeout: Can I Transition Out of Stability Shoes?

The Monday Shakeout: Can I Transition Out Of Stability Shoes?
By Matthew Klein

In this week's Monday Shakeout, Matt talks about his transitions in and out of stability footwear over the years, particularly in the past year as he's amped up strength training. Find out how he's done and the lessons you take to do the same.

Matt Shares What He's Learned about the Running Shoe Industry | DOR Podcast #226

 

 

Behind the Sole: Matt Shares What He's Learned about the Running Shoe Industry
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 226

As running shoe brand continue to innovate and grow, we're inundated by countless shoes, always promising better and faster. But what does it take to actually arrive at a final product? Matt takes us behind the scenes into the running shoe industry, from concept to shelves. How long does it take to get a shoe in hand? How many people work on a shoe? How are the materials made and sourced? Matt lends his unique expertise as a researcher and longtime running shoe insider to answer these questions and more.

Hoka Clifton 10 Review (2025)

Hoka Clifton 10 Review
By David Salas and Matthew Klein

For many years you could associate Hoka with two things: rockered geometries and a 5mm drop platform. That was maintained in their flagship trainer for its entire existence up until this model. The top-selling Hoka Clifton receives three extra millimeters of foam to make it an 8mm drop platform, shaking up the stack height to match its peers in other brands and slightly separate itself within the Hoka line-up from new models like the Skyflow. The Hoka Clifton still maintains a similar rocker profile and compress molded EVA midsole along with some updated materials and fit designs for the upper. 

Diadora Atomo V7000-2 Review (2024)

Diadora Atomo V7000-2 Review
By David Salas

Diadora is an Italian based company that has product for a variety of sports. Over the last year, Diadora has been making a much bigger push in the running market with offerings of training and racing shoes. Their goal is to provide craftmanship and comfort to a performance lineup. For the Diadora Atomo V7000-2, this shoe is hand assembled in Italy.     

Adidas Adizero Evo SL Review (2024)

Adidas Adizero Evo SL Review
By Matthew Klein

Adidas has finally been making moves. While the racing component of the Adizero line has been fairly solid, the alternative racer not seen since earlier versions of the Boston. The Boston series, while fast, has seen an increase in weight and adjustments that clearly make it a training shoe. The older Bostons weighed only a little more than the Adios (now Adios Pro) series, making it a slightly less aggressive but still fantastic distance racer that those from recreational to elite runners used. While there is an Adizero SL that is great, it still is a more budget friendly shoe that does not have the bells and whistles many super shoes have. Then there is the insane and insanely priced Prime X series for those with the heaviest footfalls and the deepest wallets. Debuted last year at an incredibly price, the Adidas Adizero Evo SL seeks to find a balance between all these models with additional influence from the Evo Pro. A full Lightstrike Pro midsole and a similar geometry to the Evo Pro with a nylon midfoot shank (plate), the Evo SL is a fantastic shoe that easily switches between trainer and speed shoe. 

Best Running Shoes with Toe Spring

As Doctors of Physical Therapy, we have a bias toward choosing biomechanically appropriate footwear. For several of us, that includes a bias toward shoes that keep the foot/ankle in more natural positions. That does not mean extreme barefoot or minimal type shoes (although those do have their place) but trying to find shoes that encourage appropriate movement rather than putting the body into extremes. The challenge with that is that some people actually do really well in those extremes. An easy example of this is heel drop. While many people seem to do best in mid level drops, there are others who do much better with a higher or lower heel drop. The same can be said of toe spring, or the upward curve under the toes. We generally suggest finding shoes that have a low toe spring angle as we generally suggest staying away from footwear that keeps your body in positional extremes as this allows the toes to be kept in a neutral position. However, some people actually do well in a shoe with more toe spring, so for those who do better with that attribute, this guide is for you. 

This or That, 2025 Shoe Edition! | DOR Podcast #225

 

This or That, 2025 Shoe Edition!
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 225

It's time for another "This or That" episode where we willingly back ourselves into a corner and force ourselves to take sides (when we'd much rather say, "It depends.") Here, Matt, David, and Nathan make their picks for some new and upcoming shoes like the Hoka Clifton & Bondi, Mizuno Neo Zen & Neo Vista, and Endorphin Trainer & Speed, and more. Have you tried any of these shoes? Do you have any this-or-that questions for our team? DM us on Instagram or email us at doctorsofrunning@gmail.com.

Diadora Gara Carbon Review (2024)

Diadora Gara Carbon Review
By Andrea Myers

The Diadora Gara Carbon is Diadora's first venture into the super shoe category. The Gara Carbon features a PEBA midsole called Anima PBX, a carbon plate designed in collaboration with Ducati, and a Matryx mesh upper. Diadora claims that Anima PBX provides total rebound of 80% while reducing weight by 40%. Its fit is notable for a wider and higher volume toe box as compared to most super shoes on the market, but its $300 price tag also makes it one of the most expensive. 

Best Running Shoes for Beginners (2025)

The Best Running Shoes for Beginners:
In-depth Guide to Choosing Your First Running Shoe
By the Doctors of Running Editorial Team

At Doctors of Running, we frequently get questions from new runners or those who are interested in starting running about footwear. There are so many companies and shoes that looking for a place to start can be overwhelming. Additionally, the amount of marketing jargon and advertising that is immediately thrown at any new runners can either lead to decision paralysis or choosing an inappropriate shoe that causes the person to end up in one of our offices.

HOKA Bondi 9 Review (2025)

HOKA Bondi 9 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

HOKA has been one of the fastest growing footwear companies over the last decade. They have largely been characterized by their tall stack heights and rockered designs. For the last several years two models specifically have been at the top of sales across all running footwear. These two models are the HOKA Bondi and HOKA Clifton. The Clifton is the flagship neutral training shoe with the Bondi being the premium trainer option. In the latest version of the Bondi, HOKA has integrated a new midsole, upper, and heel geometry to differentiate the two models even more. 

Doctors of Running Merch is Here!

 

 

Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 Review (2025)

Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 Review
By Andrea Myers, Matthew Klein & David Salas

In the last few years, Mizuno has changed from being the consistent company to the one that now seems to put out the craziest new stuff. The original Rebellion Pro was a great example of this with an incredibly unique geometry, ride and midsole. The Rebellion Pro 2 managed to be more aggressive, adding a more intense heel curve and a bouncier foam. Consistent with the push forward, Mizuno has continued to take things to another. The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 is one of the tallest (if not the tallest) stack height shoes on the market with a crazy heel that somehow still stays within the legal limits set by World Athletics. While it doesn't feel that tall, the aggressive geometry is definitely noticeable and begs whether this is too far or just the beginning. Editor's note: buckle up, this is a long review!

The Monday Shakeout: Who Does Best In Certain Stack Height Shoes?

The Monday Shakeout: Who Does Best In Certain Stack Height Shoes?
By Matthew Klein

We are back with some regular Monday Shakeouts for the new year. In this edition, Matt discusses the rising height of shoes and the current science on who may benefit more than others with certain stack heights

Mailbag! The Best and Worst Shoe Characteristics for Knees? How Does Stability Impact Gait? | DOR Podcast #224

 

 

 Mailbag! The Best and Worst Shoe Characteristics for Knees? How Does Stability Impact Gait?
Doctors of Running Podcast, Episode 224

We love a mailbag episode, where we get to answer your questions! Nathan, Matt, and David field listener questions about everything from walking in carbon-plated shoes, the impact of different styles of shoes on knee pain, to cutting holes in the uppers of shoes (you'll never guess what Matt used to do to shoes). We want to hear from you! DM us on Instagram or email us at ⁠doctorsofrunning@gmail.com⁠.

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.

Diadora Mythos Blushield Vigore 3 Review (2024)

Diadora Mythos Blushield Vigore 3 Review
By Matthew Klein and Bach Pham

Stability shoes in the running market are completely different and more scarce than they were a decade ago. Research and trends have helped fuel that change, with far more centered guidance based stability shoes and far fewer shoes with purely medial stability. It is rare to even see a medial post as many have transitioned to internal geometries, sidewalls and other newer methods. So too have fits changed. While most running shoes used to fit narrow, most now fit wider with slow progressions toward more anatomic toe boxes and fits. For those who want a more traditional, snug fitting, medially posted stability shoe, there have not been many options given the changing trends. However, we now know that option exists as Diadora was nice enough to send us their main stability trainer, the Mythos Blushield Vigore 3. A throwback to older stability shoes with updated midsole materials and technology, the Vigore 3 will work for those wanting something traditional yet updated in the stability world.

HOKA Mach X 2 Review (2024)

Hoka Mach X 2 Review
By Andrea Myers and Matt Klein

The Hoka Mach series has been popular for many years. The Mach X was introduced as an attempt to create both a faster Mach and to move into the super trainer realm with a top layer of PEBA foam and plastic plate. While a popular shoe for some people, the result was a fairly stiff and firmer platform that didn't quite hit the specs for being a super trainer. That has completely changed with the second version, which Hoka completely redesigned. Despite dropping some weight, the stack height has clearly moved into super trainer category while a bouncy and well-rockered sole makes for a versatile shoe. While some durability and upper concerns are present, the Mach X 2 continues to show Hoka's commitment to high-level performance. 

The Monday Shakeout: Matt's Favorite Training and Racing Shoe of 2024

The Monday Shakeout: My Favorite Training and Racing Shoes of 2024
By Matt Klein

2024 was been an insane year for me. I finished my dissertation, completed my PhD, moved from Southern California to Oregon and started a new teaching position. From a training perspective, 95% of my running was with Isabella in a stroller. It was a combination of helping my wife get back into running post-partum while I tried to both get used to a stroller and get fitness back. We have focused on shorter distances with most racing being 5k-8k on both road and cross country. I tested almost 130 pairs of shoes over 3719 miles. While this has been an incredible year for super racing shoes, it has been a bit slow on the trainer side. It has also been an odd year for my feet as I may be transitioning from a men's size 10 to a 10.5. That made for some interesting fit issues that taught me some great lessons that I continued to put into writing. 

Nike Zoom Fly 6 Review (2025)

Nike Zoom Fly 6 Review
By Matthew Klein and David Salas

Nike has been at the forefront of performance footwear for many years. However, one area of this line of shoes where there was some criticism was in the area of their performance trainer. The Zoom Fly started out as a complimentary performance training shoe to the Vaporfly, featuring a similar plate and geometry but with different compounds. As the years progressed, the Zoom fly took an odd turn, gaining a ton of weight and losing the performance edge. After many years, the Zoom Fly has finally returned to its roots. Now using a full length top layer of Zoom X foam with a carbon fiber plate and a far lighter ride, the Zoom Fly 6 returns as a true training companion to the Vaporfly and Alphafly.

Best Affordable Running Shoes (January 2025)

The Best Affordable Running Shoes Right Now
By Bach Pham, Content Manager

There is an age old saying that the best thing about running is that you just need a pair of shoes. Well, the reality is that running shoes are expensive. That's just a fact no matter where you are. Especially as you get more and more into mileage, the cost of shoes and rotating shoes is starts adding up fast. There are a lot of ways to help navigate this though, and in this guide we offer a few strategies and get into some of the best finds available now.

Mizuno Neo Zen Review (2025)

Mizuno Neo Zen Review
By Andrea Myers and Matthew Klein

Prior to 2023, Mizuno had been a fairly consistent company. The Rider, Inspire, Sky, Horizon and others were fairly predictable despite some changes over the years. In 2023, Mizuno debuted the crazy Rebellion Pro, their first true super racer. This geometry and new ideas were completely unexpected for a company that had shown consistent tradition for many years. It turns out the Rebellion Pro was only the beginning as we saw the Pro get crazier (we are enjoying version 3), the Rebellion Flash 2 became one of Andrea's top shoes for 2024 and the Neo Vista was debuted. Adding onto the continued progression of innovation, Mizuno has four mystery shoes coming in 2025 (well, the first one was available in late 2024). The first (01) is the Neo Zen, a non-plated, lightweight shoe providing an extremely bouncy midsole. Moving away from the classically firmer ride Mizuno is known for, this is clearly the start of a new era for the company. 

Diadora Cellula Review (2024)

Diadora Cellula Review
By David Salas

Diadora is an Italian based sports company that is starting to branch out more and more into the North American market. They are offering a full lineup of shoes that should match up with the normal categories that we see here. The Diadora Cellula is a daily training shoe for logging your daily mileage and long runs in.